Honoring Business Innovation and Community Service Across the State
- More than 330 companies have been honored since 1979.
- Nomination process has been streamlined for 2024.
- Ceremony will take place during National Manufacturing Week in the fall.
Louisiana Economic Development is now accepting nominations for the 45th annual Lantern Awards, recognizing manufacturers from each of Louisiana’s eight economic regions whose commitment to business innovation and public service ensure a brighter future for their companies and their communities.
The Lantern Awards were established in 1979 and Louisiana Economic Development has recognized more than 330 Louisiana manufacturing businesses in the 45 years since. Winners are selected by a panel of LED senior leaders in consultation with LED’s local and regional partners, including the Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association and the Louisiana Association of Planning and Development Districts.
“Louisiana manufacturers play a crucial role in our economy, creating high-quality jobs, supporting local communities and delivering essential products to customers around the globe,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “I encourage everyone to consider nominating a deserving manufacturer for a Lantern Award, which honors the unique contributions manufacturing companies and their workers make to Louisiana’s economy and quality of life.”
LED has clarified the award criteria and streamlined the nomination process to make it easier for companies, community leaders and individuals to participate. To recommend a manufacturer for consideration, write a letter highlighting how the company has positioned itself for current and future success, and how it has contributed to the betterment of its community.
Letters may be emailed to LEDLanternAwards@la.gov, or mailed to Louisiana Economic Development, Attn.: Lantern Awards Nominations, 617 North 3rd St., 11th Floor, Baton Rouge LA 70802. Nomination letters must be received by July 31. Honorees will be notified Aug. 15, 2024, and celebrated at a ceremony in Baton Rouge during National Manufacturing Week (Oct. 4-11).
Recipients receive priceless handcrafted lanterns donated by Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights, which has manufactured traditional and antique lighting in New Orleans since 1945.
For more information about the 45th annual Lantern Awards, download the 2024 Lantern Awards Fact Sheet, or contact LED Community Competitiveness Special Projects Officer Nikita Deloach at Nikita.Deloach@la.gov or 225.342.0205.
Media Contacts:
Mark Lorando
LED Chief Communications Officer
Mark.Lorando@la.gov
225.342.3437
Patricia Murret
LED Deputy Press Secretary
Patricia.Murret@la.gov
225.342.0124
