#United States #EDAWN #LVGEA #NEDA #Reno, Las Vegas

Introduction

On November 10, 2025, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) and the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) announced an exciting new initiative—the establishment of the Nevada Economic Developers Association (NEDA). This statewide professional organization aims to bolster the economic development workforce by providing essential resources, training, and networking opportunities across Nevada.

A Vision for Economic Development

Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), emphasized the significance of NEDA in fostering economic growth in Nevada. According to him, NEDA will serve as a central hub for economic development professionals throughout the state, promoting a collaborative approach towards achieving common goals. This initiative reflects a crucial step towards uniting the efforts of various stakeholders to drive prosperity in local communities.

Key Objectives

NEDA is designed to facilitate:
1. Professional Development: By offering training and certification resources, the association will prepare both current and future practitioners to meet Nevada's specific economic challenges.
2. Educational Resources: NEDA will not only focus on economic development professionals but will also provide education for government officials and nonprofit leaders. This comprehensive approach ensures that all parties are well-equipped to attract businesses and support workforce development.
3. Networking Opportunities: By creating a unified platform for collaboration, NEDA aims to foster relationships among professionals, enhancing knowledge sharing and partnerships across the state.

As Taylor Adams, President and CEO of EDAWN, put it, "By launching NEDA, we're creating a foundation for shared learning, professional development, and statewide alignment." This collaborative effort is essential for building a resilient economy that can adapt to future challenges.

Training and Certification

To set the stage for meaningful growth, NEDA has outlined key milestones:

• - Establishing a 501(c)(6) Organization: By March 31, 2026, NEDA will become officially registered, with EDAWN and LVGEA guiding its operations for the first three years.
• - Launching Statewide Training Programs: The first training initiative is set for the second quarter of 2026 and will align with the overarching economic goals of Nevada.
• - Affiliation with IEDC: Pursuing an affiliation will grant NEDA members access to national certifications and professional standards, further enhancing their qualifications and capabilities.

A Call to Action

Economic development is not merely a profession; it requires dedication, training, and effective strategies. As Danielle Casey, President and CEO of LVGEA, stated, "It is critical that we create pathways for those practicing this important work in Nevada to grow their skills." This sentiment drives the mission of NEDA—to equip professionals with the necessary tools to achieve the best outcomes for their communities.

The Broader Impact

This initiative does not only focus on the development of economic professionals but aims to transform Nevada's economic landscape. As Tom Burns, executive director of the Governor's Office of Economic Development, noted, the alignment of organizations like EDAWN and LVGEA can lead to stronger economic development practices throughout the state, benefiting each community involved.

Conclusion

With the establishment of NEDA, Nevada is primed to become a leader in economic development, promoting a coordinated approach that involves various stakeholders working towards common objectives. This collaborative framework promises to enhance the state’s competitive edge and build a sustainable future for its economy. To learn more about participating in NEDA, stakeholders are encouraged to reach out to EDAWN or LVGEA directly.