A collaborative effort between the Selma Housing Authority, Metro Digital Group, and a coalition of educational and civic leaders has led to the announcement of the Selma Digital Innovation Center. This initiative aims to redevelop a historic building located at 528 Washington Avenue into a hub for workforce development, entrepreneurship, technology, AI, and digital innovation. The project is set to serve students, young adults, entrepreneurs, and the broader Selma community, bridging the city into a more innovative and economically empowered future.
Collins Pettaway Jr., President of Progress Partners for Selma, emphasized the significance of this initiative beyond mere redevelopment. “We are creating future opportunity infrastructure for our community,” Pettaway stated, highlighting the necessity for Selma to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. The project involves a public-private partnership with entities such as the Mayor’s Office, Selma University, Wallace Community College Selma, and Metro Digital Group. The center will feature facilities like gaming and esports environments, AI and STEM learning labs, and media production spaces.
Metro Digital Group, a national company specializing in gaming, STEM, and digital engagement initiatives, will lead the project’s development and ecosystem deployment. Shaon Berry, President of Metro Digital Group, expressed honor in partnering with local organizations to transform Selma into a city of innovation and economic empowerment. “Together, we are reimagining a historic Selma building as a next-generation Digital Innovation Center,” Berry said, aligning the project with Metro’s mission to foster inclusive technology ecosystems that promote economic mobility and workforce readiness.
Local leaders, including Selma Councilwoman Lesia James, noted the project’s symbolic importance as the city strives to enhance economic development and educational opportunities. Progress Partners Vice President John Deamer emphasized the initiative’s goal to expose residents to future-facing industries and remove traditional barriers to learning and opportunity. The center is envisioned as a place where individuals interested in technology, entrepreneurship, and digital media can grow and succeed.
The Selma Digital Innovation Center is slated to begin design and construction in June 2026, with an opening planned for 2027. Progress Partners and Metro Digital Group are actively seeking strategic partners, sponsors, and technology providers to support the project’s long-term vision. Roger Blackmon, Progress Partners Director of Technology, expressed excitement about the center’s cutting-edge facilities, stating, “People will feel like they are stepping way into the future when they step inside this new building.” The initiative is poised to inspire both young and old to learn, compete, and innovate, fostering an environment where families can learn together.
