Westbank Business & Industry Association

Westbank Business & Industry Association WBIA is dedicated to a collaborative effort of the business community to support, improve and protect the interests of our members. We are member driven.

The voice of the business community since 1946. Connecting, Creating, Cultivating
As a WBIA member you can enjoy networking events while increasing your visibility and credibility. Monthly luncheons with informative guest speakers, roundtable discussions with officials, and large social events to mix work with some fun. There are sponsorships for marketing options and committees to get involved wh

ere you can sharpen your leadership skills. When you need something more, come by for a visit to see if you're ready to be a part of the solution.

WBIA Infrastructure Committee Receives Major Project Updates from Jefferson ParishThe WBIA Infrastructure Committee, cha...
06/18/2026

WBIA Infrastructure Committee Receives Major Project Updates from Jefferson Parish

The WBIA Infrastructure Committee, chaired by Jon Cerruti, recently convened at Leaaf Environmental in Gretna for an informative discussion on critical infrastructure investments and transportation projects shaping the future of the West Bank. Committee members and guests heard a comprehensive presentation fromMark Drewes, Chief Operating Officer for Jefferson Parish, who provided updates on the Parish’s ongoing efforts to modernize aging water, sewer, drainage, and transportation infrastructure. Drewes highlighted the significant progress being made through Jefferson Parish’s long-term capital improvement programs, including major investments in water and sewer system upgrades, roadway improvements, drainage enhancements, and regional transportation initiatives. Click Here for Full Presentation: https://www.wbianola.com/WBIA-News/

Particular attention was given to two projects of great importance to the West Bank business community: thePeters Road Bridge and Extension Project and theHarvey Boulevard Extension. Drewes reported that the Harvey Boulevard Extension, which will create a new roadway connection between Peters Road and Manhattan Boulevard, has completed final design, right-of-way acquisition, and permitting, with construction bids scheduled for July 2026. He also shared updates on the Peters Road Bridge and Extension Project, a transformative regional transportation initiative that will create a direct connection between Jefferson and Plaquemines Parishes while improving freight mobility, economic development opportunities, and hurricane evacuation routes. The project continues to advance through design and funding phases, with key components expected to move forward in the coming year.

WBIA appreciates the leadership of Chairman Jon Cerruti and the Parish team for keeping members informed about infrastructure investments that will strengthen regional connectivity, support business growth, and improve quality of life throughout the West Bank.

WBIA members interested in joining the Infrastructure Committee should email [email protected] to be added to the committee list.

Calling All Emerging Leaders!Ready to grow your network and connect with other rising professionals on the Westbank? Joi...
06/16/2026

Calling All Emerging Leaders!

Ready to grow your network and connect with other rising professionals on the Westbank? Join us for an evening of connections, collaboration, and floral flair at STEM Studio. Plus, hear a special legislative update from Representative Jacob Braud. Register Here - Limited Space: https://www.wbianola.com/event-6725659

WBIA members joined the Jefferson Chamber’s Legislative Breakfast where we heard from regional business leaders Jasmine ...
06/14/2026

WBIA members joined the Jefferson Chamber’s Legislative Breakfast where we heard from regional business leaders Jasmine Brown DeRousselle (GNO, Inc.) and Will Green (LABI) break down the outcomes of the 2026 Louisiana Regular Legislative Session.

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Whether you're a longtime member of WBIA or attending your first Emerging Leaders event, we look forward to welcoming yo...
06/12/2026

Whether you're a longtime member of WBIA or attending your first Emerging Leaders event, we look forward to welcoming you for an evening of connections, collaboration, and a little floral flair. Register here: https://www.wbianola.com/event-6725659

One seat available! Message us christy@wbianola.com if you would like to join the WBIA table.WBIA has reserved a limite...
06/09/2026

One seat available! Message us [email protected] if you would like to join the WBIA table.

WBIA has reserved a limited number of seats for members to join us at the Jefferson Chamber’s Legislative Breakfast on Friday, June 12, at the Alario Center.

This annual event brings together business and community leaders from across the region for a discussion on the outcomes of the 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session and what those developments may mean for businesses in Jefferson Parish and throughout Louisiana.

Featured speakers include representatives from GNO, Inc. and LABI, along with members of the Jefferson Delegation participating in a “Two Minute Take” legislative update.

Event Details:
Friday, June 12, 2026
Alario Center, Westwego
Registration: 7:30 a.m.
Program: 8:00 – 9:30 a.m.

Cost: $120 per person

WBIA Wants to Hear From You!As part of our strategic planning efforts, WBIA Board members will be reaching out to member...
06/04/2026

WBIA Wants to Hear From You!

As part of our strategic planning efforts, WBIA Board members will be reaching out to member companies for informal coffee and conversation sessions. We want to learn more about your business, understand the challenges and opportunities you face, and hear directly how WBIA can better support your success.

Your feedback will help shape WBIA's future priorities, advocacy efforts, and member services. If a Board member contacts you, we hope you'll take a few minutes to share your insights.
Together, we're building a stronger voice for business on the Westbank and throughout our region.

2026 WBIA Scholarship OpportunitiesWBIA awards two $1,000 scholarships to students attending a college or trade school t...
06/02/2026

2026 WBIA Scholarship Opportunities

WBIA awards two $1,000 scholarships to students attending a college or trade school to help them advance their educational opportunities. The recipients will be selected on the basis of their academic achievements, school involvement, community activities and the content of their applications.

THE JEAN SCHLIEM SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: WBIA recognizes that education is THE KEY to a well-developed workforce. Our first Executive Director, Jean Schliem, understood that connection. It is because of her strong conviction and belief in education that this college scholarship is in her honor. The Jean Schliem Scholarship Award is given to a college-bound student whose parent or guardian works for a member company of WBIA.

GUNTER “SMART SKILLS” SCHOLARSHIP: WBIA recognizes the demand for skilled workers in the state of Louisiana. Past president and lifetime member, Lucien Gunter, worked endlessly to ensure education and job training kept up with the demands of businesses - workforce development that prepares future employees for high demand jobs. Career Tech can give every student a jump start into their career areas of interest.

"Find what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life”, was a common suggestion made by Gunter. Gunter had the ability to identify the needs and make the connections. We hope this Career Tech scholarship gives a student an opportunity to advance his/her skills in their career of choice.

Deadline to Sumbit: Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Click Here to Submit Application: https://lnkd.in/eG6jwFxC

05/28/2026

PortSL Executive Director Julia Fisher-Cormier joined the Westbank Business & Industry Association to discuss the future of Louisiana’s ports, waterways, and international trade opportunities.

Beth Ann Branch, President & Chief Executive Officer of Port NOLA joined us in support of the 5 Lower Mississippi River Ports collaboration. Our ongoing work together strengthens Louisiana’s position as a global leader in maritime commerce, logistics, and trade.

We appreciate WBIA for hosting this important conversation and thank Special Committee Chair Joe Toomy for helping highlight the critical role Louisiana’s port system plays in supporting economic growth and connecting our state to the world.

05/28/2026

As we all heard, the tragic accident that occurred last week at OBC had left the dining room in disarray. Luckily, with the help of the community of Algiers, Olive Branch Cafe has made a speedy recover and will be back in full service by this Friday.

Please join AEDF in partnership with Councilman Freddie King III, Old Algiers Main Street, and Algiers Neighborhood Presidents Council in celebrating the comeback of Olive Branch Cafe Algiers.

🗓️ Friday, May 29, 2026
🕓 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
📍5145 General De Gaulle Dr., New Orleans, LA, 70131

Let us rally together and show OBC the Algierian spirit!

Address

519 Huey P. Long Avenue Suite 114
Gretna, LA
70058

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 1pm

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