Southwest New Mexico ACT exists to preserve, enhance, and sustain rural economic development initiatives and the creative economy in southwestern New Mexico. We spearhead community collaboration through cultural and historic preservation; sponsor and engage the region in arts and cultural events; inspire and promote outdoor recreation, education, and tourism initiatives.
We would like to welcome Lucy Whitmarsh who has returned to swnmACT as our new Executive Director of out board of directors. Lucy is a member of the swnmACT founding Board of Directors from when swnmACT was incorporated in 2014. Also we'd like to welcome Cate Bradley who has joined the swnmACT team as a member of the board of directors.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Celebrates Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund with N.M. Leaders
New Report Shows Legacy Fund Supporting 185 projects in All 33 N.M. Counties
Silver City, N.M. On July 17, 2025 a coalition of New Mexico organizations released a report for the first fiscal year of the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund - New Mexico's first state funding source for land and water conservation, outdoor recreation, agriculture and working lands, historic preservation and wildlife species protection.
The first year success was celebrated at an event at the Waterworks Site in Silver City on Thursday, July 17 with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, House Appropriations & Finance Chair Rep. Small (D-Las Cruces), and local leaders in Grant County.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ENCHANTMENT LEGACY FUND!
In 2019, a handful of community-minded visionaries birthed the Five Points initiative - a project that connects five Grant County communities by way of restoration of historic buildings and surrounding lands, and ultimately connecting these sites by a multi-modal trail.
This project involves five distinctive historic properties located in proximity to U.S Highway 180 with significant potential to become the driving force behind community development and economic development; connecting and sharing heritage, cultures, and creative initiatives. This restoration project will serve as a visual and action-based means towards re-energizing our rural communities in Grant County. The intent of this initiative, beyond renovating physical structures, is to elevate and celebrate the pride of our complex culture & history, uniting and inspiring Grant County residents to work collaboratively and creatively towards a common goal, Juntos Podemos (Together We Can)!
Current Five Points Sites across Grant County:
The Historic Waterworks Site, Silver City
The Whiskey Creek Zocalo, Arenas Valley
The Bradley Hotel, Santa Clara
The Union Hall, Bayard
The Hurley Train Station, Hurley
The development of each site is driven by local community history, cultures and people sharing stories, and is a collaborative effort between local municipalities, community members, businesses, non-profits, schools, and supporters.
Between 2020 and now, Grant County CO.STARTERS, under the administration and coordination of swnmACT, has hosted a total of FOURTEEN 10-week cohorts, equipped 107 program graduates, and celebrated the opening of 47 local businesses!!!
Throughout this year, we have hosted a 10-week cohort in the Spring, a CO.STARTERS “Generator” program for local youth, another one 10-week cohort will be held in the Fall, AND a Grant County CO.STARTERS meet and greet hosted in the Main Street Plaza at the Makers Market on September 13th from 10 AM - 2 PM!
If have an idea for a business and are interested in entrepreneurship, the next CO.STARTERS Cohort will be from 10/7/2025 - 12/9/2025. SIGN UP TODAY to reserve your spot!
