Westbank Business & Industry Association

09/09/2026

Why do I serve on the Westbank Business & Industry Association Board?
As Economic Development Director for Plaquemines Parish, the answer is simple: regional success requires regional unity.
Gone are the days when parishes or local business communities could operate in isolation. The economic reality today is that what benefits Plaquemines benefits Jefferson, Orleans, and the entire Westbank corridor and vice versa.
During our WBIA Board meeting today, I was reminded of how vital this shared mission is. We aren’t just looking out for individual backyards; we are actively building an integrated ecosystem where local enterprises, infrastructure, and industry can thrive together.

09/08/2026

REGISTRATION CLOSING SOON!

3 Reasons to Join Us September 18

1. Hear what’s ahead for our regional economy.
Michael Hecht of Greater New Orleans, Inc. will share insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping the Greater New Orleans region.

2. Understand what it means for the West Bank.
Learn how regional growth, investment, workforce needs, and economic development initiatives may impact West Bank businesses.

3. Make connections that matter.
Join fellow business and community leaders for networking and conversation at Café Hope. Register Here: https://www.wbianola.com/event-6781333

09/04/2026

WBIA was proud to join community, education, and industry leaders in celebrating the ribbon cutting for Nunez Community College’s new Plaquemines Parish campus! 🎉

Bringing higher education and workforce training closer to home means more opportunities for Plaquemines residents and a stronger pipeline of skilled workers for our local businesses and industries.

This new location is an exciting first step toward a permanent campus and an important investment in the future of Plaquemines Parish and the Westbank.

Congratulations to Nunez Community College, the Plaquemines Parish School Board, Plaquemines Parish Government, and our industry partners for working together to strengthen our workforce, economy, and community.

09/01/2026

3 Reasons to Join Us September 18
1. Hear what’s ahead for our regional economy.
Michael Hecht of Greater New Orleans, Inc. will share insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping the Greater New Orleans region.

2. Understand what it means for the West Bank.
Learn how regional growth, investment, workforce needs, and economic development initiatives may impact West Bank businesses.

3. Make connections that matter.
Join fellow business and community leaders for networking and conversation at Café Hope.

Register today: https://www.wbianola.com/event-6781333

08/28/2026

What’s next for economic growth on the Westbank?

Join WBIA for our September Membership Luncheon featuring Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.), for an engaging look at the projects, investments, and initiatives shaping our region’s economy. Michael will highlight key accomplishments during his tenure at GNO, Inc., with a special focus on the work impacting the Westbank and creating opportunities for future growth and development. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of our region’s leading voices on economic development—and connect with fellow Westbank business and community leaders. Register today and be part of the conversation! Register today: https://www.wbianola.com/event-6781333

08/24/2026

What’s next for economic growth on the Westbank?

Join WBIA for our September Membership Luncheon featuring Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.), for an engaging look at the projects, investments, and initiatives shaping our region’s economy. Michael will highlight key accomplishments during his tenure at GNO, Inc., with a special focus on the work impacting the Westbank and creating opportunities for future growth and development. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of our region’s leading voices on economic development—and connect with fellow Westbank business and community leaders. Register today and be part of the conversation! Register today: https://www.wbianola.com/event-6781333

08/21/2026