News Summary
The Destination 318 Shreveport-Bossier Tourism Challenge wrapped up with a focus on fostering tourism-related startups. Eleven finalists participated in the event, with six earning monetary awards. The competition, organized by Visit Shreveport-Bossier and the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program, engaged the community and showcased innovative ideas. The People’s Choice Award went to Port City Pedal Tours, and results will honor the growth of local tourism initiatives.
Shreveport – The Destination 318 Shreveport-Bossier Tourism Challenge culminated on May 23, 2025, with final voting concluding at 11:45 p.m. The competition, which focused on encouraging tourism-related startup ideas in the Caddo and Bossier areas, has seen significant participation and innovation from local entrepreneurs.
Organized by Visit Shreveport-Bossier in collaboration with the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program (EAP), the challenge aimed to invigorate the local tourism landscape by identifying and funding promising business concepts. Out of numerous submissions, eleven finalists were meticulously selected, with a panel of judges narrowing it down to six top contenders. These finalists will receive monetary awards and support from EAP.
The People’s Choice Award winner, determined by public vote, will earn a prize of $2,000, adding an interactive element to the competition. Results of the winners will be announced on Thursday, allowing the community to celebrate the growth of its tourism industry.
Funding Breakdown
The challenge awarded a total of $100,000 in funding to six winning businesses. The distribution is as follows:
- First Place: Kanteen Park – $50,000 for revitalizing an underused area in downtown Shreveport with an open-air entertainment venue.
- Second Place: The Noble Pedicab – $25,000 for offering safe transportation options in downtown areas.
- Third Place: Wonder Oasis – $10,000 to support year-round operations of a water park with holiday festivals.
- Fourth Place: Roots – $7,500 for a cultural center focusing on culinary and arts incubation.
- Fifth Place: Port City Pedal Tours – $5,000 for providing group-powered guided tours.
- Sixth Place: SB Rides – $2,500 for conducting small guided bicycle tours in the region.
Additionally, Port City Pedal Tours emerged as the recipient of the People’s Choice Award, securing their place as a favorite among voters.
Participation and Support
The competition was open to both individuals and businesses seeking to develop or expand tourism-focused experiences in the Shreveport-Bossier area. Finalists participated in three mandatory workshops aimed at enhancing their business acumen, covering areas such as best practices, marketing strategies, and sustainable growth. This support system is crucial for helping participants thrive in the competitive tourism sector.
Strategic Goals
The initiative aligns with a comprehensive Destination Master Plan that aims to boost tourism and improve the overall quality of life for residents in the Shreveport-Bossier region. By focusing on innovative solutions, the competition is designed not only to uplift local tourism but also to attract entrepreneurs from outside the area, thereby fostering economic growth.
Overall, the Destination 318 program embodies a commitment to enhancing tourism and driving economic development in this vibrant region, with an eye toward a sustainable future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shreveport Aquarium Celebrates 8 Years and Award
Shreveport Welcomes New Allegiant Air Route to Nashville
Shreveport Hosts Film Production as Opportunities Expand
Trump Proposes Reopening Alcatraz Federal Prison
Shreveport and Bossier City Face Flash Flooding After Severe Rain
TikTok Duo Receives Complimentary Stay After Motel Criticism
Severe Flash Floods Impact Shreveport and Bossier City
Canada’s Prime Minister Takes a Stand Amid Trade Tensions
British Influencers Rate Shreveport Hotel as Worst in America
Shreveport Retail Landscape Faces Changes Amid Closures
Additional Resources
- Eastern Progress
- Wikipedia: Tourism in the United States
- KTBS
- Google Search: Shreveport Bossier tourism challenge
- KTAL News
- Google Scholar: Destination 318
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tourism
