Despite ongoing challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) announced that 30 companies either relocated to or expanded within the Greater Reno-Sparks area in 2020. These moves are expected to create a total of 2,295 new jobs with an average wage of $28 per hour. The additions include eleven new corporate headquarters.
This job growth stands out as many regions continue to face significant employment issues due to the pandemic. EDAWN emphasized that most of these new and expanding companies are in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, but other industries such as health and medical, e-commerce, and distribution also contributed to economic diversification in Northern Nevada.
“On behalf of the entire EDAWN Team, I would like to welcome these new and expanding companies to our region,” said Mike Kazmierski, CEO of EDAWN. “I want to also acknowledge all of our partners (what we like to call the EDAWN Team) for your support and assistance throughout the year. I can tell you that this kind of cooperation from government, education and business does not happen in most places and it makes our job easier (even in these tough times) as economic developers because it truly gives us a competitive advantage.”
The annual event typically held by EDAWN to recognize new companies was canceled this year due to public health concerns.
Some notable relocations include AeroSafe Global from New York bringing 50 jobs to Sparks; Affinity Development Group from California creating 200 positions in Reno; American Battery Technology Company moving its headquarters from California with 100 jobs in Fernley; HMI Cardinal relocating from Kentucky with 150 jobs in Verdi; Mary Kay establishing operations with 50 jobs; Starbrook Modular opening its headquarters from California with 100 positions; SureClinical moving its headquarters with 20 jobs; and theBalm shifting its base with 200 roles—all into Northern Nevada.
Other companies listed range across logistics providers, tech startups, manufacturers, software firms, beauty brands, food suppliers, cybersecurity businesses, modular construction innovators, eco-friendly product makers, appliance designers, and more. Several local startups were also established during this period.
The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada is a private/public partnership founded in 1983. Its mission is focused on adding quality jobs through company recruitment and supporting both existing businesses and startups while promoting economic diversification within Greater Reno-Sparks. More information about their initiatives can be found at www.edawn.org.