NEW ORLEANS — Tens of thousands of fans are flooding into New Orleans for Bayou Classic weekend — a celebration known for its rivalry, tradition, and world-class marching bands. But before Southern and Grambling take center field, this year’s events also spotlighted the next generation of HBCU entrepreneurs and the small businesses that thrive during the annual festivities.

Students compete in inaugural Bayou Business Bowl

Friday morning at the Hyatt Regency, the inaugural Bayou Business Bowl brought together student teams from Southern University and Grambling State University. The Shark Tank–style pitch competition challenged students to present their business concepts to industry leaders, investors, and regional stakeholders for a chance at $10,000 in prizes.

Grambling alum Kip Andre

See Full Page