The Selma Housing Authority, Metro Digital Group, and a coalition of educational and civic leaders are set to launch the Selma Digital Innovation Center, a project aimed at driving economic empowerment and innovation in Selma, Alabama. This initiative involves the redevelopment of a historic building at 528 Washington Avenue into a hub for workforce development, entrepreneurship, technology, and digital innovation. The center will cater to students, young adults, entrepreneurs, and the wider Selma community, providing resources and opportunities aligned with the demands of a modern digital economy.
Collins Pettaway Jr., President of Progress Partners for Selma, emphasized that the project is much more than just a building renovation. “We are creating future opportunity infrastructure for our community,” Pettaway stated, noting the necessity for Selma to be competitive in an evolving technological landscape. The development of the Selma Digital Innovation Center is a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders such as the Mayor’s Office, the Housing Authority of Selma, Selma City Schools, Selma University, Wallace Community College Selma, and Metro Digital Group.
The center will feature diverse facilities, including gaming and esports environments, creator and streaming studios, AI and STEM learning labs, workforce development classrooms, media production spaces, and community event areas. Metro Digital Group, which specializes in gaming, STEM, and digital engagement initiatives, will lead the development and ecosystem deployment for the project. Shaon Berry, President of Metro Digital Group, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with their mission to foster inclusive technology ecosystems that promote economic mobility and workforce readiness in underserved communities.
Local leaders regard the initiative as emblematic of Selma’s ongoing efforts towards economic development and community revitalization. Councilwoman Lesia James pointed out the significance of such partnerships in creating new opportunities for the city’s youth and residents. Progress Partners Vice President John Deamer noted the project’s focus on removing barriers to learning and opportunity, offering pathways in technology, entrepreneurship, digital media, and beyond. The center is expected to commence design and construction planning in June 2026, with a projected opening in 2027.
Roger Blackmon, Progress Partners Director of Technology and owner of Computer Data and Network Services in Selma, expressed excitement over the futuristic design of the technology rooms, which aim to inspire learning and creativity among all ages. Progress Partners for Selma, established in November 2025, continues to seek strategic partners and sponsors to support the long-term vision of the Selma Digital Innovation Center. Interested parties are encouraged to contact John Deamer for further information on partnership opportunities.