The Nevada Small Business Development Center (NSBDC) has selected Winnie Dowling as its new director.

Dowling has served as the deputy director of the Nevada SBDC for over 20 years. She holds an MBA and bachelor’s degree in computer information systems and previously owned a computer consulting and training business. She has experience with program and project management and supporting a sustainable and meaningful workplace culture.

“Winnie has great experience and understanding of the NSBDC statewide program and an enthusiastic commitment to supporting small businesses statewide” said Gregory Mosier, Dean of the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno.

“It is great that Winnie Dowling is selected as new director of the Nevada SBDC,” Kambiz Raffiee, associate dean of the College of Business and chair of the NSBDC search, said. “Her extensive experience and credentials will allow her to lead the NSBDC to achieve its goals.”

“The selection of Winnie Dowling as the Nevada SBDC State Director is a true blessing to our small businesses statewide, the entire SBDC network and Nevada’s economic development as whole,” said Shaundell Newsome, founder of Sumnu Marketing, Las Vegas, and Nevada SBDC Advisory Board member. 

The Nevada SBDC was established in 1985 and provides a variety of technical assistance to Nevada’s businesses through a statewide network. This economic and community collaboration is one of a national network of over 1,000 centers, funded by the U.S. Small Business Association and leveraged by Nevada’s universities, colleges and local partners.

Nevada SBDC counselors’ mentor and assist businesses long-term, as well as facilitate mutually beneficial relationships for businesses. SBDC counselors also advocate, challenge, and help with planning and operational decisions, so small businesses have a support team. In 2021, the Nevada SBDC provided in-depth assistance to 3,430 Nevada entrepreneurs/clients who supported 9,225 jobs, created 145 new businesses and secured over $68 million in capital.

“I am excited for this opportunity to lead the Nevada SBDC and its specialty programs as State Director,” Dowling said. “I am starting with an experienced and talented statewide team that provides quality services backed by economic outcomes. I look forward to facilitating this continued pattern of excellence that includes being responsive to small business needs and developing new and innovative services in Nevada.”