Last month, the Small Business Optimism Index reached its highest reading since 1983, according to the NFIB. The Index is based on the results of a survey sent to small business owners with questions regarding business outlook, earnings, sales, employment, and more. In the January 2018 Index, a record 32 percent of small business owners reported “now is a good time to expand.”
To keep the momentum of the new year going, we’ve rounded up a few upcoming community events and resources you can attend.
Statewide Economic Development Summit presented by Entergy
February 27, 2018
8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
L’Auberge Casino Hotel
The Statewide Economic Development Summit presented by Entergy will bring together economic development practitioners, the business community, elected officials, and thought leaders for a day focused on building a stronger economy, spotlighting best practices and big ideas for the future of economic development. Online registration is now closed, but walk-ups will be admitted on a space-available basis.
#WhatJustHappened: Navigating Facebook’s New Algorithm
March 6, 2018
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
East Baton Rouge Parish Library
BRAC’s March Monthly Lunch will feature a panel discussion on the changes to Facebook’s algorithm and how businesses can adjust to the shift.
Deadline to submit applications for BRAC’s 2018 Diversity Star Award
March 15, 2018
The new Diversity Star Award will spotlight and honor regional businesses that champion diversity and inclusion. The number of winners will be determined based on the quality and quantity of applications received.
Deadline to apply to be a part of LED’s CEO Roundtables
March 31, 2018
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow, collaborate, and network with fellow executives in our region! These popular roundtables convene 15-18 small business CEOs who meet 10 times a year for peer-to-peer learning, business networking and long-term support.
Regional Canvas Benchmarking Workshop
May-20-22, 2018
Registration Deadline: April 20, 2018
Cincinnati, Ohio
Join BRAC and the Office of Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Sharon Weston Broome in Cincinnati to reflect upon important policy issues facing the Capital Region and how the destination city addresses similar matters. The agenda includes sessions and panels on education and workforce solutions, healthcare, talent development, quality of place, diversity and inclusion, and more. This monthly blog series is intended to engage the small business community and enhance the region’s competitiveness by arming the small business community with information on regional resources and services and communicating important policy issues impacting job creation.
Brooke Hathaway
As Economic Research and Policy Analyst at BRAC, Brooke conducts research and performs data collection to support key policy focus areas, including workforce development, education, and others. She is responsible for tracking economic, legislative and market trends impacting the region.