Here are the top business stories you may have missed this week:
A major acquisition by T. Parker Host (HOST), the maritime company behind Louisiana’s Avondale Global Gateway, positions it as the largest independent U.S. tramp ship agency, poised to boost shipping, cargo traffic, and jobs in the New Orleans area.
HOST Acquisition Creates Largest “Tramp” Ship Agency
Amtrak announces that tickets are now available for the new “Amtrak Mardi Gras Service” between Mobile, Alabama, and New Orleans offering twice-daily, intercity train service along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
All Aboard! Amtrak “Mardi Gras” Service Ready to Roll
A highlight of the Louisiana International Trade Conference, the R3: River, Road, Rail Pitch Competition, hosted by the World Trade Center New Orleans and StartupNOLA, awarded 3 idea-stage and early-stage startups with cash prizes.
R:3 River, Road, Rail Pitch Competition Winner Announced
The Idea Village celebrated the culmination of its Spring 2025 IDEAinstitute accelerator with a Pitch Night spotlighting emerging startups from across the region, drawing a full house of founders, funders, and supporters.
The Idea Village 2025 Pitch Night Winner Announced
Here are more of the week’s top business stories:
Louisiana Children’s Museum CEO Elected to National Board
Shapiro Family Launches Foundation
Gulf Coast Blue Technology Event Fosters Collaboration
Gulf South Angels Marks Record First Half of 2025
GNO Inc. Equips Interns with Start-up Legal Skills
