Three finalists participating in the North Shore Biz Pitch Contest
A company that uses artificial intelligence to help hire hospitality workers, a property and casualty insurance company, and a company that acts as an on-demand quality control assistant are the three finalists in a North Shore business pitch competition.
Cantaloupe AI, Forefront360, and QMS2GO will be participating in the 2025 NSpire Startup Slam to compete for a prize package of cash and services worth over $115,000. The STARTUP Northshore event will be held at the Columbia Performing Arts Theater, 220 E. Thomas St. in Hammond, on Jan. 10 from 6 p.m.
Cantaloupe AI provides instant audio interviews, allowing applicants for hospitality industry jobs to talk about themselves while simplifying the hiring process.
Forefront360 provides data-driven solutions that ensure accurate billing, fair settlements, and fast repairs.
QMS2GO is an AI-powered assistant that provides analytics, organizes knowledge across your company, and simplifies document creation.
Admission is free, but the public is encouraged to register online at startupnorthshore.com/nspire/.
Company adds three south Louisiana workspace centers
International Workplace Group is adding three new flexible workspace centers featuring coworking spaces, private offices, meeting rooms and creative spaces.
The centers at 4219 Magnolia Street in New Orleans and 1905 Hickory Avenue in Harahan are open, as is the center at 753 Robert Boulevard. in Slidell is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2027.
International Workplace Group plans to open more than 15 flexible workspace locations in Louisiana.
FUEL opens office in New Orleans
Future Use of Energy in Louisiana has opened a New Orleans field office in the Scale Workspace at 612 Andrew Higgins Blvd.
The field office will serve as a base for promoting research and human resource development. This office is supported by Xavier University, Dillard University, Southern University New Orleans, Delgado Community College, Nunez Community College, University of New Orleans, Tulane University, and a consortium of economic development, regional innovation, and industry partners .
The National Science Foundation in January awarded FUEL $160 million in funding, with an additional $67.5 million in support from Louisiana Economic Development, to improve carbon dioxide emissions in the state’s industrial corridor between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Established the NSF Engine to assist the energy industry in reducing emissions. .
