Start a Business
Starting a business is exciting — and it can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
The Louisiana Small Business Development Center provides confidential, no-cost, one-on-one consulting to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable, sustainable businesses.
Start With the Right Questions
Before you launch, ask yourself:
- Can I clearly explain my business idea?
- Who is my customer, and what problem am I solving?
- What will it take financially to get started?
- Where do I feel unsure or stuck?
How We Help New Businesses
Our consultants help you work through these questions — step by step.
- Clarify and refine business ideas
- Develop business plans and startup strategies
- Understand startup costs and cash flow
- Prepare for conversations with lenders and partners
LSBDC does not provide grants or direct loans. We provide technical assistance to help you access capital.
Preparing for Your Consultation
You don’t need to have everything figured out. Before your consultation, we recommend the following:
- Attend a workshop to build foundational knowledge
- Begin thinking through your business idea or plan
- Meet one-on-one with a consultant