Frederick Steinmann
In October 2023, Nevada received a transformative designation as a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub (Tech Hub) through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).
This designation, established under the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, positions Nevada as a leader in cutting-edge technologies critical to national security and economic advancement. The selection process was highly competitive, with more than 200 consortia vying for a spot among the 31 Tech Hubs chosen. Nevada’s successful bid reflects its robust economic strategy, diverse partnerships, and unique focus on the lithium battery supply chain and electric vehicle (EV) materials.
The Tech Hub initiative aims to accelerate technological innovation in strategic areas, and Nevada stood out for its “cradle-to-cradle” approach. This approach emphasizes the full lifecycle of critical elements — encompassing extraction, processing, manufacturing and recycling — making the state a pivotal player in the global transition to advanced energy technologies. Spanning 16 of Nevada’s 17 counties, the Tech Hub comprises a consortium of more than 80 partners, including state and local governments, tribal entities, industry leaders, and academic institutions. The designation underscores Nevada’s capacity to develop technologies essential for economic resilience, workforce development, and sustainable growth.
The economic implications for Nevada are profound. In July 2024, the state secured $21.5 million in Phase 2 funding, matched by $8.5 million from local and state partners. This funding supports workforce development, supply chain enhancement, and the establishment of a Nevada Lithium Campus. Initiatives such as these aim to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign battery supply chains and address climate challenges by fostering domestic innovation. Additionally, programs like the Nevada Native Nations Center prioritize inclusivity, providing opportunities for Indigenous communities through educational and leadership initiatives.
The success of Nevada’s Tech Hub bid can be attributed, in large part, to the vision and leadership of Dr. Frederick Steinmann, director of the University Center for Economic Development at the University of Nevada, Reno. As the Principal Investigator for the project, Steinmann played a pivotal role in coordinating the state’s consortium and crafting a comprehensive proposal that aligned with federal objectives. His strategic focus on leveraging Nevada’s natural resources and fostering cross-sector collaboration has been instrumental in securing this designation. Steinmann’s efforts ensure that the Tech Hub will not only stimulate Nevada’s economy but also solidify its position as a global leader in advanced energy technologies.
With its Tech Hub designation, Nevada is poised to become a cornerstone of America’s innovation economy. By addressing critical challenges like climate change, supply chain vulnerabilities, and workforce disparities, the state is charting a path toward sustainable growth and technological leadership. As the Tech Hub’s initiatives unfold, Nevada’s contributions will resonate far beyond its borders, driving national progress and global competitiveness.
Steinmann will be the keynote speaker at NCET’s Biz Bit on Jan. 22 at The Par by Parlay 6 in Midtown.
Networking starts at 11 a.m., Steinmann’s presentation starts at noon.
NCET is a member-supported nonprofit organization that produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology.
Dr. Frederick Steinmann, a native of Canada, moved to Reno, in 1991 and began a distinguished academic and professional career in economic development. He earned both a B.S. and an M.S. in economics from the University of Nevada, Reno, and later pursued a doctorate in Policy, Planning, and Development at the University of Southern California, where he studied under the mentorship of Dr. Chester Newland. Dr. Steinmann's dissertation, "The Twilight of the Local Redevelopment Era," examined urban economic development in Nevada and California and reflected his deep interest in local government, economic revitalization, and public policy. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Newland’s guidance and the legacy of his father, Dr. Michael Steinmann, who had also been a USC doctoral graduate, profoundly influenced Frederick's scholarship and professional values.
Dr. Steinmann’s career spans various roles in economic development, including work with the Reno Redevelopment Agency, the Nevada Small Business Development Center, and as Director of the Nevada Leadership Program. In 2022, he was appointed Director of the University Center for Economic Development at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he secured a $1.65 million federal grant to expand the center’s statewide efforts. Under his leadership, the center focuses on supporting small businesses, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering innovation across Nevada, with an emphasis on underserved populations and sustainability. Dr. Steinmann continues to be a driving force in Nevada’s economic growth and resilience through his commitment to applied research, technical assistance, and strategic collaboration with public and private stakeholders.
