HudsonAlpha Wiregrass presentation spotlights innovation center and a local artisan’s small-business launch

City officials on Jan. 20 welcomed a presentation about HudsonAlpha Wiregrass and the Wiregrass Innovation Center and heard from a local entrepreneur who used that space to grow his business.

The city manager introduced HudsonAlpha Wiregrass and said the initiative will focus on three mission areas at the Wiregrass Innovation Center: using DNA research to develop more drought-tolerant and disease-resistant crops for farmers; training future biotechnology workers and sparking student interest in science; and helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable businesses.

Entrepreneur Orin Scruggs told commissioners he began making spoons during the COVID-19 pandemic, sold out initial runs and used accelerator resources—mentors, business planning templates and small AI tools—to develop his business. Scruggs described picking a workspace at the Wiregrass Innovation Center in August, testing classes for customers, and collaborating with other local makers to create "local maker boxes." He said he plans to announce public classes in the coming weeks and directed residents to his Facebook page, "Maelou Collection," for product information.

"Investing in myself made others believe and willing to help me," Scruggs said, describing mentors and peer support he received through the center.

City officials and commissioners framed the presentation as an example of how the Innovation Center can support local commerce and workforce development. No formal action or funding decision for HudsonAlpha Wiregrass was recorded in the meeting; the presentation was offered as informational about existing and planned programs.

Commissioners thanked Scruggs and HudsonAlpha staff and encouraged residents to engage with downtown business development efforts and upcoming training opportunities at the center.