SANTA FE, N.M. – The New Mexico Economic Development Department's Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Office has launched a new tool that will connect New Mexicans to business, entrepreneurial, and community resources from across the state, Acting Cabinet Secretary Mark Roper announced today. 

New Mexico Economic Development Department Business Resource Map is now live on the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) website at  edd.newmexico.gov/resource-map .

"At the core of this initiative lies the JEDI office's unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth, by addressing barriers to economic development," Roper said. "This new tool will empower entrepreneurs and communities to connect to the vibrant economic landscape of New Mexico by providing a comprehensive directory of support services, programs, and resources. The Business Resource Map also includes a statewide community calendar highlighting events, grants, and funding opportunities to help business owners connect and find support systems that will help them succeed and create jobs." 

"We are incredibly excited to introduce this invaluable resource to the entrepreneurial community in New Mexico," Shani Harvie, program manager and coordinator for the JEDI Office, said. "Our office is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all entrepreneurs, and this tool will be instrumental in achieving that." Harvie also thanked JEDI Coordinator Rita Veleta for leading the effort.

Central to the success of this project was the statewide strategic plan, "Empower and Collaborate - New Mexico's Economic Path Forward," which in part seeks "to build a diverse and robust economy that engages local talent, cultivates innovation, and delivers prosperity for all New Mexicans."  

"We are proud to partner with EDD to support the launch of the statewide resource map for entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses in New Mexico," said David Ponraj, founder and CEO of Economic Impact Catalyst (EIC), the contractor behind the development of the tool. "Through this platform, businesses will be able to find resources and providers that can help them access funding sources like grant and loan programs, attend workshops and events, and obtain resources that can democratize access to support, enabling them to start and grow their businesses."

The new online resource will better align the efforts of stakeholders in New Mexico's economic development ecosystem, encouraging the collaboration and engagement of key stakeholders from various sectors including government agencies, educational institutions, and industry associations. 

The JEDI Office encourages organizations to take a look at their listings and submit changes or add resources they may have missed by clicking on the "Submit an Update or Resource Listing" button at the bottom of the webpage. "This tool was built for businesses and communities, and we need your help to make it everything it has the potential to be," Harvie said. 

For more information and to explore the Business Resource Map, or to submit changes please visit https://edd.newmexico.gov/resource-map / and click the button to submit changes at the bottom of the webpage.