Fairhope, Ala. – Hatch Fairhope, Baldwin County’s innovation hub for entrepreneurship and technology, announces key leadership transitions to drive its next phase of growth. Rick Miller, Director since 2018, will assume the role of Senior Advisor while Keith Glines steps in to lead Hatch Fairhope operations and bring a fresh perspective to advance the organization’s mission of empowering startups and fostering innovation. Glines joined the Hatch Fairhope team in 2024 to oversee strategic partnerships for the accelerator.
Since its inception, Hatch Fairhope has evolved from a bold concept into a cornerstone of innovation in the region under Miller’s leadership. The organization has established itself as a vital catalyst for entrepreneurial growth, providing essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to emerging businesses.
Lee Lawson, President and CEO of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance, praised Miller’s leadership at Hatch Fairhope. “Rick Miller’s passion for entrepreneurship and dedication to our community made him the ideal leader for building and guiding Hatch Fairhope,” said Lawson. “His seven-year tenure has seen numerous tech entrepreneurs successfully launch and scale their companies through Hatch Fairhope’s counseling and mentorship programs. While stepping back from day-to-day leadership, Rick’s continued advisory role ensures his valuable expertise remains accessible to Hatch Fairhope and its entrepreneurs. His vision has been instrumental in establishing Hatch Fairhope as a crucial driver of innovation and economic development in Baldwin County. I am confident that Keith will continue to build on this foundation with the same dedication and innovation.”
As President and CEO of Pro 356 Consulting, Miller has more than 30 years of experience specializing in strategic planning and organizational development across various industries in both the public and private sectors. His career highlights include serving as CFO in various industries, COO of a fast-food chain, and CEO of a fitness technology company, where he secured financing and a national distribution deal. Miller, who holds an MBA from Harvard University, also serves as facilitator of the SBA Emerging Leaders program in Mobile, Alabama.
The leadership transition marks a strategic step forward in expanding Hatch Fairhope’s mission to foster creativity, nurture talent, and accelerate startup growth, further strengthening its impact on the local and regional economy.
Looking ahead in 2025, Lawson is excited about what’s on the horizon for Hatch Fairhope. “Our upcoming facility in Downtown Fairhope represents an exciting new chapter for Hatch Fairhope,” said Lawson. “We’re also expanding our partnerships with statewide initiatives and strengthening Fairhope and Baldwin County’s technology ecosystem through innovative programming. I am excited at the opportunities ahead for Hatch Fairhope.”
About Hatch Fairhope
Hatch Fairhope is a business incubator, startup accelerator, and coworking space in Fairhope, Alabama. Founded with the goal of fostering innovation and economic growth, Hatch Fairhope is supported by the City of Fairhope, Coastal Alabama Community College, and the Baldwin Community and Economic Development Foundation (BCEDF). The BCEDF is a member of the Innovate Alabama Network, which positions Hatch Fairhope as one of the state’s leaders in nurturing Alabama’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. For more information, visit HatchFairhope.com.