Mission
Our mission is simple but ambitious: to increase high-growth, tech-enabled startups in Louisiana and to accelerate venture capital activity in our state. We envision Louisiana as a nationally recognized hub for innovation where entrepreneurs build and scale transformative companies.
Who We Are
Meet the team working to advance Louisiana’s innovation economy. We bring together diverse expertise in entrepreneurship, investment, technology, and economic development – all focused on creating conditions where Louisiana startups thrive.
Josh Fleig
Chief Innovation Officer
Kelly Raney
Executive Director, Innovation Operations
Chris Cassagne
Executive Director, Louisiana Growth Network
Stephanie Hartmen
Senior Director, Louisiana Growth Network
Madeline Trudeau Kawanaka
Director, Innovation Programs
Arthur Cooper
Director, Special Projects
Katie Maxcy
Director, Strategic Initiatives
Margot McNeely
Director, Innovation Communications
Hutch McClendon
Director, LTTO
TJ Guillot
Innovation Media Manager
Houston Smith
Data & Systems Strategist
Innovation
in Louisiana
From the Higgins boat that transformed military operations to today’s breakthroughs in healthcare, energy, and digital solutions, Louisiana has a rich history of practical innovation that solves real problems. LA.IO builds on this legacy, supporting the next generation of Louisiana innovators ready to make their mark.