LED’s Small Business Services team deploys nearly a dozen programs supporting a range of small business owners, including women and minority small business owners, veteran and gold-star spouse-owned companies and rural entrepreneurs. These services and resources aid small businesses at all growth stages and additional programming further targets communities that have previously struggled to attract business capital and investment. New funding from state and federal programs is creating unique opportunities to address critical needs and invest in long-term economic growth. LED is committed to using those funds effectively, equitably and strategically as it enhances the state’s growing reputation as a fertile location for start-ups to grow and prosper.
LED’s small business programs include:
Bonding Assistance Program
Offering surety backed bonds
CEO Roundtables
Enabling peer-to-peer learning opportunity for small business executives
Louisiana Contractors Accreditation Institute
Presenting seminars and courses to small and emerging construction firms
Hudson Initiative
Helping small businesses access state purchasing and contracting opportunities
Mentor-Protégé Recognition
Connecting small and emerging businesses with industry experts
Pathway to Assist Veteran Entrepreneurs (PAVE)
Creating access to the tools for Louisiana veterans need to start or manage a business
Small and Emerging Business Development Program
Offering training for small business growth tactics
Small Business Loan Guaranty Program
Driving small business development and expansion
STEP Grant
Assisting small businesses to grow exports
System for Integrated Growth
Customizing strategic research and technical assistance to boost growth
Veteran Initiative
Providing veterans access to state funding
Veterans First Business Initiative
Certifying veteran, active-duty or reserve military, and Gold Star spouse business ownership
Learn more about LED's small business programs.
