Over the past decade, Las Vegas has undergone a rapid transformation from a city primarily known for entertainment and tourism into a vibrant and fast-growing startup ecosystem. A combination of strategic investments, a supportive business environment, and a growing community of entrepreneurs and investors drives this evolution.
The city’s transformation began with a concerted effort to diversify its economy beyond gaming and hospitality. Initiatives such as the Downtown Project, launched by Zappos founder Tony Hsieh, injected $350 million into revitalizing downtown Las Vegas, attracting startups, tech talent, and creative professionals to the area. This project laid the groundwork for a collaborative and innovative community that continues to thrive today.
The presence of organizations like StartUpNV, Nevada’s statewide startup accelerator and incubator, has further fueled the ecosystem by providing mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities for early-stage companies. Additionally, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has played a pivotal role through initiatives like Black Fire Innovation, which connects students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to drive innovation in hospitality, gaming, and technology.
Top VCs and Investors in Las Vegas
StartUpNV
About: Nevada's Statewide Business Incubator and Startup Accelerator - Serving Entrepreneurs and Startup companies with locations in Las Vegas (HQ), Reno, and our rural counties.
Thesis: Our mission is to grow a robust and inclusive startup ecosystem and diversify Nevada’s economy – with the participation of all Nevadans
Sweetspot check size: $ 50K
Traction metrics requirements: > Scalable, Nevada based, and likely to reach a minimum mid-8 figure valuation within 5-7 years. > Full Time Founder / Founding Team – focused on an exit in less than 7-10 years. > MVP, Beta, or v 1.0 of offering complete – in market now / ready to start selling or take orders. > Raising pre-seed or seed round now – or within 90 days at the latest.
Redhills Ventures
About: Redhills Ventures is a private family investment firm specializing in companies with well-conceived business plans, experienced management teams, and high-growth potential.
Our team of seasoned investors brings a wealth of successful management experience in the financial, high-tech, and healthcare sectors, and have led companies through all stages of growth, from startup to IPO and beyond.
Dream Ventures
About: DREAM VENTURES is a female-focused fund and incubator. We have a simple focus: Connect female-owned businesses to AWESOME investors and land that DREAM deal you’ve always dreamed about.
Battle Born Venture
About: Battle Born Venture is Nevada's state venture capital program. It was created in 2013 to help our entrepreneurs stay local when it comes to fundraising. Since then, it has invested in high potential Nevadan startups, has co-invested with prestigious corporations and high profile venture capital firms, and has celebrated five exits.
Varkain
About: Varkain is a boutique seed investment firm focused on all industries, but has a particular interest in consumer technology.
RMR Capital
About: RMR Capital combines the best elements of the angel and venture capital communities. All funding decisions are made in-house, which lead to informed discussions and better results. With ideal investment sizes between $25K and $5MM, we have minority interests in portfolio companies and also act as lead investors.
RMR Capital has experience in franchising as well as building businesses from the ground up. We support companies we invest in by providing board level advice as well as support through all phases of business development from our team of dedicated in-house legal, marketing and operations specialists.
Rebel Venture Fund
About: Rebel Venture Fund (RVF) is a student-run, early stage venture capital fund that operates in conjunction with the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Student associates are involved in the entire investment process, from screening business plans to writing checks. The process is overseen by RVF management board, consisting of venture capitalists, angel investors, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and business executives. Rebel Venture Fund will typically make investments between $25,000 and $50,000.
CREAM
About: C.R.E.A.M. stands for Crypto Rules Everything Around Me. We are a leading new age strategic advisory and Investment firm that utilizes blockchain and crypto-economy to unleash the potential of enterprises and startups around the globe. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, we focus on the incubation and tokenization of premium, cutting-edge startups and mature companies.
Vantage Capital
About: Vantage Capital was founded in 2017 and has since developed a rich network of business partners. We make early and transformational investments in companies that have the potential to do great things. Our dedicated team is made up of seasoned investors who are looking to partner with hard-working, visionary entrepreneurs.
Business-Friendly Climate in Nevada: Taxes and State Initiatives
Nevada’s reputation as one of the most business-friendly states in the United States is well-deserved, particularly for startup founders and entrepreneurs. The state’s pro-business climate is anchored by a combination of favorable tax policies, robust incentive programs, and a supportive regulatory environment designed to help new ventures thrive.
Favorable Tax Structure
One of the most significant advantages for startups in Nevada is its exceptionally low tax burden. As of 2025, Nevada ranks 7th in the nation for its business climate, according to the State Business Tax Climate Index. Key tax benefits include:
- No corporate income tax
- No personal income tax
- No franchise tax
- No inventory tax
- No inheritance/gift tax
- No estate tax
This means founders can reinvest more of their earnings into growing their businesses, rather than paying high state taxes. Additionally, Nevada offers low-cost startup, regulatory, licensing, and annual fees, making it easier and more affordable to launch and operate a business in the state.
State Incentives and Abatements
Nevada’s state government actively encourages business growth through various incentive programs and tax abatements. These initiatives are designed to attract new companies, support job creation, and foster innovation. Some of the most notable programs include:
- Sales and Use Tax Abatement: Startups can benefit from reduced sales and use tax rates on qualified capital equipment purchases, with rates as low as 2% for up to 20 years, depending on the county and the type of business.
- Modified Business Tax Abatement: Eligible companies can receive a 50% abatement on the modified business tax rate for up to 10 years.
- Personal Property Tax Abatement: Up to 50% abatement on personal property taxes for a maximum of 10 years.
- Real Property Tax Abatement for Recycling: Up to 50% abatement for up to 10 years for businesses engaged in recycling or converting recycled material into energy.
- Data Center and Aviation Abatements: Special abatements for data centers and aviation companies, including significant reductions in sales, use, and property taxes for qualifying investments and job creation.
To qualify for these abatements, companies typically need to meet criteria such as paying above-average wages, making a minimum capital investment, and creating a certain number of primary jobs. Companies must also offer medical insurance and cover at least 65% of the premium costs for employees.
Additional State Initiatives
Nevada’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship extends beyond tax policy. The state has launched several programs to support startups, including:
- State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI): This federal-state partnership provides matching funds to Nevada-based startups, especially those participating in programs like StartUpNV, AngelNV, and FundNV. These funds help early-stage companies access the capital they need to grow.
- Workforce Development and Training Grants: Nevada offers grants and support for employee training, helping startups build skilled teams.
- Innovation-Based Economic Development: Programs like the Knowledge Fund and partnerships with local universities (e.g., UNLV’s Black Fire Innovation) provide resources for research, development, and commercialization of new technologies.
Streamlined Regulatory Environment
Nevada’s regulatory environment is designed to minimize bureaucratic hurdles for new businesses. The state offers a streamlined process for business registration and licensing, allowing startups to quickly establish a presence and focus on growth rather than red tape.
Key Events, Meetups, and Resources for Founders in Las Vegas
Las Vegas has rapidly become a hotspot for founders seeking not only capital but also a thriving, collaborative community. The city’s startup ecosystem is anchored by a robust calendar of events, active founder communities, and a growing network of coworking spaces and accelerators.
Must-Attend Events and Meetups
- Tech AlleyTech Alley is a monthly event series that brings together founders, technologists, investors, and community leaders for networking, panel discussions, and startup showcases. It’s a cornerstone of the Las Vegas tech scene and a must for anyone looking to plug into the local ecosystem.
- StartUp Vegas EventsStartUp Vegas hosts several recurring events designed to foster collaboration and support among founders:
- LinkUp: Co-Working & Networking Day – Held monthly at WeWork Town Square, this event offers founders a chance to work side-by-side, share ideas, and build relationships in a relaxed coworking environment.
- LevelUp: A Night to Elevate StartUps – A pitch and feedback event where founders present to a panel of investors and receive immediate mentorship and support.
- RiseUp – A community event focused on empowering women in tech, featuring discussions, networking, and learning opportunities.
- Las Vegas Startup WeekPart of the global Techstars network, Las Vegas Startup Week is a five-day, entrepreneur-led event featuring workshops, panels, pitch competitions, and networking sessions. It’s one of the largest gatherings of founders, investors, and ecosystem builders in the region.
- Startup Champions Network SummitIn 2025, Las Vegas is hosting the Spring Ecosystem Builder Summit, drawing ecosystem builders, capital stewards, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from across the country. This event is a unique opportunity to connect with national leaders and learn about best practices in ecosystem development.
- UNLV EventsThe University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) regularly hosts pitch competitions, innovation showcases, and networking events through its Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Black Fire Innovation. These events are open to students and the broader founder community, providing access to university resources and talent.
Other Major Conferences Las Vegas also hosts world-class conferences that are highly relevant for founders, including:
- Consumer Electronics Show (CES)
- Adobe Summit (digital marketing and e-commerce)
- Vegas Startup Week (with a dedicated marketing and growth track)
Accelerators and Incubators
Las Vegas is home to a growing number of accelerators and incubators that provide mentorship, funding, and community for early-stage startups:
- StartUpNV: Nevada’s statewide accelerator and incubator, offering a nine-month program, access to capital, and a strong mentor network.
- Downtown Project: Focused on revitalization and innovation in downtown Las Vegas, supporting startups across tech, arts, and hospitality.
- Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Based at UNLV, this center supports student and community entrepreneurs with education, mentorship, and funding opportunities.
- Black Fire Innovation: A partnership between UNLV and Caesars Entertainment, this incubator accelerates startups in gaming and hospitality.
- AFWERX: A U.S. Air Force innovation hub supporting dual-use technology startups.
- Urban Chamber of Commerce: Provides resources and connections for minority and small business founders.
- American Dream U: Focused on supporting military veterans and entrepreneurs with coworking, mentorship, and financial education.
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