Economic Development

Promoting the economic vitality of Douglas County is one of several strategic directions embraced by the County’s five-member Board of Commissioners in 2006.

The Board believes that "the proper mix of economic development increases the number of jobs, tax base, purchasing power, diversity, and the availability of goods and services," and that "a vibrant economy benefits the whole community by providing the means to meet public service obligations and expectations."

Economic Development is a team effort in Douglas County. Staff from the Manager’s Office and Community Development Department team together with the Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA), the Nevada Small Business Development Center (NSBDC) and the local Chambers of Commerce to promote business retention and expansion for existing County businesses, and relocation of new businesses to Douglas County.  NNDA also works with neighboring rural counties on economic development activities.  For more information on neighboring counties visit their site. 

Douglas County Snapshot:

The County was established in 1861. Minden, the County seat, has a population of almost 3,000 people. With over 8,000 in population, the Minden/Gardnerville town core is reminiscent of Rockwell’s Americana. The major employers are in the fields of gaming and tourism, research and manufacturing, government and services. Douglas County offers the facilities and amenities of a metropolitan area, yet remains pleasantly rural with easy access to all services.

Douglas County is 751 square miles in area, the fourth most populated county in Nevada with some 50,000 residents. It’s proximity to the Reno, Carson City, and California markets are leveraged for major business opportunities from a small town atmosphere. As the gateway to outdoor adventure, its boundaries encompass the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe as well as the Carson River and Topaz Lake. Significant BLM and US Forest Land holdings provide a unique setting and opportunity for high desert and backcountry adventures on horseback or off road vehicles. Elevations vary from a low of 4,625 feet on the valley floor to a high of 9,500 feet in the Sierra Nevada. An arid climate prevails with warm summers, moderate winters, and cool night temperatures year around. is one of several strategic directions embraced by the County’s five-member Board of Commissioners in 2006.

What More Information about the County?  – Click here for link to the Opportunity Package