BillyNungesser
Lieutenant Governor, Louisiana Office of Tourism
Denise Bottcher StateDirector, AARP Louisiana
Chris Daigle Parish President, Iberville Parish Government
AGeorge’s Media: Navigating the
sweheadinto2025, GeorgesMedia Groupispoisedtocontinueits evolution inarapidly changingmedia landscape. Over thepastyear, we have expanded and adaptedour coverage to meet thegrowing needsofour audience, while alsopositioning ourselvesfor future growth.Withadedicated team of over 400 strong employees, includingexpandedstaffinginnews, digital,and customer service,we arecommitted to providinghigh-quality, localcontent that serves theinterests of our community. As theproud ownerofesteemedbrands such as The Times-Picayune, NOLA com, The Advocate,TheAcadianaAdvocate, Gambit andthe Shreveport -BossierCity Advocate,our journeyreflectsacommitmenttopreservinglocal journalism while embracing thewinds of change. In recentyears,our companyhas significantlyexpandedits coverage in areascritical to localcommunities, with afocus on health,education andbusinessreporting.Health reportinghas become acornerstone of ouroffering,providing comprehensiveinsights toLouisianans.Equally important, ourdeepenedfocus on educationfilled acritical gap in localnews. By amplifying stories that directly affectlocal familiesand educators, we have enhanced ourroleasatrusted source forinformation abouteducation throughout Louisiana
Lookingahead to 2025,weplantobuild on this momentum by furtherexpanding our businesscoverage.Werecognizethe importance of providingin-depth reportingonlocal businesses, entrepreneurialdevelopments, grandopeningsand regional economic trends Ourexpandedbusinesscoverage will highlight theinnovativesolutions andgrowththatis happeninginnew ways around thestate
Asthe fourthlargest industry in thegreat stateof Louisiana, hospitalityand tourismmeans jobs. In 2023, theindustryprovided220,500 jobs.
Last year,43millionpeoplevisited to experienceour music, food,culture,history,and outdooractivities, including ourstate parksand festivals—generating $1.9 billioninstate andlocal taxes, translatingtonearly$1,100 in taxsavings per household.
Ourinternational visitation is also growing. From 20222023, internationalvisitationincreased by more than 16 percent. WhileCanada, United Kingdom, Australia, France,and Germanyare ourtop fiveinternational markets,the Louisiana Office of Tourism, throughassistancefroma U.S. Department of Commerce grant, is targeting emerging markets such as Italy, Spainand India. With more than 22 millionIndians travelingthe world, they arethe largest groupofinternational travelersfrom Asia.Weknowinternational visitors stay longer andspend more in everycornerofthe state, andweare workingtobenefitfrom that economic boon Louisianaalsocontinues participatingineventsthatput her on national andinternational stages. We kicked off theMardi Gras season forafourthconsecutive year by participating in the 2025 Rose Parade.Inpreviousyears,Louisiana’s participation reachedanestimated 4.3billionviewers andearnednearly$40 millioninadvertisingvalue
NewOrleans will soon host its11thSuper Bowl,tying Miamifor themostnumberofSuper Bowls. The last SuperBowl hosted in NewOrleans in 2013brought Louisianaanestimated $480 millionineconomicimpact. Tourismhas ahugeimpactonLouisiana, andwewill continue to treatvisitorslikefamilyand keep them comingback formore.
AARP,the nation’s largestnonprofit, nonpartisan organization,isdedicated to empowering people to choose howtheyliveastheyage.Our missioncenters on strengtheningcommunities andadvocatingfor what mattersmosttofamilies—health security,financialstability andpersonalfulfillment
In Louisiana, we understandthe strain families face from inflation, soaringutility bills, andthe escalating costs of home insuranceand otheressentials.Despite thesechallenges, our state’seconomy continues to show resilience andopportunities forgrowth. AARP is committed to standing by older adults as they adapttothese evolving circumstances
As we look toward 2025, AARP will remain awisefriend andfierce defender forolder Louisianans. We arefocused on helping individualsage in place,surroundedbythe comfort of their homesand communities. Thiscommitmentincludes advancingaffordable housing, protecting againstfraud, supporting family caregivers,and ensuring accesstoquality healthcare
By workingtogether, we canaddress today’schallenges, seizeopportunities, andbuild sustainablesolutions for stronger,thrivingcommunities. AARP is dedicatedtocreating abrighter, more secure future forall Louisianans.
Aswewrapup2024, Ireflectonwhathas been an incredible first year as Iberville’sParishPresident. It’s an honortoserve as only thesecondParishPresident in 26 years, andI’m proudofthe strides we’vemade together toward abrighterfuture forIberville Parish
Oneofour toppriorities remainsthe newMississippi RiverBridge—a projectthatiscrucial forthe BatonRouge area andIberville Parish.Asone of theonlyparishesalong theriver withoutabridge, this infrastructurewillbring much-needed relief to trafficcongestionwhile creating newopportunities forgrowthacrossthe region.Weare stillwaiting on the resultsofthe environmental impact study, whichisexpected to be completedby thefirst quarterof2025. Thisstudy will determinewhere thebridgewillbebuilt in IbervilleParish, and we remain steadfastinour advocacy forfundingand progress on this critical project. Lookingahead,weare laying thegroundworkfor afuture master plan that prioritizessmall businessdevelopment and smart growth.Our visionincludes attracting thebusinesses andservices ourresidents deserve whileensuringthatall developmentreflects theneedsand values of IbervilleParish. Isee abrightfuture forIberville Parish andamcommitted to keepingresidents at theheart of everydecision. Together,we’ll continue to buildonthisyear’ssuccessesand work toward an even better tomorrow Wishingyou andyourfamilyahappy andprosperousNew Year!
Despiteour positive outlook, 2025 will presentchallenges. As artificialintelligencetechnology continues to advance, thenewsindustryfaces threatsfromAI-generated content that risksunderminingthe work of local reporters. The rise of AI in contentcreationhas made it increasingly difficulttocompete with algorithm-generatednewsand aggregated reportsthatlackthe local insights andjournalisticintegrity we prioritize.Furthermore,the influence of social mediaplatforms continues to reshapethe medialandscape,withlegitimate news sources beingmarginalized. Social mediagiantshavedrastically reducedthe visibilityoflocal news outlets,affectingour abilitytoreach ouraudiencesonthese platforms. In response to thesechallenges, we remain steadfastinour commitmenttolocal,authentic journalism. To addressthis, we will double down on building stronger relationshipswith ourreaders,enhancingour digital platformsincluding ourappstoensureour content reachesthose whorelyonusfor relevant andtimelyupdates. Additionally,weare exploring newwaystoengagewithour audience,including throughnewsletters,podcasts, andvideos. The outlookfor 2025 presents both opportunities andchallenges, andasthe leading Louisianapublisher,weare prepared to meet both with determination.Our expansion in health education, andbusinessreporting hasallowed us to stay relevant andstrengthenour ties to thecommunity.Wehaveseengrowthinour subscriber base this past year andexpectthat that growth to accelerate in 2025. With aclear strategy forcontinued growth,weare confident that ourmedia companywillthriveeveninthe faceofAIdisruptionand theevolving dynamics of social media. Ourcommitmenttolocal journalism, informed by thevoicesand stories of Louisiana, will guide us forwardaswecontinuetoserve ourlocal audiences.
Susan B. Bourgeois, Secretary, Louisiana Economic Development
Louisiana’s economic outlookfor 2025 canbesummedup in asingleword: Opportunity. The passageofAct 590 during the2024 Legislative SessionthatrestructuredLED,and thetax reform passed in the specialsessionlastfall, were monumental steps forwardingiving economic developers thetools we need to position Louisianato competeand win. By embracinginnovationand diversification whileleveraging ournaturalresources,Louisiana is demonstratingthatlegacy industries like energy andmanufacturingcan continue to thrive even as we seizeinvestmentand jobcreationopportunities in emerging sectors. Aperfect case in pointisMeta’srecentlyannounced $10 billion projecttobuild itslargest artificial intelligence data center in the worldinRichlandParish. Meta’s huge investment is expected to create more than 1,500 newdirectand indirecttechnologyrelatedjobsinacorner of thestate best knownfor itsagricultural traditions. With site developmentunderwayand construction expected to continue through2030, theMetaproject is alreadysparking neweconomic activity in northLouisiana as businesseslarge and small seek to benefit from thebillions of dollarsflowingthrough theregion.
Thishistoricproject is just thebeginningofaboldstrategyto driveeconomic growth statewide throughinnovation, andto provetothe worldthatwhenLouisiana says that we areready to competeonthe global stage, we mean business. We arejustgetting started. The Louisianaopportunity is now!
Economic growth remainssteadyinAscensionParish, with apositive outlookprojected forthe next five years. In commercial andindustrialcapital investment construction on $2 billionworth of projects is settowrapupin thefirst quarterof2025.Meanwhile,workhas just begun with $6 billioninnew projects, anddecisions arependingonan additional $14 billioninpotentialinvestments. Over thepast fiveyears,employmenthas increasedby7%, whilewages have risenbyanimpressive19%, with manufacturing occupations leadingthe wayinoffering thehighest wages.
Recently, AscensionParishwas ranked theBestPlace to Live (Niche), thehealthiestParishinLA(Robert Wood JohnsonFoundation), thesecond-longestlifeexpectancyin LA (Stacker), thehighest median householdincomeinthe state, andthe top-performingsizeablepublicschooldistrict. AscensionParishGovernmentiscommitted to enhancingthe qualityoflifefor ourresidentsand thebusinesscommunity by continuallyraising expectationsand positive outcomes.
he energy andchemicalsindustries remain avital part of our economy, drivingindustrialgrowth, creating jobs, andfueling economic progress.In2024, theBaton Rougemetro eclipsed more than 426,000 jobs, an all-timehighfor theregion, many thanks to ourgrowing energy andchemicalssectors.Job growth in theregionhas been incredibly robust in post-pandemic years, regularlyoutperformingnationalprojections.Ascompanies consider investment in low-carbonproducts, we areleveraging opportunities in energy innovationand sustainabletechnologiesto ensure continuedsuccess. As energy andchemicalscompaniesconsiderinvestmentin newtechnologies, BRAC is strategically positioningthe region to lead in industrial innovation, digitalization,and sustainable products.Theregionisactivelyfostering growth in advanced manufacturingand high-growth energy sub-sectors,supported by a $35 billioneconomic developmentproject pipeline. These projects include investmentsinrenewable energy,hydrogen, ammonia, carbon captureutilization andstorage (CCUS) technologies, and sustainablefuels,whichwill diversifythe industrial base andreduce environmental emissions Additionally,transformativequality-of-lifeenhancementsare on thehorizon forthe BatonRouge Area.PlanBRIII will collaborate with aleadingplanningfirm to reinvigorate downtown development, whileplans fornew entertainmentvenues,includingthe upgraded RiverCenterand proposed LSUarena, areexpectedin2025. These investmentswill enhancethe region’s livability,creatingavibrant environmentwhere businessesand professionals canthrive. Thisyearwill mark apivotal period of progress,asthe region builds itscompetitive edge to attractand retain businessinvestment andtop-tier talent.
Tn2024–andwitheventslikethefive-monthUnitedStates BowlingCongress(USBC)OpenChampionshipsin2025, thatmomentumisn’tslowingdown VisitorsarrivedailyintheCapitalCitytoenjoyavarietyofleisure activities,andthatsamemixoffood,fun,historyandhospitalityi drivinggroupstobooktheireventsinBatonRouge.Ourteamand industrypartnersstayedbusyin2024hostingalonglistofgroups includingtheMississippiRiverCities&TownsInitiative,theSoutheast MuseumsConferenceandtheAllianceofAreaBusinessPublishers. Other2024highlightsincludedthesold-outSavannahBananagames lastMarchandthelaunchofBatonRouge’snewtop-tierholidayevent, LouisianaLights. TheUSBCOpenChampionshipsheadline2025forBaton Rouge’sentiretourismcommunity,withmorethan50,000bowlers andtheirgueststravelingtotheCapitalCityfromMarchthrough theendofJuly.Asthesevisitorscometospendmoneyinourcity, weareencouraginglocalstohelpthemfeelwelcomeandinformed throughthelaunchoftheCapitalCityChampionsAcademy.This onlineeducationaltoolwillempowerfrontlineemployeesathotels restaurantsandretailbusinesses–plusanyotherlocals–tobecome advocatesforourcity.
VisitBatonRougewillalsolaunchanewbrandin2025withthe goalofrefiningourlocalstoryandhighlightingtheeverydayrichness ofourcommunity Lookingbeyondthenextyear,VisitBatonRougealsocontinue toprioritizeprogressintheCapitalCity,workingwiththeCity/ Parishandkeypartnersontheexpansionandnewdevelopmentof conventionfacilitiesandsports/eventvenues.
MikeManning President &CEO Greater BatonRouge Food Bank
Arecent Gallup studyfound that 26%ofAmericans surveyed said they did nothaveenoughmoney to buythe food they needed over thelast12months.
Here at home,hungerstatisticsonthe meal gapfromFeeding AmericarevealLouisiana unfortunatelyremains number 1in food insecurity amongbothchildren andseniors. In fact, 1in 7childreninour 11-parish service area areconsidered food insecure.While 2024economic data showsthatfood prices increasedlessin2024thaninrecentyears,the increase of 2.2%still impacted familiesstrugglingtomakeends meet.As
11-parishservice area
LAdam Knapp CEO Committeeof100
TLarry Miller 2025 President GreaterBaton RougeAssociation of REALTORS
Rowrite ouroutlook,it’simportant to describe just how much progress wasmade in 2024 to improveLouisiana We arepleased to seethe statetakesomanypositive strides forward. We supportedthe Governor,Legislature and LED to research andpassalaw to restructurethe agency LouisianaEconomicDevelopment last year.Theresponse of neweconomicdevelopment activity in 2024 forthe state wasswift, andLouisiana haseconomicmomentumheading into 2025. In anotherarea, educationremainsapriorityfor leadersacrossthe state, andweweresupportivelastyear when Louisianaadopted anew,and much-needed,schoo accountabilityformula that increasesattention on readingand math performanceaswellascareerskills. In fact, forthe first time,schooldistricts acrossthe statewillget accountability points forcreatinginternships andapprenticeships forhigh school students in collaborationwithbusinesses. It wasalso incredible that theLegislature andGovernordeveloped and successfullyenactedsweepingtax reformsthatwereconsistent with non-partisan policyrecommendations goingbackas faras1988byCABLand 2015 taxresearchfromCommittee of 100. Withoutquestion,Louisiana will go up in national taxrankingsthisyearasaresult, andwithout compromising fiscal stabilityfor highereducation andhealthcare. Finally, to improveworkforce needsacrossthe state, we worked with theLegislature andGovernoronlawsthatclearly assignthe responsibility forthe statetoaddressbusinessworkforce shortagesacrossthe state. Alot happened in just oneyear– lots of policychanges that were long overdue–all toward thegoal of creating abetterLouisiana forits citizens
The real estate industry is constantly evolving,and the GreaterBaton Rougeareaisnoexception.In2025, localagentsand brokerageswill focusonrefining their processesand practicestoadapt to changingmarke conditions,updated NARpolicies, andnew stateregulations. REALTORS®prioritizethe best interestsoftheir clients and thecommunity.TheREALTORS® of 2025 will be better trained, offer enhanced serviceoptions andvalue-addedsolutions for their clients. With an increase in inventoryand anticipatedratereductions expectedin2025, homebuyersinthe GreaterBaton Rougearea will have more purchasing options. The anticipatedjob growth andeconomic progress should boostdemand forhousing.For sellers, home prices areexpectedtolevel outmakinghomes more affordablefor buyers.This balanced market will create afavorable environmentfor both buyers andsellers in the GreaterBaton Rougerealestatelandscape
Whitney Hoffman Sayal Executive Director, Downtown Development District
The Downtown DevelopmentDistrict’scommitmen remainssteadytodrive progress,fostereconomic growth andnew developments that enhancethe qualityoflifefor allwho live,workand visitDowntown BatonRouge.In2025, in conjunctionwithour community partners,wewill launch anew downtown master plan -Plan BatonRouge III(PBRIII). Thisvisionary blueprintwill continue therevitalizationeffortsseenoverthe past three decades. Keyinitiativesinclude enhancingpublicspacessuch as theRiverfront, improvingtransportation, andadditional housingand retail.PBR IIIhopes to attractnew businesses and residents, whileensuringDowntownBaton Rougeremains a thriving destinationfor everyone Casinodevelopment in Downtown BatonRouge is advancingwithmajor investmentssignaling anew erafor the city’s entertainmentand tourismsector. The BelleofBaton Rouge is undergoinga$140 millionrenovationthatisexpected to boosteconomic growth,attractvisitors, andsolidify Downtown as thepremier destinationfor entertainmentand leisure alongthe Riverfront The RaisingCane’sRiver Center is also drivingeconomic momentum as BatonRouge Zydeco’s inaugural hockey season generated$8.1 millionintothe local economy. This data highlightsthe venue’sroleindriving economic growth downtown We thankthose wholive, work,and visitdowntownand look forwardtoatransformative2025!
Afterayearofreducedvelocityin2024 driven largely by elevated interest rates, thecommercialrealestate market is poised to move toward informed optimism in 2025. The post-electionlandscape hasstabilizeduncertainty settingthe stagefor ayearmarkedbysteady, if cautious growth.Investors cananticipatecontinued Federal rate cuts aimedateasinginflationary pressures, whileregulatory challenges areexpectedtomoderate. Thoughdramaticshifts in capital costsare unlikely,the relief from prioraggressiverate hikesisexpectedtoencourage strategicinvestments acrosskey sectors. The industrial real estate sector remainsconstrained by lowsupply, exacerbatedbyinsufficientspeculative development. Thistrend will likely persistuntil migration patterns shift andinfrastructurecatches up.Onapositive note,Class Aofficemarkets areshowing resilience,with most vacanciesin premiumpropertiesnow backfilled. Retail rental ratesare expected to maintain theirstrength, driven by sustaineddemand andhighconstructioncosts becoming thenew standard.Looking ahead, theeasingofinflation andstabilization of thelendingenvironment will provide fertilegroundfor some speculativedevelopment in undersuppliedmarkets such as industrial warehousingand last-mile distribution.Overall,the
BillHines Managing Partner
Jones Walker LLP
AGregory Bowser President &CEO, Louisiana Chemical Association & Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance
MartinWalke Vice President, Louisiana Public Facilities Authority
AtJones Walker,weare optimisticabout SouthLouisiana’s economic growth in 2025. As oneof thelargest law firms in Louisiana,weworkinclose partnershipwith clientsonprojectsand transactions that promoteeconomic developmentwithin thestate,aswellasatthe regional,national, andinternational levels.Weare also continuallybolstering ourattorneyrosterwiththe most experiencedprofessionals, andthe most promisingminds,totacklethe largest andmost complicated legaland regulatory issues ourclients encounter. We areconfidentthatLouisiana’s oiland gassectorwill continue to driveeconomicgrowthwhile also facilitating opportunities in theglobalenergytransition. With theshift toward sustainableenergysources gainingmomentumand significantadvancementsindecarbonization occurringrapidly in Louisiana, it is imperative forbusinessestounderstandthe legal implications andregulatory developments involved in this evolution. Similarly, as ourhealthcaresectorcontinues to advance, we foreseeLouisiana beingrecognized as aleaderinthe digital healthcare industry Moreover,artificial intelligence (AI) createsnew opportunities foreconomic development. It is essentialthatweharness and utilizeAItoour advantage. Ourfirm actively promotes Louisianaasanideal location forbusinessdevelopment andinvestment. Oureconomic developmentaffiliate,Avident Advisors,leveragesits extensive knowledgeand experience to offer effective location advisory services andguidanceacross varioussectors.Theseinclude carbon capture, portsand terminals,and sustainableenergy, alongwithmanufacturing fieldssuchas automotive,aerospace/ defense,shipbuilding, steel, rail,and petroleum/petrochemical Louisianaispoisedfor significantgrowth, andweare eagerto assume aprominentroleasaneconomic developmentpartner in 2025.
Mandi D. Mitchell President &CEO LafayetteEconomic Development Authority
Lafayette stands as atestament to innovationand resilience, evolving from ourfoundationasanenergy hubintoa dynamic center fordiverse industries and sustainablesolutions.Inthe heartofAcadiana, Lafayette’s economic storycontinues to unfoldwithremarkable momentum
Lafayette’shealthcaresectorcontinues itsrobustgrowth, whileour manufacturing base serves global markets with increasingsophistication. Ourtechnologysectorisexpanding, with majorcompanieschoosingLafayette fortheir operations. Meanwhile, ourstrategic location at thecrossroadsofI-10 andI-49 hasestablished us as avital logistics hubfor theGulf Coast.
We areleading theway in energy advancement—bridging traditional oiland gasexpertise with cutting-edge energy solutions. Thisunique positioninghas createdapowerhouse economywhere establishedenergycompaniesand clean technology innovatorscollaborate to driveprogressand create high-valuejobs.
Andweare workingwithK-12 andhighereducation partners on creative initiatives to ensure we have thelocal talenttofill theroles acrossall ourgrowthsectors
As we move into 2025, Lafayetteremainsaneconomic catalystfor SouthLouisiana—acommunity that embraces progress whilehonoringour Cajunand Creole heritage We’renot just adapting to change; we’redriving it,creatinga blueprintfor sustainableeconomic growth that otherregions seek to emulate.
swemoveinto2025, Louisiana’schemical manufacturingindustryisenteringanexcitingera of growth andopportunity.Overthe past year,we’ve seen numerous advancements that highlight ourstate’s position as aleader in this critical sector We arefocused on enhancingcommunity engagement, strengthening ourindustry’sfoundation, andsolidifying Louisiana’sleadership in theglobaleconomy.GovernorLandry’s recentchanges to theIndustrialTax ExemptionProgram (ITEP) last year let theglobalindustryknowthatLouisiana is open for business,pavingthe wayfor opportunities forinvestmentinour greatstate.Our industry is projectedtogrowby2.5-3% over the comingyears,atestament to thestrengthand dedicationofour member companies andLouisiana’s attractiveness as ahub for chemical manufacturing. With multiple carbon captureand storageand advanced recyclingprojectsunderway, Louisianaisprimedtobecomea leader in environmental sustainability.Our member companies remain steadfast in their commitment to safety,innovation, and thewell-beingofthe communities they callhome.
As we look ahead, thefuture of Louisianaisbright. Iam proudtorepresent an industry that notonlydriveseconomic progress butalsoprioritizesgivingbacktoour greatstate Here’s to aprosperous2025for Louisianaand thechemical manufacturingindustry!
J. Hudson President &CEO, Louisiana Lottery Corporation
For over 30 years, theLouisiana LotteryCorporation has deliveredonits missiontomaximizestate revenue. Last fiscal year wasour SECOND BEST EVER,transferring more than $205 milliontothe statetobenefitK-12public educationinLouisiana
The first half of our2025fiscal year hasbeenchallenging Inflationarypressures mean lessdiscretionary spending. Coupledwiththe recentlackofeye-poppingmultistate jackpots,the currentconditionsdemandthatweadd valueto ourgameoffering with second-chanceprizesand experiences These include ourongoing partnershipwiththe NewOrleans Saints foron-field gamedayexperiences,our Golden Nugget GrandPrize Eventwhere 10 finalists will enjoyaVIP weekend casinogetaway with thechancetocompete forcashprizesof up to $1 million, as well as ourNASCAR PowerballPlayoff Promotionwhere aLouisiana finalisttookhomethe $1 million topprize before thechampionshiprace in Phoenix. Lotterycustomers canexpectevenmoreofthese brand alliances andsecond-chance, prize-winningopportunities that sparkthe imaginationasweheadintothe newyear. 2025 will also be ayearofshift in ourindustryastechnologydriveshow ourgames aredelivered,includingcloud-basedtechthatallows tickets to printin-lane at retailers’ ownpoint-of-salesystems as well as usingdataanalytics to optimizeprize allocationsinour instantgames. Leading oneofthe most fiscally efficientlotteries in thenation, Iamproud of ourmission-driven, innovative workforceaswellasthe 2,800 Louisianabusinessesthatsell ourgames andenthusiastically serveour players. The future is bright at theLouisiana Lottery, andthisgives us aReasonto Smilein2025!
Welookforward to this year with optimism and greatanticipation.TheLouisiana Public Facilities Authority(LPFA)celebratedits 50thanniversary in 2024 andisproud to proclaim Louisianaremainsatthe centerofits mission. As astatewide issuer of taxableand taxexempt municipalbonds,the LPFA provides pivotal, lower-cost financingtocommunities to furthereconomic development, health care andeducation;fuelingLouisiana’s growth and resilience
Sinceits inception in 1974,the LPFA hasfinanced more than $31.4 billioninbonds,including more than $12 billionto improveinfrastructureand qualityhealthcare, $7.51 billionto furthereducation,and $7 billionfor economic development. Projects financed by theLPFAhavegenerated more than 346,250 newjobsand more than $8.5 billioninadditional personal earnings, accordingtoaneconomic impact studyby Dr.James Richardson,LSU professoremeritus of economics. The LPFA also wonthe prestigious2024 Bond Dealofthe Year from The Bond Buyer. Through itseducation division,the LouisianaEducation Loan Authority(Lela), theLPFAsupportscollege-bound students. Lela providesstudentsand families responsible borrowingoptions throughits LelaCHOICE supplementalloan programs.Additionally, Lela offersfreeremoteassistancewith theFreeApplication forFederal StudentAid (FAFSA). Sinceits inception,Lelahas assisted more than 425,000 students. Throughoutour historyand partnerships in businessand industry,the LPFA hasremainedcommitted to servingthe people of Louisiana. We will continue workingtofurther our missiontomakeour statea better place to live andwork. We look forwardtonot only this year,but theyears ahead.
Kristin W. Wall President& CEO LWCC
LWCCisaprivate,mutual workers’ compensation insurancecompany committed to helpingLouisiana thrive.Our stable,reliableinsurancecoverage is availabletobusinesseslarge andsmall,regardlessofindustry classification. Together with ouragent partners,weare proud to supportover18,000Louisiana-based policyholders in creating safety culturesand practices to reduce workplace accidents
As amutual insurancecompany,LWCC’spolicyholders aremembers,meaning that they arebothprotected from loss andabletoshare in thecompany’s financialsuccessthrough ourdividendprogram.LWCC’sdividendprogram is oneofthe most consistent in theindustry, andhas returned $1.4 billion to policyholders since2003, enablingthemtoinvestintheir businessesand theiremployees.This fundingtoLouisiana policyholders directly supports Louisiana’seconomy,and LWCC is proudtoplayaroleinhelping them andour state thrive
LWCC’s mutual structurealsomeans that we takea relationship-first approach with ourstakeholders,and make decisionsthatwillbenefitour policyholders,their workers, and ourhomestate long into thefuture.
We takepride in employingthe best minds in workplace safety to offer expert guidance on accident prevention.When workersare injured, ourspecialized in-house claims team cares forthemwithcompassionand care,helping them to return to work anda meaningfullife.
As apurpose-driven business,LWCCisLouisiana Loyal. Always.
Mark T. Emonet President&COO
Lipsey’s
ipsey’sisblessedtocalltheGreaterBatonRougeareahome.Fromour humblebeginningsasasmall,family-ownedsportinggoodsstore wehavegrownintooneofthelargestbusinessesintheregionanda leadingshootingsportswholesalernationwide.Oursuccessisfirmly rootedinfamilyvalues,hardwork,andanunwaveringcommitmenttoour customersandemployees.
AttheheartofLipsey’ssuccessisourexceptionalleadershipteam,whose visionanddedicationhavebeeninstrumentalinnavigatingchallengesand drivinggrowth.Thisteambringsdecadesofexperience,innovativethinking, andasteadfastcommitmenttothecompany’scorevalues.Theirabilityto buildrelationships,empoweremployees,andseizenewopportunitiesensures thatLipsey’sremainsanindustryleaderandavitalcontributortothelocal economy. Strongrelationshipsarethecornerstoneofourgrowth.Apersonal touch,ahandshake,andacommitmenttoourcustomers,vendors,partners, andemployeesdefineourapproach.Ourworkforceisourmostvaluable asset,andweareproudtoemployover200teammembers.Withplansfor furtherexpansionin2025,welookforwardtocreatingnewopportunitiesand strengtheningourimpact
AsaproudLouisiana-basedcompany,wearecommittedtofostering economicgrowthintheregion.Lipsey’sprioritizeshiringavibrantlocal workforcethatsharesourvisionandvaluesandactivelysupportslocal vendorstobolsterthearea’seconomy.Ourteamisalsodedicatedtoinvesting inthecommunity.Wehaveatraditionofphilanthropyandansweringthecall toserve.Wededicatehundredsofhours,raisefundsforcriticalcausesacross theCapitolregion,andcontinueredefiningwhatitmeanstogiveback
Withover70yearsofservice,Lipsey’shasevolvedinnameandsize,but ourfamily-orientedfoundationremainsunchanged.FoundedbyRichard Lipsey—whocontinuestoplayanactiveroleandnowledbyhisdaughter ChairwomanandCEOLaurieLipseyAronson,thecompanycontinuestoset newstandardsforsuccess.
Aswelooktothefuture,weareexcitedaboutthepossibilitiesahead. BatonRouge’sstrongeconomicforecastinspiresustogrowandexpand ourreach,bothlocallyandnationally.Withaleadershipteamdedicated toexcellence,aloyalandtalentedworkforce,andafocusonmeaningful relationships,weareconfidentinourabilitytothriveandmakealasting footprintintheyearstocome.
JayHardman, P.E.
Executive Director Port of Greater BatonRouge
024 hasbeenanother good year forthe Port of Greater BatonRouge duemainlytothe performanceofour privatesectortenantscontinuingtoexpandand improve their cargo-handling capabilities. Carrying this momentum forwardinto2025 will result in addedliquid bulk cargo transfer capacity becauseofthe addition/rehabilitation of anotherdeep-draftberth on theMississippi River, the construction of conveyance forimproving grain-handling efficiencies at thegrain elevator,and themodernizationand strengtheningofthe Port’s oldest deep-water dock.Also helpingwillbethe finalization of acollaborative studybythe lowerMississippi Riverports to identify both import and exportcargo opportunities, notonlyfor theMississippi River butfor theentirestate of Louisiana. These developments, coupledwiththe CorpsofEngineers’ongoing deepening projectofthe MississippiRiver to amaintained50-footdepth to BatonRouge,plusthe continuedprogressbythe Port of New Orleanstobuild theLouisiana InternationalTerminal (LIT), make fora very positive economic forecast forthe upcoming year.ThePortofGreater BatonRouge haspartnered with the Port of NewOrleans in recentyears to shuttlefull containers downriverfromBaton Rougeto NewOrleans,specifically foroverseasexports.Due to theLIT,our port will be able to shuttleevenmorefull containers downriverinthe future.As in thepast, thestaffand commissioners of thePortwillpursue newmaritimeopportunities that contribute to thegrowthand economic viabilityofthe region andthe StateofLouisiana.
Dianna Payton Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Greater BatonRouge
YWCA …AnEconomicand Positive Social Force in BatonRouge
The YWCA of GreaterBaton Rougeisstrengthening ourlocal economywithlife-changingservices that enhancethe upward mobility of women. Through ourcomprehensive services, extensiveoutreach, andaccess to resources, we help womenachieve financial stability. The synergyofworkforce andchild developmentispowerful. Last year,our EarlyHeadStart programenrolledmorethan 300 children, ensuring school readiness andfostering strong parent-child relationships. At thesametime, parentsreturnto theworkplace or enrollinhighereducation coursestoenhance their learning power. We also addressthe overwhelming needs of womenwho experience domestic violence.Our newYWCA ProvidencePlace apartments provide beautifullivingspaces, safety,and security forwomen andtheir children affectedby domestic violence.TheYWCALegaland Community Services team provides wrap-aroundservicestoenablerecoveryand a hopefulfuture. The YWCA also assistswomen facing eviction andhomelessnesswithfinancialand legalresources. Our YW-Teens forGirls programbuildsconfidenceand leadership skillstoempower andguide girls ages 12 to 19 to developtheir full potential. In 2025, we will proudlyintroduce ourlatest commitmenttothe community with thegrand opening of ournew YWCA Women’sEmpowerment Center in Mid-City, enhancingour visibility andoutreach. The YWCA continues to significantlyimpactthe BatonRouge economybyenabling more womentoincreasetheir earningpower,helping girlsface their challenges, andsupportingfamiliestoestablish asolid foundationfor theirchildrenduringthose critical formative years. To learnmoreabout ourmission,gotoYWCA-BR.ORG
E.J.Kuiper President &CEO, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System
Todd Graves Founder, CEO, FryCook &Cashier Raising Cane’s
Seth Hachmeister Senior Director, VerizonBusiness
Aswelooktowardthe future,I’m encouragedby theinnovativestrides beingmadeinhealthcare. At FMOLHS, we embracetechnologytoenhance diagnostics, improvetreatment timelinesand create more convenientcareexperiences.AsChampionshipHealth Partners,Our Lady of theLakeHealthand LSUdeliver remarkable advancements, andweremain committedto fosteringenvironmentsthatnurture ongoinginnovation. Recruitmentand retentionoftop talentare also crucial.As thedemandfor skilled healthcare professionalscontinues to grow,our commitment to developing thenext generation throughFranciscanMissionaries of OurLadyUniversity continues to strengthen. We areinvesting in innovative training programs to preparefuture leaderswhile also providing ongoinggrowthopportunities forthose alreadydedicated to thefield. Access to care continues to be apriority. We’refocused on expanding critical services, particularly in ruralcommunities, andensuringour primarycareprovidersare strategically placedtomeetlocal needs. Everystepwetakeisaimed at increasing accesstohigh-quality healthcare forall As we begin2025ona strong note,I’m excitedabout the opportunities aheadand thecreativesolutions we’llcontinueto explore to shapethe future of healthcare
2024 wasanother greatyearfor RaisingCane’saswe served ourCustomers 460 milliontimes andpartnered with over 45,000 local organizationstodonatemore than $20M to ourlocal communities. We grew to nearly 900 restaurantsacross41statesand made historyasthe first and only QSRbrand on LowerBroadwaywhenweopenedour NashvilleFlagshipthissummer.In2024 alone, we createdover 15,000 newjobs, promoted 4,500 Crewmembersinternally, andcontinued leading theindustryacrossall metrics. We also celebrated our“GoldenBirthday” when we turned 28 on August 28 andmarkedthismilestone with theopening of a fullygoldRestaurant in Boston andapledgetogiveback$28M to local communities over thenext year Despitethisgrowth, we have remained true to whowewere when Ifounded Cane’s 28 yearsago,atthe northgates of LSU’s campus.I neverimaginedthatwewould reachthe successwe have,and Iremaingrateful to thecommunity of BatonRouge andcitizensofLouisiana forall theiryears of endlesssupport
nLouisiana, VerizonBusinessisdedicated to supporting oursmall businesscustomers with integrated toolsdesigned to enhanceefficiencyand effectiveness.Our team creates custom solutionsand professionalservices to assist businesses in variouswaysand ourfieldteams work closelywithsmall businesscustomers daily, drivinginnovationwithinthe community Over thelastthree years, Verizonhas significantlyinvestedin NewOrleans,nearlytriplingits networkcapacitytoprepare the city forits influx of tourists andbusinesstravelers.And we are notdoneyet.Withthe influx of customers, stayingconnected is crucial.Withpreparation andpartnerships, businessescan capitalizeonthe opportunities that large-scale events bring. We have successfullyassistedcustomers in scalingtheir operations by providing them with additional primaryand backup connections, enablingthemtoworkand conducttransactions from anywhere
Lookingahead,the economic outlookacrossLouisiana is promising, driven by technologicaladvancementsand strategic investments. The expansionofhigh-speedinternetand 5G networks will empowerlocal businessestoinnovateand competeglobally. Thisconnectivitywill attractnew industries, from tech startups to advanced manufacturing,fostering job creation andeconomicdiversification With thesupport of VerizonBusiness, we canhelpthe state continue to grow.Byharnessingthe poweroftechnologyand connectivity,Louisiana will continue to evolve,ensuringa vibrantfuturefor allits residents
