The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) in Nevada has announced the appointment of Melissa Saavedra as the new director of its Office of Entrepreneurship. Saavedra previously served as deputy director of the Nevada Lieutenant Governor’s Office of Small Business Advocacy (OSBA), where she played a significant role in supporting small businesses throughout the state.
Saavedra's journey with OSBA began in 2022 when former Lieutenant Governor Lisa Cano Burkhead appointed her as program manager. Within nine months, under Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony's leadership, she was promoted to deputy director. During her tenure, she became a key contact for Northern Nevada's small business community, aiding many businesses in navigating licensing and regulatory challenges.
In her new role at the Office of Entrepreneurship, Saavedra aims to continue advocating for entrepreneurship and economic growth. “Advancing entrepreneurship has been a consistent focus throughout my career, and I’m proud to join GOED in a role that allows me to contribute to Nevada’s dynamic business environment,” Saavedra stated. She emphasized Nevada's conducive environment for entrepreneurs due to its strong ecosystem and innovative spirit.
Karsten Heise, senior director of strategic programs and innovation for GOED, expressed confidence in Saavedra's leadership: “We are honored to have Melissa Saavedra leading our Office of Entrepreneurship in its next phase of development.” He noted her respect within entrepreneurial communities and her potential to harness Nevadans' pioneering ethos into successful small businesses and startups.
Beyond her work with OSBA, Saavedra brings over ten years of experience in publishing and media. Her previous roles include associate publisher and senior business development manager for the Northern Nevada Business Weekly.
The Office of Entrepreneurship was established in July 2023 after Governor Joe Lombardo signed AB77 into law. Its mission is to strengthen policies that support entrepreneurship growth by collaborating with stakeholders to advance opportunities and reduce barriers for business growth across Nevada.