Secretary-Designate Rob Black of the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) has outlined the agency’s budget priorities for the fiscal year 2026, focusing on bipartisan initiatives to diversify the state’s economy and create high-paying jobs. Under the leadership of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, New Mexico has seen significant growth in manufacturing job growth and average weekly wages.
The EDD’s budget priorities include increased funding for programs such as the New Mexico Partnership, Job Training Incentive Program, and the Outdoor Recreation Division, aiming to attract companies to the state and support job creation. Additionally, the agency has requested special appropriations for initiatives like the Local Economic Development Act, Media Arts Academy, Outdoor Equity Fund, and Healthy Food Financing Grants.
Outside of the budget, the EDD is also supporting legislation to enhance site readiness, infrastructure deployment, and regulatory transparency to further economic development in the state. Black emphasized the importance of these initiatives in building a more secure future for New Mexico’s families.
Source
Photo credit ladailypost.com
