NOEW Summit Day 1 | Thursday, March 27
Equipping Entrepreneurs for Success

Day one of the NOEW Summit (March 27th at Loyola University) sets the stage for two-days of panels, workshops, stories and real world insights from local and national voices. Our opening day delivers insightful panels and high-impact discussions designed to equip entrepreneurs for success.

Thursday Opening Keynote & Fireside Chat

 JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE
Kicking off this year’s NOEW Summit, we explore the shifting dynamics of leadership in an era of innovation, disruption, and cultural transformation. The way we lead, build businesses, and create impact is evolving—and it starts with connection.

• KEYNOTE: The Benson Leadership Academy:How Investing in Your People Attracts and Retains Top Talent | 11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
  Dr. Michelle Johnston, executive coach and author of The Seismic Shift in Leadership, shares insights on how the most effective leaders today foster connection to drive impact and innovation. Drawing from her research and experience, she explores the evolution of leadership in a rapidly changing world and provides actionable strategies for leading with authenticity and influence.

  Following her keynote, Dr. Johnston will be joined by special guests for a fireside conversation, addressing real-world applications of The Seismic Shift. This discussion will offer valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and change-makers looking to redefine leadership for the modern era.
  *This panel is a part of our Book Fest crossover programming
  

• Fueling Big Ideas: How Startups Power New Orleans’ Innovation Economy | 11:50 AM 12:30 PM
  Presented by JPMorgan Chase & Co.
  New Orleans' startup scene is buzzing with fresh ideas and big ambitions. This session featuring Amanda Cotler, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Barret Blondeau, Falaya, Christa Cotton, El Guapo, and Daryl Roy, 3D Media explores how founders across sectors can tap into the city’s growing innovation economy — from landing funding and embracing new tech to building connections that turn big ideas into thriving businesses.

Thursday Early Afternoon Sessions

OCHSNER HEALTH STAGE
The Ochsner Health Stage focuses on the real-world experiences of founders and the future of work. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a student exploring career paths, these discussions offer practical strategies and firsthand perspectives to help you take the next step.

• Entrepreneurs' Organization: Experiences from the Journey | 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  Every entrepreneurial journey is different and the challenges change over time. To truly succeed, each entrepreneur must understand their business, but also the impact of entrepreneurship on their staff, family, friends and themselves. Meaningful experiences, shared by others, can be the best guide through the most difficult moments. This panel features members of the Louisiana chapter of Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) who are each at different entrepreneurial stages. They will share their most personal experiences that kept them moving on their entrepreneurial journey.

• Leading Disruption | 12:05 - 12:45 PM
  Presented by Excella
  Disruption happens whether you’re driving it or absorbing it. Successful leaders come out ahead through disruption. Learn the mindset of industry’s most successful disruptors, leadership “calls to action” during disruption, and how it’s playing out in the real world today.

Thursday Mid-Afternoon Sessions

  JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE
The afternoon sessions provide tactical, real-world insights for makers, early-stage entrepreneurs, and students looking to launch, grow, and scale their ventures. With AI woven throughout the discussions, programming highlights how strategic branding, and investment opportunities can accelerate business success.

• The Creator Economy in New Orleans: Influence, Business & Monetization | 12:35 PM - 1:05 PM
  Join Scot Pilé, Alex Robinson, and Ciara Green moderated by Mac Alsfeld of Ringleader Studios & Deep Fried Advertising) discuss how New Orleans’ influencers  are shaping the city’s narrative, driving tourism, and turning creativity into business. This session explores monetization strategies, brand partnerships, and what’s needed to grow this digital economy. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or brand, learn how to turn content into revenue and influence into opportunity.

• AI In Action: How New Orleans is Innovating | 1:20 PM - 1:50 PM
  AI and automation are changing the game for startups, making it easier than ever to launch and scale big ideas. This session, moderated by Brandon Rapp (Founder & CEO, Allouve) explores how these cutting-edge technologies are streamlining work, boosting creativity, and opening up new opportunities for innovation—plus what founders need to know to stay ahead in the AI revolution.

• Leveraging Public Relations (PR) Strategies to Increase Outcomes | 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  A strategic communications plan can assist entrepreneurs in establishing and preserving connections with stakeholders, influencing how the public views their brand, and attracting new clients. Join moderator Chelsea Creel as this panel discovers how to use brand creation, social media, and other strategies to differentiate your business/organization.

• SEO Strategies to Get Found Online | 2:30 PM - 3:10 PM
  Presented by Verizon
  More than one billion Google searches are conducted every month. Each time someone conducts a search on Google, it presents an opportunity for businesses to influence consumer decisions and preferences. If a business can show up in Google search results when someone is searching for the products or services they provide, they will be well-positioned to generate a lead or make a sale. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) makes it possible for any business to take advantage of this opportunity.

• Trust Your Crazy Ideas (TYCI) Pitch Competition | 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
  Presented by Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans
  The afternoon closes with high-energy pitch competitions featuring five student-led teams from across the region. These young entrepreneurs will pitch their ideas for $5,000 scholarship and the chance to take their idea to the finals for $10,000 in additional scholarship funding.

OCHSNER HEALTH STAGE
The Ochsner Health Stage transforms into the Startup Noir NOLA Summit, featuring insightful conversations with leaders about the transformative power of Black founders and funders in New Orleans. Explore how we can collectively unlock our fullest potential and drive economic growth in the region.

• Present and Future of Black Entrepreneurship in Greater New Orleans | 1:15 PM - 1:45 PM
  Entrepreneurship has long been a key driver of economic progress, particularly in Black communities, where it plays a vital role in building generational wealth and closing the racial wealth gap. This session will explore the current state of Black entrepreneurship in Greater New Orleans, highlighting key trends, challenges, and opportunities. Experts will discuss strategies for increasing access to capital, resources, and networks that empower Black founders to thrive.

• Future-Proofing Your Venture: Diverse Founders in Uncertain Times | 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  In an ever-changing economic and social landscape, diverse founders face unique challenges in sustaining and scaling their ventures. This discussion will offer practical insights on how to build resilience, secure funding, and navigate uncertainty. Learn strategies to future-proof your business while maintaining the authenticity and vision that set you apart.

• Building Capital Where It Doesn’t Exist: Uncovering Untapped Sources to Drive Startup Growth | 2:40 PM - 3:10 PM
  Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers for Black entrepreneurs. This session will explore innovative ways to unlock funding, including non-traditional investment sources and strategies for engaging underrepresented high-net-worth individuals as startup investors. Experts will share actionable insights on how to increase capital flow within the community and fuel inclusive innovation.

• Wellness for Black & Brown Founders: Thriving, Not Just Surviving | 3:20 PM - 3:50 PM
  Building a business is demanding, but for Black and Brown founders, the journey often comes with additional pressures—financial, emotional, and systemic. This conversation will explore the importance of prioritizing well-being, avoiding burnout, and creating sustainable success. Learn how to balance ambition with self-care to not just survive, but truly thrive in entrepreneurship.

• Raising Existential Capital in Challenging Times: A Fireside Chat by OHUB | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  Raising capital as a Black founder has never been easy, and in today’s economic climate, securing investment is even more challenging. This fireside chat will explore the concept of "existential capital"—the critical resources founders need beyond funding, including networks, knowledge, and access to opportunity. Industry leaders will share how to navigate the evolving investment landscape and build a sustainable financial foundation for long-term success.

NOEW Summit Day 2 | Friday, March 28
Culture-Driven Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Day two of the NOEW Summit (March 28 at Loyola University) explores how New Orleans’ cultural roots fuel innovation and entrepreneurship. With AI woven throughout the programming, Friday showcases how Louisiana can leverage its unique culture and advancing technologies to drive economic impact.

Friday also introduces the Founders’ Stage, featuring workshops and entrepreneurial stories across all four NOEW themes—'Start it Here', 'Scale it Here', 'Business of the Future', and (Not So Artificial Intelligence). The Founders’ Stage is a must for small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone who wants to hear real-life stories of building, growing, and innovating straight from the people making it happen.

With three dynamic stages, attendees can engage in discussions, workshops, and networking with global industry leaders, local entrepreneurs, and ecosystem builders shaping the future of business in New Orleans.

Friday Morning Sessions

 JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE
These Friday sessions explore how innovation, AI, and entrepreneurship are shaping the future of New Orleans. Founders who have built, scaled, and are starting again will share what they’ve learned and how they’re navigating an AI-driven world. Experts in branding, business strategy, and investment will discuss how to drive long-term growth and position New Orleans as a city where business and culture thrive together.

• Starting Again: Lessons Learned & The AI-Driven Future | 9:00 AM - 9:40 AM
  What happens when experienced founders decide to build again? Join a trailblazing conversation with Matt Wisdom (TurboSquid) and Chris Meaux (Waitr), two entrepreneurs who have navigated the startup journey before and are now launching new ventures in an AI-fueled world. They’ll share key lessons from their first companies, how they’re approaching.

• The Future of New Orleans’ Brand | 9:45 AM - 10:25 AM
  New Orleans is known for its hospitality, but innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship are key to its growth. This panel featuring Walt Leger explores how business development and top entrepreneurial talent can drive tourism, hospitality, and economic expansion—positioning the city as a hub where business and culture intersect.

Friday Late Morning Sessions

OCHSNER HEALTH STAGE
With a focus on the intersection of climate innovation, AI, and business resilience, the Ochsner Health Stage opens with mid-morning sessions exploring how technology and strategic investments are shaping the future of sustainability, healthcare, and economic development in New Orleans and beyond.

• Establishing an Innovation Hub for Carbon Innovation | 10:00 AM - 10:40 AM
  Presented by NewLab
  Louisiana’s industrial infrastructure, energy expertise, and strategic investments make it a prime hub for commercializing low-carbon technologies. This session will explore how the state is driving innovation in carbon capture, hydrogen, and sustainable manufacturing to lead the energy transition.

• Financing Resilient Innovation + Infrastructure | 10:45 AM - 11:25 AM
  Presented by Finance New Orleans
  Finance New Orleans, the first Green Bank in the state of Louisiana, is a market leader in financing resilient and sustainable homeownership, development, infrastructure and innovation. Join FNO's Damon Burns (CEO) and Annie Clark (CRO) alongside partners Josh Cox of Community Power South and Joel Holton from Gro Enterprises in a panel discussion facilitated by FNO's Blake J. Stanfill (COO). 

• Building Financial Wellness for BIPOC Entrepreneurs: Strengthening Access to Capital through Collaborative Support | 11:25 AM - 11:55 AM
  The Financial Wellness Collaborative—a partnership between Fund 17, Propeller, and Thrive New Orleans—helps BIPOC entrepreneurs access capital. This  session will explore how financial literacy, business support, and lender connections create funding opportunities for underserved small businesses.

 JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE
Big ideas are just the beginning—scaling them is where the real work begins. The JPMorgan Chase & Co. Main Stage mid-morning sessions focus on what it takes to build high-growth ventures in Louisiana. From founders who have successfully exited their companies to those navigating the complexities of fundraising and expansion, this programming block highlights what it means to scale and succeed right here at home. This programming block highlights our ‘'Scale it Here'’ theme, as entrepreneurs prove that Louisiana isn’t just a place to launch—it’s a place to grow and scale. 

• Spotlight on Local Success: Exiting in Music Tech | 10:25 AM - 11:05 AM
  Louisiana has long been a hub for music and culture, but it’s also home to groundbreaking innovations in music technology. In this fireside chat, Jim Odom (founder, PreSonus) shares his journey of building, scaling, and successfully exiting a globally recognized music tech company. Moderated by Rich Collins, this session offers an inside look at the challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned from a local entrepreneur who turned a passion for music into a game-changing business.

•  Igniting Startup Growth in the Crescent City | 11:10 AM - 11:50 AM
  Heidi Raines (Founder & CEO, Performance Health Partners) leads a discussion with Scott Wolfe (Founder, Levelset) and Heidi Raines (Founder & CEO, Performance First Health Partners) on what it really takes to secure seed and Series A funding in Louisiana. Learn from industry experts as they break down the strategies, challenges, and key lessons of scaling a startup, offering real-world insights for founders looking to grow and thrive in the region.
  *This panel is a part of our Book Fest crossover programming

FOUNDERS’ STAGE
This mid-morning session spotlights local founders who are scaling their businesses, overcoming obstacles, and proving that Louisiana is a place to build big. It kicks off with a high-impact workshop to help entrepreneurs sharpen their edge, followed by four inspiring founder stories, each highlighting a different path to success.

• WORKSHOP: Give Yourself an Unfair Advantage
  A tactical session designed to help entrepreneurs identify and leverage their unique strengths to stand out and scale successfully.

• FOUNDER STORY: Julio Bermudez (Raices Nuevas)
  A journey of resilience and purpose—Julio’s story as a Garifuna immigrant and founder of Raices Nuevas showcases how community impact can drive business success.

• FOUNDER STORY: Eric Delgado (Izinga)
  A Loyola grad with an entrepreneurial spirit—Eric has launched multiple startups across different industries, proving that resilience and adaptability are key to long-term success.

• FOUNDER STORY: Maxwell Materne (Omni Channel Dealer Solutions)
  After nearly two decades in the motorcycle industry, Maxwell took a leap to revolutionize dealership operations. His journey is proof that passion and persistence can reshape an entire industry.

Friday Early Afternoon Sessions

 JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE

The  JPMorgan Chase & Co. Main Stage midday block highlights how Louisiana is driving innovation and shaping the industries of tomorrow, tying into NOEW’s themes of ‘Business of the Future’ and ‘(Not So) Artificial Intelligence’. From universities fueling entrepreneurship to AI breakthroughs redefining the global tech landscape, these sessions explore the state’s role in high-growth, high-impact industries.

•  Universities as Catalysts for Innovation in Louisiana | 11:50 AM - 12:30 PM
  Louisiana’s universities aren’t just educating students—they’re fueling entrepreneurship, research, and economic growth. Moderated by Josh Fleig (Chief Innovation Officer, Louisiana Economic Development), this panel brings together leaders from top universities to discuss how startup incubators, research initiatives, and public-private partnerships are positioning the state as a hub for new ideas, talent development, and business expansion.

• Building Louisiana’s Innovation Economy: Connecting Ecosystems Statewide | 12:35 PM - 1:15 PM

  With the recent launch of a focused statewide innovation strategy, now is the time to double down on the regions across the state who are fostering dynamic startup communities across growing industries, and explore how to collectively scale our efforts. In this panel, a moderator from LA.IO will lead a conversation with innovation leaders from Shreveport, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge to discuss how the state can better connect its ecosystems, leverage regional strengths, and drive economic growth
  
  
  

OCHSNER HEALTH STAGE
The Ochsner Health Stage midday sessions focus on access to capital and local investment, tying into NOEW’s ‘Start It Here’ and ‘Scale It Here’ themes. From financial literacy and business readiness to local VC insights, these sessions highlight the resources and funding pathways that help Louisiana entrepreneurs grow.

• From Lab to Clinic: AI’s Role in Revolutionizing Healthcare | 12:00 PM - 12:40 PM
  Presented by Ochsner Health
  Artificial intelligence is reshaping the healthcare landscape, from enhancing patient care at the bedside to accelerating breakthroughs in research and development. Join experts for an insightful discussion on how AI-driven innovations are improving clinical decision-making, streamlining operations, and driving medical discoveries. This session will explore real-world applications of AI in healthcare, the challenges of implementation, and what the future holds for providers, patients, and researchers alike.

• The Friends and Family You Don't Have: The New Orleans Early Stage VC Ecosystem | 12:40 PM - 1:20 PM
  What are venture capital funds in Southeast Louisiana looking for in early-stage startups? Join New Orleans Startup Fund, Booth 64, Gulf South Angels, and Ochsner Ventures for an insider discussion on investment priorities in the region. This panel will explore what drives funding decisions, key factors investors consider, and how entrepreneurs can position themselves for success. 

FOUNDERS’ STAGE
The Founders’ Stage midday sessions deliver real-world lessons from founders who’ve built, pivoted, and scaled businesses in Louisiana. Featuring a hands-on workshop and personal founder stories, this block is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone looking to grow with purpose.

• WORKSHOP: Core Values with Brightspot People | 11:05 AM - 11:30 AM
  Why do companies with “integrity” as a core value still collapse? This session helps founders define and apply core values that actually drive business success.

• FOUNDER STORY: Dustin Puryear (Giant Rocketship) | 11:35 AM - 11:45 AM
  After selling his company, Dustin launched a new SaaS venture, proving reinvention fuels growth.

• FOUNDER STORY: Shaney Washington (Dream Forward Media) | 11:45 AM - 11:55 AM
  Overcoming burnout and bad partnerships, Shaney helps brands build lasting impact.

• FOUNDER STORY: Ashley-Nicole Grosse (Tahda Baby) | 11:55 AM - 12:05 AM
  A former producer turned founder, Ashley-Nicole is tackling maternal health disparities through tech.

• FOUNDER STORY: Endurance in Entrepreneurship: Navigating Burnout and Embracing Failure with Ray Fontaine | 12:05 PM - 12:15 PM
  A serial founder, Ray shares how community and resilience drive long-term success.

Friday Mid-Afternoon Sessions

 JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE
The  JPMorgan Chase & Co. Main Stage early afternoon block is where high-growth startups take center stage. IDEApitch, a NOEW fan favorite, brings the energy as top startups compete for investment and the Momentum Fund, pitching their vision to a panel of leading investors. Don’t miss this high-stakes showdown where big ideas meet real opportunity.

•  IDEApitch | 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
  Join us for The Idea Village’s annual celebrated IDEApitch competition. This annual pitch competition features VILLAGEx alumni poised for breakout success and the launch of the Momentum Fund, a new The Idea Village affiliated investment fund designed to help accelerate the momentum of our region’s top companies. See the local startup community in action in a lively pitch and panel discussion that highlights up and coming companies.
  
  

OCHSNER HEALTH STAGE
The Ochsner Health Stage early afternoon block dives into the industries that define New Orleans—music, hospitality, and festivals. These sessions, tied to NOEW’s "Business of the Future" theme, explore the innovations, challenges, and opportunities shaping these iconic sectors.

• The Business of Music in New Orleans: What’s Next? | 1:25 PM - 2:05 PM
  As the music industry evolves, artists and industry professionals must navigate new revenue streams, legal challenges, and the impact of technology. Moderated by Adam Matasar, (Partner, Jones Walker), this panel will explore what’s next for the music business in New Orleans and how artists, managers, and investors can stay ahead.

•  Transforming NOLA’s Hospitality Landscape | 2:05 PM - 2:35 PM
  New Orleans’ hospitality scene is evolving with luxury, technology, and cultural innovation at the forefront. This session, featuring Robert LeBlanc (Founder & Creative Director,  LeBLANC+SMITH), in conversation with Amy Sins (Chef & Restaurateur) into the groundbreaking concepts redefining guest experiences and what’s next for one of the city’s most vital industries.

• The Party Starts Here: The Future of Festivals | 2:35 - 3:05 PM
  Festivals are big business—and Louisiana’s festival leaders are pushing creative boundaries to keep them relevant, profitable, and unforgettable. Moderated by Sig Greenbaum (CEO,  Sigfest Events) this panel brings together the masterminds behind some of the region’s most electrifying festivals to discuss how they’re shaping the industry for the future.

FOUNDERS’ STAGE
The Founders’ Stage early afternoon block blends practical insights with personal stories, tying into our ‘Start It Here’ and ‘Business of the Future’ themes. From leveraging AI in social media to founders sharing how they built businesses on their own terms, this lineup is packed with real-world lessons for entrepreneurs at any stage.

• WORKSHOP:Trends in Social Media + AI Integration | 12:20 PM - 12:45 PM
  AI, video, and creative content are reshaping how businesses connect with audiences. This session explores the latest trends in social media and AI-driven engagement with insights from big influencers @eatingwithcait (Caitlin Minshew) and @carlapesono (Carla Pesono), alongside Gibran Nassif.

• FOUNDER STORY: Stephen Keighery (Home Buyer Louisiana + Hipages Group) | 12:50 PM - 1:00 PM
  After 22 years as an entrepreneur, Stephen shares why he never took a full-time job, IPO’d a $315M company, and chose New Orleans for his next venture.

• FOUNDER STORY: Aisha Jackson (Arete Media International) | 1:05 PM - 1:15 PM
  From international finance to entrepreneurship, Aisha’s journey proves that success isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about crafting your own "recipe" for business.

• FOUNDER STORY: Joshua Picou (Malady Health) | 1:20 PM- 1:30 PM
  A personal health crisis inspired Joshua to launch a tech-driven healthcare company focused on proactive, preventative care.

• FOUNDER STORY: More Than Music – The Movement Behind Girls Play Trumpets Too | 1:30 PM -1:40 PM
  A fourth-generation New Orleans musician, Troy founded GPTT to empower young girls in jazz and create equal representation in a male-dominated field.

Friday Closing Sessions & Celebration

 JPMORGAN CHASE & CO. MAIN STAGE
The  JPMorgan Chase & Co. Main Stage closes out Friday with an exploration of music, identity, and storytelling, followed by a high-energy afterparty to wrap up the day in true NOEW style.

• My Black Country | 3:30 - 5:00 PM *
  My Black Country: Songs & Stories - Hosted by Arthel Neville, this final event from NOEW will explore the impact of Black artists, songwriters, and entrepreneurs in country music, from its rich history to its resurgent popularity and future opportunities. Featuring the new MY BLACK COUNTRY memoir and album by award-winning author Alice Randall, guest performers include Black Americana Festival artist/entrepreneurs Dusky Waters and Teena May, artists Grace Gibson and Leyla McCalla, and special guests.
  *This panel is a part of our Book Fest crossover programming

FOUNDERS’ STAGE
The Founders’ Stage afternoon block explores how dynamic teamwork fuels success and features inspiring real-life founder stories that highlight resilience, problem-solving, and growth. Tied to NOEW’s "Start It Here" and "Scale It Here" themes, this session is for entrepreneurs looking to build strong teams, adapt to challenges, and grow their ventures in unexpected ways.

•  WORKSHOP: The Power of Fluid Teams: Winning with Fractional and Contract Talent | 1:40 PM - 2:05 PM
  How do blockbuster films, massive festivals, and emergency response teams execute big projects seamlessly? They use fluid teams—dynamic, high-performing groups that form, execute, and disband with agility. This session breaks down how entrepreneurs can apply the same principles to build adaptable, results-driven teams that move fast and innovate boldly

• FOUNDER STORY: Matt Sarradet (Gophr App) | 2:10 PM - 2:20 PM
  A frustrating experience with construction supply runs led Matt and his co-founder Warren  to create Gophr, an on-demand delivery service keeping projects on track.

• FOUNDER STORY: Sydney Gray (Gray Ink) | 2:20 PM - 2:30 PM
  After burnout and launching just before the pandemic, Sydney grew Gray Ink to $1M+ in revenue—all through referrals and organic relationships.

• FOUNDER STORY: The Reluctant Entrepreneur: Building a Business Out of Chaos | 2:35 PM - 2:45 PM
  A career shift sparked by necessity, Lisa turned uncertainty into a purpose-driven copywriting business supporting nonprofits.

• FOUNDER STORY: The Story of Us with Jane Cooper (Grand Krewe Wine & Spirits) | 2:45 PM- 2:55 PM
  Jane Cooper will describe her journey as a serial entrepreneur, having launched 5 companies and having fun with 4 of them! Her challenges and successes as an entrepreneur led her to mentor and invest in local early stage founders and teach entrepreneurship at Loyola University.

NOEW doesn’t end when the sessions do! Stick around as DJ Jeremy Phipps of People Museum spins a genre-blending set, bringing together founders, creatives, and innovators to celebrate another incredible NOEW Summit.