Mardi

You’ve probably heard something about Launchpad and Beta, New Orleans’ new, hip shared workspaces for startups. As much as everyone loves the combination of modern design and classic architecture, some small businesses are more concerned about just getting off the ground, especially ones that are just returning to the city after the federal flood. Southern University of New Orleans had these people in mind when they created a business incubator in New Orleans East.  

The facility was created under the umbrella of SUNO’s Small Business Development and Management Institute, and funded through an HBCU-specific Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant.  

Coordinator Lydia Charles told NoDef a little more about how the incubator aims to benefit residents of New Orleans East, who were hit especially hard by the 2005 floodwaters.

“Unlike a lot of other incubators, we are not specific to a certain industry,” she said. Instead, the program is geared towards, “those transitioning from their home offices or those who want to come back to New Orleans post storm.”  

Currently, the businesses they facilitate run the gamut. They  incubate a law practice, a temp service for janitorial services, and a confectionary, just to name a few.

Charles says that they’re different than other incubators in that their focus is really geared towards “businesses wanting to relocate that are in the East.”

Applicants must have been in business for one-two years to apply, come with a business plan or executive summary, and provide access to their financials. Once accepted, businesses receive 12-18 months of assistance through their rocky beginnings.

Charles described the process as, “nursing you through the first steps and challenges that come with running a small business.”

The “nursing” Charles speaks of includes free wifi, fax, copying, electricity, utilities, two conference rooms businesses can use to meet with clients, and 24/7 access and parking. They also provide a free financial workshop and management series that teaches businesses about Excel, QuickBooks, credit repair, and financing.

Most of the incubator’s interns are recruited from SUNO’s campus, and they’re planning on opening a separate campus incubator through their entrepreneurial program at SUNO.

“We really are trying to be a catalyst. We’re partnering with local organizations like Eastern New Orleans Neighborhood Advisory Commission.”

Those interested in applying can email sbdmi@suno.edu.