THIBODAUX, La. – The Bayou Region Incubator recently secured $142,300 in funding from four corporate partners to expand its support for local small businesses. The funding comes as the incubator prepares to host seven local entrepreneurs for its annual Pitch Night at Nicholls State University.
Leading the charge is Chevron, which has committed $100,000. In addition, Mosaic has invested $30,000, alongside the Atchafalaya Intracoastal Coalition at $6,300 and Koch Methanol at $6,000. These collective funds are already going to work.
The capital directly supports the incubator’s 48 current member businesses by funding scaffolded memberships, technical assistance, business certifications and shared infrastructure. Ultimately, the goal is to break down barriers for local startups, create sustainable jobs, drive long-term economic resilience and keep homegrown talent right here in the Bayou Region.
Pitch Night 2026
The direct impact of these investments will be on full display on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the Bayou Region Pitch Night, an event made possible by Chevron.
Hosted at Peltier Auditorium on the Nicholls State University campus, the evening will feature seven outstanding local entrepreneurs. Each will pitch their business concept live before a panel of expert judges, competing for critical startup funding that could launch their ventures to the next level.
An event designed for investors, business owners, community leaders, students and local residents, Pitch Night offers a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and cheer on the next generation of business leaders.
Doors are set to open at 5:30 p.m., with the pitch competition beginning at 6 p.m. and the event concluding with an awards ceremony at 7:15 p.m.
To purchase tickets, click here.
About the Bayou Region Incubator
Powered by Nicholls State University, the Bayou Region Incubator supports small business growth, innovation and economic resilience across the Bayou Region. The incubator serves local founders and 48 member businesses by providing access to shared workspaces, scaffolded memberships, technical assistance, workforce training and business certification support. Through public-private partnerships, the BRI works to reduce barriers to entrepreneurship, help create jobs and retain local talent. For more information, visit bayouregionincubator.nexudus.site.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, July 29, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Payton Suire
Media Relations & Publications Coordinator,
985.448.4141 or payton.suire@nicholls.edu