SUSLA Workforce Development Drives Small Business Success Through Strategic Collaboration
Southern University at Shreveport's (SUSLA) Workforce Development is strengthening its role as a driver of economic development through intentional collaboration and workforce-focused programming. On February 27, the SUSLA Workforce Development Department, in partnership with the Milam Street Kitchen Incubator Community Kitchen (MS KICK) and the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC), hosted its inaugural Black History Month Vendor Pop-Up Shop at the SUSLA Metro Center.
This event served as more than a marketplace, it functioned as a coordinated ecosystem of entrepreneurship, connecting local business owners to resources that support long-term sustainability and growth.
A Pipeline from Education to Entrepreneurship
The event showcased a diverse group of small businesses, including several SUSLA student entrepreneurs and LSBDC clients, demonstrating the University’s ability to cultivate talent and transition individuals from education into business ownership. By integrating LSBDC services, participating vendors were connected to technical assistance such as business planning, compliance, and growth strategies.
MS KICK: From Incubation to Market Access
MS KICK played a central role by providing a platform for its culinary entrepreneurs to engage directly with the community. A key highlight was Big Nate’s BBQ, a current MS KICK tenant, who provided complimentary catered lunches for attendees through Workforce Development support.
This activation illustrated the full impact of MS KICK’s model, equipping food entrepreneurs with the tools, training, and opportunities needed to generate revenue, increase brand visibility, and scale their businesses
Reducing Barriers, Expanding Opportunity
To maximize accessibility, vendor participation was offered at no cost. This intentional approach removed financial barriers while allowing entrepreneurs to focus on customer engagement, sales, and networking. More importantly, it positioned vendors within a broader support system through MS KICK and LSBDC, ensuring continued development beyond the event.
Workforce Development in Action
"Supporting entrepreneurship is a key component of workforce development,” said Dr. Kimberly Harvell, Executive Director of Workforce Development & Continuing Education. “Through partnerships like MS KICK and LSBDC, we are creating pathways for individuals to build sustainable businesses while strengthening our local economy.”
A Scalable Model for Economic Impact
The Vendor Pop-Up Shop reflects a strategic model for economic growth:
- MS KICK: Business incubation and industry-specific training
- LSBDC: Technical assistance and business development support
- Workforce Development: Market access and community engagement
Together, these efforts create a seamless pipeline from concept to commerce.
Looking Ahead
Due to its strong participation and community impact, the Vendor Pop-Up Shop is expected to continue as a recurring initiative. SUSLA remains committed to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, and driving economic mobility throughout the region.