The City of Natchitoches announced it was selected by the National League of Cities (NLC) to move forward to the Implementation Phase of the Southern Cities Economic Initiative (SCEI). As one of 14 cities selected for this next two-year phase of SCEI, the City will receive a grant of $50,000 to elevate and implement local strategies that boost economic mobility and resilience for Natchitoches residents.
Through participation in this project, the City of Natchitoches has launched the UPLift Natchitoches Entrepreneurship Program (UPNEP), which is dedicated to empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and further supporting newly opened small businesses to help them grow and thrive. Interested participants have an opportunity to compete for up to $7,500 in grant funding to help launch or grow their businesses after successful completion of the nine-month curriculum.
The program, which was developed by Community Outreach and Grants Manager Nicole Gray, delivers targeted business training, networking opportunities, and hands-on support to help navigate the challenges of starting and growing a small business. “UPLift was created to ensure local entrepreneurs, especially those who have historically been overlooked, have access to the resources, training, and support needed to build sustainable businesses. This program allows us to strengthen our local economy by focusing on small businesses with proven techniques to build long-term sustainability,” said Gray.
During the project’s initial planning phase, the City of Natchitoches received a planning grant for $15,000, which provided tailored technical assistance, peer learning opportunities, access to data and experts from the Federal Reserve Bank, as well as connections to national funders.
“This grant is more than funding. It’s belief in our people, our ideas, and our ability to build something lasting right here in Natchitoches. UPLift was born from the conviction that when you invest in everyday dreamers and doers, you strengthen the entire community. We are deeply grateful to the National League of Cities for standing with us and helping turn hope into opportunity,” said Mayor Williams.
SCEI’s implementation phase will run through December 2027.
