NEW ORLEANS – The NO/LA Angel Network is announced that Louisa Smith will become the managing director of NO/LAAN on Jan. 1, 2020.
“This newly created position is reflective of NO/LAAN’s growth as an organization. The board and I feel truly fortunate to have someone of Louisa’s educational background and experience to fill this position. For the past year Louisa has been taking on increased responsibility at NO/LAAN and has proven she possesses the temperament, intellect and business acumen to excel in this new role,” said Mike Eckert, NO/LAAN’s chairman.
Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Tulane University in 2012. She then completed a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in finance from Tulane’s A B Freeman School of Business. Since January of this year, Smith has worked with NO/LAAN coordinating screenings, due diligence reports and deal negotiations for early stage companies seeking funding from the network. In addition to her role at NO/LAAN, Smith will also serve as manager of the new Pelican Angel Fund.
This is a very significant and positive step in the evolution of NO/LAAN. The increased deal flow and syndication opportunities, as well as the introduction of the Pelican Angel Fund, is a testament to NO/LAAN’s success and—Its impact on the local entrepreneurial eco-system.
As managing director, Smith will be responsible for management of NO/LAAN and will work closely with the board in the areas of membership services, educational programing, sponsorship, finances, community outreach, and deal activity.
Founded in 2014, The NO/LA Angel Network consists of over 100 accredited investors from around Louisiana. NO/LAAN’s three major objectives are to provide a reasonable return on investment for members; help stimulate the local economy and job growth by helping-early stage businesses get access to needed capital; and to help the entrepreneurs bring their businesses to the next levels through mentoring and networking.
To date, NO/LAAN members have invested nearly $10 Million in 21 different companies.  Through syndications and other funding vehicles, NO/LAAN’s funds have been leveraged to an aggregate amount of over $45MM to these immerging companies.  The NO/LA Angel Network also actively partners with economic development entities and organizations throughout Louisiana to facilitate new business growth and bring creative ideas to market.
For more information on NO/LAAN, visit info@nolaangelnetwork.org.
