Programs & Initiatives

We support businesses by connecting them to essential resources and community networks, and—through a focus on collaboration and increasing awareness of available opportunities—we have developed and implemented several key events and programs, including:

• Business Navigator Program
  
  In partnership with NMSU’s Arrowhead Center, this program connects entrepreneurs with an in-person coordinator or resource partners to guide them through every step of starting a business—and includes a small microgrant to support early-stage needs.
   
• Office Hours
  
  Each month, we hold office hours from 10 AM - 2 PM at two locations to connect entrepreneurs and small businesses to the resources they need to grow and succeed. Schedule an appointment at the location of your choice below for a one-on-one conversation to receive the support you and your business need to grow and succeed.
   
  • First Monday at the Santa Fe Business Incubator
  • Last Monday at the Del Norte Credit Union on Cerrillos 
     
• Santa Fe Business 101
  
  Held quarterly, this workshop brings together key City departments to streamline the business startup process, clarify requirements, and empower entrepreneurs to launch with confidence.
   
• Small Business Finance Fairs
  
  Quarterly events hosted across the city with rotating themes—grants, venture capital, commercial loans, and more—these events connect local businesses with essential financial resources and expert support to help them grow and thrive.
   
• Center for Responsible Entrepreneurship
  
  A partnership between the City of Santa Fe and the University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Management. This initiative equips entrepreneurs with tools to launch and scale ventures that prioritize community impact, sustainability, and ethical business practices. Programs include Beyond Profit Series, mentorship, workshops, and access to a statewide network of investors and experts.
   
• Tribal Business Liaison with UNM Rainforest
  
  Through our partnership with the UNM Rainforest Innovations, we support a dedicated Tribal Business Liaison role to strengthen Native entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development across the region. The Liaison works directly with Tribal communities and Indigenous business owners to provide culturally informed technical assistance, access to capital, and connection to broader innovation and startup ecosystems—ensuring Native voices and ventures are part of Santa Fe’s economic future.

Building a strong economy takes collaboration. We work to break down communication barriers and connect businesses across sectors to increase awareness of available support. By strengthening these connections, we help ensure all communities and industries in Santa Fe can access the resources they need to grow.

• Coffee + Collab
  
  Held in rotating locations across town, these quarterly gatherings are for local economic development organizations to connect, share resources, and stay up to date on new initiatives, programs, and partnerships that can strengthen Santa Fe’s business ecosystem.
   
• Industry Meet-Ups
  
  We host regular meetups and networking events for key sectors—outdoor recreation, workforce, bioscience, and film—to build community, exchange ideas, and spark collaboration.
   
• Community Events and Organizations
  
  Our team proudly supports local events, programs, and initiatives that enhance Santa Fe’s cultural vibrancy, strengthen businesses, support job creation, and improve quality of life. These efforts deliver meaningful impact through partnerships with a wide range of community organizations.

Workforce development is the foundation to creating sustainable jobs and improving quality of life in Santa Fe. We partner with local schools and community organizations to connect residents of all ages to meaningful opportunities. Through training programs, apprenticeships, and career pathways, we help align local talent with the evolving needs of our business community.

For more details on our Workforce programs and initiatives, click here.

This team focuses on managing City-owned assets—such as real estate and facilities—to support economic development priorities. For more details, see the Real Estate page.

Reliable internet is essential to Santa Fe’s growth, equity, and connectedness. In partnership with the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion, we are working to expand access, improve infrastructure, and ensure all communities have the connectivity they need to prosper.

Economic mobility means creating real pathways for individuals to grow, adapt, and pursue opportunities—including entrepreneurship. By removing barriers for workers and employers, we’re building a more inclusive and resilient economy for all.

This includes efforts like expanding Spanish-language outreach, improving financial literacy and empowerment, increasing access to childcare, and coordinating with the Office of Affordable Housing to support stability and opportunity for Santa Fe families.

We also support a Living Wage.

We’ve completed Phase 1 of our strategic planning process, which focused on data collection and community input. This work lays the foundation for updating the City’s Economic Development Plan, replacing the original 2004 version. Phase 2 will launch in 2025, shifting toward strategy development and implementation.