New Mexico Sun

Ten projects in New Mexico have received Arts & Cultural District (ACD) Pilot Grants, an initiative designed to stimulate economic development and promote the unique cultural identities of local creative districts. Each selected project is eligible for up to $100,000 to support the implementation of creative programming, bolster local economies, and demonstrate the value of continued investment in arts and culture.

The grants are part of a one-time initiative organized by the Creative Industries Division (CID) of the New Mexico Economic Development Department. The program was developed in collaboration with New Mexico Arts and New Mexico MainStreet. The effort aims to showcase the effects of direct funding for state-authorized ACDs, with anticipated outcomes such as increased foot traffic, improvements to creative infrastructure, adaptive reuse of community spaces like theaters, and growth for district businesses.

Many grant recipients will employ “creative placemaking,” a strategy that weaves art and culture into public spaces to foster community connection and create new economic opportunities.

Cabinet Secretary Rob Black of the New Mexico Economic Development Department stated: “When we invest in New Mexico’s creative people and places, we’re investing in our future. These projects show how art, culture, and community can come together to strengthen neighborhoods, grow local economies, and tell the story of who we are.”

CID Director Shani Harvie commented: “The ACD Pilot demonstrates what happens when we resource creative communities with intention and trust. We are confident this initiative will be a proof of concept that highlights the transformative potential of local creative economies and builds the case for sustainable, long-term investment.”

The department expects that supporting these projects will provide insight into how sustained public investment can benefit both cultural expression and economic vitality across different regions in New Mexico.