We’ve lost a giant. Ryan Smith, the driving force behind so much of our city's transformation and a cherished friend, left us suddenly. As the Economic and Urban Development Director, Ryan was instrumental in reshaping the landscapes of downtown, the Arts District, the Historic Westside, and more. His efforts laid the groundwork for a vibrant, thriving community—a place many of us are proud to call home and where our businesses flourish.
Ryan was far more than a city official; he was a visionary whose influence deeply permeated the entrepreneurial community. His initiatives profoundly changed our city's developmental trajectory, creating spaces where innovation and creativity could thrive. Ryan's work was not merely about constructing buildings and spaces; it was about nurturing an ecosystem conducive to the growth of startups and numerous other ventures.
My introduction to Ryan came unexpectedly, through a cold call that spoke volumes about the kind of person he was. He reached out to our office at Influential, surprised that a significant VC-backed startup was just a stone's throw from city hall without any prior contact with the city. What started as a lunch between strangers quickly blossomed into a fast friendship, founded on mutual respect and shared aspirations for our community. Ryan's interest in Influential and his ambition to cultivate a startup ecosystem inspired me to embark on founding StartUp Vegas. His support and insights were crucial in launching or scaling initiatives like Tech Alley, the Startup Ecosystem Breakfast, Vegas Tech Summit, and StartUpNV, which have become foundational elements of our dynamic startup scene.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ryan was a man of profound character and warmth. For those of us fortunate enough to know him beyond the confines of city hall, Ryan stood as a beacon of kindness, a devoted father to his two daughters, and a friend who infused our lives with laughter and light.
The void left by Ryan's passing is profound, impacting not just the cityscape he helped transform but also the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was a genuine partner to the entrepreneurial community, a friend who championed the power of collaboration and the significance of giving back, always asking how he could help and check-in on progress.
As we grieve Ryan's loss, we also celebrate the enduring legacy he leaves—a city forever bettered by his contributions and a community galvanized by his vision and dedication. Ryan, thank you for believing in us, for challenging us to excel, and for imprinting an indelible mark on our lives and our city. Your memory will forever guide us as we continue to build upon the community you so passionately helped shape.
Your friend,
Piotr Tomasik
