BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) -- Small businesses are a vital part of the economy in Louisiana, contributing to job creation, economic growth and innovation. The Louisiana Minority Business Development Agency is helping small business owners thrive in the state. The agency is hosting a series of seminars, in-person and online, that will position small business owners to gain government contracts. Agency leaders said their goal is to connect them to the right sources to increase revenue and growth. "One of our goals is to increase the number of small and disadvantaged businesses that are participating in government contracting," said Charlie Fortson, executive director and business attorney. There are several upcoming sessions which will continue into next year. Click here for more information. East Baton Rouge Parish redevelopment agency starts search for new CEO Latest News Baton Rouge woman killed in head-on crash in Ascension Parish, LSP says Southern University vs. Alcorn State in Baton Rouge: game time, how to watch Extra check coming to some Social Security recipients in November: Here's why Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office: Man found dead in Watson, foul play not suspected Family pushes for 'Pursuit Alert' system after deadly West Baton Rouge Parish police chase