New Orleans Marriott Hosts the National Urban League's Gulf Coast

New Orleans, LA (PRWEB) October 28, 2007 -- New Orleans Marriott hosted "The Gulf Coast Economic Empowerment Program" presented by The National Urban League, BP America and Urban League of Greater New Orleans on October 16, 2007.

The Gulf Coast Economic Empowerment Program's motto is "Helping small and minority-owned businesses secure contracting opportunities and recourses," and that is exactly what they did.

As the Gulf Coast rebuilds and companies are slowly moving back into the region, The National Urban League has stepped up and put together this remarkable program to prepare small businesses for their return.

After the BP Foundation granted The National Urban League and BP America $3.2 million, they began developing this empowerment program to help small, minority-owned businesses start their rebuilding.

The program offered training, recourse support and various other offerings to help ensure their success. This event, hosted by the renowned Marriott New Orleans Hotel in the French Quarter, covered topics from gaining access to contracting opportunities created by the recovery effort to being able to individually participate in one-on-one networking sessions.

As part of the Gulf Coast Economic Empowerment Program, business owners received consultations and recommendations on improving their business, tailored services and assessments along with periodic reviews, all created to make sure that New Orleans' small business will not only rebuild but thrive.

New Orleans Marriott housed the event with class and style. Boasting 80,000 square feet of elegant French Quarter hotel conference space, The Grand Ballroom serves as the largest banquet hall at the property. Savvy and supportive event staff where available throughout the entire event, offering comfort and convenience on every level.

Needless to say, New Orleans Marriott and The National Urban League came together to produce an uplifting event created to raise the city to greater future successes.

About New Orleans Marriott:

Experience this New Orleans French Quarter hotel proudly unveiling the completion of a $38 million renovation reflecting the unique spirit and rich culture of the Crescent City. The New Orleans Marriott located at the edge of the historic French Quarter, now features 1,329 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites complemented by a sparkling Concierge Lounge and a revamped lobby including convenient service stands and a gift shop. Discover everything needed for a satisfying stay at this French Quarter landmark hotel boasting a redesigned Grand Ballroom perfect for dazzling social and corporate events, 5 Fifty 5, serving a fresh approach to Louisiana cuisine, a chic wine bar, as well as an on-site Starbucks, FedEx Kinko s business center, and a fully-equipped health club. In addition to this remarkable transformation, guests are positioned steps from the Convention Center and Bourbon Street. Discover the bridge between business and pleasure at the esteemed Marriott New Orleans Hotel in the French Quarter. For more information or to make a reservation call 504-581-1000, or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/msyla-new-orleans-marriott/

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