Tulane Innovation Institute's Happy Innovator Hour brings together the Tulane community and members of the New Orleans Startup Ecosystem

 

On September 23, 2025, entrepreneurs, investors, community leaders, and members of Tulane University's faculty and student body gathered at The Nieux on St. Charles Avenue for what initially appeared to be an ordinary happy hour. Drinks were poured, introductions made, and networks expanded. However, the evening's focus was to create a series of conversations about what it will take to strengthen New Orleans as a place to start and grow a business.

Organized by Tulane University's Innovation Institute, the event marked the beginning of this year's programming. It also encouraged discussions and listening stations to collect opinions on what community members want to see when a new group of city leaders takes office this fall.

One of the topics discussed was space. Founders talked about the need for affordable and flexible office spaces that cater to startups. Participants suggested financial mechanisms that could support co-working spaces and innovation hubs, as well as how the city might expand its capacity to provide them to position New Orleans competitively among emerging tech hubs.

The conversation also covered workforce development. Attendees considered the skills New Orleans residents will need to remain competitive over the next decade. They discussed how universities, employers, accelerators, and community organizations can better prepare individuals for careers in technology and entrepreneurship.

Attention also turned to the current permitting and licensing process at City Hall. How could it become more friendly to entrepreneurs? Some attendees reflected on possible improvements with new leadership and fresh approaches to municipal support for startups.

As the evening progressed, discussions broadened. What would it take to make New Orleans a stronger startup city? Why do so many entrepreneurs believe New Orleans offers something unique for startups—a high quality of life, creative culture, and a collaborative community they cannot find elsewhere? The responses suggested that, with the right partnerships among universities, local accelerators, city government, and the business community, New Orleans can build on its existing strengths in the coming months and years.

The insights gathered throughout the event will be compiled into a written report to share with civic and entrepreneurial leaders. The goal was to outline practical steps for making New Orleans a more competitive, entrepreneur-friendly city where businesses can start, grow, and scale.

Food provided by Codey's NOLA, a commissary kitchen and coop for New Orleans food entrepreneurs. 
Photography by Steph Tarrant.