Listen Online
Contact Nicole Bayreder
Nicole Bayreder
UNLV Office of Economic Development
Episode Summary
- Introduction to Blackfire Innovation: Nicole describes Blackfire as a laboratory and showroom for cutting-edge technology in hospitality, gaming, and entertainment. Established through a partnership between UNLV and Caesars Entertainment, it showcases innovations from both major companies like LG and T-Mobile and UNLV students.
- Key Facilities and Programs:
- SBDC: Nevada Small Business Development Center offers free confidential advising for small businesses.
- Rebel Forge: A startup incubator for UNLV students, helping them launch their own businesses.
- Makerspace: Supports small businesses preparing for trade shows and provides tools for prototyping.
- Profile of Blackfire’s Tenants: Focus on businesses innovating in hospitality, gaming, or entertainment, with examples like robotic cleaning solutions and immersive gaming tables.
- Unique Events and Partnerships:
- Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association Expo: Annual event at Blackfire featuring innovations in hotel and lodging technology.
- Demo Days: Events focused on showcasing a specific technology, with Brylon’s immersive display and robotics panel featuring LG and other companies.
- Pitch Mayhem and Speed Networking: Regular events at Blackfire for startups, including pitch competitions and networking with industry professionals.
- Capital Equity Symposium: Upcoming event dedicated to startup funding, addressing Nevada’s need for more capital investment opportunities.
- Nicole’s Background: Born and raised in Henderson, Nicole shares her journey from aspiring child actor to her role in UNLV’s Office of Economic Development.
- Personal Insights and Advice:
- Favorite Books: Tuesdays with Morrie and Oh, the Places You’ll Go as reminders of life’s journey and balance.
- Philosophy on Life: “Life is about choices”—advice from her father that guides her career and personal growth.
Notable Quotes:
- “Blackfire is a laboratory, or I should say a showroom, for displaying technology in hospitality, gaming, and entertainment.” – Nicole Bayreder
- “We aren’t here to push products. We are here to inspire collaboration, inspire innovation, and really show that Southern Nevada is a strong ecosystem for innovation, research, and collaboration.” – Nicole Bayreder
- “Life is about choices.” – Advice from Nicole’s father, emphasizing the importance of making proactive decisions.
- “If you’re a startup and you’re trying to grow, get in front of as many people as you can.” – Nicole’s advice to entrepreneurs
- “I am driving, and there’s some things that are out of my control, but for the things I can control, like my attitude, my ethic at work, and the relationships I choose to maintain, that’s all my choice.” – Nicole Bayreder