FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Baton Rouge, LA) Nexus Louisiana is proud to introduce the Spring 2025 Ignition cohort, marking the first time all participating founders are building technology-driven businesses encompassing both hardware and software products. This diverse group of idea-stage and early-stage entrepreneurs represents a wide range of industries, showcasing the innovative potential of Louisiana’s growing tech ecosystem.
Ignition, Nexus Louisiana’s flagship startup accelerator, is designed to help founders turn ideas into scalable ventures. Over eight weeks, participants refine their business models, develop prototypes, and gain traction with customers and investors. The program kicked off on March 18, with weekly sessions held every Tuesday, culminating in Demo Day on May 6, where founders will demo their businesses to an audience of investors, mentors, and industry leaders.
"The Spring 2025 Ignition cohort reflects our dedication to fostering high-tech initiatives and nurturing the local tech ecosystem” said Tony Zanders, Nexus Louisiana President & CEO. “These founders are solving real problems with innovative solutions, and we’re excited to support their journeys from idea to scalable business.”
Spring 2025 Ignition Cohort Participants
- IV Safepatch (Tonia Aiken, Jim Aiken, Sandra Pelas) – A medical device company developing a protective IV patch that detects site failures and alerts caregivers to prevent serious injury.
- Blue Tree (Rodney Shepherd, Chris Hilliard) – A digital platform connecting college entrepreneurs with their campus communities to help them grow and scale their businesses.
- Think Airports (Tim Walsh) – AI-powered strategic planning software for the airport industry, designed to streamline operations and decision-making.
- Live Royally (Brittany Calahan) – A marketplace platform connecting consumers with curated cultural experiences, fostering economic and community engagement.
- Data Samurai (Robert Ayala) – A data analytics and AI consultancy developing tools to improve efficiency for government agencies and high-growth tech companies.
- Brown Ribbon (Diana Davis) – A community-driven online marketplace where women entrepreneurs can barter skills and services without financial barriers.
- Porter Produxs (Ricardo Porter) – An innovative tool that enhances safety and efficiency for oil and gas industry workers.
- Encore CO2 (William McGehee, Jordan Losavio, Dr. John Flake) – A cleantech company transforming CO2 into valuable products like ethanol and acetate using electrolysis.
Participants will engage in a revamped curriculum designed to accelerate their journey from concept to investment readiness. Sessions will be facilitated by experienced "near-peer" coaches, including Matthew Armstrong (Check), Donavan Williams (Jammaround), and Maryclaire Manard (Cluey), each bringing a wealth of knowledge and industry insight to help guide founders through the critical stages of growth. By the end of the program, founders will have a working prototype (No Code required), early traction, and be fully prepared to attract investment, positioning them for long-term success.
Demo Day on May 6 will showcase the progress of these promising startups and offer an opportunity for investors, partners, and the broader community to engage with Louisiana’s next wave of tech entrepreneurs.
For more information about Ignition and how to get involved, visit the website.
About Nexus Louisiana
Nexus Louisiana is a nonprofit business development organization dedicated to connecting growth-focused companies to capital, resources, and talent. The organization plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and economic growth in Louisiana.
For more information, please contact:
Na'Tisha Natt
Director of Marketing & Engagement
natisha@nexusla.org
(225) 408-5018
Na'Tisha Natt
Director of Marketing & Engagement
natisha@nexusla.org
(225) 408-5018