Around the State - March 2009

Northern Nevada Development Authority Announces New Strategic Direction

The Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) announced organizational changes that will better position itself—and the region—for economic development success in the new economy. The changes include restructuring NNDA’s key positions by merging the executive director position with business development responsibilities. During the restructuring, Rob Hooper, an NNDA executive officer and board member, will take on the role of acting executive director, while the organization focuses on streamlining its activities in recruiting new companies to the area and assisting existing companies in their business expansion efforts.

Reno Call Center Looking to Hire 150 Full Time Positions

The Hartford Financial Services Group plans to hire 150 full-time employees by spring 2009 for a new call center in Reno. Workers will take service calls from members of AARP.

Fallon to Host NCOT’s Rural Roundup

Lt. Governor Brian Krolicki announced that tourism representatives from across Nevada will gather in Fallon April 1-3 for the 19th Annual Rural Roundup to learn the latest marketing skills for attracting visitors, whose spending stimulates local economies. The Nevada Commission on Tourism (NCOT) produces the event to provide rural communities with information that helps strengthen marketing and communicating skills needed to generate tourism revenue.

‘Green 504’ Loan Creates Opportunity for Small Business Owners

CDC Small Business Finance, a provider of SBA-504 loans, has launched a campaign to educate small business owners and bankers about the new SBA “Green 504” loan. The Small Business Administration (SBA) recently doubled the loan amount allowable for its 504 program loans to $4 million (up from $2 million) for companies that reduce their energy consumption or generate renewable fuels. SBA-504 loans are used to purchase commercial and industrial buildings and large equipment. The new SBA-504 opportunities are the result of the Energy Independence & Security Act of 2007, designed to help reduce U.S. dependency on foreign oil and stimulate investment in renewable, alternative energy resources.