Speaker and Programing Applications Now Open for New Orleans Entrepreneur Week 2025

New Orleans, LA — New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW), the annual celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation across the Gulf South, is now accepting speaker and programming applications for its 2025 event, running from March 24-29. Beginning November 13, 2024, NOEW invites founders, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community organizers to join a diverse lineup of events designed to inspire, educate, and connect. Applications are open for three opportunities: NOEW in Your Neighborhood, The Entrepreneur’s Showcase, and Expert Sessions.

These opportunities allow participants to contribute directly to NOEW’s mission of fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in New Orleans and beyond. Those interested in participating are encouraged to apply at NOEW.org by December 20, 2024. Last year’s schedule can be viewed at noew.org/noew2024.

NOEW 2025 Program Opportunities

• NOEW in Your Neighborhood: Community organizations and local leaders are invited to hold events within their neighborhoods, giving attendees a grassroots look at New Orleans’ entrepreneurial spirit. These community-driven sessions will be held at various locations across the city throughout March 24-29, 2025, and aim to bring together residents and visitors for engaging, localized programming. Approved organizers will have support from the NOEW team to integrate their events into the official lineup.
• The Entrepreneur’s Showcase: This showcase features emerging local businesses, startups, and alumni of The Idea Village’s IDEAinstitute and Loyola’s Wolf Pack LaunchU programs, providing a platform for them to host a booth and showcase their businesses to a wide audience. The Entrepreneur’s Showcase will be featured as part of the NOEW Summit at Loyola University on Thursday, March 27th, and Friday, March 28th, 2025, and invites applications from founders eager to share their entrepreneurial business and connect with attendees. Selected companies will receive a dedicated space to exhibit their business.
• Expert Sessions: Entrepreneurs, founders, and industry experts are invited to apply to lead Founders Sessions, Workshops / 101s, and Speaker Slots. These sessions include concise 10-minute talks, hands-on workshops, and other presentations designed to offer practical insights and inspiration. Expert Sessions will be held at Loyola University on Thursday, March 27th, and Friday, March 28th, 2025. Applicants will submit a brief description of their proposed topic, and selected speakers will participate in preparatory meetings with NOEW organizers to refine their sessions.

“We’re excited to welcome new voices to NOEW 2025 and to see how these diverse sessions will amplify the week’s spirit of innovation and connection,” said Dr. Bobby Savoie, Dean of Loyola’s College of Business. “These programs bring the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to life in powerful ways.”

Liz Maxwell, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at The Idea Village, added, “NOEW thrives on the energy and creativity of its participants. This is an open invitation to anyone with a bold idea or impactful story to join us on stage, in neighborhoods, or by putting their business front and center with the NOEW audience.”

Apply Today
Speakers and programmers can apply for NOEW in Your Neighborhood, The Entrepreneur’s Showcase, or an Expert Session by visiting NOEW.org. Applications are open now through December 20, 2024, and selected participants will be notified in advance of the event. Follow @hellonoew on social media for the latest news and updates.

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ABOUT NOEW 2025

New Orleans Entrepreneur Week 2025 (March 24-29) is an annual celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation across the Gulf South, co-produced by Loyola University’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Community Development and The Idea Village. NOEW 2025 offers a diverse array of programming aimed at empowering and connecting local entrepreneurs. www.noew.org

ABOUT THE CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Center for Entrepreneurship and Community Development (CECD) is Loyola University New Orleans’ award-winning hub for entrepreneurial activity across campus and a vital link to the New Orleans entrepreneurial community. At the CECD, students and community members alike can develop their skills to turn ideas into profitable ventures, network with the next great startup founders, and experience why New Orleans is ranked one of the best cities in the country for young entrepreneurs. startup.loyno.edu

ABOUT THE IDEA VILLAGE

The Idea Village champions innovation and entrepreneurship in New Orleans and throughout the Gulf South. Since its founding in 2000, The Idea Village has supported over 18,000 entrepreneurs with mentorship, coaching, and access to capital. Alumni companies have generated more than $2 billion in regional economic impact. A 501c3 non-profit, The Idea Village provides business accelerator programs that guide startups from the idea stage through venture capital rounds. The Idea Village works every day to cultivate a robust startup community and create an inclusive, vibrant, and future-driven economy. www.ideavillage.org