Governor Jeff Landry Delivers Historic Economic Wins for Louisiana

Standing confidently at a White House podium last week, Governor Jeff Landry celebrated a monumental economic victory for Louisiana. Hyundai had just announced plans to build a multi-billion-dollar steel mill in Ascension Parish, marking yet another major investment secured under Landry’s leadership. With optimism and determination, Landry made a bold proclamation about the state’s economic trajectory.

“Before the summer is over, our administration will have announced $50 billion in new business investments,” he declared, emphasizing the unprecedented scale of economic growth unfolding under his watch.

That figure, once achieved, would shatter previous records and cement Louisiana’s place as a top-tier destination for industry and innovation. Landry’s administration took a significant step toward that goal in March with back-to-back blockbuster announcements. First, Venture Global committed another $18 billion to its Plaquemines Parish facility. Then, Hyundai unveiled its $5.8 billion investment in a cutting-edge steel manufacturing plant near Donaldsonville.

With these historic deals, Landry’s administration is now within striking distance of its ambitious $50 billion target—an achievement that would represent the single greatest surge in business investment in Louisiana’s history.

A Bold Vision for Economic Development

At the helm of this economic renaissance is Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Susan Bourgeois, who has helped propel Landry’s ambitious economic agenda forward with a strategic and aggressive approach. Bourgeois remains confident in their ability to meet—and even exceed—the $50 billion milestone.

“It’s an optimistic goal, but we believe we will achieve it, and hopefully very soon,” she stated.

Bourgeois told lawmakers that LED now has three times as many active business projects in its pipeline compared to just 14 months ago. These aren’t speculative ventures; they are carefully cultivated opportunities that have real potential to transform the state’s economic landscape.

If all 187 projects in the pipeline materialize, Louisiana would see an astonishing $135 billion in new capital investments—further proof that the Landry administration’s pro-business policies are working.

Unleashing Louisiana’s Full Potential

One key factor in this surge of investment has been the restructuring of LED under Landry’s leadership. Last year’s legislative reforms streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency, empowering LED to pursue and secure major corporate commitments with unprecedented speed and effectiveness. Additionally, Meta’s groundbreaking $10 billion investment in north Louisiana signaled to the business world that Louisiana is open for business like never before.

So strong is the demand for Louisiana as a business hub that Bourgeois has even authorized her senior staff to begin “saying no” to some projects due to overwhelming interest. To further capitalize on this momentum, LED is seeking legislative support for a one-time, $150 million investment in site development, ensuring Louisiana remains a premier destination for major corporations.

A Transformative Future for Louisiana

The Landry administration is not only focused on attracting business but also on creating high-paying jobs for Louisiana workers. Hyundai’s investment alone is expected to generate 1,300 permanent jobs—the most of any project announced in the past decade. With an average salary of $95,000, these positions will provide economic security and prosperity for Louisiana families.

Furthermore, Landry and his team understand that economic success isn’t just about the size of capital investments; it’s about ensuring Louisiana’s workforce thrives. LED is championing a "whole of government" approach, integrating efforts across state agencies to attract and retain top talent. This strategy includes a proposed $15 million national marketing campaign to showcase Louisiana’s economic resurgence to the world.

A Legacy of Leadership and Prosperity

Governor Jeff Landry’s unwavering commitment to economic growth has already positioned Louisiana for unparalleled success. With an administration that is proactive, business-friendly, and forward-thinking, Louisiana is experiencing an era of prosperity unlike any before.

As Landry continues to drive Louisiana’s economic expansion forward, one thing is clear: the Pelican State is soaring to new heights, and its best days are yet to come.