Drone Institute, LLC announced a $340,000 expansion of its Lafayette headquarters to consolidate its drone operations, data processing and pilot training within a single facility. The new facility will support the company’s growing national operations and development of advanced aerial imaging software for infrastructure assessment.
The company is expected to create 610 direct new jobs over the next 10 years while retaining seven current positions in Lafayette Parish. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 758 indirect new jobs, for a total of 1,368 potential new job opportunities in the Acadiana Region.
“Drone Institute’s expansion in Lafayette reflects the growing momentum of Louisiana’s innovation economy. Only a month after DMR’s announcement, this project strengthens our state’s position as a center for drone technology and highlights the role of Acadiana’s talent and expertise in shaping the future of advanced industry.”--LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois
The new headquarters at 105 Dorest Avenue in Lafayette will bring together Drone Institutes’s flight operations, data processing and production teams in a single facility. From this location, the company will manage nationwide drone missions, train pilots and geospatial analysts and develop advanced imaging tools that help industrial clients detect and prevent infrastructure issues.
“Drone Institute is changing how we see the world from above. Contrary to the trend of young tech companies leaving the state, Drone Institute has committed to Lafayette and Louisiana. This expansion allows us to build smarter drone systems and data products that assist clients to work safer, faster and with deeper insight.”--Drone Institute CEO George Femmer
Established in Lafayette, Drone Institute has steadily expanded its workforce and capabilities to meet growing demand for aerial data and inspection services nationwide.
“Scott, Louisiana based SOLA Drones is proud to have Drone Institute as a strategic partner as we build the drone industry ecosystem together in Lafayette, Louisiana."--President of SOLA Drones Bruce Bosworth
Construction on the new facility is scheduled to begin by the end of the year, with completion expected by July 2026. Commercial operations will scale during construction to support expanded data processing and flight operations.
“The Drone Institute’s expansion is a big win for Lafayette. It shows confidence in our people, our community, and our growing tech sector. With more than 600 new jobs coming, this project will make a real difference and build on the strong partnerships driving innovation across Lafayette Parish.”--Lafayette Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet
To secure the project in Lafayette, the state of Louisiana offered Drone Institute a competitive incentives package that includes the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart and a $300,000 performance-based grant to assist in building renovation costs. The company is also expected to participate in Louisiana’s High Impact Jobs program and Research and Development Tax Credit.
“We're thrilled to welcome Drone Institute's expansion in Lafayette Parish. Their investment and the creation of 610 new jobs reinforces Lafayette's position as an emerging hub for unmanned aerial systems and advanced technology. Coming on the heels of DMR's drone manufacturing announcement and FlyGuys’ steady growth and recent Series A funding, LEDA’s efforts are cultivating the development of a complete ecosystem in our community. This clustering effect will attract additional suppliers, service providers, and talent to the region. Drone Institute's decision demonstrates confidence in our workforce, business climate, and commitment to supporting innovative industries in Lafayette Parish.”--Lafayette Economic Development Authority President and CEO Mandi D. Mitchell
“Drone Institute’s decision to expand in Lafayette speaks to the growing competitiveness of our region's technology and innovation sectors, supported by a strong talent pipeline. The creation of more than 600 new jobs will have a lasting impact, and we're proud to support companies who choose to invest and grow their operations in Acadiana. We congratulate our partners at Lafayette Economic Development Authority for securing another great win for this community and our region.”--One Acadiana President and CEO Troy Wayman