UNLV, Boyd close agreement to bring the Boyd Innovation Lab to the university’s Black Fire Innovation building

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and Boyd Gaming have finalized a lease and partnership agreement to establish the Boyd Innovation Lab within UNLV's Black Fire Innovation building, located at the UNLV Harry Reid Research and Technology Park.

This collaboration aims to advance innovation within the hospitality sector in Southern Nevada and has received approval from the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents on September 8th.

Under the agreement, Boyd Gaming's innovation team will relocate to the UNLV economic development facility, providing them access to an environment for testing and refining "next-generation" technologies and ideas relevant to the hospitality and gaming industries.

This move will also facilitate direct engagement with UNLV, local entrepreneurs, and various organizations dedicated to advancing economic development in the region.

UNLV President Keith E. Whitfield expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating: “UNLV’s collaboration with Boyd Gaming will create a dynamic innovation environment for our students and faculty, giving them new and unique opportunities to learn and work alongside a longtime industry partner to turn ideas into real technology, products, and businesses.”

As part of the collaboration, Boyd Gaming will support internships for UNLV students, offer expertise for university-based and corporate research and development, and establish its Boyd Innovation Lab within the facility. This initiative will intensify the company's efforts to accelerate the development of innovative prototypes and ideas.

Keith Smith, President and CEO of Boyd Gaming, emphasized the company's commitment to technological innovation, stating: “Memorable and distinctive guest service is the foundation of the Boyd brand, and our commitment to technological innovation allows us to continue delivering on that promise, giving us unique new tools and methods for engaging our customers both on and off-property.”

UNLV's Black Fire Innovation building, a four-story facility, aims to serve as an innovation ecosystem where technology and talent converge to diversify and grow Southern Nevada's economy. The facility includes a fully equipped, 43,000-square-foot living laboratory that showcases emerging technologies in gaming, hospitality, esports, and entertainment.

The five-year lease and sponsorship agreement between Boyd Gaming and UNLV includes access to office and research space, support for student internships, and collaborative research and development opportunities.