Birmingham Startup ProxyLink Secures $75,000 Funding from Alabama Launchpad
Birmingham, AL — ProxyLink, a startup focused on digital identity verification, has secured $75,000 in funding from Alabama Launchpad, a program under the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama and Innovate Alabama. ProxyLink triumphed over three other tech-centric finalists in the recently restructured pitch competition.
As part of the process, each finalist received $2,500 upfront along with a 12-week mentorship program aimed at nurturing promising ventures. The evaluation criteria included market potential, existing traction, and alignment with Alabama’s key economic growth sectors.
ProxyLink is developing a secure authentication system that addresses the growing need for robust digital identity verification amid the rise of artificial intelligence technologies. Founder John Walter expressed optimism about the future: “While we have come a long way, this is only the start of the race. The AI industry is fast-moving and competitive, and we’re building a talented team to stay ahead.” He is currently seeking software engineers, marketing, and sales personnel for the growing company.
Other finalists included Core Prototyping from Huntsville, focusing on rapid prototyping solutions; Move to Happy from Auburn, a software platform aimed at attracting top talent; and Ranalia Biotech, also from Huntsville, developing AI-driven tests for early pathogen detection in food.
Kelsey Nichols, former CTO of Landing and a judge for the competition, highlighted the transformative moment in technology, underscoring the importance of diverse perspectives. “Alabama is showing up, and the South is making its mark,” she noted.
Estes Hughes, vice president of innovation and talent at EDPA, emphasized the effectiveness of the program’s new structure, noting how targeted support can lead to significant growth for startups like ProxyLink. Future rounds of funding will continue with the Cycle 1 Consumer Goods finalists competing for $50,000 on May 8 and Life Sciences finalists vying for $100,000 on May 15.
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