On Thursday, February 13, 2020, representatives from the City of Lake Charles, SWLA Economic Development Alliance and SEED Center Business Incubator gathered to announce plans for SWLA Lake Charles Launch, a month-long series aimed at providing educational opportunities for local entrepreneurs. 

“Small business enterprises are the backbone of our economy, but the road to entrepreneurship can be bumpy at times,” said Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter. “Starting a business is challenging, but the City of Lake Charles and a number of other agencies offer some incredible resources to aspiring entrepreneurs. SWLA Lake Charles Launch is an effort to provide a concerted effort at providing educational programming to shed a brighter light on these resources.”

The series will kick off on Monday, March 2, with a Business Pitch Warm-up scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. at the SEED Center. Programming will continue throughout the month and feature workshops for citizens of all ages. Teens will have the opportunity to attend two Teen Connection sessions focused on business-related topics and workshops on how to do business with the city, starting and financing your business and the ins and outs of interviewing for employers will also be offered.

“Entrepreneurship is alive and well in Southwest Louisiana,” added George Swift, CEO of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance. “With the leadership of Mayor Nic Hunter, we are expanding events throughout March. At the SEED Center there will be programs of interest to those wanting to start a business but with this expanded program there will be events throughout our area including our annual Business Expo at the Civic Center and culminating with the Business Pitch Contest April 2.” 

“The SWLA Lake Charles Launch is an excellent example of the power of collaboration.” Adrian Wallace, Executive Director of the SEED Center Business Incubator, said. “This month-long initiative will feature a variety of events, seminars, and presentations for all stages of entrepreneurship, from startups to established enterprises.”

Events will be held at locations throughout the City and a complete schedule of events is available by clicking here.

For additional information on SWLA Lake Charles Launch, call 491-1388.