The Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) has announced a $1.8 million investment in WaterStart, a nonprofit organization based in Nevada. This funding aims to support the development and commercialization of innovative water technologies both locally and globally.
Karsten Heise, senior director of strategic programs and innovation at GOED, stated, “This investment into WaterStart demonstrates GOED’s commitment to fostering the development of water technology solutions to tackle one of the most pressing challenges in our state.” He emphasized that WaterStart will attract startups and tech entrepreneurs to Nevada and the Southwest, promoting regional economic growth.
WaterStart was established in 2013 by GOED and DRI, Nevada's nonprofit environmental research institute. Since then, it has become a global hub for connecting water technology companies with utilities worldwide. Rebecca Shanahan, executive director of WaterStart, noted the importance of this partnership: “It’s also a return to our roots — advancing economic development in Nevada through the commercialization of innovative water technologies.”
The investment is expected to accelerate technology readiness levels and attract risk capital while supporting entrepreneurship. Dave Johnson from Southern Nevada Water Authority highlighted the benefits for local water users: “From leak detection and treatment technologies to pressure analyzers and real-time water quality monitoring, SNWA’s partnership with WaterStart helps ensure efficient, reliable water delivery through leading-edge technology and innovation.”
Additionally, this funding will enhance Nevada's role in the NSF Futures Engine in the Southwest. Brian Sherman, CEO of the Futures Engine, remarked on these collaborations unlocking global opportunities: “Though water scarcity is a top concern in our region... these collaborations unlock global opportunities and new avenues for prosperity.”
Dr. Sean McKenna from DRI expressed enthusiasm about working closely with WaterStart: “As one of the four research institutions in the Futures Engine... our scientists look forward to working even more closely with WaterStart.”
GOED's investment leverages support from both federal sources like the American Rescue Plan and state resources such as the Nevada Knowledge Fund. The initiative aims to align water resource incentives with economic growth.
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