A Decade of Entrepreneurial Impact

Ten years ago, BRF launched the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program with a simple but ambitious mission: help entrepreneurs in North Louisiana turn ideas into companies. Today, that mission has grown into a regional movement.

At a celebration event held at the Andress Artist & Entrepreneur Center in Shreveport, EAP announced the addition of 15 new companies to the program — the largest cohort in its history. The announcement marks a major milestone for both the program and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem it has helped build.

15 New Companies Announced

The incoming cohort spans industries including technology, food science, health services, and advanced manufacturing. Each company was selected through EAP's rigorous application and interview process, and will receive access to the program's core pillars: mentorship, strategic guidance, resource connections, and peer accountability.

"This is about more than numbers," said EAP Director. "Every one of these 15 companies represents a founder who made the decision to bet on themselves and on North Louisiana. Our job is to make sure they have every advantage we can give them."

A Track Record That Speaks for Itself

Over the past decade, EAP has supported more than 100 companies, helped generate millions in regional economic activity, and created hundreds of jobs across Northwest Louisiana. Alumni companies have gone on to secure venture funding, win regional and national business competitions, and expand into new markets.

The program's success has attracted attention from economic development organizations, universities, and investors who see EAP as a model for how to build sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems in mid-sized markets.

Looking Ahead

With 15 new companies joining the program and renewed investment from BRF and regional partners, EAP enters its second decade with momentum. The organization is also expanding its physical presence, deepening partnerships with educational institutions, and developing new programming to serve entrepreneurs at earlier and later stages of growth.