2025 WAW Investment Guide by The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama

INVESTMENT GUIDE

BIBB • FAYETTE • GREENE • HALE • LAMAR • MARENGO PICKENS • SUMTER • TUSCALOOSA

WHO WE ARE

West AlabamaWorks is a regional partnership of business, industry, government, and education that seeks to build a highly skilled workforce, connect people with jobs, and create a better future for all our citizens.

We support the success of employers by being a catalyst for innovative training, education, and best practices for workforce delivery. Our goal is to build a stronger and highly skilled job force so that employers can build their bottom line while expanding the regional economy.

West AlabamaWorks is a catalyst. We make things happen. We get things done. We make a difference. We bring people together to create solutions, increase effectiveness, and make our region stronger. We build bridges between education, training, and what employers need. We connect the dots. We are forward-looking. We are strategic. We are problem solvers. We look for ways to innovate and make our communities stronger and more sustainable.

What is WOW?

Worlds of Work (WOW) is a nationally recognized, immersive experience, showcasing competitive careers in West Alabama to over 4,000 students and adults. WOW allows individuals to explore career opportunities through hands-on demonstrations with industry leaders. Taking over Shelton State Community College’s campus for two days, the event draws hundreds of industries to showcase their companies and grow their future workforce. The purpose of WOW is to create awareness about exciting career opportunities among students and community members while addressing workforce needs in West Alabama.

WHAT IS WOW?

Worlds of Work (WOW) is a nationally recognized, immersive experience, showcasing competitive careers in West Alabama to over 4,000 students and adults annually. WOW allows individuals to explore career opportunities through hands-on demonstrations with industry leaders. Taking over Shelton State Community College’s campus for two days, the event draws hundreds of industries to showcase their companies and grow their future workforce. The purpose of WOW is to create awareness about exciting career opportunities among students and community members while addressing workforce needs in West Alabama.

WOW is a project formed by West AlabamaWorks, Region 3 Workforce Development Board, and The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. Industry support makes WOW possible.

West AlabamaWorks Investment Guide

WHY SPONSOR OR EXHIBIT?

• Give your organization maximum exposure to future decision makers.

• Sponsorships geared towards driving business opportunities and expanding visibility can be an extremely powerful promotional tool.

• All sponsors receive a number of core benefits to maintain highvisibility throughout the year.

• Share your company’s expertise with a targeted audience.

• Showcase your advanced technologies and innovation in a handson, interactive setting that highlights your valuable services.

• Personally interact with potential and current customers and employees.

• Expand your markets by identifying new potential customers, suppliers, and partners.

For questions and more information contact:

Mandy Guin

Business Industry Project Manager

O: (205) 391-0331 | M: (205) 393-3972 2222 9th Street | Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 westalabamaworks.com

Worlds of Work

WORLDS OF WORK SPONSORSHIPS

Sponsorships

AT-A-GLANCE

At-A-Glance

Exclusive opportunity

Remarks

*Day -2 | 5 minutes

Logo acknowledgement at Career Pathway Events

West AlabamaWorks website acknowledgment

Live Radio & TV broadcast opportunity

Company logo on student backpack

Company logo on volunteer T- shirts

Recognized on promotional e-broadcasts

Company profile on the WOW website Advertisement in the WOW student handbook

Worlds of Work website acknowledgment

EXCLUSIVE!

PRESENTING SPONSOR –

BE EXCLUSIVE

$25,000

• Premier recognition as the Exclusive Presenting Sponsor across all event promotions, including digital and print materials.

• Opportunity for five (5) minute remarks at VIP Breakfast.

• Featured on West AlabamaWorks, Worlds of Work, and The Chamber’s website.

• Highlighted in Member News Weekly, event emails, and press releases.

• Two (2) tables of eight to the exclusive VIP event on Day 2 of Worlds of Work.

• Opportunity to participate in live radio and television broadcasts promoting the event.

BE FEATURED

• Logo featured on 4,000+ student backpacks and 200+ volunteer t- shirts.

• Visibility on the West AlabamaWorks and Worlds of Work websites for one (1) year, with direct link.

• Company profile (300 words) on Worlds of Work website.

• Year-round logo presence at Career Pathway events as WOW Presenting Sponsor, expanding your brand’s influence.

BE SEEN

• Company advertisement (two pages) in WOW student handbook.

• Designated exhibit space with company - provided, preapproved banners and signage for strong on-site presence.

BE PRESENT

• Engage directly with the future workforce and showcase your commitment to advancing the workforce in West Alabama.

DIAMOND SPONSOR – $15,000

BE RECOGNIZED

• Recognized as the Diamond Sponsor across all event promotions, including digital and print materials.

• Eight (8) VIP admissions to the exclusive VIP event on Day 2 of Worlds of Work.

• Highlighted in newsletters, event emails, and press releases for maximum visibility.

• Opportunity to participate in live radio and television broadcasts promoting the event.

BE FEATURED

• Company logo featured on 4,000+ student backpacks, and 200+ volunteer t- shirts.

• Year-round logo presence at Career Pathway events as the WOW Diamond Sponsor, expanding your brand’s influence.

• Logo placement on West AlabamaWorks and Worlds of Work websites for one (1) year, with direct link.

• Company profile (250 words) on Worlds of Work website.

BE SEEN

• Full page advertisement in WOW student handbook.

• Designated exhibit space with company - provided, preapproved banners and signage for strong on-site presence.

BE PRESENT

• Demonstrate leadership in workforce development and career exploration at one of the region’s most impactful community events.

COMMUNITY WOW BAG

SPONSOR – $10,000

BE EXCLUSIVE

• Exclusive recognition as the Community WOW Bag Sponsor for the inaugural Community WOW event on October 8th from 2:00–6:00 PM.

BE FEATURED

• Logo prominently displayed on the front of all attendee bags alongside West AlabamaWorks distriubuted at Community WOW.

• Visibility on the Worlds of Work websites for one (1) year, with direct link.

• Company profile (200 words) on Worlds of Work website.

BE SEEN

• Company advertisement (full page) in WOW student handbook.

• Six (6) VIP admissions to the exclusive VIP event on Day 2 of Worlds of Work.

BE PRESENT

• Engage directly with the future workforce and showcase your commitment to advancing the workforce in West Alabama.

GOLD SPONSOR – $7,500

BE RECOGNIZED

• Recognition as the Gold sponsor in all digital and printed materials related to Worlds of Work.

• Four (4) VIP admissions to the exclusive Day 2 Worlds of Work event.

• Acknowledgment in press releases, emails, and the WOW student handbook, reaching 4,000+ students and families.

BE FEATURED

• Company logo printed on 4,000+ student backpacks and 200+ volunteer t-shirts.

• Year-long visibility on the Worlds of Work website, with direct link, reinforcing your brand’s leadership.

• Company profile (150 words) on Worlds of Work website.

BE SEEN

• Company advertisement (half page) in student handbook.

• Opportunity to distribute company brochures, handouts, and promotional materials at your space during Community WOW.

BE PRESENT

• Actively support and engage with students, educators, and the community while promoting workforce development.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY! VIP BREAKFAST SPONSOR

$5,000

BE RECOGNIZED

• Only five (5) VIP Breakfast Sponsorships available.

• Recognition in all digital and printed materials related to the VIP event.

• Eight (8) VIP event admissions, with prime placement and recognition at the most prestigious gathering of the Worlds of Work event.

BE VISIBLE

• Premier branding throughout the VIP Breakfast, including a designated space for your company’s pre-approved banners and signage.

• Company profile (100 words) on Worlds of Work website.

• Advertisement (quarter page) in the WOW student handbook distributed to 4,000+ students and families.

• Opportunity to participate in live radio and television broadcasts highlighting the event, during VIP breakfast only.

BE REMEMBERED

• Cement your organization’s role as a leader in education, workforce development, and regional impact.

• Logo placement with direct link on the Worlds of Work website for one (1) year.

SILVER SPONSOR – $3,000

BE RECOGNIZED

• Company logo featured on over 200 volunteer T-shirts—ensuring strong and lasting brand presence.

• Recognized as a Silver Sponsor with meaningful on-site visibility with digital and printed signage.

BE FEATURED

• Logo placement with direct link on the Worlds of Work website for one year, reinforcing your organization’s commitment to student success and workforce development.

• Company profile (50 words) on Worlds of Work website.

BE PRESENT

• Engage directly with students, educators, and industry leaders to inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.

• Admission for two (2) representatives to VIP breakfast, the most prestigious gathering of the Worlds of Work event.

BRONZE SPONSOR

BE FEATURED

– $1,500

• Recognized as a Bronze Sponsor with meaningful on-site visibility with digital and printed signage.

• Logo placement with direct link on the Worlds of Work website for one year, showcasing your support of student engagement and workforce development.

BE PRESENT

• Engage directly with students, educators, and industry leaders to inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.

• Connect with the future workforce and showcase your commitment to advancing the workforce in West Alabama.

• One (1) admission to the VIP breakfast on day 2 of Worlds of Work.

Classroom to Career….

Sponsor a Career Pathway Event or Program

CLASSROOM TO CAREER...

Choosing a career can feel overwhelming for young people, but it doesn’t have to be. That’s why West AlabamaWorks created the Career Pathways Program a collaborative effort with our education and industry partners to help students explore the wide range of career opportunities available after graduation.

Sponsor a Career Pathway Event or Program

Choosing a career can feel overwhelming for young people, but it doesn’t have to be. That’s why West AlabamaWorks created the Career Pathways Program—a collaborative effort with our education and industry partners to help students explore the wide range of career opportunities available after graduation.

Whether they choose college, certification programs, apprenticeships, or a path in the skilled trades, our goal is to empower youth to build their future right here in West Alabama. By doing so, we’re not only improving lives—we’re also retaining local talent and strengthening the region’s workforce.

Whether they choose college, certification programs, apprenticeships, or a path in the skilled trades, our goal is to empower youth to build their future right here in West Alabama. By doing so, we’re not only improving lives we’re also retaining local talent and strengthening the region’s workforce.

WHY SPONSOR?

• Position your company as a leader by engaging directly with thousands of students exploring career pathways.

• Reach future decision-makers early and leave a lasting impression.

• Gain year-round exposure through highvisibility branding in promotional materials, student gear, and event signage.

• Build meaningful relationships with potential employees, customers, and industry partners.

• Support workforce development while expanding your company’s influence across key markets.

For questions and more information contact:

NaTa’sha D. Black, MBA Senior Project Manager, Workforce Development O: (205) 391-0331 | M: (205) 246-5950 2222 9th Street | Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

WOW 2.0 Sponsor$5,000

By becoming the EXCLUSIVE

WOW 2.0 SPONSOR - $5,000 REGIONAL

By becoming the EXCLUSIVE WOW 2.0 Sponsor your organization will be promoted as the sole sponsor for all WOW 2.0 events including digital and printed materials. Showcasing your organization’s dedication to supporting the future of workforce development and education for all of West Alabama helps strengthen our regional impact.

WOW 2.0 Sponsor your organization will be promoted as the sole sponsor for all WOW 2.0 events including digital and printed materials. Showcasing your organization’s dedication to supporting the future of workforce development and education for all of West Alabama.

DAY SPONSOR$2,000

Regional

Signing Day Sponsor –

$2,000

As a Regional Signing Day event sponsor, your organization will be highlighted at the highly coveted event of the year, where students are recognized for their outstanding achievement in obtaining an apprenticeship or job post graduation.

As a Regional Signing Day event sponsor, your organization will be highlighted at the highly coveted event of the year, where students are recognized for their outstanding achievement in

$2,000

I.G.N.I.T.E. EVENTS

SPONSOR - $1,500

As a valued I.G.N.I.T.E. event sponsor, your organization will receive recognition on digital signage at all I.G.N.I.T.E. events throughout the year, including in-school visits and the annual Summer Job Fair. Solidifying your dedication to employing youth in West Alabama and demonstrates your commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant future for our region.

organization will be sponsor for all WOW 2.0 events printed materials. Showcasing dedication to supporting the development and education for

MODERN MANUFACTURING

SPONSOR - $2,500

Modern Manufacturing Sponsor

As a sponsor of Modern Manufacturing, your company will receive customized recognition in the region(s) of your choice, with visibility in over 48 schools statewide through Alabama’s top-tier CTE training centers. This targeted outreach places your brand directly in front of students who are actively exploring high-demand career opportunities—maximizing your impact where it matters most.

$1,500

I.G.N.I.T.E.

Sponsor

As a sponsor, receive signage throughout your youth

event sponsor, your highlighted at the highly where students are outstanding achievement in apprenticeship or job post -

As a sponsor of Modern Manufacturing, organization will receive individualized more than forty-eight schools highly regarded CTE training exposure helps position your front of student actively exploring career paths.

Academy Sponsor

$5,000

WORKFORCE ACADEMY SPONSOR - $2,500

Educator Workforce Academy is a year- long training program for educators in West Alabama, exposing them to workforce development and our region’s industries. Established in 2017 by West AlabamaWorks, the Academy is designed to bridge the gap between industry and education, giving our region’s students the best chance possible for success.

As a supporter of the Educator Workforce Academy (EWA) you are showcasing your dedication to continuing education and workforce development in West Alabama. Your organization will have the opportunity to present to the academy at one (1) session throughout the year. Company logo will be featured on the cohort t-shirt showcasing your dedication for years to come.

HOST SPONSORSHIP

- $3,500 (IN-KIND CONTRIBUTION)

impacted have the opportunity to gainmeaningful employmentupon completion of the program.

As a Host Sponsor of the Educator Workforce Academy, your organization plays a vital role in bridging the gap between education and industry. Host Sponsors provide an immersive, on-site experience by welcoming the EWA cohort for a full day of industry exposure. This includes:

• Hosting the cohort at your facility

• Providing a tour and educational programming aligned with your sector

• Supplying lunch for all attendees

West AlabamaWorks Investment Guide

• Coordinating ground transportation (charter bus) to and from host location.

This in-kind sponsorship offers a meaningful way to showcase your commitment to workforce development and educator engagement in West Alabama. Host Sponsors also receive recognition in program materials and cohort communications, and demonstrate leadership in creating a stronger connection between classrooms and careers.

TRANSFRVR EVENTS SPONSOR

- $500

TransfrVR Events Sponsor $500

As a valued TransfrVR Headset event sponsor, your organization will be recognized during select TransfrVR Headset Visits with 9th-grade students throughout the year, highlighting your commitment to shaping the future workforce. Providing students with the opportunity to explore high demand career pathways through immersice virtual reality experiences. Which plays a vital role in preparing them for success beyond the classroom.

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES TO GET INVOLVED...

At West AlabamaWorks, our mission is to create meaningful impact across our region—supporting local economies, businesses, educational institutions, government agencies, neighborhoods, families, and individuals alike.

We drive change by delivering high-impact workforce initiatives, such as hiring events that draw more than 500 participants and collaborative industry cluster meetings focused on addressing critical gaps in training, employment, and talent retention. Through strong partnerships with educators and industry leaders, we develop real solutions to the workforce challenges facing West Alabama.

We’re optimistic about what lies ahead—and we’re deeply committed to building a more robust workforce system that unlocks opportunities for both our citizens and our industry partners.

Outreach Sponsor

$750

events hosted by West throughout the year, your organization will leading supporter of community workforce development. This partnership company makes a meaningful impact on opportunities and economic vitality in West Sponsorship reflects a strong commitment to advancement, helps build a pipeline of skilled strengthens connections with emerging talent, and community stakeholders. It organization as a proactive leader in development and fosters long-term prosperity for company and the

OUTREACH SPONSOR - $750

supporting one of the many hiring events hosted by West AlabamaWorks throughout the year, your organization will recognized as a leading supporter of community outreach and workforce development. This partnership ensures your company makes a meaningful impact on employment opportunities and economic vitality in West Alabama. Sponsorship reflects a strong commitment to community advancement, helps build a pipeline of skilled workers, and strengthens connections with emerging talent, future professionals, positions your workforce development both your company

By supporting one of the many hiring events hosted by West AlabamaWorks throughout the year, your organization will be recognized as a leading supporter of community outreach and workforce development. This partnership ensures your company makes a meaningful impact on employment opportunities and economic vitality in West Alabama. Outreach Sponsorships reflect strong commitment to community advancement, helps build a pipeline of skilled workers, and strengthens connections with emerging talent, future professionals, and community stakeholders. It positions your organization as a proactive leader in workforce development and fosters long-term prosperity for both your company and the community.

Cluster Sponsor

Industry

Events Sponsor

impacted have the opportunity to gainmeaningful employmentupon completion of the program.

INDUSTRY CLUSTER

$200 supporting the industry cluster events your organization will have the opportunity to welcome the group to the event and provide company brochures and pamphlets to attendees. Industry cluster meetings focus on four distinct industries in West Alabama; Automotive & Manufacturing, Construction, and Healthcare. As a Chance throughout events. who meaningful Second Chance Sponsor $1,500 the opportunity to gainmeaningful completion of the program.

EVENTS SPONSOR - $200

industry cluster events your have the opportunity to welcome the and provide company brochures attendees. Industry cluster meetings distinct industries in West Alabama; Manufacturing, Construction, and

By supporting the industry cluster events your organization will have the opportunity to welcome the group to the event and provide company brochures and pamphlets to attendees. Industry cluster meetings focus on four distinct industries in West Alabama; Automotive & Manufacturing, Construction, and Healthcare.

Second Chance Sponsor1,500

- $1,500

a supporter of the West AlabamaWorks’ Second Chance Initiative, your company will be featured throughout the year at all Building Hope and RECONNECT events. Showcasing your dedication to ensuring individuals who are justice impacted have the opportunity to gain meaningful employment upon completion of the program.

As a supporter of the West AlabamaWorks’ Second Chance Initiative, your company will be featured throughout the year at all Building Hope and RECONNECT events, including the opportunity to engage directly with attendees. Showcasing your dedication to ensuring individuals who are justice impacted have the opportunity to gain meaningful employment upon completion of the program. For questions and more information contact: