This article was originally published by Lincoln Parish Journal on April 21, 2026 and written by Kyle LPJ.
Louisiana Tech University is partnering with Louisiana Economic Development (LED), Jonesboro State Bank, and SHOLOC, a north Louisiana-based organization focused on helping small businesses connect with customers, to offer a local business visibility program.
This program addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing small businesses today: maintaining visibility and relevance in an increasingly competitive digital marketplace. The program will give businesses a structured, measured path to improving their local search marketing, so they can more easily be found online. It will also provide practical guidance on increasing visibility, managing business listing information across major platforms, and using AI tools to increase efficiencies and support growth.
Funding to introduce the initiative is made possible through LED’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) program, which provides business training needed to grow and sustain small businesses. As an intermediary of LED’s SEBD program, the University is helping administer state resources aimed to support eligible businesses.
“Louisiana Tech’s role in this program reflects our commitment to supporting innovation and economic development,” said Kathy Wyatt, director of Louisiana Tech’s Enterprise Development and Entrepreneurial Ventures (EDEV). “Our role as an SEBD intermediary allows us to connect state support with meaningful training that empowers local businesses and delivers lasting economic impact for our community and region.”
Added support that enhances the benefit for small businesses and extends the opportunity to not-for-profit organizations is contributed by Jonesboro State Bank’s Pledge 10 grants.
There are two opportunities for local businesses to attend the training at Ruston’s Historic Fire Station: Tuesday, April 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. or Thursday, April 23 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Louisiana Tech’s involvement in this initiative reflects its broader commitment to regional economic development and its role as a connector of public resources, private partners, and community needs.
If you’d like to learn more or sign up, visit https://sholoc.com/local
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