The District F Forward Fund provides flexible, needs-based grant support to entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners who are building and growing within the district. Whether it’s purchasing equipment, launching a new service, improving visibility, or taking the next step toward expansion, the Forward Fund is designed to remove barriers and open doors for those working to build something meaningful.
A special component of the program is the Monkhouse Gateway Incentive, which offers additional support for businesses located along the south side of Monkhouse Drive — the welcoming corridor that serves as the “Gateway to Shreveport.” This incentive encourages entrepreneurship in one of the city’s most visible areas and helps shape a vibrant first impression for everyone entering our community.
At its heart, the District F Forward Fund is about moving forward — together. It reflects a shared belief that when local businesses succeed, neighborhoods flourish, communities grow stronger, and District F becomes an even greater place to live, work, and dream.
ABOUT
WHAT IS THE DISTRICT F FORWARD FUND?
INVESTMENT
PROMOTE
ECONOMY
STRENGTHEN
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EMPOWER
PROGRAM GOALS
ENTREPRENUERS
IN THE COMMUNITY
Monkhouse Gateway Incentive
To support economic growth in the area known as the “Gateway to Shreveport,” the District F Forward Fund will include a special incentive for businesses located on the south side of Monkhouse Drive within District F. Eligible businesses may receive up to an additional $1,000 through the Gateway Business Bonus Grant to enhance business operations, visibility, or customer experience. This incentive encourages entrepreneurship and commercial vitality in one of Shreveport’s most visible corridors, complementing existing City-led beautification and infrastructure improvements.
Allowable Uses of Grants
Each grant is designed to help entrepreneurs in District F overcome early-stage barriers to business success. Funds can be used for the following eligible expenses:
Business Start-Up Costs: licensing, permits, inventory, professional fees, or point-of-sale systems.
Allowable Uses of Grants
Equipment and Infrastructure: essential tools, machinery, fixtures, or technology for business operations.
Training and Professional Development: certifications, workshops, or business courses.
Facility Enhancements: minor renovations, storefront improvements, or beautification.
E-Commerce and Digital Transformation: online platforms, software tools, or digital subscriptions.
Ineligible Uses
- Payroll or owner’s salary
- Rent, mortgage, or utility payments
- Debt repayment or loan consolidation
- Personal expenses not directly tied to business operations
- Political, religious, or non-business activities
Outcome Metrics
THE PROGRAM WILL MONITOR:
- Number of new businesses launched or existing businesses expanded
- Jobs created or sustained as a result of grant funding
- Business survival rates after one year.
- Examples of visible improvements to storefronts and commercial corridors
