Larry Seibert, a New York Citybased adviser and mentor at Columbia University’s School of Business Entrepreneurship Program, will present a free keynote address and provide mentoring at Louisiana Startup Prize’s qualifying event May 30.

Seibert is a nationally-renown startup guru and investor who specializes in mentoring entrepreneurs and their budding business ideas.

The Louisiana Startup Prize is an education and competition event featuring a $70,000 grand prize in cash and professional consulting services for entrepreneurs nationwide.

Seibert’s keynote address will be presented during the event’s May 29-31 Qualifier Two session 4 to 5 p.m. May 30 from at the Bossier Arts Council, located at 630 Barksdale Blvd., Bossier City, 71111.

This presentation is free and open to the public; to RSVP, go to the Louisiana Startup Prize keynote event Facebook page: www.facebook.com/events/1598729373716025/.

Seibert will also conduct mentor sessions throughout the competition’s Qualifier Two session; to attend, startups, entrepreneurs and small businesses must first register for Qualifier Two at www.LaStartupPrize. com. For more information about competing in Louisiana Startup Prize 2015, contact Emily Smith at 213- 6437 or lastartupprize.com.

Seibert served as a Louisiana Startup Prize 2014 judge and led the investment round for one of the 2014 finalist.

Seibert has worked in the public and private sectors and currently specializes in startup markets, and has founded, invested in, and run numerous early-stage companies.

“There has clearly been a shift in this country over the last 5-10 years toward a more entrepreneurial culture,” Seibert said. “The small company spirit is one that allows people more creativity and freedom in what they do. The interest in creating a business of your own calls for a great deal of skill and people need to know exactly which ones they need acquire to succeed. The LA Startup contest is an exciting way for entrepreneurs to meet others just like them, and find the help they need to break out and be successful.”