This is the second grant that the state of Louisiana has awarded to TechAssistLA, which helps small businesses use technology to broaden their markets, improve their business practices, and develop business networks.
Robert Turner, co-owner of Magazine Street's Silk Road Collection, said Thursday at a press conference announcing the grant that the free technical assistance his business received through the program last year helped it grow while other firms were contracting.
"About 50 percent of our business before Katrina was out-of-state visitors to Magazine Street, but we knew we would have to improve our Web site to stay in business after the storm," Turner said. "Through TechAssistLA, we had a full review of our company systems and improved our Web site so that Web sales increased 210 percent. We also got free sales training for our staff. This help is what made it possible to stay in New Orleans and grow."
Will Norris, Director of TechAssistLA, said the initiative assisted 90 small businesses, nonprofits and entrepreneurs in 2008 by matching recipients with Louisiana Technology Council members who have expertise in requested services.
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