The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) announced that it has released an updated 2024 version of the Toolbox, a directory of resources, programs, and strategies available to communities and businesses to support their growth and development. The resource booklet has also been fully translated into Spanish, expanding its accessibility according to a press release by the EDD.
Originally published in 2019, the EDD Toolbox has been a valuable resource used by the department's regional representatives to assist local businesses and communities, according to the press release. Due to its popularity, EDD has continued to update and publish it annually. The Toolbox is divided into two sections, the first listing EDD programs and divisions, and the second containing non-EDD resources, providing a starting point for information searches. It serves as a tool to help users find resources, and local EDD regional representatives are encouraged to assist in navigating potential sources for training, funding, and more according to a press release document by the EDD.
“The Toolbox organizes information that helps businesses and communities throughout the state,” said Deputy Secretary Jon Clark, according to the press release. “We’ve gotten amazing feedback from our folks in the field about how useful this booklet is for their work with constituents, and we are proud to be able to continue to provide this resource as a useful tool for businesses and communities looking for funding or other opportunities.”
On the organization's website, the EDD states that it is dedicated to enhancing economic opportunities and creating a favorable environment for businesses in order to enhance the well-being of New Mexico families. EDD achieves its mission through various programs and initiatives, including the New Mexico Partnership, a public-private organization focused on global marketing to attract new jobs and investments. EDD offers direct assistance to local businesses and communities through its programs, while resources for businesses are accessible in the Business Resource Center. Additionally, EDD oversees several community development programs to further its objectives.