Committee of 100 for Economic Development Incorporated

Overview

The Committee of 100 for Economic Development Incorporated is a private, 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization based in Louisiana, serving as the state's Business Roundtable. It is designed to improve business conditions and advocate for economic development and public policy reforms within the state.

History and Activities

The Committee of 100 for Economic Development Incorporated (C100) was established to provide a platform for top CEOs from leading private and public companies, along with university presidents, to engage in nonpartisan advocacy aimed at enhancing Louisiana's competitiveness. C100 focuses on fostering economic growth, improving education, and addressing critical policy areas such as tax climate and public services.

Objectives and Advocacy

• Economic Development: C100 works to promote Louisiana as an attractive location for businesses and residents, addressing challenges like poverty rates, auto insurance costs, and population growth.
• Education and Workforce: The organization supports initiatives that enhance education accountability and workforce development, ensuring that the state is well-positioned to meet future workforce demands.
• Policy Advocacy: C100 engages in advocacy efforts to influence public policy, making Louisiana more competitive in areas such as tax policy, economic development, and infrastructure improvements.

Mergers and Transformations

In 2025, the Committee of 100 for Economic Development merged with the Council for a Better Louisiana (CABL) to form a new organization called Leaders for a Better Louisiana. This merger aims to consolidate resources and influence for more effective advocacy in state policy and economic development.

Financials and Membership

C100 is supported primarily by contributions from its members, who are high-ranking executives and leaders in Louisiana. The organization does not receive tax-deductible donations, reflecting its status as a 501(c)(6) business league. As of recent reports, C100's activities were largely funded by member contributions, with executive compensation being a significant expense.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Louisiana has seen positive economic trends, such as job growth and wage increases, it faces challenges like lagging behind other Southern states in poverty rates, auto insurance costs, and population growth. C100's reports highlight opportunities in sectors like healthcare, construction, and manufacturing, where significant job growth is projected.

Recent Activities

C100 has collaborated with other organizations to promote business involvement in apprenticeships and internships, aligning with new education policies that emphasize career technical education and work-based learning. This effort aims to strengthen Louisiana's workforce and economy by engaging businesses in developing the next generation of talent.