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NORA Extends Deadline for Small Business Marketing Funding: What You Need to Know

Update New Opportunities for Small Businesses in New Orleans The New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA) has extended the deadline for its Small Business Marketing Assistance Program to September 5 at 4 p.m., offering valuable support to businesses in designated Low and Moderate Income (LMI) areas. This initiative, which began accepting applications on July 14, 2025, is part of a broader strategy to bolster local economies through tailored marketing consulting and grants. What Does the Program Offer? Through this program, eligible small businesses can receive grants of up to $30,000. The aim is to connect them with professional marketing firms for a collaborative period ranging from three to six months. Participants will engage with marketing specialists contracted by NORA, who will assist in developing comprehensive marketing campaigns or enhancing existing outreach efforts. What makes this program particularly beneficial is that NORA will handle payments directly to the consultants, alleviating a financial burden from participant businesses. Building on Community Revitalization Efforts This initiative is a crucial component of ongoing revitalization projects along major neighborhood commercial corridors like South Broad Street and Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard. Designed to complement other supportive programs such as the Commercial Corridor Gap Financing and Façade RENEW initiatives, the marketing assistance serves both as a financial and technical resource for enterprises located within these targeted areas. It addresses the unique challenges faced by small businesses and aims to increase their viability in competitive markets. Eligible Areas for Participation The designated corridors include key thoroughfares such as Canal Street and St. Claude Avenue, highlighting the focus on areas that have seen significant public and private investment recently. By concentrating support in these selected areas, the program aims to strengthen both the financial standing and community presence of participating businesses. Why This Matters for Local Entrepreneurs For small business owners in New Orleans, this program represents a significant opportunity to enhance visibility and outreach without incurring substantial costs. In today’s competitive marketplace, having a strong marketing strategy is crucial, and NORA’s assistance can help these businesses thrive by creating a more substantial community connection. As more enterprises take advantage of this initiative, the cumulative effect could lead to a revitalization of economic stability across the targeted neighborhoods.