UNLV and Caesars Entertainment Announces the Creation of “Black Fire Innovation”

UNLV and Caesars Entertainment have announced the creation of “Black Fire Innovation,” a technology hub where new gaming and hospitality concepts will be created and tested.

The 43,000 square-foot innovation space will include elements of mock hotel rooms, a casino floor and sportsbook, an esports arena and virtual reality facilities. Black Fire Innovation brings the university’s academic leaders and Caesars Entertainment, one of the world’s most diversified casino-entertainment providers, together in one space to advance current trends in hospitality and gaming technology to propel the industry forward. The complex is expected to open by the end of 2019.

“This collaboration with Caesars Entertainment will strengthen UNLV’s role as a research and innovation leader and further elevate Las Vegas as the global intellectual capital for gaming and hospitality. Collaborations like Black Fire Innovation also give our students unparalleled access to experts at the forefront of the industry. It’s an experience unique to Las Vegas that we’re proud to offer at UNLV,” UNLV President Marta Meana said.

“We intend to accelerate innovation in a way that is truly unprecedented within the gaming and hospitality space, bringing together top researchers and industry experts in a unique collaborative environment. Working side-by-side and with emerging student talent, technology partners and the community through this technology hub, Black Fire Innovation is designed to spur the creativity and entrepreneurship that will shape the future of our industry for many years to come,” Les Ottolenghi, Caesars Entertainment Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer said.