DENHAM SPRINGS - North of I-12 in Denham Springs, there is a center for growing businesses and entrepreneurs looking to get started. Those ideas are fueled by the Dixie Business Development Center on Range Avenue.

The space offers individuals an affordable home to launch their businesses.

The 50,000 square foot center was founded by DEMCO in 1992, in response to the economic downturn in the 1980s oil industry. Since then, hundreds of business ideas have come from the DBDC.

David Latona, DEMCO's Director of Economic Development & Governmental Engagement, says the DBDC does more than provide space to people at a discounted price.

"They provide counseling and help with building a business," said Latona.

Clients have access to marketing plan assistance, market research, business resources

See Full Page