Las Vegas has long been a city of opportunity, not just for tourists and entertainers, but also for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The city’s dynamic economy and supportive community offer a fertile ground for those looking to start or grow their businesses. Here are some key resources and programs available to support small business owners and entrepreneurs in Las Vegas.
Blackstone LaunchPad at College of Southern Nevada
The Blackstone LaunchPad at the College of Southern Nevada provides mentorship and startup business creation support for students at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey. The program offers exclusive access to paid internship opportunities and training from career experts, aiming to scale businesses through network introductions, corporate partnerships, customized business solutions, and capital funding.
UNLV’s Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
The Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, operates as an administrative unit within the Lee Business School. The center focuses on providing opportunities for students, faculty, and the community to learn about entrepreneurship. Key activities include managing and promoting entrepreneurship curriculum across the university, developing collaborative entrepreneurship programs, conducting research on entrepreneurship, and managing the student-run Rebel Venture Fund.
Las Vegas Urban League Entrepreneurship Center
The Las Vegas Urban League Entrepreneurship Center offers technical assistance, strategic planning, mentorship, and links to resources to help small businesses and entrepreneurs reach their financial goals. The center recently received a $17,500 grant from JP Morgan Chase Bank to assist with small business education and training resources, demonstrating a commitment to advancing economic growth and opportunity for Black, Hispanic, and Latino communities.
StartupNV
StartupNV is Nevada’s only statewide business incubator, dedicated to fostering the growth of startups across a wide array of industries and sectors. As a non-profit organization, it offers a unique blend of resources, support, and capital to help entrepreneurs transition from initial ideas to revenue-producing businesses. StartupNV provides a range of programs including AccelerateNV, Founder University, and Entrepreneur Bootcamp, each tailored to support entrepreneurs at different stages of their business journey.
Access Community Capital
Access Community Capital is a community loan fund primarily providing small businesses with access to credit. Each applicant may also receive technical assistance to assist in planning and preparation for various aspects of their business. The organization is established as a non-profit with a mission-driven purpose to support individuals and businesses not traditionally served by mainstream financial institutions.
These resources and programs are just a few examples of the support available to entrepreneurs and small business owners in Las Vegas. By leveraging these opportunities, individuals can navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to the vibrant and diverse economy of the city.