Article archive / September 2019
Originally published: . Volume 10, No. 9. Source pages: 8.
On August 13, Gov. Edwards joined state leaders and veterans at the National WWII Museum to launch the Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative. The program will promote veteran-owned businesses through certification, in-business displays and an online database that encourage consumers to do business with Louisiana’s veteran-owned firms.
The Initiative recognizes firms that are majority-owned by veterans, military reservists, active-duty personnel or Gold Star family members. Following a certification process, the program will promote their businesses through a public database at LAVeteransFirst.org. To support a veteran-owned business, visitors to the site may search by business name, region, and industry. Approximately 250 businesses are certified on the site already.
The Initiative was created through House Bill 391, by Rep. Franklin Foil who served 28 years in the U.S Navy. It was unanimously approved during the 2019 legislative session and signed into law by Gov. Edwards.
Gov. Edwards said, “The Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative provides an opportunity for us to give back to our veterans and their families by purchasing goods and services from these businesses. As a former Army Airborne Ranger, I encourage all veterans, active- duty personnel, Gold Star families and reserve-military business owners to sign up for this program today and connect with new customers and clients. And I encourage everyone to make use of the Veterans First database by patronizing these businesses, and remember to thank them for their great service to our state and nation as well.”
To register as a veteran-owned business, or to learn how to support Louisiana Veterans First businesses, visit LAVeteransFirst.org.
U.S. Army Pfc. Bittner, left, and U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Ashley North tape a detonation cord during explosives training in Afghanistan. The Governor is putting in place more opportunities for returning Veterans to start their own businesses. (Navy photo by Lt. Chad A. Dulac.)
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