The Selma Housing Authority, Metro Digital Group, and a coalition of local educational and civic leaders have announced a groundbreaking initiative to establish the Selma Digital Innovation Center. This transformative project aims to propel one of America’s most historically significant cities into an era of innovation and economic empowerment. The center will be housed in a historic building located at 528 Washington Avenue and will serve as a hub for workforce development, entrepreneurship, technology, AI, and digital innovation, benefiting students, young adults, entrepreneurs, and the broader Selma community.
The Selma Digital Innovation Center is the result of a collaborative effort involving the Mayor’s Office, the Housing Authority of Selma, Selma City Schools, Selma University, Wallace Community College Selma, Progress Partners, and Metro Digital Group. Collins Pettaway Jr., President of Progress Partners for Selma, emphasized that this undertaking is more than just a building renovation; it is an investment in the future infrastructure of the community. He highlighted the necessity for Selma to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape to remain competitive in the modern digital economy.
The facility will feature a range of cutting-edge resources, including gaming and esports environments, creator and streaming studios, AI and STEM learning labs, workforce development classrooms, media production spaces, entrepreneurship programming, and community event areas. Metro Digital Group, a company with a national footprint in gaming, STEM, creator economy programming, workforce development, and digital engagement, will lead the development and deployment of this ecosystem. Shaon Berry, President of Metro Digital Group, expressed pride in partnering with local institutions to reimagine a historic building into a next-generation center focused on digital skills and community opportunities.
Local leaders recognize the symbolic importance of the project as Selma continues its efforts in economic development, education, workforce readiness, and community revitalization. Selma Councilwoman Lesia James underscored the significance of partnerships like this for the city’s future, as they forge opportunities previously unavailable to youth and residents. John Deamer, Vice President of Progress Partners, noted that the initiative aims to meet the community where it is while opening doors to future-facing industries and career pathways. By removing traditional barriers to learning and opportunity, the center is designed to help individuals grow and succeed in various fields.
The Selma Digital Innovation Center is set to begin its design and construction planning in June 2026, with a projected opening in 2027. Progress Partners and Metro Digital Group are actively engaging potential strategic partners, sponsors, technology providers, workforce development organizations, and philanthropic collaborators to support the project’s long-term vision for economic mobility, innovation, and community transformation. Roger Blackmon, Director of Technology for Progress Partners and owner of Computer Data and Network Services in Selma, expressed enthusiasm about the dynamic design and technological advancements the center will offer, creating an inviting learning environment for individuals and families alike.
