Louisiana Economic Development (LED) has advanced several important initiatives that will shape economic development activity across the state in 2025 and beyond. LED recently submitted its Summary Report to the Louisiana Legislative oversight committees regarding the proposed rules for the new High Impact Jobs Program (HIP), originally published in the Louisiana Register on August 20, 2025. These rules are scheduled for review by the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget on November 20, 2025.
LED also issued emergency rules on October 30, 2025, establishing the operational framework for the Site Investment and Infrastructure Improvement Fund, which powers the state’s new FastSites Program. The FastSites Program is designed to accelerate the development of market-ready sites across Louisiana by directing state resources toward strategic land and infrastructure improvements. The first tranche of applications is now open and will be accepted until December 15, 2025. LED and its third-party evaluators will review submissions in late December and January, with funding awards anticipated in February 2026.
FastSites aims to strengthen Louisiana’s long-term competitiveness by supporting both public and private entities in preparing high-potential sites for investment. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate matching funds, commit to rapid deployment of those funds, and show clear economic benefit to the state. Construction activities must begin within nine months following the fully executed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement.
Funding awards range from $1 million to $25 million and may take the form such as forgivable loans, public-private partnerships, or state investments in site-related infrastructure. Eligible expenditures include road construction, drainage improvements, land clearing, utility extensions, rail access, and land optioning. Ineligible costs include professional fees, marketing, movable equipment, regular maintenance, and any expenses incurred prior to project approval.
If you are considering traditional LED incentives, or the new HIP or FastSites incentives, please reach out to our C&I team.