Louisiana State University

Location

Baton Rouge, LA

Project Name 

Baton Rouge Initiative for Development, Growth, and Entrepreneurship (BRIDGE)

Award Amount

Federal Share: $600,000
Local Match: $600,000

This EDA investment will support the Baton Rouge Initiative for Development, Growth, and Entrepreneurship (BRIDGE) program to enhance technology entrepreneurship education and resources for the Baton Rouge Capital Region and Louisiana State University affiliated, supported, and mentored startup and growth entities. BRIDGE will create: 1) mentorship matching program for training programs, 2) technical support service infrastructure for much needed one-time internal company projects, and finally, 3) executive-in-residence program that allows the innovator to focus on their technology, but not let other aspects of the company lag. The program will create mentorship and needed services from idea to seed preparedness, ultimately leading to investment and scaling opportunities. The BRIDGE team will carefully select promising entrepreneurs and technology and facilitate the mentorship and service program from idea to growth phases of the venture.