Three finalists to compete for northshore biz pitch competition
A company that uses artificial intelligence to help with hiring hospitality workers, a property insurance firm and a business that serves as an on-demand quality management assistant are the three finalists in a northshore business pitch competition.
Cantaloupe AI, Forefront360 and QMS2GO will participate in the 2025 NSpire Startup Slam, vying for a prize package of cash and services valued at more than $115,000. The STartUP Northshore event will be at 6 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, 220 E. Thomas St., in Hammond.
Cantaloupe AI offers instant voice interviews, allowing applicants for hospitality industry jobs to speak for themselves, while simplifying the hiring process.
Forefront360 offers data-driven solutions to ensure accurate claims, fair settlements and quick repairs.
QMS2GO is an AI-powered assistant that provides analysis, organizes companywide knowledge and simplifies document creation.
Admission is free, but the public is encouraged to register online at startupnorthshore.com/nspire/.
Company adding three south Louisiana workspace centers
International Workplace Group is adding three new flexible workspace centers, complete with co-working spaces, private offices, meeting rooms and creative spaces.
The centers at 4219 Magnolia St. in New Orleans and 1905 Hickory Ave. in Harahan are open, while a center at 753 Robert Blvd. in Slidell is set to open in first quarter 2027.
International Workplace Group will have more than 15 flexible workspace locations in Louisiana.
FUEL opens New Orleans office
Future Use of Energy in Louisiana has opened a New Orleans field office in Scale Workspace, 612 Andrew Higgins Blvd.
The field office will be a hub for advancing research and workforce development. The office is anchored by Xavier University, Dillard University, Southern University New Orleans, Delgado Community College, Nunez Community College, The University of New Orleans, Tulane University and a consortium of economic development, regional innovation and industry partners.
The National Science Foundation awarded FUEL $160 million in funding in January — supported by an additional $67.5 million from Louisiana Economic Development — to establish an NSF Engine that will support the energy industry in lowering carbon emissions in the state’s industrial corridor between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.