A Major Milestone for Louisiana Innovation
New Lab has officially broken ground on its new facility in New Orleans, marking a major step forward for hardware and advanced technology growth in the state. Director of Strategy Cam Poole shared the news during Washington Mardi Gras, noting that the project brings new life to the long-idle Naval base site.
What New Lab Does
New Lab began in Brooklyn’s Navy Yard ten years ago. The company helps startups that build physical technology, not just software. These companies create machines, equipment, and systems that can reshape entire industries. New Lab has sites in Detroit, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, and New Orleans will now become its newest U.S. location.
Why New Orleans
The region’s strengths in energy, maritime work, and advanced manufacturing made New Orleans a natural choice. These industries rely on hardware innovation. Startups in these fields also face higher costs and need specialized tools. New Lab’s facility will offer labs, prototyping space, and equipment that can lower those barriers.
A Strong Partnership
This project is a public-private partnership between New Lab, Louisiana Economic Development, LSU, the Fuel NSF Engine, the City of New Orleans, and GNO Inc. The partners first announced the plan in May 2025. They celebrated the groundbreaking last week.
Timeline and Next Steps
Construction is moving quickly. New Lab expects to open the facility by January next year. The team has already begun hiring, and several roles are now posted on the New Lab New Orleans website. While construction continues, New Lab is already working with universities and industry leaders to support Louisiana startups.
A Strategic Location
The site sits along the river and has access to road and rail. Those logistics matter for companies building physical systems and testing them in real-world conditions. Combined with Louisiana’s skilled workforce, the location gives New Lab a strong foundation to help new companies grow.