Economic Impact

What do the numbers in the above table mean to you?

First, they mean that we, the Louisiana SBDC, are proactive.  We want to help you, and we’re prepared to help you create jobs in Louisiana.  Further, we’re here to help existing businesses become more healthy and sustainable so that they can retain jobs (including those of the entrepreneurs).

New businesses are the lifeblood of the Louisiana economy; we assist the entrepreneurs in getting their businesses started in the best way, including getting their loan proposals submitted.  Lending is, of course, a normal part of business development and growth.  So we work to maintain good working relationships with reputable lenders as well as assist new business owners to evaluate and prepare their loan proposals.  With this assistance, clients are more successful in getting their loans funded, after which they often add their own resources, forming the total capital put to work in the Louisiana economy.

One very effective way for businesses to keep up to date on the best practices in their field is for owners and employees to attend LSBDC training events.  These events, held all over the state, give the latest information for entrepreneurs to be able to start and grow their businesses, stay in compliance with laws and regulations, and learn about services and programs—all at little or no cost to the business owner.  As you can see, even considering the fact that 2005 was not the best year in Louisiana, we still managed to serve a large number of attendees, totaling many hours of training at various training events.

Finally, individual consulting is our most personal method of assistance.  We work closely with each client, providing advice and resources not otherwise available to small businesses.  We counsel with thousands of clients during thousands of sessions, acting as a confidential, neutral third party—and we’re free of charge.  Traditionally underserved individuals such as women, minorities, and veterans, as well as every other aspiring or established businessperson, are welcomed and encouraged to seek LSBDC assistance.