Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program
EAP serves as the region’s startup accelerator and small business resource, analyzing the viability of ideas and products, matching entrepreneurs with informed investors and other funding opportunities and nurturing them through the critical steps toward market. EAP provides a suite of services to build sustainable and profitable companies in North Louisiana.
About EAP
Launched in 2014 as a public/private partnership between BRF, the Caddo Parish Commission and the City of Shreveport, EAP is now a BRF initiative that provides the services and resources to accelerate the creation of the innovation ecosystem in Northwest Louisiana by creating a one-stop shop for a comprehensive pipeline from idea to market.
As of September 30, 2023, EAP has screened 1,607 ideas, products or services and 96 ideas were funded through angel investors, grants or banks. EAP business services have been provided to 134 companies. 404 new jobs were created through these ideas, and over $220 million total estimated investment was made in ideas. EAP also nominated 112 companies to the New Louisiana Angel Fund Due Diligence Committee, with 25 of these approved for investment.
EAP’s team of analysts work alongside entrepreneurs, working on everything from the business plan and model, market and financial analysis to prepping to receive funding, such as angel investment.
Launch Network
EAP introduced the Launch Network in 2020 with the help of a grant from the United States Economic Development Administration. This software from SourceLink provides a nationally recognized program that specializes in building online community ecosystem tools. With SourceLink, Launch Network has been able to connect entrepreneurs with resources in North Louisiana. Launch Network was the pilot program for Louisiana Economic Development’s Louisiana Business Hub, a statewide online resource linking entrepreneurs in Louisiana with the tools they need.
NEW LOUISIANA ANGEL FUNDS
Launched in 2015 and 2018, New Louisiana Angel Fund (NLAF) 1 and 2 are North Louisiana’s first accredited angel investment funds and together raised over $35 million for investment in North Louisiana-based businesses. BRF is the managing member of NLAF, with local accredited investors making all investment decisions. Companies pitching to NLAF investors receive startup services from EAP.
VISIT THE WEBSITE
To learn more about Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP) services and to apply, follow the link below to the EAP official website.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
DAVE SMITH
Executive Director
877.352.0157 • [email protected]
This webpage was prepared by BRF using Federal funds under award 08.69.05253 from the Economic Development Administration (EDA), U.S. Department of Commerce.
The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the EDA or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Latest Videos
Learn more about EAP and its initiatives at the EAP YouTube channel.
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MISSION
Diversify and grow our region’s economy.
VISION
Operate as a catalyst to expand and develop research, entrepreneurship and high-growth businesses in our region.
VALUES
Innovation. Collaboration. Problem Solving. Bold Action.
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