New Opportunities for Shreveport Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs collaborating during a business support session at a community center.

News Summary

The Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) is enhancing support for Shreveport business owners by offering free services and personalized consultations. Starting May 14, regular sessions will be held at the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, focusing on financial advice, succession planning, and more. This initiative aims to assist all entrepreneurs, including those outside the manufacturing sector, ensuring that valuable resources reach every part of the community.

Exciting News for Shreveport Entrepreneurs!

If you’re a business owner in Shreveport, get ready for some fantastic news! The Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) has just ramped up its offerings to help local entrepreneurs thrive. Now, you can access a wealth of free services designed to elevate your business game. That’s right, no strings attached!

What’s New?

Based at Southern University in Shreveport, the LSBDC is making a grand move to take its programs directly to business owners. This means you’ll no longer have to travel far for valuable advice and support. Instead, LSBDC will hold regular sessions at the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce

Starting on May 14 and happening every second Wednesday after that, business owners can sign up for personalized, one-on-one counseling sessions. By focusing on this outreach, LSBDC aims to help more entrepreneurs in the community, offering crucial insights into areas like financial analysis and cost-cutting strategies.

What Can You Expect?

The LSBDC is not just about helping you start your dream business; they are equally invested in making sure you thrive. From succession planning to mergers and acquisitions, the range of services available is impressive. They understand that planning for the future is just as important as getting off the ground.

In addition to at the Chamber of Commerce, the LSBDC has plans to pop up at local libraries and other chambers to ensure that their support reaches every corner of the community. So whether you’re in a bustling urban area or a quieter part of town, you’ll have access to their resources.

Who’s it for?

While the Small Business Administration is currently prioritizing manufacturing and rural businesses, don’t worry if you fall outside of those categories. The LSBDC is there for all types of businesses, including urban settings and non-manufacturing firms. Everyone deserves a chance to succeed!

More Than Just Support

What makes the LSBDC stand out is their commitment to provide continued support even once your business is operational. Want to dive deep into industry research? They’ve got just what you need with access to resources like IBIS World and Vertical IQ—absolute goldmines for business owners seeking detailed insights into their sectors.

With the economic climate evolving, business owners are finding that accessing capital has become a bit more challenging, making informed decision-making all the more crucial. That’s why research is key, and LSBDC is here to guide you through it.

Make the Most of It!

Ready to take a step forward? Interested entrepreneurs should make an appointment to ensure minimal wait times for consultations at the Chamber of Commerce. After all, when you’re busy running a business, every minute counts.

And while all these amazing services are offered for free, the LSBDC kindly asks that clients complete a confidential client impact form. This isn’t just a formality; it helps demonstrate the positive economic impact of their services and is essential for retaining grant funding.

In Conclusion

The LSBDC’s initiative represents a beautiful opportunity for the Shreveport community. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow to the next level, this is your chance to harness their expertise—all without spending a dime. So mark your calendars, spread the word, and make your business better!