Институт «Eagle» в Монтгомери может закрыться до 30 сентября из-за отсутствия нового финансирования

Eagle Institute in Montgomery set to close without new funding by September 30 MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - A downtown Montgomery institute credited with drawing thousands of visitors into the city each year is now searching for new funding, or it could be forced to close. The Eagle Institute, located inside the Kress Building downtown, is a collaborative innovation space connected to Air University and the Air Force. Inside, the institute hosts workshops and showcases technology ranging from 3-D printing to artificial intelligence. “This is a hub for innovation, a place that fosters collaboration between industry, academia and the military,” leaders said. Institute leaders say funding through Air University is expected to end when the federal fiscal year closes on Sept. 30, putting the institute’s future in jeopardy. “Whether you think about it from an intellectual standpoint, whether it’s an economic impact, it would be a huge loss for all parties involved,” said Jeremy Van Egmond, chief of the Eagle Institute. Van Egmond said the space gives Air University a downtown location to host workshops and access technologies that “might not fit on base,” while helping Airmen turn ideas into real-world projects. Supporters say losing the institute could affect downtown Montgomery’s momentum. “I think it’s integral to the downtown revitalization and they bring maybe 10,000 people or more to the downtown area a year,” said Jim Holiber, general counsel for Elsaja Properties, who works closely with the building’s landlord. Holiber said the Eagle Institute has helped attract new visitors and new businesses to the area while supporting nearby organizations. He also mentions direct conversations with Senator Tommy Tuberville on a resolution for a new funding source. Leaders say it costs about $950,000 a year to keep the Eagle Institute operating, and that level of funding would need to be secured by mid-August to prevent closure. Organizers say a mix of public and private funding will likely be needed. If the goal isn’t met, they expect the space could be vacated before Sept. 30. Not reading this story on the WSFA News App? Get news alerts FASTER and FREE in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store! Copyright 2026 WSFA. All rights reserved.