Sorrell College welcomes new business innovation

Troy University will soon open a new business innovation lab on campus through a partnership with ALFA Insurance, a move university officials say will give students hands-on experience in entrepreneurship and data-driven problem solving.  

Set to open in the fall 2026, funding from ALFA and other parties for the lab have already been secured and finalized.John Robert Lewis Hall will be the lab’s designated location.  

“ALFA Insurance serves as the lead naming partner and primary catalyst for launching this particular lab that will serve all business students,” said Dean of Sorrell College of Business and professor of economics Dr. Judson Edwards. “However, the new ALFA lab is part of a larger innovation and creativity-driven strategic education initiative for all business students that will require additional renovations to Lewis Hall – this will include additional philanthropic and corporate partnerships beyond this single ALFA lab.”  

The target mission for the new lab is to assist students in developing the confidence and capability to transform ideas into viable business solutions, according to Edwards.  

With a $100,000 investment from ALFA Insurance, broken into three different donation periods, the new lab is expected to create a positive impact on workforce development in the state of Alabama.  

“The Business Innovation Lab is another tool in the toolbox for workforce development,” said Executive Vice President of Operations for ALFA Insurance Tommy Coshatt. “We applaud Dean Edwards and Troy’s leadership for their work in introducing students to potential employers and preparing them for their careers.” 

Coshatt mentions Troy’s strategic and intentional focus on driving students in the Sorrell College toward internships that will aide in skills needed for professional job markets.  

“The Business Innovation Lab is another way we can partner with Troy to ensure graduates are career ready,” Coshatt said.  

The lab will offer students the opportunity to build their entrepreneurial platform on a larger scale as many industries are adapting to the shift toward utilizing artificial intelligence and many other advanced technologies.  

Edwards and Coshatt both recognize this shift and have dedicated themselves to helping students become the next generation of business leaders.  

“Be comfortable being uncomfortable,” Edwards said. “In today’s economy, adaptability is not optional, it’s the norm and we believe the new ALFA Business Innovation Lab will help us train students to respond to shifting markets, evolving technologies, regulatory change and competitive pressures with confidence.” 

Sorrell students are anticipated to have full access to the new lab this fall with renovations by the end of the spring semester.  

Troy University continues to foster positive collaborative efforts with ALFA Insurance that aid in the future success of all students.