$245,000 awarded to fuel New Mexico’s creative business economy

$245,000 awarded to fuel New Mexico’s creative business economy

SANTA FE — Ten creative businesses in New Mexico will share nearly $245,000 in state grant money aimed at helping them improve operations, expand their reach and build long-term stability. Creative businesses use creative means such as design, production, culture or crafts to turn original ideas, artistic talent and innovation into products or services that create economic value.

These Business Development & Expansion Grants, awarded by Economic Development New Mexico Creative Industries Division, are the second batch of awards during fiscal year 2026. Grant applicants represent a wide range of creative disciplines, regions and stages of growth.

“New Mexico’s creative economy fuels innovation, strengthens local identity and supports job growth,” said Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. “These investments support creative businesses that are ready to grow, ensuring they have the tools and stability needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.”

“The Business Development & Expansion Grant continues to demonstrate the power of strategic investment,” said Creative Industries Division Director Shani Harvie. “Awardees in this round are building capacity, expanding access, and deepening the creative impact in communities across the state.”

The following businesses received funding in this round:

Art Eclipse LLC (Cerrillos) $24,000

Seftel Gallery will renovate a historic blacksmith shed into secure art storage and workspace, along with targeted marketing. The project will increase production, protect inventory, and strengthen the gallery’s role as a rural arts destination.

Chandler Broadcasting (Carlsbad) $25,000

KCCC 930 AM will purchase a mobile studio van to expand its “Radio on the Road” program, bringing news and community reporting to rural areas across Eddy County.

CLAY+CODA (Albuquerque) $24,792

CLAY+CODA will upgrade its space with new software, exhibition infrastructure, and a citywide Modernism Map to promote cultural tourism. The project aims to grow its network of consignors and increase revenue.

Cynthia Jones Jewelry (Santa Fe) $24,020

The company will invest in materials and upgrade its online platform to improve production, streamline ordering, and support continued growth.

Invisible Hand Entertainment, LLC (Los Alamos) $25,000

Funding will support new production equipment, stronger digital systems, and expanded mobile creative services, along with more community art events.

Light Art Space (Silver City) $24,593

The organization will install a new HVAC system to allow for year-round programming, including workshops, lectures and exhibitions.

Light Styles of Santa Fe, LLC (Pojoaque) $24,919

The business will purchase new equipment and redesign its website to increase production and improve customer experience.

MAD Embroidery & Ink LLC (Mora) $21,995

The company will add faster, higher-quality printing equipment to improve turnaround times and increase capacity.

Spanish Broom (Corrales) $25,000

The project will focus on strengthening partnerships, expanding production and deepening community engagement.

Tumbleroot Pottery Pub (Santa Fe) $24,880

Tumbleroot will invest in café upgrades and marketing to expand hours, create jobs, and offer more hands-on arts experiences.

###