Made in Nevada steps out from state agency

Made in Nevada, a marketing program that spotlights the state's products, will become a stand-alone nonprofit this week after two decades as a state agency.

About 120 companies that make everything from barbecue sauce to public outdoor restrooms participate in the program, which has been overseen by the Nevada Commission on Economic Development for the past twelve years.

Kimberly Elliott, the commission's marketing director, said the change to a stand-alone nonprofit holds promise for Made in Nevada.

"We'll be open to new grants, new partnerships," Elliott said. The organization runs on a budget of less than $20,000 a year, and all of it has been provided by member dues.

Elliot also said the newly independent organization should be see greater stability in administration.

Since 2002, Made in Nevada has seen five administrators, each with an individual style and vision for the program.

Made in Nevada Inc. the newly created nonprofit that will run the program will be a largely volunteer effort that will draw on the skills of member companies.

The Nevada Commission on Economic Development will continue to host the Made in Nevada Web site (madeinNV.com) and will provide production coordination for an annual catalog of Made in Nevada products.

The membership dues that currently are held in the state treasury will be spent on the production of this year's catalog before the account is closed.

Along with the catalog, Made in Nevada Inc. promotes products made in the state through trade shows, advertising and educational outreach programs.

Founding board members of Made in Nevada Inc. include:

* Sharon Arnold of Great Basin Sourdough Starter Co. in Carson City.

* Fran Pritchard of Panchita's Inc. Killer Salsa in Minden.

* Linda and Bruce Larson of Botcha-Caloops in Virginia City.

* Gus Gutierrez of Tortillas Inc. in North Las Vegas.

* Frances Minnozzi of Rolladen Rolling Shutters in Las Vegas.

* Kim Simon of Dekko Manufacturing LLC of Las Vegas.

* Lynette Castillo, a volunteer advocate who previously worked as a paid staff member of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development on responsibilities for Made in Nevada.

* Kimberly Elliott, marketing director of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development.

The nonprofit's mailing address is P.O. Box 1268, Carson City, NV 89702. Its phone is 315-5718.

Made in Nevada was created in 1989 during the administration of Gov. Bob Miller and was overseen by the Department of Business & Industry before it was handed off to the Nevada Commission on Economic Development.