Louisiana’s 2021 economic successes proved yet again that when our state meets challenges head-on, exceptional opportunity results.

We can all be proud of Louisiana Economic Development’s determination to light the way for our prosperity, securing over $20.5 billion in capital investment and thousands of new jobs for our citizens in 2021. In step with partners across the state, nation and world, LED overcame historic pandemic- and weather-related challenges to deliver exceptional results for our state.

This annual report outlines these many accomplishments, including initiatives that are driving a cleaner energy future and innovative advancements that further define us as an important global hub of commerce. It also highlights LED FastStart, recognized as the top workforce training program in the nation for 12 consecutive years.

As we’ve pledged through our climate and community initiatives, we are preparing ourselves for a long, sustainable future that creates economic opportunity for all Louisiana residents, no matter what their background or what part of the state they live in.

I salute all the owners and employees of Louisiana businesses large and small whose hard work and ingenuity are the foundation of our state’s long-term economic development success.

John Bel Edwards

Governor, State of Louisiana

2021 was a remarkable year for Louisiana Economic Development and a clear signal that local, regional and state efforts to strengthen our business climate are accelerating our growth.

Proof of Louisiana’s numerous business advantages can be found in multiple investment announcements across a wide range of industry sectors. It can be found in the multi-billion dollar energy investments made by major global corporations, and in the hundreds of entrepreneurs participating in business empowerment programs for veterans, women and minorities and rural communities.

The influx of thousands of new jobs for Louisiana residents across the state stands as our proudest achievement from 2021. The more than 18,000 new direct and indirect jobs created are among the most ever in a single year for LED. 

None of this would be possible without the leadership of Gov. John Bel Edwards, the collaboration of our economic development partners across the state, the commitment of statewide political leaders, the creativity of our education partners and the unwavering resilience of the citizens of our state. We thank you for your partnership, which produced the transformational accomplishments of 2021, and look forward to building on that momentum in 2022 and for years to come.

Don Pierson

Secretary, Louisiana Economic Development