How a Little Piece of Central Louisiana is Helping Small Businesses Thrive

An Offer You Can’t Refuse

Alrighty, folks, gather ’round the Big Apple equivalent of a digital fire pit and let’s talk small businesses. Yes, you heard that right. We’re going on a little day trip down south to Central Louisiana, where big things are happening for small business owners. Back on February 20th, they threw quite the shindig. It was all about giving those entrepreneurial spirits an extra shot of espresso to thrive, right in the heart of Cenla. For those out of the loop, that’s Central Louisiana for ya!

CEO Roundtables – Not Just a Boring Suit-and-Tie Gig

Enter stage right: Louisiana Central and their big announcement at a news conference. They’re hosting a series of CEO roundtables exclusively for small businesses in Cenla. Think of it as speed dating, but for business ideas. Sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development (LED), these roundtables aim to help local entrepreneurs brush up on their game, share secrets, and maybe even spill the tea on those little business hacks. Applications for the 2025-26 series wrap up on March 31, 2025.

Meet the Wise Guys – The Mentors

The mastermind behind this is Louisiana Central’s Business Acceleration System with a little hand-holding from LED. They’ve gathered a dynamic crew of 20 business-savvy folks who have walked the walk. These peeps know their onions, having built businesses generating one to ten million dollars with a staff of five to 50 people. Jason Ingalls of C3 Integrated Solutions chimed in, saying, “They’re local, which means you can show up here and get mentorship face-to-face.” Because who doesn’t like a little in-person chit-chat?

Small But Mighty – The Backbone of Cenla’s Economy

Gary Perkins, Executive Director at Louisiana Central’s Business Acceleration System, equates mentorship with entrepreneurship. “Successful business owners all had great mentors,” Perkins declared. And it’s not just talk for him. With the doom-and-gloom news about International Paper’s Campti mill closing, the emphasis on small businesses has grown even stronger in Cenla. As large corporations pack up and leave, the homegrown businesses stand tall and rooted. “They’re here to stay and grow our economy,” Perkins added.

Lessons, Laughter, and Long-term Success

These roundtables aren’t just surface-level seminars. They offer confidential forums for small business owners to exchange insights and tackle challenges. Imagine having the tools to boost your strategies and solidify long-term success. It’s like mixing your gin with just the right amount of tonic.

Full Circle: Talent, Business, and Community

And Perkins can’t help but flex a little more about Louisiana Central’s credentials. Besides roundtables and recruiting big players like Procter & Gamble, their entrepreneurship program is like a pep rally for small businesses. It’s all about helping small enterprises grow and blend seamlessly into the local economy.

Ready to Dive In?

If you’re itching to know more or are ready to apply, have a look at Louisiana Central Events. Or, if you have a way with words and prefer email, drop a line to Gary Perkins at gperkins@louisiana-central.com.

In case of any typos, click here to drop a note. Don’t forget to include the title. And remember, friend, in the world of small business, a little bit of guidance can go a long way. So, until next time, keep hustling and stay sassy!