F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

New Orleans, United States #113

City Scores

City Total Score

4.885

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.74

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.35

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

3.8

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

66

Startup Ecosystem in New Orleans 🌟

TL;DR

New Orleans ranks 113th in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. Known for its rich culture, vibrant community, and growing tech scene, New Orleans offers a unique atmosphere for startups looking to innovate and thrive.


Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: The process is fairly straightforward and available online for most types of businesses.
  • Startup Incentives: The city provides various programs to support tech and creative startups, along with local resources for guidance.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive but can be complex; employers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local laws.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Work permits are necessary, but the process is increasingly becoming more streamlined for global talent.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Competitive rates, with various incentives for new businesses, especially in tech industries.
  • Local Tax Benefits: Specific programs that provide tax credits for qualifying startups.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: Diverse and eclectic lifestyle; while the cost of living is generally lower than in larger cities, it varies by neighborhood.
  • Culture and Leisure: Rich in music, food, and festivals, New Orleans offers numerous entertainment options year-round.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Generally manageable, though certain licenses and permits can be slow to obtain.
  • Government Support: Active local government support with initiatives to foster economic growth and innovation.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Various visa options, including pathways for entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses.
  • Residency Options: Long-term stay options available for entrepreneurs meeting specific criteria.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Frequent startup meetups, pitch competitions, and tech conferences.
  • A thriving community that brings together local entrepreneurs and investors.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Government grants and programs aimed at boosting local startups, especially in technology and the creative sectors.
  • Growing interest from angel investors and venture funds.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: An emerging VC landscape; investors are increasingly looking at New Orleans for opportunities.
  • Major Firms: Some local firms are dedicated to funding startups in sectors like tech and creative industries.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • A handful of incubators focus on tech, culture, and social impact.
  • Programs offer mentorship, office space, and connections to funding.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: Tech innovation, healthcare, and creative industries are prioritized within the city’s economic development strategies.
  • Government Initiatives: Support for tech-led initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and economic diversification.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: English is the primary business language, making it accessible for international entrepreneurs.
  • Work Environment: Collaborative with an emphasis on community and creativity; innovative thinking is encouraged.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger tech hubs.
  • A supportive community with a rich cultural backdrop.
  • Increasing accessibility to funding and resources for startups.

Cons:

  • The startup ecosystem is still developing, and resources may not compare with larger cities.
  • Some bureaucratic processes can be slow, impacting startup operations.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • Growing focus on initiatives that empower women entrepreneurs.
  • Access to networking events, mentorship programs, and targeted funding opportunities within the community.

New Orleans presents a unique and culturally rich environment for entrepreneurs, making it an attractive option for those looking to start their journey in a diverse and supportive ecosystem. 🌟

MeanCEO Index for New Orleans 🌆

New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture and burgeoning startup scene. But how does it stack up for female entrepreneurs? Let’s delve into the MeanCEO Index score based on ten crucial factors that influence the entrepreneurial landscape.


1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 7/10
    • New Orleans enjoys a warm subtropical climate with plenty of sunny days, making it pleasant for year-round business activities. Although summers can be hot and humid, the overall warm winters score some extra points.

2. Location 🏖️

  • Score: 6/10
    • Situated along the Mississippi River and a short drive from the Gulf of Mexico, the city offers access to scenic waters. However, its beach access isn’t as immediate as some coastal cities, somewhat hindering the warm swim experience.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 6/10
    • The culture is evolving, but traditional values can sometimes overshadow gender equality efforts. However, initiatives to empower women in business are growing, providing a supportive environment for female entrepreneurs.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 7/10
    • New Orleans has a rich cultural diversity, and while the locals are generally friendly, some international women may find it challenging to break into tight-knit social circles. Still, there’s potential for making connections.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 10/10
    • English is the primary business language in New Orleans, providing accessibility for international entrepreneurs, especially women.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 9/10
    • Famous for its unique flavors, New Orleans cuisine is a delightful blend of Creole and Cajun traditions. While onions are often used, the quality of seafood and local wines contributes to an exciting gastronomic scene.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 5/10
    • The city has a lively dating scene with a blend of unique personalities, but the traditional values can sometimes impede modern relationship dynamics. Family-friendly activities and community support exist, but personal relationships may take a backseat to entrepreneurial pursuits.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 6/10
    • Access to healthcare can vary, with wait times for appointments being an issue. While there are resources available, costs can become daunting, depending on the healthcare plan.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Public transportation exists, but it’s not as comprehensive as larger cities. However, Uber services are readily available, and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport provides decent flight options for travel.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 7/10
    • The local community supportive of innovation, and there’s a growing acceptance of failure as part of the entrepreneurial journey. The evolving ecosystem encourages learning and resilience, benefiting all entrepreneurs.

MeanCEO Index Score: 66/100 🎉

New Orleans presents a colorful and unique landscape for female entrepreneurs, embodying a rich culture and community support. While challenges remain—such as navigating local bureaucracy and healthcare—opportunities abound in a setting that celebrates creativity and innovation. With increasing support for women’s initiatives and a growing tech scene, there’s plenty of potential for female entrepreneurs to flourish in this vibrant city.

Happy entrepreneurship! 🌟