Shani Harvie, Creative Industries Director | New Mexico Economic Development Department
Established creative businesses in New Mexico now have the opportunity to apply for state grants of up to $25,000. The funding is designed to strengthen business operations and support long-term growth.
The Business Development & Expansion Grant Program is managed by the Creative Industries Division within the New Mexico Economic Development Department. The program is open to for-profit creative businesses that have been operating for at least three years. Its purpose is to help these businesses improve infrastructure, marketing, and sustainability.
“New Mexico’s creative businesses are key players in developing community culture and driving economic development,” said Shani Harvie, director of the Creative Industries Division. “This grant helps smaller creative enterprises leverage state funding into tangible growth and helps position them competitively with other enterprises.”
Eligible applicants can submit one application per fiscal year. The first cycle runs from December 1 through December 26, closing at 6 pm Mountain Time. The second cycle will be held from February 2 through February 27, 2026, also closing at 6 pm Mountain Time. An informational webinar about the program will take place on December 5 at 10 am.
Previous recipients of this grant have used it in various ways to benefit their communities. T.Skies Jewelry in Albuquerque formed a national partnership with Polo Ralph Lauren featuring locally made leather belts and expanded its KITA co-op program to assist Native American students with educational expenses.
Paseo Pottery in Santa Fe increased group programming and started a mobile pottery experience that combines cultural tourism with arts education and community giving, collaborating with Bishop’s Lodge and the International Folk Art Market. The business organizes monthly Pottery Throw Downs that raise funds for nonprofit organizations; so far, they have donated more than $118,000 to nonprofits in Santa Fe.
“The $10,000 award has already made a huge impact for Paseo Pottery and for our community,” said Angela Kirkman, owner of Paseo Pottery. “We were able to purchase five new wheels and officially launch our new ‘Paseo Pottery Pop-Up’ program, where we bring pottery to you.”
STEMarts Lab in El Prado worked with the Taos Bureau of Land Management field office on the Astro Trail project—an initiative using augmented reality exhibits on public trails that combine science education with Indigenous cultural storytelling. Funding also allowed STEMarts Lab to expand its train-the-trainer programs where students move from apprenticeships into instructor roles; these programs now reach twelve rural communities across New Mexico including Taos Pueblo, Farmington, Vadito, Angel Fire, Santo Domingo Pueblo, and Heron Lake.
More information about eligibility requirements as well as details about how to apply or register for upcoming virtual sessions can be found on the department's website.
