At the Forefront of the Manufacturing Renaissance
Decades of manufacturing expertise, the nation’s best workforce development program, and highly competitive incentives position Louisiana at the epicenter of the manufacturing renaissance. Strategic investments in site identification, robust GIS-mapping technology and a pro-business climate have attracted industry leaders including Nucor, Benteler Steel/Tube and Gardner Denver.
Fueling Louisiana's Economy: Manufacturing by the Numbers
Low Utility Rates & Competitive Business Climate for Manufacturers
Low Utility Rates
Highly Competitive Natural Gas Rates
A Workforce Manufactured for Success
Specialized Education Fuels 22,000+ Manufacturing Graduates Annually
New investors in the state can rely on Louisiana’s commitment to workforce growth through strategic investments in higher education. The majority of the state’s research universities have specialized institutes or programs in manufacturing, producing over 22,000 relevant graduates annually according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Millions Invested in Training Facilities and 72% Enrollment Growth
Additionally, Louisiana’s investments in community and technical schools ensure the statewide availability of highly skilled workers. From 2007 to 2012, the state dedicated over $250 million to new and upgraded training facilities. In 2013, an additional $250 million was allocated for workforce projects. Enrollment at these institutions also increased by 72% from 2007 to 2012 according to the U.S. Department of Education.
Supporting Industry and Community with Advanced Training Centers
Louisiana collaborates with the private sector for tailored education and training investments, such as specialized centers at community colleges for companies like Benteler Steel/Tube and Sasol. These centers, equipped with the latest technology, support recruitment, assessment, and training, benefiting both the company and the community. After company services ramp down, these facilities will open to other students in the Louisiana Community and Technical College System.
Workforce Development Customized for Manufacturing
LED FastStart creates tailored workforce solutions at no cost to eligible companies. The team collaborates closely with a company’s experts to identify specific skill requirements. They then use traditional and innovative methods to recruit and train qualified talent, preparing them for immediate productivity and long-term success. These programs improve learning curves, boost productivity, and bolster a company’s bottom line. Post-employment classes help integrate new team members, and LED FastStart’s world-class training benefits companies across various sectors, including Fortune 500 firms like Gardner Denver Thomas, Lockheed Martin, Nucor, Northrop Grumman, Crest Industries, and Union Tank Car.
Bold Business Incentives for Advanced Manufacturing Companies
Louisiana’s competitive incentives support manufacturers with the Quality Jobs program (up to 6% cash rebate for new jobs), Industrial Tax Exemption (property tax abatement), and Research and Development Tax Credit (up to 40% on research expenses).