This kind of economic diversification, one that strategically builds upon existing economic strengths, is often the most productive.” “Although the Nevada economy has diversified, it has done so most successfully in areas that can easily link to the hospitality-tourism-gaming infrastructure (sports, for instance). “Gaming remains absolutely crucial to Nevada,” according to Bo Bernhard, Ph.D., executive director of UNLV’s International Gaming Institute. While economic development agencies continue their efforts to diversify the Nevada economy, gaming will continue to be its economic driver for the foreseeable future. In fiscal year 2018, the hospitality industry accounted for nearly 38.9 percent of the state’s total tax revenues and supported 450,100 jobs. Nevada’s gaming industry is the biggest employer in Nevada and the most important sector in the state’s economy.
