Shreveport-Bossier Launches $100K Tourism Business Challenge
A new initiative is set to ignite business growth and expand tourism opportunities in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Destination 318, a $100,000 business competition, aims to attract innovative entrepreneurs and support the expansion of tourism-focused businesses across Caddo and Bossier Parishes.
Launched by Visit Shreveport-Bossier in partnership with the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP), the City of Shreveport, and City of Bossier City, the competition provides cash awards to ventures that enhance visitor experiences in the region.
Fueling Business Growth
Participants will compete for a share of $100,000 in funding, 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
Open to both startups and existing businesses, the competition focuses on sectors such as outdoor recreation, sports, hospitality, arts, culture, and entertainment.
A Vision for Regional Tourism
With a goal to revitalize urban areas and promote outdoor recreation, Destination 318 aligns with the Shreveport-Bossier Destination Masterplan, a strategic framework designed to enhance tourism and economic development.
“Destination 318 was designed to encourage creative ideas that not only improve visitor experiences but also enhance the quality of life for residents,” said Stacy Brown, President & CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier.
Local leaders recognize the program’s potential to boost tourism-related businesses and foster economic growth.
“Shreveport is a hub of innovation, creativity, and culture. This initiative will help highlight what makes our community unique,” said Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux.
“By investing in new and expanding businesses, we’re ensuring visitors and residents alike experience the best of Bossier-Shreveport,” added Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler.
Eligibility & Key Requirements
To qualify for Destination 318, applicants must:
- Own a tourism-related business or startup in Caddo or Bossier Parishes.
- Align with the Destination Masterplan to ensure sustainable tourism growth.
- Attend three mandatory business workshops hosted by EAP, covering topics such as:
- Sustainable business models
- Marketing strategies
- Scaling for long-term success
Beyond financial awards, winners will also receive business development support, including legal and accounting services, to help sustain and scale their ventures.
How to Apply
Applications open February 1, 2025, and close February 28, 2025.
For eligibility details and more information, visit: www.VisitShreveportBossier.org/destination-318
By supporting Destination 318, Shreveport-Bossier is taking a bold step toward building a stronger tourism industry while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs.