What is Economic Development?
Economic Development is programs, policies or activities that seek to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for a community. What “economic development” means to you will depend on the community you live in. Each community has its own opportunities, challenges, and priorities.
What is St. Helena Economic Development Foundation, Inc. (SHED)?
Answer: St. Helena Economic Development Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization that was created in August of 2021 to focus on improving economic conditions in St. Helena Parish. It is managed by a Board of Directors, consisting of 10 members. These Directors include representatives from all six political district in the parish, as determined in the latest delineations established by the current United States Census Data.
What is the mission of SHED?
- Our mission is to attract and assist in the growth and development of viable new industries, both large and small, for St. Helena Parish and to partner with existing businesses for enhancement and expansion opportunities.
What are some of the immediate goals of the foundation?
- We are currently preparing to bring back the Parish’s Forest Festival, which was an integral part of the parish’s annual activities. The festival has been dormant for many years, and concerned citizens are anxious to see it return. This event was a great way for small businesses to generate revenue and introduce their wares to the public. The event also boasted many unusual competitions, such as tree climbing, log cutting, pig catching, archery, etc. SHED intends to host the first return event in October of 2023.
Where is the organization’s base of operation?
- Our business office is located in the Welcome Center Building, at 8140 Highway 10 in Greensburg, Louisiana 70441. This facility is also home to the parish’s Tourism Board. However, if you wish to send mail to us, you must use our postal address: P.O. Box 356, Greensburg, LA 70441. Our monthly meetings are held at the Multipurpose Center, located at 31676 Highway 16, Amite, Louisiana 70422. Our meeting dates are posted on this site.
If I am interested in starting a business in the parish or if I need help with an existing business, who should I contact?
You should contact our Executive Director, Virginia Bell, using the contact information provided on this site’s home page.
