The Google.org Impact Challenge Nevada is awarding $1 million in grant funding to five nonprofit organizations that are pursuing big ideas to create economic opportunity in the Silver State. The organizations selected to receive $175,000 include Nevada Industry Excellence and the Nevada Small Business Development Center, two programs hosted through the University of Nevada, Reno and delivering services creating partnerships statewide.

Now, the public has the chance to vote for their favorite idea from the selected organizations, and the winner with the most votes by 11:59 p.m. Nov. 26, 2019, will receive an additional $125,000. Place your vote online at g.co/NevadaChallenge.

Nevada Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a business-assistance outreach program providing a wide variety of technical assistance to support Nevada business and assist entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses in today's dynamic market. With the support of Impact Challenge Nevada, the Nevada SBDC will coordinate federal, state and local partners in Nevada to offer entrepreneurs a 24/7 tool that serves as one easy place to find the resources they need to start, grow, connect and succeed. This work will build on the Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s existing business roadmap.

Nevada Industry Excellence (NVIE) is a go-to resource offering services and solutions for Nevada industry and manufacturers, and is Nevada’s official connection to the Manufacturing Extension Program National Network. With the support of Impact Challenge Nevada, Nevada Industry Excellence will bring manufacturing and tech industry together to prepare Nevadans for Industry 4.0 in the Silver State. Through forum settings, industry representatives will promote agile education and training opportunities, gather and act on strategic information, and build connections.

Both Nevada SBDC and NVIE have established numerous partnerships across the state and across the institutions of the Nevada System of Higher Education including with UNLV. Nevada SBDC is hosted administratively through the College of Business and NVIE is hosted administratively through Research & Innovation.

“Google is making an impressive investment that will have a lasting impact in Nevada,” said Marc Johnson, University president. “All of the selected programs are helping Nevadans envision and prepare for a sustainable and inclusive economic future. They all are to be congratulated.”

To vote in the Google.org Impact Challenge Nevada, visit g.co/NevadaChallenge, and join the social media chat at #GICNevada, #GrowWithGoogle.