SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER, LA – A bold new initiative is set to boost tourism, economic growth, and business innovation in Shreveport-Bossier. Destination 318, a $100,000 competition, has been announced by Visit Shreveport-Bossier, in collaboration with the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP), the City of Shreveport, and the City of Bossier City.
This program aims to incentivize entrepreneurs and existing businesses to develop and expand tourism-related ventures across Caddo and Bossier Parishes.
The Competition: Cash Prizes and Business Growth Opportunities
Participants in Destination 318 will compete for a share of $100,000 in funding, with awards distributed as follows:
🏆 1st Place: $50,000
🥈 2nd Place: $25,000
🥉 3rd Place: $10,000
🏅 4th Place: $7,500
🎖️ 5th Place: $5,000
🏵️ 6th Place: $2,500
🏆 People’s Choice Award: $2,000
The competition is open to tourism-related startups and existing businesses looking to expand their offerings in outdoor recreation, sports, hospitality, arts, culture, or entertainment.
A Vision for Tourism Growth
“Destination 318 was designed to encourage creative ideas to enhance the visitor experience while also improving quality of life for residents,” said Stacy Brown, President & CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “By revitalizing urban areas and promoting outdoor recreational development, this competition will help showcase our ‘hidden gems’ to visitors.”
Shreveport and Bossier City leaders recognize the program’s potential to spur business development and regional tourism.
- Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux: “Shreveport, a hub of innovation, creativity, and culture, is proud to partake in Destination 318. This initiative will help drive economic growth and highlight what makes our community unique.”
- Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler: “By investing in new and expanding businesses, we’re ensuring that visitors and residents alike experience the very best of what Bossier-Shreveport has to offer.”
Eligibility and Requirements
Applications open February 1 and close on February 28, 2025. To qualify, participants must:
- Operate a tourism-focused startup or existing business in Caddo or Bossier Parishes.
- Align with the Shreveport-Bossier Destination Masterplan, which serves as a strategic guide for long-term tourism and economic development.
- Attend three mandatory business workshops hosted by EAP, covering:
- Sustainable business models
- Marketing strategies
- Scaling for long-term success
Winners will also receive business support services, including legal and accounting assistance, to help them sustain and scale their ventures.
How to Apply
For more information about Destination 318, eligibility requirements, and access to the Destination Masterplan, visit:
👉 www.VisitShreveportBossier.org/destination-318.
For inquiries about business services or sponsorship opportunities, contact:
📧 Karen M. Barnes, VP of Destination Development at [email protected].