In the world of business innovation, the journey from concept to success is both challenging and rewarding. For college students across Louisiana, this journey often begins at an information session introducing the dynamic pitch competitions hosted by the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP) of BRF. For the past several years, EAP has sponsored these competitions not merely as academic exercises but as transformative experiences that mold students into confident entrepreneurs ready to compete on the statewide stage of the Pelican Cup and beyond.
We believe it is critical to invest in young people at the college level because these competitions ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in young leaders, encouraging them to see themselves not as job seekers but as job creators. In an area like North Louisiana, where innovation and economic diversification are critical to long-term growth, nurturing this mindset is essential. When students develop the confidence to turn ideas into businesses, they help build a more dynamic local economy. They create companies that solve real problems, attract investment, and provide meaningful jobs. These competitions don’t just prepare students for the future—they shape the future of North Louisiana by fostering a culture of innovation and opportunity right here at home.
Throughout the academic year, EAP delivers a robust lineup of workshops and training sessions designed to equip students with the skills they need to succeed. From public speaking and persuasive communication to financial modeling and market research, these sessions are tailored to help students approach each deliverable with confidence. Full buy-in from university personnel, faculty, and mentors makes all the difference in helping students take their ideas to the next level.
The process kicks off each August with students diving headfirst into ideation. This phase challenges them to identify real-world problems and craft creative solutions, often inspired by their personal experiences or academic fields. From there, students distill their concepts into a one-page business plan known as the Lean Canvas. This tool maps out value propositions, customer segments, revenue streams, and cost structures in a concise, actionable format. Through workshops and mentorship provided by EAP, participants refine their ideas, gaining clarity on the core aspects of their ventures.
A standout feature of the program is its emphasis on financial literacy. Students are guided through detailed financial analyses—an essential step that transforms their businesses from abstract concepts into viable enterprises. Armed with these insights, they move on to crafting compelling pitch decks. These presentations are not just slideshows; they are storytelling vehicles designed to captivate judges and potential investors. The pitch deck phase is where creativity meets precision, and it’s often where students’ entrepreneurial grit truly shines.
This year’s competitions showcased bold, forward-thinking ideas tackling a range of high-level challenges. A prominent trend was the focus on preventive health and holistic wellness, with students identifying gaps in the modern healthcare system and proposing solutions that could benefit us all. Artificial Intelligence also emerged as a dominant theme, offering innovative ways to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and solve complex problems. Beyond these, students explored concepts in recycling, online marketing, data-driven research, financial literacy tools, and businesses aimed at strengthening community development—demonstrating both creativity and a deep understanding of real-world needs.
The local pitch competitions culminate in high-energy events at each participating institution—Northwestern State University, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Grambling State University, and Centenary College. Judges, often drawn from the local business community, evaluate students’ presentations based on creativity, feasibility, and potential impact. For the winners, these competitions are more than just moments of recognition; they are stepping stones to the prestigious Pelican Cup at the University of Louisiana Monroe.
The Pelican Cup finishes with an awards banquet on April 10, and represents the pinnacle of university-level entrepreneurial competition in Louisiana. With higher stakes, significant cash prizes, and exposure to a broader audience, it’s a true test of the skills and resilience honed at the local level. Ultimately, EAP’s goal extends beyond winning competitions—it’s about building businesses that launch and thrive in North Louisiana. By connecting students with resources, mentors, and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, BRF’s EAP is cultivating the next generation of business leaders. The results speak for themselves: past participants have secured funding, created jobs, and made tangible impacts in their communities.
As the next cohort of students embarks on this journey, the message is clear: the road to the Pelican Cup is paved with opportunity, hard work, and unwavering support. For those willing to take the first step, the rewards extend far beyond prize money. They gain the skills, connections, and confidence to turn their ideas into reality—driving innovation and economic growth in Louisiana for years to come.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that programs like those offered by EAP and J A are essential in cultivating a new generation of entrepreneurs. By providing the necessary resources, mentorship, and opportunities to young people, we are not only preparing them for personal success but also ensuring the continued prosperity and growth of our community. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Northwest Louisiana, and with continued support, it will only grow stronger. The future of our region—and indeed, our world—will be shaped by these young entrepreneurs who dare to think differently and challenge the status quo.
The EAP is made up of a team of financial analysts committed to helping launch startups in North Louisiana. The EAP team helps young companies in many different respects. If you have an idea for a startup company or an invention and are looking for help to launch, look no further than Shreveport’s own EAP. Visit eapla.com to learn about upcoming workshops and events. Learn more about Launch Network at launchnetworkla.com.