Historic Merger Creates a Unified Voice for Transformative Change
Baton Rouge, LA – The Committee of 100 for Economic Development (C100) and the Council for a Better Louisiana (CABL) have merged to form Leaders for a Better Louisiana (Better Louisiana). This landmark partnership combines two of the state’s most respected organizations, amplifying their collective efforts to champion economic growth, education reform, and policy advocacy for the betterment of Louisiana.
By bringing together C100’s influential business leadership with CABL’s legacy of advancing education initiatives and sound governance, Better Louisiana aims to serve as a powerful, unified voice for transformative change, with a vision to unlock Louisiana’s full potential.
A Rare Opportunity for Change
“We are at a unique moment in Louisiana’s history,” said Adam Knapp, CEO of Leaders for a Better Louisiana. “People are eager for change and innovative solutions to our state’s challenges. This merger provides leaders with the opportunity to drive meaningful progress and unlock Louisiana’s potential.”
C100 has long been a premier roundtable for Louisiana’s business and education leaders, while CABL has led the charge in advocating for sound policy and leadership development. Together, under the banner of Better Louisiana, these organizations will tackle systemic challenges, push for impactful reforms, and create opportunities for all Louisianans.
Enhancing Impact, Preserving Legacies
The merger strengthens both organizations’ ability to drive change while preserving their rich histories. CABL and C100’s prior collaboration on initiatives such as RESET Louisiana has already demonstrated their combined potential. RESET’s 2023 policy framework produced 55 actionable recommendations addressing Louisiana’s most pressing challenges, forming a roadmap for transformative change.
Key initiatives under Better Louisiana include:
- Economic Development: C100’s expertise in fostering growth will remain central, including advising on Louisiana Economic Development’s restructuring and strategic planning.
- Leadership Louisiana: CABL’s flagship program will continue to develop Louisiana’s next generation of leaders, with its 37-year history of graduating over 1,600 civic-minded individuals.
- Education Advocacy: Better Louisiana will expand CABL’s efforts to improve education outcomes, including support for the state’s new accountability system set to launch in August 2025.
Visionary Leadership
Guiding the new organization is a dynamic leadership team:
- Adam Knapp, formerly CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber and advisor to two Louisiana governors, will serve as CEO of Better Louisiana.
- Barry Erwin, CABL’s longtime leader and policy expert, will assume the role of Chief Policy Officer, bringing extensive advocacy experience.
“Our goal has always been to find ways to make Louisiana better,” said Co-Chair Heather Poole. “Adam and Barry’s leadership brings together a wealth of expertise to drive thoughtful advocacy and action.”
Co-Chair Dr. Phillip Rozeman emphasized the significance of the merger: “By uniting our organizations, we are building a ‘think and do’ tank for smart, decisive action. This is about creating bold solutions to longstanding challenges.”
A Brighter Future
Better Louisiana is committed to leveraging the state’s talent, resources, and unique geographic position to foster opportunity and innovation. The organization will focus on forward-looking, data-driven projects designed to address critical issues and drive prosperity.
Through collaboration, advocacy, and bold leadership, Leaders for a Better Louisiana is poised to lead the state toward a brighter and more competitive future.
For more information, visit BetterLa.org.