Nevada State Bank is honored to serve as the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Nevada Business Awards, joining business leaders from across the state to celebrate the innovation, leadership, and impact of outstanding Nevada businesses.
Each company recognized today has traveled its own path—navigating unique challenges, seizing opportunities and building success in ways that reflect both determination and vision. While every story is different, many successful businesses share common traits: adaptability, resilience, creativity and a strong commitment to their customers, employees and communities.
For more than a decade, Nevada State Bank has sought to better understand the experiences shaping our business community through the annual Nevada State Bank Small Business Survey. Now in its 13th year, the survey continues to highlight both optimism and pragmatism among Nevada businesses. In 2026, the report reflects a year marked by easing workforce pressures, persistent cost challenges, and increased use of new technologies to strengthen operations. We invite you to explore the full findings at www.nsbank.com/survey.
At Nevada State Bank, we believe it matters who you bank with. That belief guides everything we do and has shaped our approach to banking for the past 66 years—with clarity, responsiveness and a practical understanding of business needs. It’s also why we are proud to support the Nevada Business Awards and the companies that help power our state’s economy.
Congratulations to all the 2026 Nevada Business Awards finalists, and special recognition to this year’s Spirit of Nevada honorees. Your achievements inspire us, and we’re proud to celebrate alongside you.
If you’d like to learn more about how Nevada State Bank supports businesses throughout the Silver State, we would welcome the opportunity to connect and show you why it matters who you bank with.
Warm regards,
Terry Shirey, President and CEO
Battle Born
Welcome to the annual Nevada Business Awards! Thank you for being a part of this very special issue. There is a reason Nevada is known as the Battle Born state. Apart from the way Nevada became a state, the title resonates with Nevadans because of the resilience and perseverance it implies.
Battle Born is particularly applicable to Nevada businesses and entrepreneurs who have seen a rollercoaster of economic ups and downs over the past decade. Those that are still standing work leaner, better and are more adaptable to change. The Nevada Business Awards exist to recognize these Battle Born businesses for their efforts and to applaud their hard work.
Beginning as the Family Owned Business Awards, the program has adapted over the years to represent the diverse set of businesses found in the Silver State. Nevada Business Awards recognizes 12 Southern Nevada and 12 Northern Nevada businesses for their work. In addition, one company from each end of the state, will recieve additional recognition as the business of the year, Spirit of Nevada, honoree.
The editorial team at Nevada Business Magazine thanks the judges for their work to choose the finalists. We also recognize that without our sponsor, Nevada State Bank, we would not be able to honor these businesses. Finally, we thank you, the business owners and executives that make up Nevada’s diverse professional landscape and continue to make Nevada a great place to live and work.
North
Andrew Head LLC dba Dutch Bros Coffee, Est. 2007
Having recently opened his fourth location, Andrew Head’s work with Dutch Bros Coffee is set at full steam ahead. These walk-up and drive-thru only shops are known for their welcoming and energetic culture while serving coffee and tea along with pastries and other beverages. The company supports nonprofit organizations in the community it serves. The four locations specifically aid Boys and Girls Club and Family Respite Care, and every shop company-wide donates to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in honor of Dutch Bros Coffee’s co-founder. With so much of his staff from younger generations, Head leads by example. His mentorship has led to prosperous futures for several of his staff members. “We have been fortunate enough to be able to have many of our past employees grow from our franchise into operators having their own shops in multiple states,” Head said. He attributes the company’s success to “doing whatever it takes to make it work.”
Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada, Est. 1941
“We exist to serve the vulnerable,” Marie Baxter, CEO of Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada, said. Since its start as the original humanitarian service agency in the region, the Catholic Charities’ team, board, donors and volunteers have strived to support those in poverty by every and any means. “Patrons often come to us with one need in mind, yet the wrap-around services we offer with each department working in tandem offer a vital safety net for our patrons that even they, many times, are surprised we can provide,” Baxter said. Whether the need is clothing, immigration services, mentorship programs, recovery residences or food, Catholic Charities has developed ways to improve the lives of the most vulnerable. “Our services are given without question, judgement, or condition,” Baxter said. She dedicates the success of the nonprofit to the devotion of all who work together to fulfill its mission and vision. “We often say, ‘if not for Catholic Charities, then who?’” she said.
Construction Development Services, Inc. dba Silver State Masonry, Est. 1984
Silver State Masonry has been providing services in Northern Nevada for over four decades. They have engaged in public works for the Washoe County School District and the University of Nevada, Reno. Staying consistent yet adaptable allows contractors, developers, and owners to trust Silver State Masonry with each building project. While physically supporting the educational systems in Northern Nevada, the company also gives back to nonprofits such as Make-A-Wish. The company recently received the Subcontractor of the Year Award from the Associated General Contractors of Northern Nevada. “We’ve built our business by focusing on doing things the right way, even if it’s not the easiest or fastest option,” Jim Miller, president, said. “We do what we say we’re going to do and do it right the first time.” He credits the company’s achievements to the multiple generations of family members on the team. “Masonry takes skill, patience, and pride and our people bring that to every project,” he said.
Granite Construction, Est. 1930
Granite Construction is a civil infrastructure construction management firm and materials producer with complete general contracting services. Management at Granite Construction recognized that their quality of work is vital to the community. “We build great projects that benefit communities for generations. That is our legacy,” Chris Burke, vice president of Nevada operations, said. “That leads to a culture of high expectations, which is one of the hardest things to build in a business. That culture has led us to success.” Burke recalls being selected for jobs specifically because of the company’s reputation for quality production and hard workers. “Our teams execute great work because we have a culture where people are willing to step up, excited to contribute, and focused on excellence,” he said. “Without people, we don’t have a business.” Many employees have been with the company for decades. A dedicated team with strong leadership has resulted in almost a century of success for Granite Construction.
Huck Salt Company, Est. 1938
Over eight decades ago, Elmer Huckaby grabbed a shovel and a wheelbarrow to harvest salt from the single naturally self-sustaining salt flat left in Nevada. Four generations later, Tron Huckaby, Elmer’s grandson and current owner of Huck Salt Company, acknowledges that this business would not be possible without family. “Our success comes down to ingenuity, determination, and an uncompromising work ethic, passed down through generations of our family,” he said. The Huckaby family takes great pride in their Nevada home and salt flat stewardship. To preserve the flat, Huck Salt harvests the topmost layer of salt only. This assures the flat’s continual reproduction. “Every day we work to ensure the business not only survives, but thrives for the next generation,” Tron said. Management at Huck Salt recognizes the company’s unique history, responsibility and connection to Nevada and takes pride the Huck Salt Company name.
Junk King Reno, Est. Junk King: 2005, Junk King Reno: 2015
Junk King was founded with the goals of recycling responsibly and providing outstanding customer service. Elliot Levey acquired Junk King Reno in 2025 and remains committed to those goals. “We’re focused on changing the way people think about waste, resources, and sustainability in northern Nevada,” Levey said. With three full time and 10 part time employees, the team keeps innovation, efficiency, and purpose at the forefront of all they do. Levey attributes persistence to the company’s achievements. “Like sandpaper on a board, each challenge helps refine the business and strengthen our foundation for long-term success,” he said. The company recently relocated to a facility 22,000 square feet larger than their previous building. This expansion of space broadened the company’s operational horizons. “(Our team) believes in the mission, is motivated to succeed, and is invested in building something meaningful together,” Levey said.
Nevada Museum of Art, Est. 1931
Celebrating its 95th anniversary this year, the Nevada Museum of Art is now the oldest private nonprofit cultural institution in Nevada and a $100 million business. The museum, founded by Dr. James Church, Charles Cutts and the Latimer Art Club, occupies an entire city block with four stories and 120,000 square feet of innovation and creativity. David B. Walker, CEO, and his team are dedicated to elevating the complexity, resilience, and beauty of Nevada, specifically in the Great Basin. As the only American Alliance of Museums accredited art museum in Nevada, the nonprofit stays committed to exploring the intersection of art and environment, Walker said. Simultaneously, the museum strives to prioritize inclusive resources for the community. “We have a deep commitment to access, education and lifelong learning for people of all ages and interests,” Walker said. The Nevada Museum of Art provides free and low-cost tours, curriculum, admission and professional development opportunities for thousands of students and educators every year. The museum’s staff and leadership stay motivated and recognize that the nonprofit’s accomplishments would not be possible without the support of the community.
Roundabout Catering, Est. 2007
Founded by MaryBeth Smith almost two decades ago, family-owned Roundabout Catering has expanded from a small neighborhood eatery into a company that provides catering, event venues, restaurants, and a bakery. To Smith, success is not about the bottom line, but about focusing on the team that has made the business successful. “Our team isn’t just staff; they’re partners,” Smith said. While recognizing the value of each individual on her team, Smith leads by example. “Vision alone isn’t enough. You have to execute, day in and day out,” Smith explained. “I believe leadership means showing up: in the kitchen, at events, and with your team.” This mindset has assisted in accomplishing many milestones at Roundabout Catering including acquiring their first full-service venue, Tannenbaum Events Center, and integrating Franco Baking Company into the organization. Smith plans to further grow the company and continue to support nonprofits and local initiatives. She remains enthusiastic and committed to the business. “Honestly, the best moments are everyday wins: a team member getting recognized, a client thrilled with an event, or a special occasion that changes lives,” Smith said.
Stellar Snacks of Carson City, Est. 2019
Those that have flown on Southwest Airlines have likely enjoyed Stellar Snacks pretzels. The company is owned by Elisabeth and Gina Galvin, a mother-daughter duo. Stellar Snacks’ manufacturing facility is located in Carson City. Their products can be found at retail outlets such as Sprouts, Whole Foods and Raley’s and will soon be found at Kroger, Target, Albertson, Publix, and more. Elisabeth considers consistency the key to Stellar Snacks’ major success. “In manufacturing, excellence isn’t occasional; it’s built every hour, every shift, 24/7,” she said. That is possible because of the people who work there. “We don’t just make pretzels – we create opportunities, build careers and foster a culture where people feel valued,” Gina said. Every shipment, bag and pretzel represents the work of the people who made it. “But what truly stands out most are the moments with our team. For example, an employee came up to us, asked for a hug, and said ‘Thank you for the job, it has changed (my) life and I truly love working here.’ Those are the moments that stay with you,” Elisabeth said.
Street Commercial Real Estate, Est. 2022
Combining traditional expertise with modern technology, brothers Matthew and Benjamin Harris founded Street Commercial Real Estate (CRE), a brokerage for Nevada business and property owners. Street CRE is in the business of expanding other companies. The dedication of this company has led to recognition by industry peers including NAIOP Northern Nevada as the 2025 Brokerage Firm of the Year. Reno is home to the Harris family, and they appreciate the close knit, yet expanding business community there. “When we help a company relocate to Reno, expand its operations, or invest in property here, it contributes to job creation, stronger local businesses, and long-term economic stability for the region,” Matthew said. “We are proud to be part of a community that values collaboration and forward-thinking leadership, and we hope our work continues to support the growth and opportunity that makes Northern Nevada such a great place to live, work, and build a business.”
Strengthen our Community Northern Nevada, Est. 2024
Mike Kazmierski is no stranger to Northern Nevada. After successfully running EDAWN (Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada), he retired and is pursuing his passion to improve educational opportunities throughout the state. Recently, SoCNN (Strengthen our Community Northern Nevada) worked with the community and donors to raise over $5 million towards reducing chronic absenteeism. It successfully put over 5,000 children back in school in only two years. Next SoCNN will focus on establishing universal Pre-K, further reducing chronic absenteeism, and expanding childcare availability. “Our success is measured in children’s lives saved, academically and economically,” Kazmierski said. “Often the goal of a non-profit is to address a part of the problem, help some kids or provide some scholarships. SoCNN’s purpose is to build community solutions that help every child…” Due to this critical need, SoCNN directs no funds towards operation or staff payment. All donations go explicitly towards the cause. “When a community aligns around shared priorities, the results can be transformative,” Kazmierski said. SoCNN is a testament to that statement.
Whittier Trust, Est. 1935 | in NV: 1994
The single-family office the Whittier family established in 1935 turned into a Nevada state-chartered trust company in 1994. Now, Whittier Trust advises on $30 billion in assets and to more than 650 families. “Our approach is relationship-driven – never transactional,” Dean Byrne, executive vice president, said. Whittier Trust keeps the clients’ financial and family goals as its main focus. Byrne attributes the company’s achievements to the employees and the atmosphere they cultivate. “Our team’s expertise, integrity, and long-term commitment to clients shape every decision we make and every solution we deliver,” Byrne said. Whittier Trust believes in empowering its people to give back. Not only is it involved in the community, but it encourages its employees and clients to support their own philanthropic efforts either by giving their time and expertise or by developing their own trusts, foundations, and funds.
South
81/82 Group, Est. 2012
The 81/82 Group is comprised of six different venues: Mas Por Favor Taqueria y Tequila, La Neta Cocina y Lounge, Rosina, Electra, Juliet Cocktail Room and Early Birds. Each venue focuses on their own signature experiences, whether it be cuisine, mixology, or nightlife. Ryan Labbe, founder, viewed Las Vegas as the perfect location for the 81/82 Group with all the various forms of entertainment waiting to be explored in and surrounding the city. Several of the venues are located on The Strip, but others are just off The Strip and in Summerlin as well. Labbe attributes “creativity and the unwillingness to give up” as the reason for the company’s success. Simultaneously, he recognizes that the people, those who work with him and those who experience his venues, are the most valuable part of the business. “To be fully honest the best moments in business are when you can witness people experience what you have created as well as when the team can look back during that moment and see what they have accomplished,” Labbe said.
Ace Fire Systems, Est. 1993
Brothers Gordon and Steve Marx formed Ace Fire Systems, which provides fire extinguishers, alarms, sprinklers, hydrants, alarm monitoring, pumps and backflow prevention. The company additionally supplies kitchen fire suppression, fire extinguisher training, CO2 testing, carbon monoxide testing systems, and design and installation services for commercial and industrial fire safety systems. Today, Ace Fire Systems has completed over 16,000 projects, serviced more than 100,000 fire extinguishers, and saved an undetermined number of lives. The family-operated company values people over anything. Four generations of industry knowledge maximizes company efforts to reduce response times and guarantee professional customer service experience. Karsten Smith, CEO, said “There is no best moment. Consistently providing great service and solutions is a better feeling than having one great moment” when asked what his best moment in business has been. Smith said they plan to further grow the company by “launching the Ace Fire Training Center, creating a state approved curriculum to offer continuing education credits to property managers and to continue to foster partnerships and relationship with an emphasis on fire life safety and education.”
Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, Est. 2007
After her son was diagnosed with a highly complex medical condition at 14 years old, Annette Logan-Parker founded Cure 4 the Kids Foundation (C4K). At that time, Nevada did not have any outpatient treatment options for children with cancer or rare diseases. That meant many families had to travel or move out of state to find treatment elsewhere or even put off treatment altogether because of financial inability. Logan-Parker saw this need and remedied it. This $72 million organization that employs 100 percent of the area’s pediatric oncologists has never turned away a child due to inability to pay. Logan-Parker recognizes the people as being the reason for the company’s success. “At C4K, every single person on our team understands that families are trusting us with the most valuable part of their lives – their child – during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives,” she said. The joy of later seeing that child achieve milestones is greater than any moment in business according to Logan-Parker.
Gaudin Motor Company, Est. 1922
Gaudin Motor Company began with founder George Gaudin. The business remained in the family through his son-in-law Don Ackerman and continues to grow as one of the oldest family-owned auto dealerships in Nevada with the leadership of Don’s son, Gary Ackerman. He wants the company to be remembered for its longevity and community impact. That is why the company supports many philanthropic efforts such as healthcare and autism services. The company is further developing Ford Pro center, a one-stop shop that will assist commercial fleet companies in efficiency and operating costs and will create new jobs for the Southern Nevada area. Ackerman views each relationship as a contributing factor to the company’s success for over a century. “Customers need to trust the dealership not just for a one-time purchase, but for ongoing service and long-term relationships, which is why maintaining integrity is critical,” he said.
G.C. Garcia, Est. 1995
George Garcia founded G.C. Garcia, Inc., a real estate and development services firm that works in commercial real estate. Their projects span retail, office, multifamily, residential, mixed use, master plans, gaming, and redevelopment to find win-win solutions for developers, business owners, and residents. Last year NAIOP posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award to Garcia. His daughter and now president, Melissa Eure, considers accepting that award for her father as one of her best moments in business. Eure acknowledged Garcia for the company’s success. “It wasn’t just how he viewed the projects, but also how he treated people like people and did what he said that helped make the company so successful,” Eure said. She considers her team as another element to success. “Who you work with and how you work together say a lot,” Eure said. As the company recently celebrated 30 years in business, they are poised to continue working together towards new accomplishments.
Geotechnical & Environmental Services, Inc., Est. 1992
More than three decades ago, Gregory DeSart recognized an opportunity to support the rapidly growing Southern Nevada community and created Geotechnical & Environmental Services, Inc. (GES). The company provides environmental consulting, construction materials testing services, and geotechnical engineering for public works and infrastructure, residential, commercial, and private development. DeSart, a native Nevadan, is deeply entrenched in the state. GES continues to be locally owned while supplying the necessary expertise and qualifications for each project. “A successful business recipe needs to combine leadership, resilience and great people,” DeSart said. The dedication of his staff allows GES to remain successful. To encourage an atmosphere of community and teamwork, the company supports nonprofits suggested by their staff. The organizations GES is involved with include Opportunity Village, Candlelighters, Nevada Food Bank, The Blind Center, Horses For Heroes, and Girls On The Run.
Klai Juba Wald Architecture + Interiors, Est. 1995
John Klai and Dan Juba planted Klai Juba Wald Architecture + Interiors, a hospitality, gaming, sports, and entertainment design firm, in an epicenter for those industries – Las Vegas. “Our presence in Las Vegas has been fundamental to our success,” John Wald, president and managing principal, said. Additionally, he views people and financial stewardship as keys to success. “Many business leaders excel in their specific discipline but may not always be as experienced in running a business holistically. True success requires a balance of both,” Wald said. Each new gaming property opening is a reminder of what Klai Juba Wald Architecture + Interiors represents for their clients. “It’s a testament to the trust our clients have in us to produce a best-in-class product,” Wald said. The many successful bonds between team dedication and client vision made way for Klai Juba Wald Architecture + Interiors to become 100% employee-owned in 2023, a major milestone for Klai, Juba, Wald, and the entire team.
The Medicare Store, Est. 2011
Calvin and Karissa Bagley saw the unnecessary confusion surrounding Medicare and sought to create a place where Medicare eligible seniors could find clarity. They founded The Medicare Store that consults and provides free educational events. The Medicare Store now has locations in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. “It’s not just about insurance – it’s about making sure no one has to navigate this stage of life alone,” Jeremy Weiser, CEO, said. “The people we serve aren’t just ‘clients’ to us – they’re our neighbors, our friends, and often feel like family. We see them out in the community, share in their lives, and truly value those relationships.” Weiser considers the team and their genuine care as the most important element to running this successful business. “In our experience, when you build a business around people and purpose, success naturally follows – and more importantly, it lasts,” Weiser said. The team combined with mission and consistency has created a company that has more than 5,000 five-star Google reviews. “To us, that number represents so much more than just growth – it reflects the trust people have placed in us and the care our team brings to every interaction,” Weiser said.
PDS Health, Est. 1994
Pacific Dental Services evolved into PDS Health when Stephen E. Thorne IV, founder and CEO, realized how clinicians were pressured to focus on either their patients or their business. PDS Health provides business, technology, and operational support to providers so they can then support their patients better. It developed from one dental practice into a nation-wide integrative and progressive model of healthcare. Thorne attributes the company’s success to “consistency and a long-term commitment to doing the basics well.” These core principles fostered a business that allows clinicians to excel at what they do. “The moments that mean the most to me are when I see a clinician step into ownership and leadership and really find their stride,” Thorne said. “The same is true when I see a patient benefit because care was more coordinated, more preventive, and more thoughtful. Those moments remind me why we started this company in the first place.”
The Shade Tree, Est. 1989
When Reverend Deacon Bonnie Polley realized women and children fleeing homelessness and violence had nowhere to go, she formed The Shade Tree. The nonprofit provides shelter, case management, children’s programming, medical support, legal advocacy and employment readiness. Linda Perez, CEO, attributes the nonprofit’s success to the team, community, and the women and children in crisis themselves who choose to find healing. Perez recognizes that the individual wins are greater than any award or recognition The Shade Tree could receive. “It’s the woman who walks out of The Shade Tree with her children, her own apartment keys in hand, and a job offer she earned. It’s a child who starts sleeping through the night again because they finally feel safe. It’s a survivor who comes back years later to volunteer because she wants other women to have what The Shade Tree gave her. Those moments are why we exist,” she said.
Three Square Food Bank, Est. 2007
For almost two decades, Three Square Food Bank has partnered with nonprofit agencies, volunteers, donors, faith-based groups, community leaders and corporations to provide food for the Southern Nevada Community. They currently supply nutritious food to over 377,000 people in need. “Every time we help ensure a family has access to the food they need, it reinforces why this work matters,” Beth Martino, president and CEO, said. “What makes it truly special is knowing we’re not doing it alone.” Martino attributes Three Square’s success to the shared purpose amongst their network of supporters. “At Three Square, our ability to source, warehouse, and distribute millions of pounds of food each year depends entirely on the strength of our partnerships,” Martino said. “At Three Square, we often say it takes a community to feed a community, and I hope our legacy is helping to strengthen that spirit of shared responsibility in Southern Nevada.”
Touro University Nevada, Est. 2004
Touro University Nevada was founded by Dr. Jay Sexter with the intention of meeting the increasing demand for healthcare education in the state. Until that time, Southern Nevada had no medical schools. They have since trained over 10,000 healthcare professionals without a cost to Nevada residents. Touro University set a record this year when 72 doctors chose to stay in Nevada for their residency programs after graduating. “It is one thing to hear the number of new doctors, but it is another when you look at the stage filled with our student doctors and realize we are truly securing the future of healthcare,” Jacqueline Beato, CEO, said. “They will care for hundreds, even thousands, of patients and keeping those patients healthy has ripple effects on their families, careers, and personal goals,” Beato said. This coming year, they hope to expand their reach towards underserved communities, provide more comprehensive care at their Pierce Autism Center, and develop students’ training and simulation experiences so they can better understand and support patients’ mental health.
