Emily Jerkins is an economic development strategist and researcher who believes in the transformative power of a good job. In her role at the Birmingham Business Alliance, she is a strong collaborator and communicator who drives regional competitiveness and equitable growth through actionable, accessible data.

Virginia is the Community Manager at Innovation Depot, Birmingham’s largest tech incubator and accelerator. As Community Manager, Virginia works to recruit entrepreneurs and startups to fill programs offered by the Depot. She also works closely with current tenants on operational needs and creates partnership opportunities with other organizations and individuals within entrepreneurial ecosystem. She studied Art History at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA and is a native of Charlotte, NC.