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July 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

Innovative Entrepreneurs Shine in OHUB x NOLA's $100K Challenge

Group holding large check at New Orleans startup event.

Celebrating Innovation in New Orleans

In a vibrant demonstration of entrepreneurial spirit, Opportunity Hub New Orleans (OHUB x NOLA) has successfully concluded its $100K Startup Investment Challenge, held on June 25 at The Shop at the Contemporary Arts Center. This event, supported by notable sponsors including Block, Inc., Finance New Orleans, and Entergy, attracted an audience teeming with investors, community leaders, and innovators from across the Southern region. The high-stakes competition spotlighted six bold startups, each eager to make an impact in their respective industries.

Meet the Visionary Winner

Ultimately, it was Courtney Jiggetts, founder of PHŌS Mobility, who captured the spotlight by winning the $100,000 early-stage investment. PHŌS Mobility is focused on creating sustainable transportation solutions with its solar-electric low-speed vehicle, specifically designed for communities grappling with challenges such as grid failures and extreme weather events. In her acceptance speech, Jiggetts highlighted how her time in OHUB’s Climate Tech Bootcamp equipped her with the necessary tools for navigating climate innovations and emphasized how this funding is poised to revolutionize mobility.

A Growing Trend in Sustainable Tech

Jiggetts' startup exemplifies a growing trend within the Greater New Orleans area of focusing on sustainability and resilience in business innovation. The shift toward environmental responsibility is generating excitement among local executives and entrepreneurs, showcasing New Orleans as a burgeoning hub for tech startups dedicated to addressing pressing societal issues. With investment heavily skewed toward such initiatives, local investors are witnessing the potential for profitability intertwined with purpose.

Empowering Overlooked Founders

“This is exactly the kind of founder we aim to invest in,” stated Dr. Rodney Sampson, Executive Chairman & CEO of OHUB. His words encapsulate a broader mission to support often-overlooked entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented communities. As the local business landscape evolves, initiatives like the OHUB investment challenge not only provide vital funding but also a supportive community for innovative ideas.

Why This Matters for New Orleans' Economy

The success of these initiatives is a pivotal factor for economic development in New Orleans. As businesses align with the principles of sustainability and innovation, the positive implications ripple outwards, enhancing the city's reputation within regional and national economic discussions. Investing in startups like PHŌS Mobility can lead to job creation, increased investments in climate technology, and ultimately, a stronger local economy.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Local Entrepreneurs

As we look to the future, it's crucial for local entrepreneurs to take note of such funding opportunities. Participation in competitions like the OHUB x NOLA challenge not only provides capital but also invaluable exposure and networking potential. Entrepreneurs should engage with local business events and initiatives to further their ventures and contribute positively to the community's prosperity.

In conclusion, the OHUB x NOLA investment challenge not only champions innovative ideas but stands as a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem within the Greater New Orleans region. For local business leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs alike, this is a call to action: get involved, seek opportunities, and make strides toward impactful innovation.

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08.30.2025

Port NOLA Cargo Volumes Climb: How This Growth Affects Local Business Leaders

Update Port NOLA Sees Remarkable Increase in Cargo Volumes In a strong sign of resiliency and growth, the Port of New Orleans, often referred to as Port NOLA, announced a notable increase in cargo volumes and trade activities for the first half of 2025. This surge has been largely attributed to heightened container imports and improved schedule reliability, which are pivotal in providing shippers with the confidence to plan their logistics more effectively. Year-Over-Year Growth Indicates Stability According to recent data released by Port NOLA, container volumes have seen a rise of 2% year over year, contrasted by a more striking 9% increase from the latter half of 2024. In total, 263,961 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) were recorded so far this year, a slight increase from 258,758 TEUs during the same period last year. Beth Branch, President and CEO of Port NOLA, emphasized that this growth reflects the port's global competitiveness and reliability, which fosters strong connections between Louisiana and burgeoning international markets. Key Commodities Driving Import Growth Several key commodities have contributed to the growth on the import side, with organic chemicals seeing a staggering 70% surge, primarily driven by robust trade with Mexico. In addition, copper imports from Asia have increased fivefold, showcasing Port NOLA's expanding role in global raw materials supply chains. Countries like Singapore and Malaysia have also marked substantial growth, with increases of 400% and 112%, respectively. Export Success Stories: A Look at the Numbers On the export side, plastic resin has emerged as a star performer, with exports surging by 30%. Notably, PVC shipments to Southeast Asia and South America have played a significant role in this notable increase. The boom in both imports and exports indicates a vibrant port that serves as a critical node in the global economy, facilitating the efficient movement of goods. Understanding the Impact on New Orleans Business Community For business leaders in New Orleans and the greater Southern Louisiana area, the growth of Port NOLA represents a valuable opportunity. The increased trade activity not only benefits logistics companies but also reverberates throughout the local economy, promising a strengthening of job markets and potential growth for sectors reliant on import and export capabilities. Embracing Future Strategies for Growth With the ongoing advancements in global trade dynamics, the importance of understanding new trends and developments cannot be overstated. As Port NOLA continues to establish itself as an integral player in the supply chain, New Orleans business executives and stakeholders are encouraged to stay ahead of market trends, leveraging these insights for strategic planning in areas like real estate development, logistics, and technology startups. If you're intrigued by how these developments impact the local business landscape, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local insights and updates. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @neworleanslocalunplugged

08.26.2025

Discover the Thriving Startup Energy in New Orleans: Business Highlights from August 2025

Update Reviving Economic Energy: A Flourishing Business Landscape in New OrleansDespite the summer heat, the Greater New Orleans business scene is experiencing a surge of activity, as new startups, funding initiatives, and impactful awards punctuate the local economy. This recent uptick highlights the resilience and dynamism that characterize Southern Louisiana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.Spotlight on Rising Stars: Inc. 5000’s Fastest-Growing BusinessesThe 2025 Inc. 5000 list showcases a remarkable achievement for the region, with half of the 48 fastest-growing Louisiana businesses based in Greater New Orleans. This includes a mix of innovative startups and established companies that are redefining success in a variety of sectors, from technology to service-oriented enterprises.Among these, companies in the New Orleans startup scene are gaining recognition for their unique contributions, often revolving around cutting-edge technology and community-driven goals. Their substantial growth reflects not just their ambition, but also the supportive network fostered by local organizations and investors.LED’s 9×90 Work Plan: A Strategic InitiativeIn addition to individual success stories, the Louisiana Economic Development (LED) agency is proactively enhancing the business environment with its new 9×90 Work Plan, set to launch in conjunction with LED's 90th anniversary in 2026. This ambitious initiative is designed to implement nine high-impact strategies aimed at boosting economic growth, innovation, and job opportunities across the state.The plan's focus on collaboration and resource sharing underscores the importance of community in driving forward Southern Louisiana's economic ambitions. As businesses and entrepreneurs unite under this plan, the potential for transformative change grows exponentially.Enduring Community Support: The Greater Together FundThis week also saw the announcement of the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s 2025 grantees from the Greater Together Fund for Racial Equity. The foundation is committed to recognizing and uplifting organizations that impact community wellbeing and development initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of economic progress are shared among all demographics in the region.A commitment to racial equity is crucial for sustainable growth, as diverse communities bring a wealth of perspectives and ideas that can ignite innovation. Highlighting these initiatives not only reflects upon the growing awareness among local leaders but also serves as a call to action for other businesses to take part in fostering an inclusive environment.Call to Action: Stay Connected with Local Business TrendsIf you enjoyed this overview of the latest business developments in New Orleans, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information about the thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation emanating from our vibrant city. Don’t miss out on the exciting events, resources, and stories that shape our community!

08.25.2025

Nunez Community College Launches Maritime Certificate to Boost Local Workforce

Update Charting New Waters: Nunez Community College's Maritime InitiativeNunez Community College is set to make waves in education as it introduces a new Certificate of Technical Studies in Maritime Operations. This program is designed not only to meet the needs of the rapidly developing Louisiana International Terminal (LIT) in St. Bernard Parish but also to equip local residents with essential skills for crucial jobs in the maritime sector. The creation of this certificate illustrates a proactive approach to workforce development, ensuring that upcoming generations are prepared for the operational demands of the region’s ports.Empowering the Local WorkforceThis initiative aims to deliver multi-parish economic opportunities, skills training, and job readiness for St. Bernard Parish and surrounding communities. With the maritime industry in Louisiana projected to grow, Nunez's response comes at an opportune moment. The curriculum includes several specialized concentrations such as Equipment & Transportation Operations, Maintenance, and Safety & Logistics, designed based on feedback from local businesses. This local focus ensures that the training is relevant and meets the immediate needs of employers.A Flexible Talent PipelineThe program is crafted with the maritime industry's demands in mind, helping to ensure that graduates have versatile skills essential for a variety of roles. With cross-training across different operational aspects, students will graduate with not just one but multiple competencies, making them highly attractive to local employers who need adaptable and well-rounded workers. In a rapidly changing job market, this versatility can be a key differentiator for job seekers.Strategic Partnerships for SuccessThe development of the Maritime Operations Certificate comes from collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, including the Port of New Orleans, local employers, and training professionals. Port of New Orleans President and CEO, Beth Branch, emphasized how local talent will be integral as the LIT becomes operational. She noted that the success of this transformative project is directly linked to having a well-trained workforce. The connection between community needs and educational opportunities highlights a forward-thinking approach that enhances the local economy.Future Impact on Economic GrowthThe sheer scale of the Louisiana International Terminal project signifies substantial economic potential for the region. By preparing a skilled workforce, Nunez Community College plays a pivotal role in driving this growth. The certificate program not only supports immediate hirings but also positions local talent for long-term careers in a robust sector critical to the region's economic health.Education and economic development are connected in a cyclical relationship; as businesses grow and thrive due to skilled labor, they can, in turn, contribute to local educational initiatives and community enhancement. This initiative represents a crucial step forward in ensuring the sustainability of Louisiana's maritime and logistics industry.

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