Entrepreneurs often face the challenge of securing funding to launch or expand their businesses. To address this, The Alliance is hosting a free workshop titled “Smart Capital: How to Fund Your Business with Grants, Investors and Banks.” Scheduled for August 27, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Main Library in Goodwood, Baton Rouge, the event aims to clarify different funding options available to small business owners.
Understanding the Funding Landscape
Exploring diverse funding avenues is essential for entrepreneurs. The workshop will feature four detailed panels:
- The Capital Landscape—Mapping Your Funding Options: An overview of various funding sources and guidance on identifying the most suitable option for a business.
- Non-Dilutive Capital—Grants, Competitions and Incentives: Funding opportunities that do not require giving up equity, including grants and competitions.
- Debt Capital—Banks, SBA, and Alternative Lenders: Insights into traditional and alternative lending options, such as Small Business Administration loans.
- Equity Capital—Angels, Venture Capitalists and Strategic Investors: Understanding how to attract investors who provide capital in exchange for equity ownership.
Expert Insights from Industry Leaders
The workshop will include distinguished speakers sharing their knowledge:
- Tony Zanders – Founder of Nexus Louisiana, a platform connecting entrepreneurs with investors.
- Craig Gehring – CEO of Mastery Prep, specializing in educational tools.
- Chris Meaux – Founder of QiMana, a tech company focused on innovative solutions.
- Will Campbell – Regional President at b1Bank, offering insights into banking and financing.
Stuart Gilly, CEO and co-founder of The Alliance, highlights the importance of the event, stating that access to funding is a major challenge for small businesses and startups. He emphasizes that the session will be particularly valuable for Baton Rouge’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
A Collaborative Effort to Empower Entrepreneurs
The Alliance, together with local experts and institutions, is committed to equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources to secure funding. This workshop forms part of a broader initiative to support the growth and success of small businesses in the Baton Rouge area.
Whether seeking initial funding or aiming to expand, attendees will gain insights into the available funding options, engage with industry experts, and better understand the complexities of business financing.
This event provides a unique opportunity to unlock the capital needed to advance a business. Register to take the first step toward securing the funding your business deserves.
