Program Overview
Shell LiveWIRE Louisiana is a free business accelerator program to help you sustain and grow your business. The cohorts will consist of up to 25 participants and includes:
- 8 virtual training sessions
- 1:1 business consultation
- coaching
- Media and digital promotion
- Cohort and expert networking events
- Graduation event at Jazz Fest
Key Program Information
Application and Selection
- applications open December – January
- Interviews and selections completed in February
Micro & Small Business Accelerator
- March -April
- 8 business learning sessions
- Virtual delivery, once per week
Coaching
- 1:1 Business consulting and coaching provided by Louisiana Small Business Development Center
Graduation Showcase
- Hosted by Shell at Jazz Fest
- Opportunity to network and celebrate completing the program
Shell LiveWIRE Alumni
- Access to the Shell LiveWIRE global alumni network
- Global programs and competitions including Top Ten Innovators
Selection Criteria
Geography
Applicants from these parishes: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge,Iberville,Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Saint Charles, Saint James, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Mary, Terrebonne
Demographics
- Age: 18 and older
- Level of Education: No specific requirement
- Open to all applicants, with goal of supporting entrepreneurs and micro & small businesses from targeted parishes
Business Type
- Targeting entrepreneurs and micro & small businesses
- No specific sector/industry focus, and will encourage applicants from outside of oil and gas service sectors
Applicants will be evaluated on the following:
- Meets program criteria (location, age, attendance, and business ownership)
- Demonstrates commitment to improving business.
- Business provides a product or service in the eligible Parishes
- Status as a micro, entrepreneur, or small business owner. Diverse business owners (e.g., women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+, etc.) strongly encouraged to apply.