Northern Nevada added nearly 2,300 new jobs in 2022 as 27 companies either relocated to or expanded within the Greater Reno-Sparks area, according to an announcement from the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN). The jobs are expected to offer a record average wage of $32.67 per hour and include positions at 12 new company headquarters.
The technology sector led growth for the fifth consecutive year, making up 41% of incoming or expanding companies. Manufacturing accounted for 33%, while logistics, distribution, and e-commerce made up another 19%. EDAWN stated that these trends signal ongoing positive movement for the local economy.
“This year proved to be yet another impressive year with new and local expanding companies adding more quality jobs to the region over the next few years,” said Mike Kazmierski, President and CEO of EDAWN. “The Reno-Sparks unemployment rate continues to drop at 3.1%. Our strong economic activity is a direct result of the diversification of industries, which will help secure our economic vitality longterm. We are proud to welcome these new companies to our community and are grateful for their investment and confidence in our region.”
Among the notable relocations was Redwood Materials, which expanded into Fernley and Storey County with plans to create over 700 jobs focused on battery recycling and sustainable supply chains. Footlocker established a Sparks distribution center bringing more than 200 jobs from Illinois. Other expansions included Valley Service Electronics relocating its headquarters from California with plans for around 140 new positions.
Several technology firms also chose Northern Nevada as their base or expansion site. CIQ moved operations from California, creating about 150 jobs in Reno. Companies like Uptip, Oasis, Workbnb, and Brix also established headquarters or expanded in Reno-Sparks.
EDAWN’s ongoing efforts focus on attracting businesses across various sectors—technology, manufacturing, logistics—to diversify the regional economy further. According to EDAWN’s mission statement: “The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada is a private/public partnership established in 1983. EDAWN is committed to adding quality jobs to the region by recruiting new companies, supporting the success of existing companies, and assisting new forming companies to diversify the economy and have a positive impact on the quality of life in Greater Reno-Sparks.”
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