The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) has announced a strategic partnership with UNM Rainforest Innovations to support underserved business owners and entrepreneurs in the state. This collaboration brings together the EDD's Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office (JEDI Office) and the New Mexico Tribal Entrepreneurship Enhancement Program (NMTEEP) to provide assistance and opportunities for entrepreneurs.

According to a press release, the EDD's mission is to improve the lives of New Mexico families by increasing economic opportunities and creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. The partnership between the JEDI Office and NMTEEP aims to further these goals by empowering underserved business owners, eliminating barriers to success, and promoting equitable economic opportunities for all New Mexicans.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlines the primary objective of the partnership, which includes facilitating various initiatives such as events, programs, dialogues, marketing, data exchange, and financial education. These initiatives aim to support and uplift underserved entrepreneurial communities. The UNM Rainforest Innovations and EDD programs share a common goal of providing assistance to underserved business proprietors and ensuring that all New Mexicans have equal opportunities to engage in economic and entrepreneurial ventures across the state.

EDD Deputy Secretary Jon Clark expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "By working together, we aim to empower underserved business owners and entrepreneurs, eliminate barriers to success, and promote equitable economic opportunities for all New Mexicans."

Cecilia Pacheco, Program Manager of NMTEEP, also expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "UNM Rainforest Innovations is excited to collaborate with the JEDI Office in our shared mission of supporting entrepreneurs in tribal communities and those affected by coal mine closures. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on economic development and entrepreneurship in New Mexico."

The partnership between the JEDI Office and NMTEEP is expected to create a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for underserved entrepreneurs in New Mexico. Shani Harvie, Coordinator of the JEDI Office, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, "This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of ensuring that all business owners, including indigenous entrepreneurs, and regardless of their background, have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive."

With this collaborative effort, the New Mexico Economic Development Department and UNM Rainforest Innovations are working towards empowering underserved entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth and development throughout the state.