Louisiana
Louisiana Provider Supports Local Business Digital Development
Louisiana
The provider will award grants to ensure small businesses can connect to digital resources.
July 13, 2024 – Internet service provider Optimum Business and the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance jointly announced a $90,000 grant program that will fund 30 businesses in Louisiana and distribute $3,000 to each recipient to support digital adoption.
The SWLA Alliance will offer grant winners access to services that will ensure that the businesses have the resources they need to succeed in the digital economy.
“Optimum Business recognizes the vital role that small businesses play in the economic and social well-being of Southwest Louisiana, and we are proud to support them with the reliable and innovative connectivity solutions they need to evolve and thrive in a digital economy,” said Jesse Garcia, vice president of Mid Central at Optimum.
Garcia added that the grant helps “small businesses access the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow and prosper so that they can continue supporting their local communities.”
The companies “are offering 30 businesses a unique opportunity to share their stories and learn how technology and innovation can help them grow and thrive,” said George Swift, president and CEO of the SWLA Alliance.
Eligible businesses must have a brick-and-mortar location in Optimum’s service area, been open for a minimum of two years, have 10 or fewer employees. Applications are due by August 16.
Applications must demonstrate that the company will use the money to support its expansion and growth and contribute positively to the community.
The program expects to announce grant recipients in the fall.
POINTE COUPEE PARISH, La. (WAFB) – Representatives from the Louisiana Department of Insurance will host a pop-up event in Pointe Coupee Parish to provide storm-related assistance.
The event will take place between noon and 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, at the Pointe Coupee Parish Government offices on Main Street in New Roads.
Residents in Pointe Coupee Parish and surrounding areas will be able to get answers to questions about storm damage claims. Representatives from the Louisiana Department of Insurance will also help people with issues related to insurance and flooded homes or vehicles.
Anyone who can’t attend the pop-up event can reach out to their insurance agent or the Louisiana Department of Insurance by calling 800-259-5300.
Most Louisiana residents have flood insurance through the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program. However, many people may also have private flood insurance, state officials said. They added that flood insurance typically covers damage caused when water enters someone’s home from the ground up because of heavy rain, storm surge or flooding from a waterway.
The Louisiana Department of Insurance has put together a comprehensive document containing answers to questions that storm victims may have. Click here for more information.
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NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – A driver died from a gunshot wound after a Louisiana State Police car chase in New Orleans Saturday evening (June 20), but troopers say they did not fire the gun.
Troop NOLA confirmed the car chase ended near Franklin Avenue and North Miro Street Saturday. Troopers said they found the driver shot and brought them to the hospital, where that person died.
The driver’s identity has not been released.
A Troop NOLA spokesperson said he could not confirm if anyone else was in the car, if anyone has been arrested, or if troopers found a gun.
A spokesperson said more details will be released as a state police force investigation continues.
Troop NOLA is a special investigation unit tasked with proactive policing, traffic enforcement and crime reduction.
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