Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy met with leaders from the Lafayette Regional Technology Council to discuss initiatives aimed at fostering high-tech business growth in the community. The discussion also included the roles of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the Opportunity Machine incubator in these efforts.

“We want the next Amazon, Google, or SpaceX to lay roots in Louisiana,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Tech entrepreneurs and academic leaders are making that possible in Acadiana. And my infrastructure bill helps by extending high-speed broadband, so high-tech businesses can emerge and our young people have the same access to online resources no matter where they live.”

Cassidy has been an advocate for high-tech business development across Louisiana during his time in Congress. He played a key role in securing $65 billion for broadband through his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021, which aims to provide high-speed internet access nationwide, including a $1.35 billion investment for Louisiana last year to connect 100,000 homes and 35,000 businesses.

Additionally, Cassidy obtained funds for Fiscal Year 2024 to assist the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in attracting biomedical start-up companies to the area. In February 2022, he visited FlyGuys, Inc., a local company using drone technology for aerial data collection.

The Lafayette Regional Technology Council was established recently with goals such as talent development within the tech sector and promoting regional tech capabilities outside Lafayette to stimulate business growth. It operates under a Steering Committee composed of 15 members from various sectors of Lafayette’s tech industry.

Following their meeting, Cassidy toured Opportunity Machine's incubator and engaged with emerging entrepreneurs. Ben Johnson, chair of the council, expressed gratitude towards Cassidy's involvement.

“We are grateful to Senator Cassidy for taking the time to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Lafayette Regional Technology Council about the critical role technology and innovation play in driving economic growth and ensuring our community, state and nation remain competitive in a rapidly evolving world,” said Mr. Johnson. “His willingness to listen and explore solutions reinforces the importance of investing in innovation to strengthen our future.”