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100 Women

Join the initiative and make a difference in the lives of aspiring female entrepreneurs.

About the event

100 Women is a high-impact pitch competition by women, for women, bringing together 100 women to collectively award a $10,000 prize to a woman-led business venture based in Northern Nevada. Hosted in partnership by the University Center for Economic Development, U.S. Bank, and the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN), and supported by generous sponsors, the event celebrates Women’s History Month by advancing women’s entrepreneurship through collective action and direct investment at a brunch-style pitch competition.

The inaugural event will be held  March 12, 2026, during Women’s History Month. Ticket sales launch February 1, 2026. Ticket purchase required to attend – join our mailing list to be notified! 

Calling all woman-founded startups!

Is your startup:

  • Majority woman-owned? 
  • Licensed in Nevada? 
  • Based in Northern Nevada?  
  • Looking for $10,000 to accelerate growth? 

We are looking for three local startups to pitch at the inaugural 100 Women Pitch Competition. Submit your application for a chance to pitch and secure a $10,000 investment!  

Applications close at 11:59 p.m. Friday, Jan 30, 2026. 

Empower women entrepreneurs!

Become a $1,000 sponsor of this impactful and one-of-a-kind event in our region to support women-led startups.

Pitch competition and champagne brunch

100% of the ticket sales for this event will go towards a $10,000 prize for the winner of the pitch competition. This will directly empower women with the resources they need to launch and grow their business.

We are seeking sponsors to help make the event special for the attendees, startup competitors and judges by providing an amazing brunch, beverages and a gift bag.

Your sponsorship will include:

  • A booth at the event
  • Your logo placement on the event website, presentation slides and the printed program
  • Event admission for one person, champagne brunch and a gift bag

Why support women entrepreneurs?

  • Unlock potential: Women entrepreneurs drive innovation and economic growth.
  • Create impact: Your support will help break barriers and foster a more inclusive business landscape.
  • Inspire change: Together, we can build a community that uplifts and empowers women.
People using the co-working space and privacy phone booths at the Â鶹´«Ã½AV Innevation Center

Join the initiative and make a difference in the lives of aspiring female entrepreneurs.

Be part of the inaugural event for this transformative movement. Together, we can make extraordinary things happen!

Learn more

If you'd like to learn more about 100 Women or want to support the event, please email us at acalvillomason@unr.edu or call (775) 682-6719.

Organizing partners

100 Women is brought to you by the University Center for Economic Development, U.S. Bank, and the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN).

Innevation Center logo
US Bank logo
EDAWN logo

About our partnership

After years of dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision for entrepreneurship and innovation in Reno, our organizations are uniting to create something extraordinary. In celebration of Women’s History Month, we proudly present a transformative event designed by women, for women — a powerful step forward in empowering and integrating women into Reno’s entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem. Introducing 100 Women — Reno’s premier female-focused initiative, paving the way for women to lead, grow and thrive in business. Together, we are shaping a brighter future, where women’s success knows no limits.