2025 Silicon Bayou Gala
Code. Culture. Celebration.
September 19th, 2025
Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center
The Silicon Bayou Gala isn’t just an event — it’s a Louisiana-powered celebration
of innovation, grit, and growth. As the state’s flagship university, LSU is leading
the charge to build the next generation of tech talent, right here in the heart of
the Bayou. This vibrant evening brings together trailblazers, visionaries, and changemakers
to stir up new partnerships, celebrate progress, and fuel the future of our thriving
tech ecosystem. This year, we’re turning up the heat with the debut of the Louisiana Technology Awards — honoring the companies transforming the Silicon Bayou into a nationally recognized
hub of innovation. Your support drives scholarships, cutting-edge research, and student-led
breakthroughs. Don’t just watch the future happen — be part of it.
NOMINATE A COMPANY
Ticket Info
Sponsorship Info
Make a Contribution
Thank You to Our Platinum Sponsor
"The Bayou Beacon"
About
Growth. Innovation. The Power of Community.
At the LSU Division of Computer Science & Engineering, we don’t just keep pace with technology — we lead it. Since 2015, our enrollment has skyrocketed by over 150%, making us one of the fastest-growing tech education hubs in the region. Today, we serve over 1,300 students across our undergraduate and graduate programs — students who are driving breakthroughs in cybersecurity, AI, data science, and software engineering while presenting at global conferences, launching startups, and mentoring the next generation of innovators.
As Louisiana’s flagship university, our growth isn’t just about numbers — it’s about impact. We are preparing the tech workforce that powers Louisiana’s economy. Our graduates are filling critical roles in cybersecurity, software development, AI research, and data analysis across the state and beyond. Every student we support today becomes a future leader, entrepreneur, and problem-solver who strengthens Louisiana’s competitiveness in the national and global tech industry. However, with this rapid growth comes greater need. More students means more demand for scholarships, cutting-edge technology, professional development, and hands-on research opportunities. Our mission is to meet that challenge head-on and ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to thrive.
Why the 2025 LSU CSE Silicon Bayou Gala Matters
The Silicon Bayou Gala is more than a celebration — it’s a rallying point for Louisiana’s tech future. The Gala fuels scholarships, research, conference travel, student development, and entrepreneurship. It supports career readiness, community STEM outreach, and vital technology upgrades. It also amplifies LSU’s leadership in AI and cybersecurity and honors the visionaries shaping innovation across the state through the prestigious Technology Awards. Your support empowers the next generation of Tiger engineers and helps build the skilled workforce that Louisiana’s technology-driven economy demands. Together, we are shaping the future of computing in Louisiana and beyond.
Geaux Tigers!
Organizing Board
Gala Chair
Alaina Metz-Smith
Gala Vice Chair
Caitlynn Coco
Gala Web Chair
Ali Ghosn
Division Chair
Ibrahim Baggili
Industry Members
Alexander "Lex" Adams
Chris Meaux
Craig Stevens
Mohit "Mo" Vij
Tony Zanders
2025 Inaugural Louisiana Technology Awards
Click Here to Cast your Nominations
Voting Closes on June 19th, 2025
Fastest-Growing Startup
Celebrates a rapidly scaling organization that has demonstrated impressive momentum
and traction in a
short time.
Eligibility:
- Founded within the last three years
- Operating in a space where innovation plays a central role
- Headquartered or with a significant presence in Louisiana
Evaluation Criteria:
- Growth in customer or user base
- Expansion of team or operations
- Successful funding or investment milestones
- Strategic partnerships or contracts secured
- Market traction or early product adoption
Emerging Leader
Recognizes a high-performing organization that has achieved sustained growth and is
poised to become
an industry-defining presence.
Eligibility:
- Beyond the early-stage startup phase
- Minimum annual revenue of $50 million
- Louisiana-based presence
Evaluation Criteria:
- Revenue performance and business scale
- Organizational leadership and team development
- Product or service innovation
- National or regional market presence
- Contributions to the broader business community
Overall Best Organization
The highest recognition, awarded to an entity that exemplifies excellence across innovation,
growth,
leadership, and positive impact.
Eligibility:
- Any size or stage
- Must be based in or operating within Louisiana
Evaluation Criteria:
- Breakthrough ideas or initiatives
- Proven business results and sustainability
- Industry or sector influence
- Public service, community, or ecosystem contributions
- Strategic vision and leadership excellence
Silicon Bayou List
The Silicon Bayou List will spotlight a curated selection of standout organizations
that are shaping the
future of innovation in Louisiana.
Eligibility:
- Must have a physical presence or meaningful operations in Louisiana
- Must complete or confirm a nomination form
- Attendance at the LSU Gala is required to be recognized
Selection Considerations:
- Creative solutions or innovative products
- Business or operational growth
- Cultural leadership or community investment
- Overall contribution to the broader innovation ecosystem in Louisiana
Thank You to Our Gold & Silver Sponsors
Celebrate with the Band | The After Party Experience
Sponsorship Information
Platinum Sponsor
"Bayou Beacon"
Number of Sponsorships Available: 1
Price: $20,000
Benefits:
- Recognition on event website, event signage, program, event publicity (press release, television), and awards program; must sign-up prior to June 19, 2025.
- Title sponsor table at event to showcase company
- Two (2) reserved tables at the event located in the first row nearest the stage with tickets for 8 persons per table.
Gold Sponsors
"Cypress Circuits"
Number of Sponsorships Available: 4
Price: $12,000
Benefits:
- Recognition on event website, event signage, program, event publicity (press release, television), and awards program, just not as prominent as Platinum; must sign-up prior to June 19, 2025.
- Two (2) reserved tables at the event with tickets for 8 persons per table.
Silver Sponsors
"Kilobyte Krewe"
Number of Sponsorships Available: 10
Price: $5,000
Benefits:
- Recognition on event website, event signage, program, event publicity (press release, television), and awards program, just not as prominent as Platinum & Gold Sponsors, if sign-up prior to June 19, 2025.
- One (1) reserved table at the event with tickets for 8 persons.
Ticket Information
Single (Individual) Ticket
"Gator Byte"
Price: $250
Benefits:
- Reserved Seat at the Gala
- Enjoy an evening of dinner, drinks, and dancing.
Sponsor a Student's Entry
"Code Booster"
Price: $250
Benefits:
- Sponsor a student's seat at the Gala
- Student will enjoy an evening of dinner & networking.