Bringing “How to Fund Your Business” to North Louisiana
“How do I fund my business?” is one of the most common questions entrepreneurs ask — and it’s often the biggest obstacle standing between them and their goals. BRF’s Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP) is tackling this challenge head-on with its “How to Fund Your Business” Tour, a multi-city workshop series designed to equip small business owners and startup founders with the knowledge and tools they need to successfully secure funding. Spanning 10 locations across North Louisiana, this hands-on initiative will provide entrepreneurs with real-world strategies to navigate financial modeling, pitching, and fundraising, giving them a clear roadmap to capital.
At the heart of the workshop is a practical step-by-step approach to business funding. Participants will explore a range of financing options, from personal savings, friends & family contributions, bank loans, angel investors, and more. They will also learn how to build a strong financial model that demonstrates viability and growth potential — critical factors for attracting investors and securing loans. But understanding where to find money is only part of the equation; entrepreneurs must also know how to sell their vision. That is why the workshop also focuses on crafting a compelling pitch deck, teaching participants how to communicate their business’ value in a way that resonates with potential investors and lenders.
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is its accessibility. Instead of requiring entrepreneurs to travel to a single location, EAP is bringing these crucial resources directly to communities that may lack immediate access to private funding options. With stops in Ruston, Monroe, Many, Natchitoches, Lake Providence, Farmerville and more, the tour ensures that small business owners from all corners of North Louisiana can benefit from these insights. Each session will be led by industry experts who have firsthand experience in helping businesses secure funding, offering attendees interactive, real-world training that goes beyond lectures.
This is not just a seminar — it is an interactive, hands-on experience where participants will actively apply what they learn to their own business ideas. Attendees will engage in live financial modeling exercises, build a Lean Canvas for their business, and practice delivering their pitches. They will not just leave with knowledge — they’ll walk away with a customized guidebook tailored to their business idea, helping them refine their funding strategy long after the workshop ends. This practical takeaway ensures that entrepreneurs have a structured plan to follow as they move forward with their funding efforts.
By equipping more business owners with the knowledge and confidence to secure funding, EAP is contributing to long-term economic development in the region. Connecting entrepreneurs with investors, business lenders, and mentors, the tour fosters collaboration and strengthens local networks. Many startups struggle in isolation, but this initiative provides them with both education and valuable connections that can accelerate their growth.
Thanks to the generous support of LWCC Foundation, these workshops are completely free to attend. With workshops running from now through August 2025, this is a wonderful opportunity for any aspiring business owner looking to take their venture to the next level. Interested participants can register online at www.eapla.com/howtofundmybusinessworkshop. By hitting the road with this initiative, EAP is ensuring that the next generation of entrepreneurs in North Louisiana has the tools, confidence, and resources to turn their business dreams into reality.