Alabama New Business Council Chairman Helena Duncan called for continued economic incentives, said Alabama is open to business

MONTGOMERY, Alabama (WIAT) — The new president of the influential Alabama Business Council has been off to a good start since its inception in December.

President and CEO Helena Duncan is familiar with Alabama’s council and business needs. Prior to joining BCA, she spent her 35-year career as a banker in the Montgomery area, working with businesses to identify their needs. This skill carried over to her current role, she says.

“I was able to translate that here and apply that knowledge to the BCA mission,” says Duncan.

Duncan joined BCA in 2020, eventually rising to the position of President. Since taking over, Duncan said he has spent time meeting with state leaders and seeking funding to encourage businesses to move to Alabama.

“Alabama is open to business, and the businesses here are growing and thriving because of these incentives and the attention the law is paying our state’s businesses,” said Duncan. I got

Duncan said the issue of workforce development is a top priority, but as the state continues to report low unemployment and job growth, the trend is pointing to its front, she said. is optimistic. However, the state’s labor force participation rate is one of the lowest in the country.

“But again, there are things that are being introduced every day to help with that,” Duncan said. I feel it, but I feel it’s getting better.”

Duncan said it was also important to work with leaders in Washington. She said it was important to have Senator Katie Britt (former president of the BCA) in office.

“She’s a pro business,” said Duncan. “She understands this struggle better than anyone and understands what has to happen here better than anyone, so I hope she’ll be there and defend Alabama from all sides. is huge, especially for the business world.”

Duncan said the council will closely monitor legislative sessions and advocate for economic incentives for businesses. Duncan is also the first black president to lead the BCA. Prior to her leadership, Robin Stone was Interim Director after then-President Katie Britt ran for the U.S. Senate.