SHREVEPORT, La. — Visit Shreveport-Bossier and the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program, a division of BRF, have awarded $100,000 to six local businesses through the second annual Destination 318: $100K Tourism Challenge, an initiative designed to support tourism-related business growth in Caddo and Bossier parishes.
The program provides funding to businesses that are expanding tourism offerings and developing new visitor experiences across the region. The initiative is part of Visit Shreveport-Bossier’s Destination Master Plan, which aims to strengthen the local visitor economy and support long-term community development.
“Destination 318 is about investing in the people shaping the future of our region,” said Stacy Brown, president and CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “These creators bring fresh ideas to life through food, entertainment, outdoor experiences, and creative spaces. This gives visitors more ways to experience Shreveport-Bossier while strengthening opportunity and quality of life for our community.”
According to Visit Shreveport-Bossier, the program supports goals outlined in the Destination Master Plan, including encouraging business diversity and promoting growth in outdoor recreation and entertainment sectors.
A panel of judges selected six businesses to receive funding. An additional People’s Choice Award was determined through a community vote.
E-Vans Electric Co. received the top award of $50,000. The company operates on-demand electric low-speed vehicle rides and guided tours throughout downtown Shreveport-Bossier and the Texas Avenue district. The service is designed to improve visitor mobility while connecting travelers with local businesses, events and attractions.
God’s Country Resort was awarded $25,000. The business offers RV sites and cabin rentals in a rural setting and plans to continue expanding its outdoor hospitality offerings.
Vegans on the Run received $10,000 to support development of the Texas Avenue Alchemy Hub, a wellness and cultural destination that will combine plant-based dining with live music, community events and an interactive urban garden.
Streetcar Station and The Swamp received $7,500. The project aims to create a New Orleans-inspired entertainment venue in East Bank Bossier, featuring family-oriented attractions and gathering spaces intended to increase activity in the district.
Firefly Nights was awarded $5,000 and also earned the $2,000 People’s Choice Award. The project plans to use light, video and interactive technology installations created by local, national and international artists to develop nighttime tourism experiences in the region.
Amour Riviera received $2,500. The café concept will focus on specialty beignets, iced coffee beverages, charcuterie offerings and craft cocktails in a design-focused setting intended to attract both residents and visitors.
Visit Shreveport-Bossier said Destination 318 reflects a broader effort to invest in local entrepreneurs and tourism-related experiences that contribute to economic development and quality of life throughout Caddo and Bossier parishes.