May 13, 2025

Bossier City Emerges as a Small Business Hub

News Summary

Bossier City is experiencing significant growth in its small business sector, positioning itself as a favorable environment for startups. Recent studies highlight its affordability, supportive infrastructure, and community engagement initiatives, such as the annual small business expo hosted by Bossier Parish Community College. The city has recognized outstanding business leaders and showcased local talent at events like the Makers Fair, further emphasizing the importance of community connections for small business success. As it continues to cultivate this entrepreneurial spirit, Bossier City is transforming its economic landscape.

Bossier City is rapidly establishing itself as a burgeoning hub for small businesses, as recent studies and community events reveal significant growth in the local entrepreneurial landscape. Once overshadowed by the larger Shreveport, Bossier City is increasingly recognized as a favorable environment for startups and small enterprises, offering lower operational costs and a vibrant community spirit.

A recent study conducted in 2025 rated Bossier City as one of the best cities in America for starting a business, highlighting its affordability and supportive infrastructure. The study suggests that the city’s attractive mix of lower-than-average corporate taxes, along with a cost of living that is significantly more affordable than those in over a thousand other cities, plays a crucial role in its appeal to entrepreneurs.

In 2025, Bossier City saw remarkable new business creation, thanks in part to attractions like Live! Casino, which draws visitors and stimulates the local economy. The importance of small business growth in urban areas is further underscored by a JP Morgan report, which asserts that these enterprises play a vital role in reducing unemployment rates and enhancing access to affordable housing.

Community Engagement and Support Initiatives

In a bid to foster relationships between students and local entrepreneurs, the Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) recently hosted its inaugural small business expo. This event underlines the importance of small businesses as the backbone of the American economy, marking a step towards preparing future business leaders.

The BPCC business department aims to make the small business expo an annual occasion, reinforcing the commitment to support local entrepreneurs in their endeavors. Additionally, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 77th Annual Gala, recognizing outstanding business and community leaders and honoring those contributing to the local economy.

Recognitions at the Gala

During the gala, Kevin Nolten from the Cyber Innovation Center was honored as the 2024 Top Business Person of the Year. Southern Home Builders received the title of 2024 Small Business of the Year for their impactful contributions over the past 30 years. General Dynamics Information Technology was awarded the 2024 Business of the Year for its impressive $267 million economic impact on the region.

Showcasing Local Talent at the Makers Fair

The Bossier City Makers Fair recently displayed the creative works of over 150 local artisans and businesses, providing free admission and parking to attendees. This event emphasized the thriving small business ecosystem in Bossier City and showcased the ingenuity and passion of local entrepreneurs.

Aijha Benson’s Busy Bee Crafts, known for its handmade crocheted items, aims to support local hospitals through charitable donations. Samantha Oelcher’s Geaux Car Freshies began as a personal project and has evolved into a successful venture offering a variety of handcrafted scented products. April Ashley-Boston’s family-run business, Chocolate Girl’s Chocolate Treats, reflects a rich baking history and deep engagement with the community.

The Importance of Community Connections

All three featured small businesses at the Makers Fair demonstrate the vital importance of community connections and customer interactions as fundamental elements of their success. Their ability to tap into local markets and nurture relationships with customers serves as a model for other aspiring entrepreneurs in the area.

As Bossier City continues to foster an environment conducive to small business growth, it is poised to enhance its economic landscape and employment opportunities for its residents. With a strong focus on community and entrepreneurial support, Bossier City is indeed transforming into a thriving small business hub in North Louisiana.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Shreveport Retail Landscape Faces Changes Amid Closures
Bossier City Inaugurates Small Business Expo at BPCC
Bossier City Hosts Inaugural Small Business Expo
Shreveport-Bossier Hosts Job Fairs for Local Opportunities
Local Boutiques Gain Popularity as Online Price Hikes Loom
Chasing Aces Golf Set to Revolutionize Bossier City
Shreveport Resident Outsmarts Electric Scam
Shreveport’s Business Landscape Faces Unique Challenges and Opportunities
Shreveport Appoints New Economic Development Director
Shreveport-Bossier Business Exchange Breakfast Connects Leaders

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER

The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

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