In Louisiana’s industrial corridor, manufacturing and chemical industries are a vital part of our community, investing millions each year in local schools, nonprofits and public health initiatives to make a lasting impact that goes far beyond business.
The economic impact of industry is substantial — industrial facilities account for two-thirds of the property tax dollars collected in the Louisiana Capitol region alone. Statewide, industry pays 50% of all sales taxes collected.
That doesn’t include salaries and other economic impacts. Louisiana’s chemical industry pays $3.21 billion in wages each year, generating $753 million in state and local taxes. In Louisiana’s Mississippi River region, industry employs over 162,000 people. Each industrial job supports about seven additional jobs in sectors like food, entertainment and healthcare, extending the economic impact.
In recent years, industry has contributed over $150 million to career development programs in schools and colleges across the state. Through the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance (GBRIA) and Associated Builders and Contractors Pelican Contract Craft Workhour Program, it subsidizes over $1 million annually for craft training, creating pathways to skilled careers that drive the local economy.
Industry builds thriving communities: Dow, Methanex and OxyChem lead the way
At the Ascension 4 Youth Fest Back-2-School Bash, OxyChem employees give students vinyl pencil pouches and share the chemistry behind its products.
Beyond training, industry also supports numerous charitable causes, from being one of the largest donors of the United Way to funding vital health projects, contributing both financial resources and time.
Corporate and industry contributions made up 19% of the Mary Bird Perkins (MBP) Cancer Center’s philanthropic support last year, funding essential services like prevention, screening and advanced treatments. This fall, nine industry leaders donated nearly $150,000 to expand MBP’s Gonzales location, tripling its capacity for chemotherapy and infusion services.
Chemical companies provide 48% of Capital Area United Way (CAUW)’s annual campaign funding, supporting vital programs for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed populations.
"The chemical industry plays a huge role in the support of CAUW. This support is not just monetary but also through volunteering in the community and serving in leadership roles on our board of directors," said CAUW Executive VP Amey Crousillac.
The impact is further seen in local efforts, such as those by OxyChem in Geismar, Louisiana, which view community engagement as a core value. Recently, OxyChem sponsored the Ascension 4-Youth Fest Back-2-School Bash, providing local students with backpacks, uniforms and school supplies.
Dow has also demonstrated its dedication to building stronger communities in Louisiana through projects like new turf for a St. Charles Parish park and partnerships such as Teach for America in Iberville Parish, aiming for long-term community impact.
At Methanex, both the company and its employees give thousands of dollars every year to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. "Our community’s well-being is a top priority and partnering with St. Jude allows us to make a meaningful impact. By supporting their mission, we’re helping to expand healthcare access, contribute to groundbreaking research and move closer to finding cures," said Methanex Stakeholder Relations Manager Leeann Baham. In 2024, Methanex donated over $91,000 to the organization.
Industry’s commitment to Louisiana is clear. From investing millions in education and career development programs to supporting vital charitable causes, the impact of industry is felt across every corner of our community. Companies like Dow, Methanex and OxyChem demonstrate that corporate responsibility goes beyond financial support — it’s about creating a meaningful impact.
For more information, visit gbria.org.
