Reno, Nevada, has emerged as a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs and startups, offering a wealth of resources designed to foster innovation and business growth. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, understanding the local support landscape is crucial.
University of Nevada, Reno Initiatives
Ozmen Center for Entrepreneurship
Established in 2014 through a generous gift from Eren and Fatih Ozmen, the Ozmen Center serves as a catalyst for entrepreneurial activity. It offers a variety of programs, including the Sontag Entrepreneurship Competition, which awards $50,000 to the winning student team, and the Entrepreneurship Club, providing a hands-on environment for students to develop their business skills.
Sierra Accelerator for Growth & Entrepreneurship (SAGE)
SAGE assists Nevada’s technology entrepreneurs in securing funding from the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Services include grant writing assistance, access to consultants, and introductions to agency program managers, all aimed at enhancing the technological competitiveness of local small businesses.
State and Local Government Support
Office of Entrepreneurship
Launched within the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), the Office of Entrepreneurship connects people, ideas, and resources across the state. Its mission is to reduce barriers, strengthen programs, and identify regional challenges to help more Nevadans start and grow their businesses.
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Located at the University of Nevada, Reno Innevation Center, the SBDC offers free services to prospective and current small business owners. These include market research, accounting assistance, capital formation guidance, and support for new business startups.
Community Organizations
NCET – Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology
NCET is a member-supported nonprofit organization that produces networking events to help individuals and businesses explore and use technology. It connects entrepreneurs with the people and opportunities needed to grow their businesses faster and with confidence.
Startup Reno
Supported by the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN), Startup Reno is a community for founders, innovators, and visionaries. It aims to build a thriving startup ecosystem by connecting Reno’s startups with innovators, investors, and support organizations.
By leveraging these resources, entrepreneurs in Reno can access the support and guidance necessary to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to the region’s dynamic economic landscape.