Los Alamos National Laboratory has released its annual economic impact report, which underscores the laboratory's financial contributions for the fiscal year 2023. The report, built on a $4 billion budget, includes detailed statistics on procurement dollars, employee salaries by county, small business assistance, and labor union membership.
According to a press release by Los Alamos National Laboratory, the report revealed that in 2023, the lab achieved a historic milestone by employing a record-breaking 15,932 individuals who collectively earned $1.8 billion in salaries. Furthermore, the Laboratory demonstrated its commitment to supporting local businesses by contributing over $930 million and fulfilling its financial responsibilities by paying $155 million in New Mexico gross receipts tax.
"Los Alamos National Laboratory plays a critical role in New Mexico’s economy and its communities," said Thom Mason, the Laboratory Director. "We feel strongly that it is our responsibility as a significant employer in New Mexico to support the places where we live and work."
Brooks Baldwin, acquisition services management division leader at Los Alamos National Laboratory said: "Part of being a force for good in the business community is prioritizing spending with New Mexico businesses, particularly small businesses." He further added: "In FY23, the Laboratory spent $931 million with New Mexico businesses, and of the $1.1 billion we spent with small business nationwide, 56% or $616 million were spent here at home with New Mexico small businesses."
Established in 1943 as part of the Manhattan Project and located approximately 35 miles northwest of Santa Fe, Los Alamos National Laboratory operates as a multi-program research center. Its focus areas include nuclear weapons design and production, addressing nuclear threats and conducting national security science, technology and engineering according to information provided on its About webpage.
