UNLV and Boyd Gaming Team Up for Hospitality Innovation

The leading American gaming and hospitality company, Boyd Gaming Corporation, announced a new initiative that seeks to promote hospitality innovation in Southern Nevada. The company confirmed recently that it finalized a lease and sponsorship agreement with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Under the terms of the collaboration, Boyd Gaming will bring its Boyd Innovation Lab to UNLV’s Black Fire Innovation building located at the university’s Harry Reid Research and Technology Park.

The collaboration is expected to create new opportunities for Boyd Gaming that will ultimately help shape the future of the gaming and hospitality sector in the region. Relocating to the UNLV economic development facility, the company’s innovation team will collaborate with university students, as well as entrepreneurs and organizations that contribute to the economic development of the region.

Per the new deal, Boyd Gaming will collaborate with UNLV, supporting internships for its students. Additionally, its Boyd Innovation Lab will collaborate with the university for the development of research and activations that can showcase new ideas.

Thanks to the recently finalized five-year lease and sponsorship agreement, Boyd gained access to research facilities and offices that can support different development opportunities and student internships. The duo vowed to also collaborate for the improvement of the functionality of the hospitality lab at UNLV’s facility.

Black Fire Innovation building features four floors and offers a unique “unique innovation ecosystem where technology and talent converge to diversify and grow Southern Nevada’s economy,” reveals the UNLV. The building features laboratories, offices and environments that can be used to present new technologies within the hospitality, entertainment and gaming sectors, providing an opportunity for businesses, entrepreneurs and students.

The New Collaboration Brings Excitement to Boyd Gaming

Keith Smith, Boyd’s president and CEO, revealed that the company is thrilled to expand its collaboration with the UNLV. Last but not least, he pointed out: “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.”

“We are excited to expand Boyd’s long-term partnership with UNLV through our residency at Black Fire.“

Keith Smith, president and CEO at Boyd Gaming

Keith E. Whitfield, UNLV’s president, was also delighted about the new lease and sponsorship agreement with the leading gaming and hospitality operator. He predicted the collaboration will help connect students with Boyd, allowing them to brainstorm ideas and opportunities. Finally, Whitfield explained that the agreement presents UNLV’s students with unique opportunities to turn their ideas into real products, businesses and technology by collaborating with experts.