As the community celebrates 10 years of the Innevation Center, the University of Nevada, Reno is spotlighting the people and ideas that have shaped its vibrant community.

Below, former Innevation Center Makerspace Manager Daniel Smith talks about innovation, entrepreneurship and the impact the center has had on him. 

I began working at the Innevation Center the summer before its grand opening. My first encounter with the building was during the Reno Mini Maker Faire, and I immediately fell in love with its potential. Over the past 10 years, it’s been one of the great privileges of my life to watch that potential come to life, and to be part of the community that made it happen.

My proudest moment at the Innevation Center was completing the first Makerthon. Coming at the tail end of the pandemic, it represented more than just an event, it was a chance to bring our community back together and celebrate the creativity and problem-solving skills of our local students. Seeing their ideas come to life reminded me why spaces like the Innevation Center matter so much.

The Innevation Center has been the single greatest driving force in building my network, both personally and professionally. I’ve formed lifelong friendships with coworkers and mentors, and I’ve had the privilege of connecting with leaders at every level across our community and our state.

I’m in my position today because of the connections and skills I gained at the Innevation Center. From planning events to managing operations and building relationships with entrepreneurs, the lessons I learned there continue to shape my work every day.

The Innevation Center has been such a huge part of my life that I honestly can’t picture where I’d be without it. It pushed me to take a chance on being an entrepreneur, helped me fall in love with Reno and its people, and shaped the person I am today. In the last 10 years, we’ve watched Reno evolve from a city known for gaming to a real hub for entrepreneurs at every stage, and just like the startups that grew up inside the Innevation Center, there’s no telling how far this community can go.

"Every startup, every connection, every mistake and every success contributes to the Innevation Center’s story and to Nevada’s entrepreneurial landscape."

If you’re lucky enough to be part of the Innevation Center community, take a moment to appreciate that you’re not just surrounded by people who care, you’re helping shape something bigger. Engage fully, connect deeply and enjoy being part of this ever-evolving tapestry.