October 3, 2025

At Advantage Capital, we believe that small businesses are the heartbeat of vibrant communities. That’s why we were proud to sponsor and participate in Reno Startup Week 2025, a weeklong celebration of innovation, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Nevada. 

In partnership with the Economic Development Association of Western Nevada (EDAWN), we joined founders, investors, policymakers, and community leaders to highlight the strength of Reno’s ecosystem — and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting small business growth across the state. 

Investing for Impact: How Capital Can Catalyze Community & Business Growth in Nevada 

One of the highlights of the week was our panel, “Investing for Impact: How Capital Can Catalyze Community and Business Growth in Nevada,” moderated by our Managing Director and Chief Impact Officer, Sandra M. Moore. 

Nevada’s entrepreneurial spirit thrives on innovation, resilience, and collaboration, and impact investing is proving to be a powerful tool for fueling that momentum. Across the state, investors are partnering with public institutions to channel capital into businesses located in historically underserved and undercapitalized communities—from urban corridors in Reno and Las Vegas to rural main streets across northern Nevada. 

The conversation featured a dynamic group of leaders: 

  • Jake Carrico, Nevada Small Business Development Center, Director of Advising 
  • Alli Villines, Alli Marie Marketing Agency, CEO/Owner and Founder of She Means Business 

Together, the panelists explored how mission-driven capital can drive both financial returns and meaningful community outcomes. They shared examples of how investments have supported small businesses, spurred job creation, and expanded opportunity in places that need it most. 

The discussion also offered practical guidance for entrepreneurs: how to demonstrate social impact when pitching to investors, why partnerships with public institutions matter, and how “doing well by doing good” isn’t just possible — it’s happening right here in Nevada. 

Comida & Community: Celebrating Reno’s Diversity 

Later in the week, Advantage Capital proudly sponsored the capstone event, “Comida and Community,” held at the Reno Public Market. 

The evening blended Reno’s entrepreneurial spirit with the city’s cultural vibrancy. Guests enjoyed drinks from the Honey Bar and Mami’s Tequila Bar, bites from local vendors, and live music and dancing. The event also featured a Business Resource Fair — a unique space for founders to connect with organizations that can help them grow and thrive. 

The celebration reflected what makes Reno so special: its diversity, its creativity, and its deep sense of community. 

Looking Ahead 

From the conversations on stage to the connections made over food and music, Reno Startup Week underscored the vital role entrepreneurs play in shaping Nevada’s future. 

At Advantage Capital, we remain committed to: 

  • Investing in small businesses that create quality jobs and drive local growth. 
  • Partnering with public institutions to expand opportunity in historically underserved communities. 
  • Supporting events and initiatives that celebrate and strengthen Nevada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

We are grateful to Reno Startup Week, EDAWN, and the many entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders who made this year’s event a success. And we look forward to continuing to work alongside you in building a stronger, more inclusive future for Nevada. 

Want to learn more about how we support Nevada businesses? Visit here or reach out.