Strength in numbers

Northern Nevada’s economic future is looking bright thanks to the dedication of the region’s business leaders and entrepreneurs.

That was the word from organizers of last week’s Nevada Economic Development Conference at UNR. Nearly 200 attendees — business owners, community leaders and government officials — came together at the inaugural event dubbed “Stronger Communities Together” to discuss ongoing economic promotion strategies underway within the region.

Conference attendees and presenters included a number of local, state and national economic development professionals, elected and appointed officials, business owners, utilities, banks, educators, transportation representatives, government executives and tourism professionals.

The results of this conference will continue to guide, direct and shape northern Nevada’s economic development efforts as the region continues to grow and diversify in economic sectors such as agribusiness, energy, manufacturing, tourism, transportation and logistics.

“Overall, it was a fantastic event filled with great information and the possibility to network with other professionals in both public and private arenas,” said Ron Radil, executive director of the Western Nevada Development District, the agency that spearheaded the creation of the event in collaboration with such partners as USDA Rural Development, EDAWN and the UNR College of Business.

“However, while this event was important, what matters more is just what will be done with the economic ideas shared,” he added.

Highlights from of last week’s conference are detailed in this week’s NNBW.