Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) — Governor Kay Ivey announced Wednesday that Alabama has earned top recognition in the 2026 Corporate Investment/Community Impact (CiCi) Awards, with three projects placing on a national list compiled by Trade and Industry Development.
The awards recognize major projects across the country for their economic impact and contributions to local communities. Alabama’s projects were selected from 30 honorees nationwide.
“Alabama continues to attract world-class companies that are transforming our communities and creating real opportunities for working families,” said Governor Ivey. “These honors reflect the hard work of our economic development team and the confidence that leading companies have in our state.”
Among the projects recognized is Eli Lilly and Company’s $6 billion pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Huntsville, which received the Corporate Investment Award. The project is expected to create 450 permanent jobs and about 3,000 construction jobs, with long-term economic impact estimated at $25 billion.
Also honored was Bad Boy Tractors’ $10.5 million assembly plant in Monroeville, which earned the Community Impact Award. The project is expected to create 50 jobs and produce about 9,000 tractors annually.
State officials say the Alabama Department of Commerce was also recognized for its leadership in securing major economic projects, including the Eli Lilly development.
“This recognition of the Alabama Department of Commerce underscores what I have long said – Alabama is competing and winning at the highest level,” said Governor Ivey.
Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said the awards highlight Alabama’s strong business environment and workforce.
“Earning three spots on this year’s CiCi list is a testament to the strength of Alabama’s business environment and the dedication of our economic development partners,” McNair said.
The CiCi Awards, now in their 20th year, honor projects that bring significant investment or community impact. Officials say Alabama’s placement among this year’s winners reinforces its standing as a top-performing state for economic development.
