Louisiana’s newest Small Business Development Center (SBDC) held an open house to celebrate its opening and let aspiring entrepreneurs know about its services Tuesday August 26 at LSUA’s Chambers Hall. The event was well attended by members of the LSUA community, Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce officials, and local business leaders. LSUA Chancellor Dr. Paul Coreil welcomed the crowd and spoke of his excitement at the small business development center being housed at LSUA and the opportunities it offers to the area’s aspiring business owners. Louisiana Associate State Director, Heidi Melancon, also spoke. Dr. Coreil then introduced Ms. Britni Lilley, the SBDC’s Business Consultant. Lilley is an LSUA alumna with extensive experience in strategic communications, business, and leadership in a variety of roles. Mr. Jim Kilcoyne is also serving as a part time business consultant, bringing decades of business experience to his role. There is no cost for their assistance.

The SBDC at LSUA is one of ten offices throughout Louisiana and serves the parishes of Avoyelles, Grant, Natchitoches, Rapides, Sabine, Vernon and Winn. If you have been thinking about starting a business, expanding an existing business, or just want to get an idea of the possibilities out there, the SBDC at LSUA stands ready to help you at every stage of the process with training, information and a helping hand. The center may be contacted at lsbdc.lsua@louisianasbdc.org or 318-427-0408 ext. 0408.