Nevada the Entrepreneurial: Igniting Innovation on Independence Day
Written By: Melissa Saavadera, Office of Entrepreneurship Director
On July 4th, 2026, while we celebrate the independence of our nation, Nevada will take an important step forward with the launch of Nevada the Entrepreneurial. This initiative reflects who we are as a state and where we are going. It is rooted in opportunity, resilience, and the belief that anyone with vision and determination should have the chance to succeed.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside entrepreneurs across Nevada. I have seen firsthand what it takes to start and grow a business. It takes courage, persistence, and access to the right resources at the right time. Nevada the Entrepreneurial is built with that understanding at its core.
Building Together
Nevada the Entrepreneurial is designed to elevate the voices of the people building, supporting, and shaping our economy every day. Our focus is simple. We want to listen, learn, and showcase the real experiences defining entrepreneurship in Nevada.
Through this initiative, we are creating a platform that invites entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial support organizations (ESOs) to share their journeys, insights, and perspectives. We are asking honest questions about what it takes to start and grow a business here, what is working, and where we need to improve.
Entrepreneurs across the state will have the opportunity to share their stories, including what inspired them to launch in Nevada, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they have learned along the way. Their voices will help paint a clear picture of Nevada’s business environment and inspire others who are considering taking the same leap.
ESOs will also play a critical role in this conversation. By sharing what they are seeing on the ground, the gaps they are working to address, and how collaboration is strengthening the ecosystem, we can better understand how to align efforts and maximize impact statewide.
In addition, elected officials will contribute their perspectives on why entrepreneurship is essential to Nevada’s economy, the barriers they are working to remove, and what it will take for Nevada to lead nationally in supporting business growth and innovation.
This is not a one-way message. It is an ongoing dialogue.
By bringing these voices together, Nevada the Entrepreneurial will highlight real experiences, identify opportunities for improvement, and strengthen the connections moving our state forward.
A Statewide Commitment to Entrepreneurship
As part of this launch, we are introducing a dedicated landing page through the Office of Entrepreneurship on the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development website, where entrepreneurs, Entrepreneur Support Organizations, and elected officials can make a public commitment to Nevada the Entrepreneurial.
This is more than a symbolic gesture. It is an opportunity to stand together and affirm a shared vision for Nevada’s future. By adding your name and your organization, you are signaling your commitment to supporting innovation, collaboration, and economic growth across our state.
This page will become a living reflection of Nevada’s entrepreneurial community. It will highlight those who are stepping forward to lead, support, and invest in the success of others.
A Year of Celebration and Storytelling
The launch on July 4th is just the beginning.
Nevada the Entrepreneurial will continue as a year-long campaign shining a spotlight on the individuals and organizations driving our economy forward. Throughout the year, we will highlight entrepreneurs, ESOs, and elected officials who are making a meaningful impact in their communities.
These stories matter. They inspire action, build connections, and remind us of what is possible when we work together.
You can expect to see:
- Entrepreneur spotlights from across Nevada
- Recognition of community leaders and elected officials who champion small business
- Features on organizations strengthening our entrepreneurial ecosystem
- Opportunities to engage, collaborate, and share your own story
This campaign is about visibility, recognition, and momentum. It is about celebrating the individuals and partnerships making Nevada stronger.
Why July 4th Matters
Independence Day represents more than history. It represents possibility. It reminds us that progress begins with people who are willing to take a chance on an idea.
Entrepreneurs live this reality every day. Choosing to start a business is a declaration of independence in its own right. It is a commitment to build something meaningful, not only for yourself but for your community.
Launching on July 4th reflects the spirit of Nevada. We are a state rooted in bold ideas and driven by the people who bring them to life.
Strengthening Nevada’s Future
Small businesses are essential to Nevada’s economic growth and long-term success. When we support entrepreneurs, we are investing in job creation, innovation, and stronger communities.
Nevada the Entrepreneurial is also about inclusion. It is important that every entrepreneur, regardless of background or geography, has access to opportunity. From rural communities to urban, we are committed to ensuring that support reaches every corner of our state.
An Invitation to Lead and Build
To the entrepreneurs, builders, elected officials, and partners across Nevada, this initiative is for you. Your ideas matter. Your leadership matters. Your commitment matters.
Today, I invite you to visit the website, add your name to the Nevada the Entrepreneurial commitment page, and be part of something bigger than any one business or organization.
Together, we have an opportunity to define the next chapter of Nevada’s economic future.
The future of Nevada is entrepreneurial. And we are building it together.