Courtesy of Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
April is Small Business Month in Ruston-Lincoln, presented by Century Next Bank.
Small business is the heartbeat of any thriving community. Behind every storefront, food truck, boutique, and family-run service in Ruston-Lincoln is a dream, a risk, and a whole lot of grit. Running a small business is incredibly rewarding, but let’s be real, it’s also challenging.
Whether it’s navigating economic shifts, staffing shortages, or just trying to get the word out, our local businesses face unique hurdles every day. That’s why now, more than ever, they need our support.
The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is excited to roll out the second annual Small Business Month, a month-long celebration and support series designed to uplift, connect, and empower our amazing local business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs. Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Century Next Bank, this year’s Small Business Month is bigger and better than ever. With weekly videos, podcasts, digital resources, and networking events, there’s something for every small business, and every community member who wants to see them succeed.
Throughout the month, we have shared weekly video spotlights featuring local business leaders who will be sharing real-world advice, lessons learned, and stories from their entrepreneurial journeys. These quick, inspiring clips are showcased on the Chamber’s social platforms and website and are sure to spark ideas and motivation for business owners and supporters alike.
We’re also proud to partner with Origin Bank for a special Small Business Podcast Series. Over five episodes, you’ll hear from local business owners and professionals from Louisiana Tech University’s College of Business as they offer practical insights and encouragement.
On Thursday, April 24, we’ll shift focus to the digital side of business with a sold out Cyber Threats and Legal Liabilities Luncheon, hosted by Coretechs. This event will feature cybersecurity attorney Sarah Anderson, founder of SWA Law. Her expertise will help business owners understand the legal and security challenges they face in today’s tech-driven world. It’s an essential conversation every decision maker should hear.
Then, it’s time to celebrate with Shop Small Weekend on April 25 and 26! In partnership with Experience Ruston and Downtown Ruston, we’re encouraging the community to eat, shop, and explore locally. Whether you’re grabbing coffee, finding a gift, or treating your family to a night out, every dollar spent locally makes a difference. It’s a feel-good way to directly support the businesses that make Ruston-Lincoln such a vibrant place to live.
The month will conclude with a Small Business Meet-Up on Tuesday, April 29. This relaxed, come-as-you-are networking event will give entrepreneurs and small business owners the chance to connect, share ideas, and meet the leaders featured in our weekly video series. It’s all about building relationships and growing stronger together.
This April, we’re not just celebrating small business, we are investing in it. We believe in the power of local, and we know that when small businesses thrive, our whole community rises. So, show your love. Shop small. Eat local. Share your favorite spots with friends. And don’t forget to follow the Chamber for updates, resources, and event details.
Ruston-Lincoln thrives because of the dreamers, doers, and everyday champions who keep our local businesses going. Let’s return the favor and show up for them this Small Business Month.
