AgriAquaculture

Overview of Louisiana AgriAquaculture Center of Excellence

Established in 2024 with the support of Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr., who represents Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District, the AgriAquaculture Center of Excellence (AACE) is the largest closed-loop hydroponic aquaculture center in Louisiana. Located in Harvey, the AACE encompasses over 10,000 square feet of operating and greenhouse space dedicated to cultivating fresh, locally sourced vegetation and advancing the AgriAquaculture industry in the region. This state-of-the-art facility functions as both a business incubator and a workforce training center, aiming to empower small businesses in AgriAquaculture—particularly those owned by residents in rural communities, Jefferson Parish, and the greater New Orleans metropolitan area.

Mission and Impact

The AACE’s primary mission is to promote economic resilience and job creation within the AgriAquaculture sector, supporting small businesses through comprehensive technical assistance, educational programs, and collaboration opportunities. By creating an empowering network of collaborators and partners, the center fosters innovative business solutions that drive economic growth, resilience, and job opportunities across southern Louisiana.

Workforce Development and Community Empowerment

The AACE offers specialized workforce training designed to prepare underemployed, unemployed, hard-to-employ, and returning residents for meaningful employment in AgriAquaculture. These programs provide essential skills in sustainable farming, hydroponics, aquaponics, and aquaculture—offering pathways to jobs in one of Louisiana’s emerging industries. Additionally, AACE’s focus on local food production is especially crucial for underserved communities facing food insecurity. By training individuals to cultivate fresh, nutritious food locally, the center helps reduce dependence on long-distance supply chains, enhancing food security and resilience.

Business Incubation and Entrepreneurship Support

The AACE’s business incubation services are specifically tailored to assist minority entrepreneurs and small farmers in the AgriAquaculture industry, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed. Training programs cover essential business skills such as management, marketing, and finance, alongside technical support for growing and maintaining agricultural operations. This dual focus helps local entrepreneurs expand their reach into new markets, particularly for high-demand Louisiana agricultural products like sugar cane, sweet potatoes, rice, cotton, and pecans, as well as aquaculture goods such as crawfish, shrimp, and oysters.

Addressing Food Security and Building Resilience

With food deserts prevalent across southern Louisiana, many residents lack reliable access to healthy, fresh food. The AACE’s focus on promoting local farming and aquaponics seeks to address these gaps, reducing dependency on distant suppliers and enhancing the community’s ability to withstand economic and environmental disruptions. By creating a sustainable local food system, the AACE contributes to long-term community resilience and food security, ensuring that residents have access to nutritious food options even during times of crisis.

The Importance of Local AgriAquaculture Development

As reported in the 2022 Census of Agriculture, the number of farms across the U.S. has decreased significantly in recent years, while the average farm size has grown, often pushing out smaller and minority-owned farms. In Louisiana, where minority-owned farms face structural disadvantages and represent only 7% of all farms despite a Black population of over 30%, the AACE’s incubation and training services are vital for leveling the playing field. By focusing on expanding market access and supporting small farmers in cultivating Louisiana’s key crops and aquaculture products, the AACE aims to foster a more equitable and inclusive AgriAquaculture industry.

Programs Offered at AACE

The AACE provides a range of educational and practical training classes, including:

• Technical Skills in AgriAquaculture: covering hydroponics, aquaponics, sustainable farming practices, and aquaculture management
• Business Development and Management: training in marketing, finance, and operations to support the growth and sustainability of small businesses
• Market Expansion Strategies: assistance in identifying and accessing new market opportunities for small farmers, with a focus on high-demand local products
• Workforce Readiness Programs: targeted training for unemployed and underemployed individuals to prepare for jobs within AgriAquaculture, including hands-on experience in the greenhouse facilities

Becoming a Hub for AgriAquaculture

The AACE is poised to position Southeast Louisiana as a national destination for AgriAquaculture innovation. Through its dual strategies of workforce development and business incubation, the center will drive economic growth, promote food security, and expand opportunities for underrepresented communities. By supporting local farmers, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating sustainable employment pathways, the AACE is creating a stronger, more equitable regional economy and a robust local food network, all while helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change and economic volatility.

To learn more or schedule a tour of the AgriAquaculture Center of Excellence, please contact us. We look forward to showcasing the transformative impact of this state-of-the-art facility and exploring opportunities for collaboration.