SANTA FE, N.M. – This spring, New Mexico is launching a statewide event series to support its creative economy. The events will offer business education, networking, and resources for artists and creative professionals. The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) announced the initiative to help creative workers turn ideas into income, grow small businesses, and connect communities with state support.
NM CreativeCon will bring together creative entrepreneurs, policymakers, community leaders, and industry partners through regional events culminating in a statewide gathering in Albuquerque in June. Organizers say the events will feature workshops, panels, and hands-on learning, all designed around local strengths and resources.
The Creative Industries Division of the EDD is leading this effort to create more economic opportunities for New Mexicans through creative businesses. Its mission is to build a strong creative sector that supports business growth, workforce training, and community success. Grants, technical assistance, and networking are central to this mission.
“The creative economy is one of New Mexico’s most powerful economic assets, and CreativeCon is about helping people find the tools to turn artistic passion into professional opportunities,” said Shani Harvie, director of the Creative Industries Division.
This event series comes as New Mexico focuses on growing its creative sector as a key part of the economy. Creative industries such as visual and performing arts, digital media, and design contribute billions annually to the state’s economy and support many small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Many creative professionals need business education and networking to succeed. Unlike established industries, creative work often relies on income from freelancing, contracts, grants, and small businesses. Programs like CreativeCon offer resources that help artists and creative entrepreneurs learn business basics, secure funding or support, and connect with peers in their field.
Local economic development in New Mexico now views the creative economy as a key area for growth. Recently, a state investment program awarded over $460,000 in grants to support the growth of the creative ecosystem, workforce training, and business incubation across the state.
Organizers say events like CreativeCon show how creative assets support community revitalization, workforce development, and tourism. The agenda includes visits to historic theaters and cultural venues in remote and rural areas, bringing economic activity and resources to local creatives who might not otherwise have access.
For entrepreneurs building creative businesses, the series offers practical guidance and networking opportunities. The statewide event in Albuquerque will feature panels for hobbyists looking to become professionals, business owners seeking to grow, and civic leaders interested in incorporating creative industries into local development plans.
Registration for regional CreativeCon events is now open, and more details about the statewide Albuquerque event will be shared soon. Organizers encourage everyone in the creative community to join, saying the series highlights New Mexico’s commitment to building a stronger, more diverse, and inclusive economy.
Key Details About NM CreativeCon
- Statewide reach: NM CreativeCon will take place in five regions across New Mexico: Carlsbad, Raton, Gallup, Silver City, and Pueblo of Pojoaque. The series will wrap up with a statewide event in Albuquerque in June.
- Designed for creative business growth, the program will cover topics including entrepreneurship, artistic development, business planning, and collaboration.
- Partnerships and support: Regional and state partners include the New Mexico Marketing Center of Excellence, New Mexico Arts, Meta, New Mexico Tourism, and the Department of Workforce Solutions, among others.