FAQ's

What is the Best & Brightest Initiative?

The Initiative, launched in Decatur, Alabama - a Top 10 City for Engineers - is the first in the country to offer a comprehensive incentive package. This initiative works similarly to an incentive package that an employer would receive, but ours is for people. This incentive includes student loan repayment up to $3,000 per year for up to 5 years ($15,000 maximum), ongoing mentorship, community connection and event opportunities, career networking and opportunities, and the ability to influence events in our city. Accepted applicants cannot be legal residents of the City of Decatur on the date their application is submitted. Professionals of any age with any degree type are encouraged to apply. We offer two programs - one for emerging professionals, and another for those with 20+ years of full-time career experience.

Is there a penalty for leaving Decatur?

You can leave anytime, but all benefits end once you no longer reside within the city limits of Decatur, Alabama.

Do I need to live in Decatur for an entire year to receive student loan repayment?

You must reside within the city limits of Decatur, Alabama from January 1st through the end of December 31st of a given year in order to receive the full $3,000 repayment toward your student loan. Otherwise, payments are prorated. For example, if you are part of the program for half of a given year, the following year you will receive $1,500.

When should I expect to receive payment on my student loan?

Repayment will be made by July following the year in which you resided in Decatur, Alabama. For example, if you reside in Decatur, Alabama the prior year as part of the program, you will receive a check to be applied toward your student loan (or housing, if eligible) by July of the next year.

Where are repayments actually sent?

Repayments will usually be sent directly to you to apply toward your student loan or housing expenses. In some cases, we may have to send a payment directly to your student loan lender.

How do I apply?

The application is intended to be relatively painless and can be accessed on this site.

Does my income impact my eligibility for the Initiative?

No income requirements exist.

How much of my student loans could be paid by the Initiative?

The Initiative will pay up to $3,000 per year with a $15,000 maximum benefit over five years. If you owe less than $15,000 in student loans, you may use the financial incentive for housing.

Are the payments I receive considered taxable income?

Yes, payments will be considered taxable income. More information can be found in IRS publication 970, “Tax Benefits for Education.”

Do applicants enter into a contract regarding the term of residence?

No. Come and go when you're ready! We have historically retained around 75% of all people who joined the program.

If I have additional questions, who should I contact?

Please email Sydney Taylor at sydney@the-ecenter.org

If I apply, will I automatically be accepted into the Initiative?

No. This is a competitive program. We will accept as many qualified applicants as our funding allows, but applying for the program does not guarantee you will be accepted, even if you meet all eligibility requirements.

If I live in the Decatur city limits but open a business/work outside of Decatur, am I eligible?

Yes. Eligibility is based on where you live, not where you work or operate a business.

Must I be a graduate of a college or university in Alabama to be eligible?

No. Anyone who graduated from an accredited post-secondary education institution and meets all other requirements is eligible to participate, no matter where that institution is located. Business owners and entrepreneurs looking to relocate their business to Decatur, AL are also encouraged to apply.