StayLocal is Greater New Orleans’ independent business alliance. We create an environment for local businesses to thrive through research, education, and advocacy.

Indie Biz Owner Meetup

Please stop by StayLocal for a relaxed mixer for business owners and entrepreneurs in the local network. We’re hosting the local business community at our office, 1239 Baronne St, so you can give input on our 2025 strategy to increase visibility for local businesses in 2025.

Come let us know how your business is faring as we work to educate consumers on the benefits of keeping their dollars local and to help businesses stay competitive through policy and advocacy. We’ll be briefing everyone on Love Letters to Locals, just in time for February 14th!

Attend to meet other business owners, gather information about their products and services, and learn what they are excited about for the year ahead!

Refreshments will be served and there is plenty of free, on-street parking. Call or text StayLocal at (504) 252-1259 with questions.

The event is free and open to all local business owners. Letting us know you are coming helps us plan for the event, so do so here.

ICYMI: Marketing Tips for 2025

In January’s #WebinarWednesday, we shared marketing insights to help your independent business grow and prosper in 2025. Guest experts Anamaria Bech and Axel Rosa of New Orleans’ premiere multicultural publication, Viva NOLA, joined us.

As business owners refine their 2025 marketing plans, it helps to consider both best practices and new innovations. Whether you are refreshing your brand, refining your message, or just want to keep all eyes on your business, you'll want to hear what these media professionals have to say.

This event, hosted by StayLocal together with LCIA, the member services arm of LCI Worker’s Comp, a group self-insurance fund operating in Louisiana since 1989, was recorded.

Watch the webinar recording on StayLocal’s YouTube here.

A Greener Mardi Gras

In 2023, a study commissioned by civic leaders documented the annual economic impact of our Mardi Gras season at $891 million, reporting on both the local and tourism activities that make up this New Orleans tradition.

The report acknowledges the cost of managing what Mardi Gras parades leave in their wake: trash. Back before the pandemic, Urban Conservancy, LCI Workers’ Comp, Grounds Krewe and many community partners gathered to discuss making real change by reducing negative environmental impact regrettably associated with Carnival. Since that 2018 forum, more krewes, riders, dance troupes and business owners than ever before have made choices that give revelers green options.

Our city’s most populous neighborhoods, in which many of our long term residents live, are nearby to the traditional Mardi Gras parade route. Residents are saddled with flooded streets in rainy seasons, and manage floodwaters, some on their own, some with help from programs like our Front Yard Initiative.

Here are some ways to contribute to sustainability during Carnival. Follow us on social media or read our newsletters for more.