News: Press Releases
Neuro.io announces $100 million Innovation Campus in Houma
- Neuro.io will create more than 1,100 jobs across AI engineering, healthcare and manufacturing.
- The project includes an advanced manufacturing facility and a digital therapeutics training center.
- The multi-phased project will begin in the fall and continue through 2035.
HOUMA, La. – Neuro.io, powered by global neurotechnology company MindMaze AI, announced its plans to establish a $100 million innovation campus in Terrebonne Parish. Known as BrainHUB, the facility will be the company’s first U.S. operations and focus on advancing large-scale AI applications and brain technology.
The company is expected to create more than 1,100 direct new jobs across AI engineering, healthcare and advanced manufacturing. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 1,686 indirect new jobs, for a total of 2,786 potential new jobs in the Bayou Region.
“This significant investment in the Bayou Region demonstrates how innovation not only drives economic growth, but can also elevate our communities,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “By integrating cutting-edge technology and processes, this project strengthens and diversifies two of the state’s priority sectors and positions Louisiana at the forefront of AI development and application.”
The multiphase project is expected to start in fall 2025, with milestones including redeveloping a facility in Houma, manufacturing neuro-devices and AI platforms and establishing a digital therapeutics training center.
“We’re thrilled to build the first BrainHUB in Louisiana,” Neuro.io and MindMaze founder Dr. Tej Tadi said. “The alignment of progressive leadership, scalable infrastructure, and deep-rooted community vision makes Terrebonne Parish an ideal launchpad. This initiative isn’t just about advancing technology—it’s about creating a truly intelligent, human-centered future where innovation and purpose are deeply connected.”
Later phases that are anticipated to take place over the next 10 years will expand pharmaceutical and medical applications, as well as develop AI data centers, engineering clusters, and cognitive labs.
“We competed, and we won! This project is about more than jobs — it’s about placing the Bayou Region at the center of a once-in-a-generation tech wave,” Terrebonne Parish President Jason Bergeron said. “Neuro.io brings the opportunity to reimagine what’s possible for our people, our economy and our place on the global stage. This isn’t just a hub—it’s a launchpad into the future of intelligent systems, neuroadaptive tech and economic resilience.”
To win the project in Houma, LED offered a competitive incentive package, including the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart. It also includes a $10 million performance-based grant for infrastructure and facility improvements to be received upon completion of payroll and employment targets. The company is expected to participate in the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs.
“MindMaze choosing Houma for its new campus is a strong vote of confidence in Terrebonne Parish,” Terrebonne Economic Development Authority CEO Cohen Guidry said. “This investment brings advanced medical technology and neuro wellness initiatives into the heart of our community and opens the door to high quality jobs and long term growth. It reinforces what we have known all along. Terrebonne is not only open to innovation but fully prepared to support it with the infrastructure, partnerships and workforce needed to succeed.”
“The strength of the Bayou Region has always come from its ability to adapt and lead through change,” COLAB President and CEO Christy Zeringue said. “Our industries have grown because of bold ideas, innovation and a hardworking spirit, and we are now applying that same drive to the fields of technology and healthcare. MindMaze’s expansion here is a strong sign of trust in our vision and our capacity for innovation and growth. This moment represents real progress for our economy and a clear signal that the Bayou Region is ready to lead in what comes next.”
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About Neuro.io
Neuro.io, founded by Dr. Tej Tadi (also founder of MindMaze), is a global innovator in brain-inspired technology and AI. With more than a decade of pioneering work across neuroscience, biosensing, engineering, and artificial intelligence, the company is redefining how humans recover, learn, and connect with technology. Its patented platforms span FDA-cleared digital therapeutics, immersive neuro-rehab tools, and next-generation human-machine interfaces. Neuro.io is leading the charge toward a more intelligent, adaptive future of care and cognition.
LUMCON announces Meet the Fleet event
The public is invited to Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium’s (LUMCON) Blue Works Campus May 3, 2025 to Meet the Fleet and learn about the institution’s programs. The campus, at the Blue Works facility on the Maritime Campus (335 Dickson Road), will feature LUMCON scientists and collaborators, engage in hands-on activities, tour our research vessels, learn about marine and coastal science, enjoy a beautiful location, and learn about the future plans for the campus. Learn more about LUMCON on its website.
Graves adds Terrebonne to federal Delta Regional Authority
Congressman Garret Graves and Terrebonne Parish President Jason Bergeron announced House-passed legislation to add Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, among the parishes and counties included in the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), a federal agency that promotes economic development and community resiliency in America’s Delta Region. Graves is a senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, which has jurisdiction over the program.
“We made Terrebonne Parish’s priority our priority. Now Terrebonne has new access to critical federal infrastructure and economic development funding,” Graves said. “This bill also includes other Terrebonne wins like nearly $20 million in federal funding access for stormwater and wastewater infrastructure and $100 million in lower costs to complete Morganza-to-the-Gulf. Adding Terrebonne Parish as a member of the Delta Regional Authority – and having greater access to hurricane protection and critical infrastructure funding – means parish elected and economic leaders can take the reins and grow jobs and the economy for Terrebonne’s future while protecting its people and communities.”
“We are starting to see the results of our hard work with partners like Congressman Graves to move Terrebonne Parish forward. Being included in the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) gives us another funding source that supports the needs of our communities as we improve infrastructure and fuel business growth. Our focus continues to be identifying opportunities to improve the quality of life in all aspects for Terrebonne residents which reflects the priorities of DRA,” said President Bergeron.
Background
First established in 2000, the Delta Regional Authority is a joint collaboration among the eight states in the Lower Mississippi River and the federal government. It is intended to improve the quality of life and economic opportunity in the Mississippi River Delta. Adding Terrebonne to the Delta Regional Authority will serve as a catalyst to increase federal investment in other areas, including workforce training, health care access, and to develop strong and sustainable jobs in South Louisiana. Over the past four years, the Delta Regional Authority has supported 73 projects in Louisiana, resulting in an additional 2,364 jobs and positively impacting more than 60,000 Louisianians.
Congressman Garret Graves and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (a co-author of this legislation) currently represent Terrebonne Parish in the 118th Congress.
Marcus Jasper joins economic-development board
Houma, La., Nov. 14, 2024 – Terrebonne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) would like to welcome a new board member, Mr. Marcus P. Jasper.
Jasper, who has been supporting the oil & gas industry for more than 20 years, is the founder of ROL Logistics and ROL Trucking, both of which serve the industry and transport freight across the country. He has also owned other businesses in Terrebonne Parish since 2009 and is committed to the economic growth and improvement of the parish.
Jasper is a resident of Terrebonne Parish and a 2006 graduate of South Terrebonne High School.
“We welcome Mr. Jasper to our board of directors; where he will bring a fresh perspective,” said Cohen B. Guidry, CEO of Terrebonne Economic Development Authority. “He will keep us apprised of the fast-changing industrial world that he works in every day.”
October 10, 2024
Joel Watson joins TEDA board
Houma, La., October 10, 2024 – Terrebonne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) would like to welcome a new board member, Mr. Joel Watson.
Watson, who has been working in the oil & gas industry for more than 30 years, began his career in the marine electrical support industry in 1988.
A Terrebonne Parish resident, he is the founder of Work Boat Electrical Services LLC, which opened in 2006. Watson also owns other businesses in Terrebonne Parish and is committed to its economic growth and improvement.
“We welcome Mr. Watson to our board of directors; he will bring a fresh perspective to our board,” said Cohen B. Guidry, CEO of Terrebonne Economic Development Authority. “He will keep us apprised of the ever-changing industrial world that he works in every day.” Download PDF
September 17, 2024
Cassidy, Shaheen Introduce Legislation to Help Lower Costs for Small Businesses
WASHINGTON –U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) today introduced the Helping Small Businesses to Hedge Risk and Insure against Volatile Expenses (Helping Small Businesses THRIVE) Act. It directs the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to create a program that helps small businesses lock in the cost of commodities, like gasoline or lumber, to protect against the future volatile price of energy and other expenses.
“Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to high inflation costs,” said Dr. Cassidy. “The Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act gives small businesses in Louisiana the tools they need to create jobs, expand operations, and compete with large companies.”
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and deserve a level playing field. By empowering them to lock in prices for key commodities, we can help small businesses compete with larger businesses, create good-paying jobs and expand their business,” said Senator Shaheen. “I hosted a field hearing in the Granite State last week to discuss the resources available for small businesses to lower their energy costs. Today, I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation that proposes a new resource to help small business owners keep costs under control and secure a vibrant future for our Main Streets.”
“Businesses grow and create jobs most effectively when they can plan with certainty,” said John Dearie, president of the Center for American Entrepreneurship (CAE). “Sudden changes in business conditions — especially unexpected increases in critical input costs — can damage or destroy even the best-run businesses. That’s why large companies commonly protect themselves from input inflation by locking in costs by way of sophisticated financial derivative instruments. But most new and small businesses lack the resources and expertise necessary to effectively protect themselves. The Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act will address that vulnerability by establishing a new program administered by the Small Business Administration that will finally provide new and small businesses the input price protection enjoyed for years by large companies. Participating businesses will be able to recapture losses sustained from price volatility regarding critical commodities like gasoline, diesel, natural gas, lumber, and potentially other inputs, that they rely on. The legislation will provide small businesses the price security and confidence they need to plan, thrive, and continue creating jobs. CAE thanks Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) for their leadership, and looks forward to working with them to ensure swift passage of the legislation.”
“With the cost of doing business rising rapidly in recent years due to inflation, small businesses have been forced to choose between raising their prices or lowering their margins. No small firm wants to be in that position, which is why we’re glad to see a bipartisan solution like the Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act that will help lower costs and ultimately allow small businesses to better compete with large corporations that are less sensitive to commodity price spikes,” said John Arensmeyer, Founder and CEO, Small Business Majority.
“It’s no surprise: small companies are inherently the most vulnerable to market fluctuations and to changes in the cost of the inputs that they need to keep their businesses running. Despite representing over 99% of all companies in the United States, and employing roughly half of all private sector workers, small businesses still struggle to leverage that market power to ensure they have a consistent, reliable cost basis for the commodities that underpin their operations. That’s why innovative proposals such as Chair Shaheen’s Helping Small Businesses to Hedge Risk and Insure against Volatile Expenses (THRIVE) Act are so important. This bill is a tremendous first step towards leveling the playing field for small companies across the country, enabling them to responsibly hedge commodity market risks—something historically only available to their largest competitors. The National Small Business Association is proud to support the Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act, and we look forward to continuing to work with Chair Shaheen’s office to ensure small companies get a fair shake and can continue to power the U.S. economy for generations to come,” said Todd McCracken, President & CEO, National Small Business Association.
To help lower costs for small businesses, the Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act gives small businesses the cost-certainty, time and confidence to build and grow their endeavors. It directs SBA to create a program that allows small businesses to hedge their cost exposure from commodities, like diesel or electricity. The program offers small businesses options for how to lock in their prices going forward – with a focus on inputs that already have liquid markets and technical assistance to help businesses take full advantage of the program. Along with that guidance, SBA would conduct outreach to small businesses to ensure they are aware of the program and can benefit from it.
The program would first start to lock in costs for gasoline, diesel and up to three additional commodities, with special attention given to standard utilities like natural gas or electricity. Additional commodities and utilities whose costs could be locked in could be added to the program after surveys and feedback from small businesses to assess which products would be most beneficial to them. Eligible small businesses would exclude traders and financial businesses to ensure this program focuses on small businesses and is not a tool for speculators.
For example:
- Business A locks in $3.50 per gallon of gasoline for 1000 gallons six months from now, locking in their gas cost at $3,500 ($3.50/gallon x 1000 gallons).
- If gas goes up to $5 per gallon, business A will still pay $5,000 ($5.00/gallon x 1000 gallons) at the gas station.
- HOWEVER, because business A locked in a price of $3.50 per gallon from their hedge through the program, business A would receive a payment of $1,500 ($1.50 x 1000), leaving business A’s net cost at the $3,500 they planned for.
Large businesses already protect themselves from inflation by locking in costs through hedging transactions. The Helping Small Businesses THRIVE Act gives small businesses the ability to access those same tools to protect against the volatile price of gasoline and other expenses.
A one pager on the bill is available here.
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Cynthia Louisiana’s pilot site aims to revolutionize waterway management of water hyacinth
GIBSON, La., May 15, 2024 – Cynthia Louisiana LLC, a subsidiary of the Belgium-based In-Between-International corporation, announces the opening of its inaugural operational pilot site in Gibson.
This milestone marks a significant step forward in the battle against the water hyacinth, which clogs waterways. The operation is poised to revolutionize waterways management by transforming this invasive species into a game-changing new fiber, offering a sustainable solution to a global environmental challenge. The fiber will serve as raw material to manufacture such items as nursery pots for plants and cat litter.
For decades, water hyacinth has plagued freshwater ecosystems worldwide, ranking among the top 10 most invasive species with seemingly insurmountable eradication challenges. Traditional methods, including herbicide spraying, have yielded limited success, leaving authorities grappling with escalating costs and persistent infestations.
Cynthia Louisiana’s innovative treatment unit represents a paradigm shift in weed control, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical interventions. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies, the facility will process water hyacinth into a versatile fiber, mitigating its environmental, and social impact while creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
“We are thrilled to unveil Cynthia Louisiana’s first operational site, a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development,” remarked Philippe Gustin, CEO of Cynthia Louisiana. “Our mission is not only to reclaim control of our waterways but also to empower communities and revitalize Louisiana’s rich ecological heritage.”
Cynthia Louisiana partnered with Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries, University of Louisiana Lafayette, and Terrebonne Economic Development Authority to develop and locate this operation in Gibson La. The Barataria Terrebonne National Estuary Program also recently announced its intention to fund research by Cynthia Louisiana to optimize production of biodegradable pots.
Rebeka Bahadorani, founder of the project, who undertook the mission to tackle the problem in 2010, added, “This journey began with a vision to address a pressing environmental challenge. Today, we stand at the forefront of innovation, leading the charge in transforming water hyacinth from a nuisance to a valuable resource.”
“It has been a true pleasure working with the project Cynthia team since the inception of this venture,” said TEDA CEO Cohen B. Guidry. “The waterways of Terrebonne parish will benefit greatly from this concept. As we turn toward a more natural way of clearing our waterways of this nuisance, we are helping our environment, creating jobs and benefiting the local economy. We look forward to a long relationship with this company and the expansion of its operations to waterways across the parish and the state.”
With this groundbreaking solution, Cynthia Louisiana is leading the path for the rest of the world toward a successful resolution to the water hyacinth crisis. By showcasing the efficacy of this innovative approach, this project aims to inspire global action and collaboration in the fight against invasive species.
The launch of Cynthia Louisiana’s treatment unit signals a new era for Louisiana’s water management, promising to restore the region’s freshwater ecosystems. Through innovation and collaboration, Cynthia Louisiana aims to turn the tide on invasive species and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact:
Philippe GUSTIN, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: (1) 337 296 7770, E-mail : pgustin7770@gmail.com
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TEDA Welcomes Melissa Adams to its Board of Directors
Terrebonne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) would like to welcome a new board member, Ms. Melissa Adams.
Melissa Adams is the Corporate Controller and Treasurer at Danos, LLC. Melissa has been with Danos for 17 years with varying roles and increased responsibilities. She started with Danos, LLC working on special projects, moved to Billing Manager, then to International Controller and currently as the Corporate Controller.
Melissa holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and an MBA in Finance from Cal Lutheran University. She holds a current CMA Certified Management Accountant certification. She also was awarded a gold level badge from the IMA for Leadership. She held financial positions at both Kinkos Corporate and WellPoint Blue Cross of California.
Melissa served five years in the US Navy as an Air Traffic Controller, becoming fully qualified as a Facility Watch Supervisor being awarded a license with the FAA.
Melissa has lived in Terrebonne Parish since 2013 and has served her community by volunteering as the President for MICS Catholic School and serving on the Board of Directors for Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce.
“We welcome Ms. Adams to our board of directors she will bring a fresh perspective to our board, said Cohen B. Guidry, TEDA CEO. “She will keep us apprised of the ever-changing Industrial / Financial world that she works in every day.”
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TEDA Welcomes Robert “Robbie” Naquin, Jr. to its Board of Directors
Terrebonne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) would like to welcome a new board member, Mr. Robert “Robbie” Naquin Jr.
Robbie, with B1Bank, brings to us nearly 20 years of financial experience.
Louisiana State University – Masters of Business Administration / Spring 2005
Concentrations in Finance and Internal Auditing. Served as MBA Association’s Social Chair.
Louisiana State University – Bachelor of Science / Spring 2003
Graduated from the E.J. Ourso College of Business with a major in Finance.
Board Service
South Central Industrial Association; Restore or Retreat; Ellendale Country Club; Morganza Action Coalition; Fletcher Technical Community College Foundation; Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Finance Council; Nicholls State University College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council.
“We welcome Mr. Naquin to our board of directors; he will bring a fresh perspective to our board” said Cohen B. Guidry, TEDA CEO. “He will keep us apprised of the ever-changing financial world that he works in every day.”
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TEDA Welcomes Joshua Alford to its Board of Directors
Terrebonne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) would like to welcome a new board member, Mr. Joshua Alford.
Joshua Alford joined Alford & Associates in January 2017 as an Employee Benefits Consultant. After working in other industries, Josh saw an opportunity to change the insurance industry for the better and a profession where he can advocate on behalf of those going through tough life events.
Through his experience as a licensed insurance agent and risk manager, Josh strives to hold insurance carriers to account to make good on the promises made to Alford’s clients. He has a passion to provide quality customer service which is rooted in his deep respect for the resilient communities of south Louisiana. Josh prides himself on providing a high value of customer service – bringing along a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to build upon the company’s already strong foundation.
Currently, Josh serves on the Louisiana Healthcare Commission where he was appointed by the Insurance Commissioner and confirmed by the Senate. Additionally, he is a member of the Louisiana Insurance Commissioner’s Agent Advisory Board and has previously served as Secretary of the Houma-Terrebonne Airport Commission and Secretary of the Louisiana Drone Advisory Board.
Josh is a 2012 graduate of Vandebilt Catholic High School and a 2016 graduate of The University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Insurance and Risk Management.
Cohen B. Guidry, TEDA CEO, said, “We welcome Mr. Alford to our board of directors; he will bring a fresh perspective to our board. He will keep us apprised of the ever-changing Industrial / Aviation world that he works in every day.”
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GNOF $100K Grant Award – Next 100 Years Challenge
October 30, 2023
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New U.S. Navy ship christened at Bollinger Shipyards in Houma
Bollinger recently hosted a christening ceremony for the USNS Navajo (T-ATS 6), the first towing, salvage and rescue ship for the U.S. Navy. Honored sponsor of the ship, shown below, was Jocelyn Billy Upshaw, a member of the Navajo Nation.
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K&B Industries Invests $12 Million to Create Second Manufacturing Facility Near Houma
Expansion project supports Louisiana’s growing aerospace sector, creates 148 Bayou Region jobs
HOUMA, La. – K&B Machine Works, doing business as K&B Industries, announced it is expanding its advanced manufacturing division by establishing a new production base at a recently acquired facility in Terrebonne Parish. The $12 million investment will allow the company to increase production and better serve the state’s growing aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing equipment markets.
The company expects to create 70 new direct jobs, while retaining 350 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in 78 indirect jobs, for a total of 148 new jobs in the Bayou Region.
“This commitment by K&B Industries signals the ongoing economic recovery of the Bayou Region and illustrates the strength and diversity of Louisiana’s manufacturing and aerospace sectors, which I have worked hard this week to strengthen while meeting with companies around the Paris Air Show,” Gov. John Bel Edwards said. “Manufacturing investments have a powerful ripple effect on the economic health of our rural communities. Thank you to K&B Industries for doubling down on Terrebonne Parish and the area’s skilled and resilient workforce.”
The new location will house surface enhancement equipment and an expanded clean room for assembly and testing, precision cleaning and anodizing of equipment used to manufacture semiconductors. The recently acquired facility on Equity Boulevard near Houma will also include space for additional automated machine solutions to maximize efficiency.
“K&B Industries has always pursued the latest technologies regardless of the markets we serve, and our diversification into the aerospace and semiconductor markets has allowed us to build a skill set that did not exist in the area before,” K&B Industries President Kenny Wood, Jr. said. “Our investment in our people has led us to establish a variety of training programs to help grow from within to meet the complex demands of manufacturing, quality, assembly, test and processing of rigorous aerospace and semiconductor industry standards.”
K&B Industries began operations in the Bayou Region in 1974. Since then, it has grown into a leading supplier of premium threading, manufacturing and engineering services for the aerospace and oil and gas industries.
The company estimates its upgrades to the 118,000 square foot facility will be complete this summer. The installation of a precision chemical cleaning line for semiconductor manufacturing equipment production is expected in September, and full operations are projected to commence before the end of the year.
“K&B Industries is one of the top-rated companies to work for and an exceptional community partner in Terrebonne Parish,” Terrebonne Economic Development Authority CEO Cohen Guidry said. “The company has been providing superior services to the energy industry for nearly 50 years and this latest expansion will allow them to offer services never before available in the state of Louisiana.”
To secure the project, the state of Louisiana offered K&B Industries a competitive incentives package including a performance-based $480,000 retention and modernization tax credit subject to the achievement of payroll and investment targets. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs.
About K&B Machine Works
K&B Machine Works, LLC was founded by Kenneth Wood, Sr, in 1974. The company’s guiding values of service, quality and dedication to its people, the K&B Plus Factor, has driven the company to be a trusted and preferred provider for every major oil company and oilfield service provider in the industry. Dedication to creative solutions and leveraging technology has helped it to expand into the aerospace and semiconductor markets, both of which are technically demanding and have high barriers to entry. The company’s corporate headquarters are in Schriever; it operates additional sites in Houma and Houston, along with a joint venture serving the energy sector in Guyana. Learn more at kb-industries.com.
About LED
Louisiana Economic Development is responsible for strengthening the state’s business environment and creating a more vibrant economy. It is the only state agency in the U.S. accredited by the International Economic Development Council, boasting award-winning programs like LED FastStart, rated the No. 1 customized workforce training program in the U.S. 13 years in a row. In 2022, LED attracted 53 new economic development projects representing 18,137 new direct, indirect and retained jobs and $20.7 billion in new capital investment. Explore how LED cultivates jobs and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes at OpportunityLouisiana.com.
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Bayou Business Recovery Network Technical Assistance Program
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7910 Main Street, Suite 302
Houma, LA 70360
Phone: (985) 873-6890
