Starting a business can be challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. There are a number of local resources in Louisiana dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs start and succeed in business. We researched and vetted entrepreneurial resources available in your area and compiled our recommended list. Continue reading to discover the right one for you.
Resources in Your Area
WomensNet - Louisiana
Who it's right for:
Women looking to propel their businesses forward will be smart to apply for WomensNet’s Amber Grant. Whether starting out or already established, this economic stimulus may be a critical piece of a business’s puzzle.
Location:
504Ward New Orleans Calling
Who it's right for:
Entrepreneurs throughout Louisiana looking to connect or collaborate with other small business owners and entrepreneurs will find this organization useful.
Lift Fund
Who it's right for:
Small business owners throughout the Southern U.S. look to Lift Fund for advice and financial support. Visit the website to see what Lift Fund can do.
LSU Innovation Park
Who it's right for:
Entrepreneurs, inventors, and innovators are welcomed to the table. Work with some of the brightest minds in the country to help grow commerce and industry.
National Association of Women Business Owners
Who it's right for:
This organization caters to professional women from many different backgrounds, all aligned in their drive to improve their business options. Connect with these professionals to create lasting bonds and business connections.
Baton Rouge Area Chamber
Who it's right for:
Small businesses or entrepreneurs in Baton Rouge, the area chamber is interested to meet you. Let your business shine for Baton Rouge with the help of BRAC.
LSU AgCenter Food Incubator
Who it's right for:
Entrepreneurs within food and food services can gain valuable insight into future trends and public desires. Businesses related to food service, hospitality, or restaurateur training may find this program of great benefit to them.
Nexus LA Accelerating the Business of Innovation
Who it's right for:
Innovative businesses throughout Louisiana will most likely be able to find services and support for their specific needs, no matter the industry. Browse the references on the website to see available services.
Innovation Catalyst
Who it's right for:
Entrepreneurs with potentially profitable or useful ideas will be well-served to connect with Innovation Catalyst. Their track record of success speaks for itself.
Louisiana Technology Park
Who it's right for:
If you are an inventor, a small tech business owner, or just looking to stay up to date with innovative ideas, Louisiana Technology Park is an invaluable resource. Connect online through blogs, Twitter, or sign up for their newsletter.
East Baton Rouge Parish Public Library - Small Business Services
Who it's right for:
Small business owners will be able to customize their searches for available materials and references regarding business topics. The library serves as an excellent source of information beyond just business, too.
Research Park Corporation
Who it's right for:
All small to medium businesses are encouraged to engage with this corporation in order to create more opportunities for innovation and growth. With so many interconnected business and technology entities, there is a lot of room for parity and collaboration.
Urban League of Louisiana
Who it's right for:
Women business owners will benefit the most from this group, especially those planning to develop their small businesses through education and real-world planning resources that are necessary to form a strong financial foundation.
Small Business Development Center
Who it's right for:
Whether an established business, or just starting out, the SBDC is here to help. Business owners can ask specific questions, connect with like-minded peers, or learn effective application tips for grants and loans.
Women’s Business Enterprise Council South - Louisiana
Who it's right for:
Women entrepreneurs are the main focus for WBEC. The council makes a point of connecting women business owners with corporate entities, as a method for supporting small business owners in their quests for success.
Louisiana Federation of Business & Professional Women
Who it's right for:
Women in small businesses can benefit from programs and seminars, a well as connectivity with local and state business organizations. Get connected and develop a professional network with the help of the federation.
SCORE - Northwest Louisiana
Who it's right for:
Business professionals looking for more specific information and a mentor to assist their business journey will appreciate the information SCORE can offer.
SCORE - Southwest Louisiana
Who it's right for:
Business professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry experts can give and receive from SCORE. Use the vast network of resources to empower business acumen, or partner with and donate time and money to help others succeed.
SCORE - Louisiana
Who it's right for:
Professional women and men can connect with experts and peers in and around their industries, in order to build their businesses and professional networks. They also utilize the numerous resources available through this dynamic group.
Junior League of New Orleans
Who it's right for:
Women business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to tap into the resources of the Junior League. Scholarships, grants, and fellowship opportunities highlight the various methods in which the Junior League looks to grow local talent.