Attendees enjoying engaging discussions at New Orleans Entrepreneur Week.
New Orleans is abuzz as Entrepreneur Week makes its comeback at Loyola University. Featuring over 100 speakers, the event highlights local startups like JammAround and initiatives such as Startup Noir NOLA, fostering community and innovation among Black entrepreneurs. With a parallel music festival and a focus on the future of business, this week’s festivities promise to invigorate the city’s entrepreneurial spirit.
New Orleans is practically glowing lately, and it’s not just because of the vibrant streets or delicious Cajun cooking. No, this charm is coming from the exciting world of startups and innovation! As New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) gears up for a grand return to the Loyola University New Orleans campus, the energy is as palpable as the lively jazz that fills the air. Set to happen from a Monday to Saturday, this event promises more than 100 speakers and panelists tackling everything from tech to sustainability and fresh business strategies.
This year’s festivities dive deep into celebrating local entrepreneurship. The theme, “In the Lead: Best Startup Businesses,” features homegrown companies that have sprung to life in just the past five years. Among these inspiring businesses, one to watch is JammAround, co-founded by Brent Craige, who has created an AI-powered music assistant, MusicMax.ai, that has already captured the hearts (and usage) of over 5,000 users. With innovations like this emerging from our backyard, it’s clear that New Orleans is making waves in the tech scene.
The buzz doesn’t end there! NOEW is cleverly planning a music festival that draws inspiration from Austin’s SXSW, marrying the rhythm of the city with the excitement of startup culture. Plus, they’ll be aligning their event with the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University, making it a fantastic time to soak up both the arts and business.
In an effort to uplift everyone within the entrepreneurial landscape, programs like Startup Noir NOLA have cropped up. This initiative, led by Greater New Orleans Inc., is designed specifically to support Black-led startups. With venture funding being a tough hill to climb for many in this demographic—only about 1% of venture capital was funneled to Black-led businesses last year—the program aims to change that narrative. Networking meetups, classes, and exclusive opportunities for Black founders and funders will help build an empowered community eager for financial backing and guidance.
But wait, there’s more! The law scene is also buzzing. Two of the Southeast’s oldest law firms have just merged, and this could signify big changes coming to the Gulf Coast. As of April 4, 2025, this merger could bring fresh ideas (and maybe a few new specialties) to the table—an exciting prospect for legal affairs in the region.
Now, while the entrepreneurial spirit is soaring, it’s also important to acknowledge the fluctuations in reported crime in the city since the year’s start. Staying informed and safe is a critical part of enjoying all that New Orleans has to offer, both for residents and the many visitors that enrich the city’s atmosphere.
On a celebratory note, let’s not forget the notable return of the Tulane University commencement ceremony, which will take place at the iconic Caesars Superdome for the first time since 2019. This marks a significant moment for graduates and their families, and the excitement is contagious as they celebrate their hard-earned accomplishments.
As NOEW welcomes a wave of aspiring business owners and innovative thinkers, the enthusiasm for change and growth is a reminder of the resilient spirit of New Orleans. So, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting to explore what innovation can mean for you, there’s no better time to tap into the wealth of opportunities that our beautiful city has to offer. Entrepreneur Week is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the future! Get ready to dive into inspiration, community, and growth.
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