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Louisiana is open for business and has never had more opportunities, more new businesses, and more ways of assisting businesses than it does today. The massive GO Zone incentive program that followed hurricanes Katrina and Rita, combined with a series of pro-business measures instituted by the state in previous years, has created an unprecedented level of interest from both businesses entering the state for the first time and entrepreneurs wanting to start new businesses-or expand into other areas.

These businesses need information, and this statewide guide is here to provide it-all in a comprehensive, easy-to-use, organized format. Think of it as an online user's manual for Louisiana's many resources, laws, incentives, state agencies, procedures and programs that affect business. Along with the basics of financing and incentives, permits and licenses, and where to get help, the site provides a handy reference on key laws, key contacts and links to other Web sites, and key data on demographics and infrastructure-as well as great maps detailing important infrastructure and resources.

As you read through this site, we believe you will be impressed by what is happening in our state-and realize Louisiana is committed to being a formidable competitor in industry, research, work force development, job creation and entrepreneurial activity.

Special thanks to BellSouth and LPFA for sponsoring this important resource for economic development. We hope you find this online guide helpful as you grow your business-in Louisiana!

Rolfe McCollister
Publisher
Baton Rouge Business Report

P.S. The information on this Web site has also been published in print form. The print version of The Official Guide to Doing Business in Louisiana is available at local chambers and Small Business Development Centers throughout Louisiana as well as through Louisiana Economic Development. Contact our circulation department at mguitreau@businessreport.com for more information.

The Official Guide to Doing Business in Louisiana Web site is intended as a general overview of the rules, opportunities, incentives and resources for businesses operating in Louisiana. No part ofthe editorial content of this site is intended as legal, tax or investment advice or as a recommendation of any company, Web site, or investment. Information was gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the publisher cannot guarantee the accuracy of any statement or statistic herein. Investments, tax procedures and legal questions should always be discussed with a professional investment, tax or legal adviser. No information expressed herein constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities. Links that take you from the Official Guide to Doing Business in Louisiana Web site to any other Web site are provided as a convenience and do not constitute a recommendation of any other site, its information, or its publisher.