‘225’: Start me up

Baton Rouge’s pro-startup environment has been intensifying steadily over the past few years, so much so that local economic developers claim the city is well on its way to creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem supporting and fostering new businesses. Elements found in celebrated startup hubs around the country are now flourishing in the Capital City, including pitch nights, collaborative workspaces, business incubators, tax credits, a major research institution, grassroots gatherings, and an umbrella group determined to grow the startup culture. “There is tremendous energy and a strong entrepreneurial vibe here now,” says Terry Jones, executive director of the Regional Innovation Organization, formed by the Baton Rouge Area Chamber to accelerate and coordinate entrepreneurial development. “Not only do we see it from those on the ground, but more significantly, from those who are moving in from out of state and talking about it.” Read this month’s 225 cover story by Maggie Heyn Richardson here to learn more about some of the entrepreneurs and economic developers leading the startup charge in Baton Rouge.