The I-12 Alliance parishes have a lot to be proud of. The region has seen tremendous growth over the past decade and sees even more strategic development in the future.

As testament, a number of business leaders throughout the region have offered their praise:

The success of any company depends not only on the quality of its employees but also on their satisfaction with the community they live in. Deciding to locate in the "North Shore" was an easy decision for Zen-Noh Grain because it is a safe community with excellent schools. In addition, the public servants here are also progressive when it comes to infrastructure and growth yet mindful of the resident's desire to maintain the relaxed quality of life. One can easily enjoy the benefits of the City and Gulf Coast region yet head to higher ground for the country atmosphere here.

- John Williams, President & CEO, Zen-Noh Grain

It Straps On, headquartered in Covington since 1998, is one of only four worldwide manufacturers of stainless steel bands and brackets for street signs and banners. The Economic Development Foundation helped us apply for and obtain tax-free status on our equipment and building that we have enjoyed for 10 years.

– Steve Smith, President, It Straps On

Tangipahoa parish extended a very welcoming hand and helped us find the right site for our new facility. The intersection of I-55 and I-12 puts us at the epicenter of quality of life for my employees. It gives us tremendous access to the transportation, university, workforce, and other amenities our business needs

- David Guidry, Guico Industries

The [St. Tammany Economic Development] Foundation is a fantastic organization to work with. They were instrumental in helping us secure a $90 million bond to add employees and expand our revenue and equipment base. Florida Marine is adding 60 barges and 25 push boats for a total fleet of 200 barges and 75 push boats. These additions will make Florida Marine the second largest transporter of liquid petroleum products by inland tank barge in the United States.

- Jason Belcher, CFO, Florida Marine Transporters

Our Norwegian team came to St. Tammany to start our company, Marine Technologies, in 2002. Marine Technologies fabricates complete systems for large offshore boats, including navigational, control and dynamic positioning systems for which we are the second largest in the world. The Economic Development Foundation helped us every step of the way, from finding appropriate land to helping us present our ideas to Mandeville elected officials to expediting the entire process.

– Jan Mikalsen, President, Marine Technologies

The ease of access to South Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida, as well as strong economic growth and a capable, motivated workforce made Tangipahoa Parish and the North Shore region an ideal place for us to do business.

- Chris Ryan, BOH Brothers Construction