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Shell LiveWire Supports 21 Entrepreneurs in Louisiana for Economic Development

Shell USA, Inc. is making headlines with its commitment to bolster local economies through entrepreneurship. In a strategic initiative, Shell has collaborated with the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) to unveil the 2026 Louisiana cohort for the Shell LiveWire program. This initiative seeks to empower a diverse group of 21 local entrepreneurs, providing them with essential resources and fostering their growth.

Program Overview

Now in its fourth year, Shell LiveWire serves as a crucial enterprise development program designed to propel small business owners toward success. Selected from a variety of industries ranging from health and wellness to construction and logistics, these entrepreneurs are not just building businesses, but also contributing to the socio-economic fabric of their communities.

As Colette Hirstius, President of Shell USA, Inc., emphasizes, this investment in entrepreneurship is pivotal for Louisiana’s economic landscape—creating jobs, encouraging economic diversification, and nurturing stronger communities. The selected participants will be equipped with training, mentorship, and access to a robust network tailored to help them thrive.

The Entrepreneurial Landscape

The 21 entrepreneurs chosen for the Shell LiveWire 2026 cohort reflect the spirit of Louisiana's varied business landscape. Representing sectors such as:

• - Health and Wellness Services
• - Construction and Electrical Trades
• - Logistics and Transportation
• - Veterinary Care
• - Food and Catering

Each business is not only a venture but also a commitment to the local community and the environment. By nurturing these enterprises, Shell LiveWire is reinforcing its long-standing dedication to the region.

Connecting to Support Networks

The essence of the Shell LiveWire program lies in its ability to connect participants with supportive networks within their respective markets. The initiative is designed to strengthen businesses across 13 rural parishes in South Louisiana, such as Ascension, East Baton Rouge, and Lafourche, among others. With LSBDC acting as the local partner, the program ensures that the curriculum meets the specific needs of the cohort, delivered by experts in marketing, finance, and team management.

Heidi Melancon, Associate LSBDC State Director, noted that each entrepreneur brings a strong vision and a deep commitment to their community. This partnership with Shell LiveWire is tailored to match that ambition with professional guidance and a trusted support network, fostering confidence in scaling their businesses.

Legacy and Impact of Shell LiveWire

Shell LiveWire's mission extends well beyond the immediate goals of the 2026 Louisiana cohort. Originating in Scotland in 1982, the program has expanded its reach to 16 countries over the last four decades. In 2025 alone, it trained over 2,500 individuals, supported nearly 800 enterprises, and created around 1,000 jobs. This illustrates the program's effectiveness and its vital role in promoting sustainable economic growth globally.

The LSBDC, with over 40 years of experience, plays a critical role in this ecosystem. As the largest small business assistance network in the U.S., LSBDC has launched nearly 200 new businesses and facilitated the creation of more than 738 jobs statewide, proving that collective action can yield substantial results in economic revitalization.

Conclusion

The 2026 Shell LiveWire cohort represents a larger commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship and enhancing the economy of Louisiana. By investing in entrepreneurs today, Shell aims to build a resilient economic future for the state. With ongoing support and a network of resources, these 21 entrepreneurs are poised to make a lasting impact on their communities and contribute to a brighter economic landscape in Louisiana. This initiative not only showcases Shell's dedication to local communities but also sets a precedent for other corporations seeking to create meaningful change through entrepreneurship.