The 2023 Morial Award Nominations are now open. Nominate your favorite business now!

close
The Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority (the Authority), the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center’s governing board, was created by the Louisiana State Legislature in 1978 for the purpose of constructing and operating convention facilities in New Orleans.

The Authority is composed of a 13-member board of commissioners, ten appointed by the Governor of Louisiana,
and three appointed by the Mayor of New Orleans. The gubernatorial appointees serve at the pleasure of the Governor, while the Mayor’s appointees serve four-year terms.

In the 40+ years since its creation, past boards of the Authority have spearheaded three phases of convention center construction with more than 30 years of successful operations and responsible for over $90 billion in economic impact.

In 2018, the Convention Center embarked on a $557 million Capital Improvement Plan that includes the development of 39 acres originally acquired for an expansion. Studies determined that developing the land into a new live, work and play neighborhood would make the destination more competitive, satisfying visitors and event attendees seeking different experiences. The Capital Improvement Plan has already delivered a 7.5-acre pedestrian park which features interactive water elements, live event spaces, public art installations and shaded gathering places. Interior modernizations, including renovations to restrooms and 140 meeting rooms, are currently underway.

Certificate Coverage

Our mission

The Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority’s exclusive mission is to finance, construct and operate facilities in order to attract and conduct conventions, trade shows and other events that support and expand the economy of both the State of Louisiana and New Orleans Region.

News & updates

For the latest news regarding the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority, please visit our News Room.

newsroom
read more