24-03-2025
New Orleans Entrepreneur Week kicks off with free training for startups
Have an idea for a business in New Orleans? Several groups want to help you succeed.
Why it matters: New Orleans Entrepreneur Week, which starts Monday, will be a central hub for resources.
The big picture: NOEW is a free conference with events across the city for entrepreneurs at all stages — from those with an idea on a napkin to startups looking to grow.
There are sessions and summits all week for Black-owned businesses, women-led ventures, musicians, hospitality folks and food concepts.
The main NOEW Summit is Thursday and Friday at Loyola and is packed with events, including a job fair.
Searching for inspiration? Check out the Founders' Stage on Friday at Loyola to hear TED Talk-style presentations from successful business owners.
What they're seeing: Many new businesses in New Orleans are focusing on AI, climate tech, consumer goods, music tech and culture, says Liz Maxwell, co-producer of NOEW and senior director of strategic initiatives at The Idea Village.
Advice to entrepreneurs:"Starting your own business is a real way to invest in yourself," Maxwell tells Axios." Believe in your own ideas. There's a lot that you can control in your own business."
"It's not an easy path, but it is something that you can kind of take the reins over."
Outside of NOEW, try these places for help all year:
The Idea Village has multiple options, including a 10-week program to help coach business owners on what they need to do to scale and be successful.
