NATCHITOCHES, La. (UrbanCast: 10/29/2026) — Aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners will have an opportunity to gain valuable business skills at no cost.
The Louisiana Small Business Development Center at LSU Alexandria will host Business Forward: A Day of Growth and Strategy on Tuesday, November 3.
The event will take place at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches.
Organizers have designed the program to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into businesses while helping existing owners strengthen their operations.
The Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce and Northwestern State University are partnering with the center to present the event.
Participants will have access to two training sessions and confidential, one-on-one counseling with Louisiana Small Business Development Center consultants.
The morning session, Turning Your Skills & Passions into Sustainable Businesses, will run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
This workshop will focus on helping aspiring entrepreneurs transform their skills, interests, and ideas into sustainable business opportunities.
Following the session, LSBDC consultants will provide individual business counseling from 10:30 a.m. until noon.
Attendees can discuss their business goals, ask questions, and receive guidance tailored to their needs. Walk-ins are welcome during the counseling period.
The afternoon session will shift the focus to marketing and building stronger customer relationships.
Marketing & Customer Experience Strategies that Drive Repeat Business will run from 2 to 4 p.m.
The workshop will help business owners explore marketing strategies, improve customer experiences, and encourage repeat business.
Additionally, participants will have opportunities to connect with regional business support resources.
The event aims to provide practical information that entrepreneurs can apply to their businesses. Whether starting a business or expanding an existing operation, attendees can gain tools to support long-term growth.
All training and counseling services are free, and no prior business experience is required. However, registration is required for the event.
Business Forward will take place in the Natchitoches Room on the second floor of Russell Hall at Northwestern State University.
The building is located at 125 Central Avenue in Natchitoches.
For additional information or registration assistance, call 318-427-0408 or email billey@louisianasbdc.org.
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