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BUSINESS RESOURCES: The Idea Village is a 501(c)3 economic development organization that engages a global network to provide strategy, talent and resources to entrepreneurial ventures in New Orleans. New Orleans City Business blog The place to sound of on all things New Orleans business. Startup New Orleans is a resource for entrepreneurs seeking information and connections to other entrepreneurs. New Orleans is in the midst of transformation. Entrepreneurs from all over are finding opportunities, testing ideas, and taking advantage of a culture of creativity to develop businesses that are as inspiring as they are profitable. Doing Business in the Gulf Region - The Gulf Opportunity Zone Act of 2005: Go Zone legislation allows 50% bonus depreciation to businesses that develop property in areas affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Visit www.gozoneguide.com for more information on tax and other financial incentives for businesses participating in the rebuilding and restoration of the Gulf region. Doing Business in Louisiana - First Stop Shop for New Business: www.sec.state.la.us/comm/fss/fss-index.htm: The First Stop Shop, a "licensing information center" for prospective small business owners, streamlines the business licensing process by cutting through the bureaucratic red tape that can delay the start-up of a business. The staff at the Secretary of State?s office will prepare a customized business license checklist tailored to a company?s specific business licensing need. One of the innovations provided by the First Stop Shop is the state's licensing liaisons. Every state agency that deals with business or licensing designates an officer or employee to serve as its business licensing liaison. The primary purpose of the program is to facilitate business by providing a central system for the determination of what licenses and permits must be obtained and maintained by individuals conducting business in the state. Besides providing a central point of contact for state government requirements, First Stop also directs individuals to the proper local licensing and taxing authorities, as well as to state and quasi-governmental agencies, by providing a customized licensing/permit checklist. Visit the web site, www.sec.state.la.us/comm/fss/fss-index.htm, for frequent updates about regulation changes, upcoming business seminars, tips and ideas from business owners, including testimonials of business owners. The Official Guide to Doing Business in Louisiana Doing Business in New Orleans: The Mayor's Office of Economic Development is working to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and business owners in New Orleans. Bringing together public agencies and private firms, the office makes policies that make city government more responsive to the needs of businesses and improves the city's image as a place to do business. The Economic Development team connects businesses with tax incentive programs and workforce development opportunities -- resources like applicant pools, screening services and tax programs to enhance workforce development. The office can also suggest locations around the city in which a business could locate. Licensing applications and tax payments can be submitted online, making the process of opening a business and paying taxes simpler than ever. Prospective owners can also visit the Business Center at 1430 Poydras St., Suite 950 to apply for occupational licenses, learn about workforce programs and visit with a business counselor to begin the process of starting a business. To apply for occupational licenses or make monthly sales tax payments, visit www.cityofno.com. To learn about tax incentives, such as the new Renewal Community Tax Incentive, visit www.cityofno.com and locate the Mayor's Office of Economic Development under Departments and Agencies.
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