Why North Louisiana
Thrive in the heart of the South
North Louisiana’s advantage lies in its diverse economy, strategic assets for businesses, and high-quality living. Key sectors such as manufacturing, professional services, , agribusiness/forestry, distribution and healthcare drive economic vibrancy. Incentives and dedicated business support, alongside a talent pool enriched by top-tier training programs, position the region as a prime choice for business operations. Coupled with its natural beauty and affordability, North Louisiana stands out as an ideal relocation destination for businesses and families seeking a thriving future.
Contact the Expert
Sheena Bryant, CEcD, EDFP
Business Development Strategy Vice President
- Phone: 318-677-2558
- Phone: sbryant@nlep.org
Your gateway to the South and Midwest
North Louisiana’s strategic location provides seamless connectivity via Shreveport Regional Airport, Monroe Regional Airport, I-20, and I-49. The Port of Caddo-Bossier and key rail lines by Union Pacific and CPKC further enhance its logistical infrastructure. This combination of modern infrastructure and accessible transport options positions North Louisiana as an ideal base for businesses targeting growth in the South and Midwest. These logistical advantages translate into business efficiencies, with faster market access and cost savings that can give companies a competitive edge.
Access a skilled and specialized workforce
With a population of 576,218 in NLEP’s 11-parish region, North Louisiana offers access to a diverse talent pool drawn from North Louisiana, East Texas and South Arkansas, further enhanced by the skilled veterans from Barksdale Air Force Base. Specializing in healthcare, manufacturing and engineering-related training, and information technology, the workforce benefits from the presence of 10 Louisiana colleges and universities and Louisiana’s nationally acclaimed customized workforce training program, LED FastStart, ranking at the top nationwide for over a decade. This synergy of specialized skills and top-tier training yields a competitive advantage, providing businesses with a capable and ready workforce for industry success.
Northwest Louisiana has been essential to the success of Metro Aviation for two primary reasons; the work ethic of the Northwest Louisiana workforce and the low overhead cost of running a business in Northwest Louisiana. Our primary competitors are based in Denver, Dallas, and Philadelphia. We have an advantage over these competitors primarily due to these two factors.
Kenny Morrow
Chief Operating Officer
Metro Aviation
Headquarters to the largest air medical transport operations in the U.S.
Educational excellence fueling industry in North Louisiana
North Louisiana’s education and training landscape is a cornerstone of its economic strength, with a wealth of universities like Louisiana Tech and HBCU Grambling State University producing a continuous flow of graduates in high-demand fields such as engineering and computer science. These institutions partner with industries to provide specialized programs that directly benefit businesses, supported by programs like LED FastStart for custom workforce training. Innovation thrives within university research hubs, fueling entrepreneurial growth and offering companies access to cutting-edge knowledge and collaborative opportunities with entities such as Global Strike Command, one of the ten Major Commands in the US Air Force.
A hub for growth and opportunity
North Louisiana’s economy is dynamic and growing, boasting higher median household incomes and stronger GDP growth than the state average. The region is accessible to around 84 million consumers and over 20 major markets within a one-day drive. With low unemployment, low unionization and a strategic position near Dallas-Ft. Worth, the region taps into broad consumer markets and business opportunities, offering fertile ground for new and expanding enterprises.
Top Employers
A diversified economy driven by key sectors
North Louisiana is home to a diverse array of industries. The region excels in manufacturing, ranging from traditional industries to advanced technology production. The burgeoning IT and professional services sectors enhance the area’s digital landscape, while robust logistics and transportation networks support commerce across the board. The aerospace industry, advanced material manufacturing, machine manufacturing, food product manufacturing, and forestry industries have vast potential for expansion that is supported by ample infrastructure and an adept workforce. North Louisiana is a hub for comprehensive business growth and industrial innovation.
We’re ready for your business
North Louisiana’s business climate is enhanced by a suite of tailored incentives, including tax benefits and competitive property tax abatement, aimed at fostering company growth and development. The state’s expedited permitting enables speed to market, while over 3,000 acres of development-ready sites ensure businesses can hit the ground running. NLEP’s concierge service provides personalized support, assisting companies through every step of relocation or expansion, reinforcing North Louisiana’s commitment to being a partner in business success.
NLEP has been instrumental in supporting SLB as we work to establish our newest manufacturing technology center in Shreveport. Their support for everything from site selection, negotiating for state and local benefits, and even recruiting has been outstanding. They have made a sincere effort to ensure that our business was not only welcomed, but that it will also become an important part of the community. We look forward to our continued collaboration with NLEP, as our business grows in Shreveport.
Kevin Carlson
Shreveport Technology Center Manager
SLB
A global technology firm with operations in over 120 countries
Featured Sites
Former Libbey Glass Plant
4302 Jewella Ave
Shreveport, LA, 71109
Avail Size:
45 Acres
Not Subdividable
Ward II Industrial Park
P. O. Box 1043
Vivian, LA, 71082
Avail. Size:
950 acres
Sale Price:
$5,000 per acre
Shreveport AeroPark
6900 Challenger Drive
Shreveport, LA, 71109
Avail. Size:
231 acres
Lease Price:
8 cents sq./ft.
Leonard Road Farms
6000 Doug Attaway Blvd.
Shreveport, LA, 71115
Avail Size:
570 Acres
Not Subdividable
Discover your future in North Louisiana
Embrace the opportunity that North Louisiana offers—a place where your enterprise can excel and your family can thrive. With strategic economic advantages and a community dedicated to growth and quality of life, North Louisiana is ready for you. Connect with North Louisiana Economic Partnership today!