New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and NMexus have announced the launch of a global business accelerator and commercialization center aimed at increasing foreign direct investment in New Mexico. The announcement was made at the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Maryland.
The NMexus Center, located in Albuquerque's Mesa del Sol innovation district, is designed to support companies from India, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia as they expand into New Mexico and the U.S. market. "Today’s exciting announcement is the result of my administration’s strategic efforts to recruit and retain new businesses in New Mexico," said Gov. Lujan Grisham.
The first group of companies setting up operations includes firms from India and Oman such as Zonap Engineering India, Alligator Automations, DCirrus, Inc., Supreme Technology, American Grain Corporation, Oliver Merino LLC, and Ardic. The center plans to accommodate up to 40 companies annually and is projected to create nearly 100 jobs in its first year with potential growth to 1,500 jobs over five years.
Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Rob Black stated that "today marks a new chapter for New Mexico," highlighting the state's growing status as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). Under Governor Lujan Grisham's leadership, New Mexico has attracted $2.57 billion in foreign investments.
Amar Vakil, Executive Director of NMexus, emphasized Mesa del Sol's advantages for international businesses due to its affordability and access to research institutions. Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller noted that the project will help companies transition from entry-level operations to expansion within North America.
Governor Lujan Grisham also announced partnerships with IIT Kanpur, Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Oman Business Network, and Traders Advocacy Group of Ghana. These collaborations aim to position New Mexico as a gateway for foreign businesses entering North America while promoting joint research initiatives on cybersecurity and sustainable energy technologies.
Following this week's summit participation in Maryland by state representatives, delegations from India and Ghana are expected to visit New Mexico for the official opening of the NMexus Center. Melinda Allen of the New Mexico Partnership expressed enthusiasm about attracting additional FDI through this initiative.