BATON ROUGE, La. – Louisiana Economic Development (LED) has begun accepting applications for the 2024 Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Roundtables program. This innovative peer-to-peer learning initiative offers small and emerging business leaders a yearlong opportunity for collaborative learning, problem-solving, and professional development.
The SEBD Roundtables program utilizes the PeerSpectives™ Roundtable System, developed by the Edward Lowe Foundation and recognized as a nationwide best practice. Open to both current and prospective SEBD participants, the roundtables will begin in July and August, with each cohort meeting ten times throughout the year. These sessions focus on exploring best practices, addressing business challenges, and brainstorming solutions in a supportive environment.
“By fostering an environment where business owners can collaborate, share insights, and learn from each other, SEBD Roundtables empower them to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities,” said Stephanie Hartman, LED Director of Small Business Services. “Through these roundtables, we are building a more resilient and dynamic small business ecosystem, ensuring that businesses of all sizes have the resources and support they need to thrive.”
Participants in the program will engage in group discussions aimed at enhancing management skills, improving decision-making, and identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
Louella Cleveland, CEO of LL Builders Group, shared her positive experience with the program: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my SEBD Roundtable experience. The discussions and insights shared have been incredibly valuable, helping me gain new perspectives and ideas that have positively impacted my business. Being surrounded by a group of like-minded business professionals who are passionate about making a positive difference has been amazing. I highly recommend participating in the Roundtable for anyone looking to network, expand their knowledge, and take away valuable lessons learned from real experiences.”
Certified SEBD intermediaries across the state provide technical and managerial assistance through the program to ensure a consistent experience. Current and prospective SEBD Program certified companies interested in participating in the roundtables should contact their nearest SEBD Intermediary for details about the application process:
- Bayou Region Incubator, Thibodaux
- Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, New Orleans
- Microbusiness Enterprise Corporation of Ascension, Gonzales
- Propeller, New Orleans
- Small Business Development and Management Institute, Southern University at New Orleans
- Small Business Development Center, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond
- Small Business Development Center, Southern University, Baton Rouge
- Small Business Development Center, Southern University at Shreveport
- Small Business Development Center, University of Louisiana Monroe
- Small Business Development Center, University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Urban League of Louisiana, New Orleans
For more information on the SEBD Roundtables, contact LED Senior Program Manager Tatiana Bruce at [email protected] or 225.342.5663. Learn more and apply to the SEBD Program and certification at OpportunityLouisiana.com/SEBD.
About LED
Louisiana Economic Development is dedicated to strengthening the state’s business environment and fostering a vibrant economy. In 2023, LED attracted over $25 billion in capital investment, creating the potential for 19,000 new and retained jobs. Discover how LED cultivates jobs and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes at OpportunityLouisiana.com.