Shreveport, LA — The 2025 Dolores George LaVigne Wall of Entrepreneurial Achievement ceremony, hosted by BRF’s Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP), celebrated the innovation, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit driving North Louisiana’s business community. Held at BRF’s InterTech 1 facility on October 1st, the event recognized 10 companies for their vision and impact in strengthening the economic well-being of our area.
EAP, headquartered in Shreveport, serves as the region’s premier startup accelerator, guiding companies from concept to commercialization. Through hands-on, one-on-one mentorship, EAP meets entrepreneurs where they are—helping them refine financial models, strengthen business plans, and prepare for successful capital raises. Beyond its direct work with startups, EAP hosts community training events and workshops designed to cultivate an innovative, connected startup ecosystem across North Louisiana.
Since its inception, EAP has screened nearly 2,000 business ideas and partnered with hundreds of founders to help them launch and scale. EAP-supported entrepreneurs have collectively raised more than $550 million over the past 11 years through a variety of funding mechanisms, including angel investor capital, Small Business Innovation Research grants, bank funding, grants, and self-financing—demonstrating measurable impact on regional economic growth.
EAP Executive Director Dave Smith opened the ceremony, welcoming attendees and highlighting how the Wall serves as “a symbol of the energy and creativity that local entrepreneurs bring to our region.” He emphasized that the recognition honors those “not only building businesses but making our region a better place to work, live, and invest in.”
Dr. John F. George Jr., BRF’s President and CEO, followed with remarks that underscored the significance of entrepreneurship. “The companies represented here showcase the talent, creativity, and resilience that spur innovation in the market,” he said.
“The Dolores George LaVigne Wall of Entrepreneurial Achievement honors your vision, but it also stands as encouragement for others who will come after you.”
2025 Honorees
Each of the following companies were recognized for their innovation, impact, and leadership.
Dripp Donuts
Caleb and Michelle King, Founders
A beloved Shreveport favorite, Dripp crafts artisanal donuts and specialty coffee. More than a shop, it serves as a vibrant gathering space where flavors delight and community connections thrive.
Epic Canning and Bottling
Kevin Kippie, CEO
Launched in Shreveport in 2025, Epic Canning and Bottling is revolutionizing beverage production. The company helps brands scale through precision packaging and high-quality canning solutions that combine reliability with local craftsmanship.
Flugers Bicycle & Outdoors
Dereck Yagle, Founder
Expanding to Bossier City in 2025, Flugers offers bicycles, kayaks, and overland gear for outdoor enthusiasts. The store fosters adventure and community, inviting families and explorers alike to discover Louisiana’s natural beauty.
Great Raft Brewing
Andrew Nations, Founder
A cornerstone of Shreveport’s craft beer scene, Great Raft Brewing is celebrated for its dedication to quality, innovation, and community. Its creative brews have become symbols of local pride and collaboration.
SB Rides
Greg Powell, Founder
SB Rides lights up Shreveport-Bossier nights with guided, LED-lit bicycle tours and rentals. The company merges fun, history, and fitness, creating unforgettable experiences that highlight the area’s culture and charm.
Sleep Navigator
Lea Desmarteau, Founder
A secure, web-based SaaS platform, Sleep Navigator unites clinics, providers, and device companies to streamline workflows and improve sleep health management. It stands at the intersection of healthcare innovation and patient care.
SouthStone Solutions
Daniel Simpson, Richard Yancey, & Katherine Douthitt, Co-Founders
SouthStone Solutions develops advanced AI tools that extract insights from complex documents. Their technology integrates seamlessly into business workflows, dramatically improving accuracy, efficiency, and productivity for organizations across industries.
VRC Metal Systems
Rob Hrabe, Founder
A leader in advanced manufacturing, VRC Metal Systems pioneers cold spray technology to create high-strength metal coatings and repairs. Its new Shreveport-Bossier plant supports Barksdale Air Force Base and regional innovation.
Wonder Oasis Waterpark
Lee Hovis, Owner
Wonder Oasis Waterpark transforms summer into celebration, offering thrilling attractions and safe, family-friendly fun. The park strengthens community bonds through laughter, recreation, and a shared spirit of joy.
X-Star Aviation
Carl Schaefer, CEO
X-Star Aviation delivers world-class training that transforms aircrew skills into instinct and precision. The company’s programs combine legacy expertise with modern innovation to advance the next generation of aviation professionals.
As the ceremony wrapped, Smith welcomed honorees and guests to enjoy cake, capture memories, and network, capping the celebration with both recognition and community connection.
Through the Dolores George LaVigne Wall of Entrepreneurial Achievement, BRF and EAP continue to shine a spotlight on startups achieving real milestones in funding and business growth. Each addition celebrates a thriving venture and signals the growing momentum of bold ideas taking root and creating impact in our region.