Baton Rouge Area Chamber

This #InternationalWomen’sDay, we recognize the incredible women of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber who are championing economic development, driving business growth, and shaping the future of the Capital Region. From leading talent retention efforts to empowering investments and marketing Baton Rouge as a top destination, these women are making an impact every day. Their leadership, vision, and dedication are fueling a stronger, more vibrant region for all. Tag a woman who inspires you!

Please join us in welcoming BRAC's newest investors, businesses committed to sparking meaningful change in the Baton Rouge area: Baker Construction Brown Industrial Construction Capital South Wealth Management CDR General Holdings LLC Nathan McBride Next Level Solutions Southland Steel Fabricators These companies are playing an integral role in the future success of the Capital Region. Discover the impact of your investment at brac.org/join.

Thrive Academy recently hired BRAC's standalone research firm, Riverbend Research, to conduct a deep dive into its student achievement data, revealing its impact on students' economic mobility. The study projects $120K higher lifetime earnings per student and $2.3M in taxpayer savings. Thrive students also boast 34% higher graduation rates and outperform statewide averages with 7% higher LEAP scores. Riverbend’s expertise in labor market research, economic impact, and feasibility studies supports decision-making for both the public and private sectors, helping drive growth and community development. Learn more about the Thrive findings: https://loom.ly/030e7hY Learn more about Riverbend Research: https://loom.ly/3Hr8OpU

Everywhere else, it’s just another Tuesday—but in Louisiana, it’s Mardi Gras! Today, we celebrate a tradition that brings our community together through culture, music, and joy. Whether you're catching throws, enjoying king cake, or supporting local businesses, we hope you have a safe and festive day. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Mardi Gras brings joy to Louisiana each year but also tons of plastic waste. That’s why LSU College of Science Professor Naohiro Kato and a team of biological science students are revolutionizing the way we celebrate with biodegradable Mardi Gras beads. Made from microscopic algae and infused with sunflower seeds, these beads not only break down into soil but also help plants grow, offering a sustainable solution to one of the holiday’s biggest environmental challenges. This kind of forward-thinking innovation is what it means to be #MadeInBTR tackling real-world problems with creativity and science. Read more about this groundbreaking initiative

What a night! BRAC’s 2025 Annual Meeting on #225Day was a celebration of everything that makes the Baton Rouge Area special. From capturing moments by the photo booth to hearing our CEO’s report on regional wins, dancing the night away, enjoying live music, and reconnecting with old friends, the evening was filled with energy and excitement! Thank you to everyone who joined us for a night of community and celebration. Here’s a recap of some of our favorite moments!

Entergy has once again been recognized as one of America’s Most JUST Companies, ranking 8th among utility companies—an incredible honor as they celebrate 100 years of service and impact. We are grateful to have Entergy as an investor and proud that they call Baton Rouge home. Congratulations to the entire Entergy team on this well-deserved recognition!

Exciting news—#225Day 2025 is officially recognized as a holiday by Governor Jeff Landry! BRAC’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Morgan Almeida joined WBRZ-TV to talk about what this day means for the Capital Region, what activations to be on the lookout for, and how we can all come together to celebrate the people, places, and opportunities that make life Better in BTR. Check out the full interview here: https://loom.ly/bnKY49U

Baton Rouge is more than a place—it’s a community filled with culture, opportunity, and pride. Today, on #225Day, we celebrate everything that makes this region unique. At BRAC, we’re marking the occasion at our Annual Meeting tonight, but we want to hear from you! How are you celebrating the day? Whether it’s supporting a local business, enjoying our vibrant arts scene, or simply sharing what you love about Baton Rouge, join the conversation by using #225Day. Share your photos here: https://loom.ly/D8XtIgw

Next time you're at a parade, remember—BTR keeps the party going! From the beads you catch to the dazzling floats and costumes, Baton Rouge industries make it all happen. Beads & Throws – Made with materials from Dow, ExxonMobil & Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A. Costumes – Crafted with lightweight, stretchy fibers from BASF. Floats – Built strong with products from Shintech Louisiana, LLC & Westlake.