The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) hosted its annual State of the Economy event, drawing over 1,600 business owners and community leaders. The luncheon highlighted the economic achievements of 2025, while showcasing the groups predictions for 2026.
EDAWN works to improve Nevada’s economic growth through company recruitment, while supporting local entrepreneurs and leaders.
Taylor Adams, president and CEO of EDAWN, expressed excitement about the future of northern Nevada’s economy. “We’ve seen a real increase in venture funding and venture capital coming into our market,” Adams said, noting that over 41 companies started in the Reno-Sparks metro area last year.
Adams also highlighted strong business attraction, retention, and expansion efforts throughout 2025, with 11 companies from eight states relocating to northern Nevada, creating nearly 600 new jobs with an average salary of more than $76,000.
Brian Gordon, principal at Applied Analysis, emphasized Nevada’s economic diversification and manufacturing activity. “Nevada is doing better than most,” Gordon said.
Despite the economy’s overall success, there are some challenges for younger individuals entering the job market. “Younger folks trying to get into the job market’s been a little bit tricky. I think businesses are looking for somebody that’s got a skill set that’s immediately transferable into the role they’re looking for,” said Gordon.
Investments in the medical, data center, industrial, and commercial real estate sectors as key drivers for future economic growth.
Email reporter Anthony Ramos at aramos@sbgtv.com. Follow @antramosnews on X and Anthony Ramos on Facebook.