BATON ROUGE - Sixteen Louisiana-based, growth-oriented companies have become the fourth group of participants in the American Academy of Entrepreneurs, which is designed to accelerate business growth and develop meaningful relationships among second-stage companies.
The program is made possible by a collaboration between Louisiana Economic Development (LED) and the Michigan-based Edward Lowe Foundation.
The 2023 initiative began July 18-20 with intensive programming for participants at Big Rock Valley, the foundation’s HQ in Cassopolis, Mich.
Participating companies are paired as mentors/mentees and will engage in six monthly one-on-one meetings focused on developing strategies for overcoming obstacles to growth.
“Learning directly from leaders who have ... overcome the hurdles of starting a business is one of the most valuable resources an entrepreneur could have,” LED Secretary Don Pierson said.
Businessman Ed Lowe, inventor of Kitty Litter, created his namesake foundation as a platform for entrepreneurs to come together and help one another break through barriers that hinder business growth.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with LED, which is a national leader in serving second-stage companies,” said Dan Wyant, chairman/president of the foundation.
Second-stage businesses typically have 10 to 99 employees and sell to external markets. Common issues for these businesses include building out a team, growing to last and focusing on new targeted opportunities.
The LED Growth Network provides a suite of services to Louisiana’s second-stage businesses, with mentorship opportunities being one focus area (Louisiana Economic Development 07/220/23) Louisiana Kicks Off 4th Annual American Academy of Entrepreneurs - Biz New Orleans
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