CNM Ingenuity is hosting its popular Ski Lift Pitch at Taos Ski Valley on Thursday, February 23, 2023. Startups have already been selected to pitch, but entrepreneurs can learn what venture capitalists look for in a fundable start-up by attending the event. Fund managers representing more than $300 million in investable capital from funds around the country are expected to attend.
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New Mexico GRT – Confusing for Many
New Mexico’s Gross Receipts Tax system has always been somewhat confusing. Unlike many states that require businesses to collect a tax on product sales (referred to as a sales tax), New Mexico’s tax applies to the sale of products and services.
Continue readingBlack Business Summit Kicks Off Black History Month
The City of Albuquerque, in collaboration with a multitude of partners, is kicking off Black History Month with a summit that aims to equip Black entrepreneurs and business owners with the resources to help their businesses grow. February is Black History Month, and the summit will take place February 7 and 8 at the Albuquerque Convention Center.
Continue readingNew Tool Helps Creators Identify Their IP
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has launched a new tool to help those unfamiliar with Intellectual Property (IP) identify whether they have or need protections to support and advance their business, invention, or brand. The tool helps users identify a person’s or company’s intellectual property, and provides easily digestible information on intellectual property – patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
Continue readingStore Front Repair Program to Offer $2,500
The Las Cruces Bulletin has reported that eligible Las Cruces businesses may apply for a grant of up to $2,500 to help repair storefront property damage that occurred on or after Jan. 1, 2021. According to the article, applications will be accepted starting Feb. 1, 2023, until the program funding runs out. The Las Cruces Economic Development Department will manage the program.
Continue readingGas Service Company Grows with Help from LiftFund
After years of working for a large corporation in the gas & propane industry, Randy Peralta decided to pursue his own entrepreneurial project that would allow him to draw on his experience and be his own boss. In 2021, Peralta launched Gas Register Specialty Services, known as GRS Services, a mobile gas meter calibration company. Peralta’s specialty business serves commercial clients from Lea to San Juan counties.
While 28 years of technical experience in the propane industry were imperative for the nature of work that GRS Services set out to offer, operating a sole proprietorship did not come without its challenges.
“Having experience in the propane industry did not necessarily prepare me to handle all of the business and operational aspects,” said Peralta, adding that while he learned a lot in the field during his years in the industry, financial reporting and project management were new to him. He also needed to attend what he calls ‘meter school’ to be able to legally calibrate both electronic and mechanical meters.
Continue readingSprints Propel Businesses Off the Starting Block
Arrowhead Center at New Mexico State University is accepting applications for several upcoming business sprint programs. BizSprint Roswell, a 6-week business acceleration program for startups and existing businesses located in the city of Roswell, is accepting applications until the end of the day on February 6, 2023. AgSprint, another 6-week business acceleration program — this one for existing or aspiring agricultural businesses located anywhere in the state — is accepting applications until February 15. And Feb. 27 is the deadline for San Miguel County businesses to apply to join the BizSprint San Miguel cohort.
Continue readingAbq Sunport Looking for Vendors
According to a January 18 Albuquerque Journal article, the Albuquerque International Sunport is undergoing renovations that will make room for up to ten retail businesses and 16 concessions. Renovations are expected to be completed by the end of 2024, and the airport authority plans to issue an RFP seeking retail vendors by the end of March 2023.
Continue readingHomewise Partners with The Life Link
One of the toughest challenges that cities face is navigating how to best help people who are struggling with homelessness and mental health challenges.
The Life Link is a remarkable organization that provides Santa Fe with the services needed to help people at critical transition points – whether it be recovery from addiction or adjusting to life outside of incarceration.
Continue readingSBA Looking for Rural, Women-Owned Businesses
Women-owned small business owners located in rural areas are invited to apply to join the US Small Business Administration’s free Ascent Rural program. Ascent offers group virtual learning sessions that provide a forum for program participants to meet with other women who have been selected for the upcoming Ascent cohort. The program is a combination of online self-guided learning using the Ascent platform, as well as group virtual sessions.
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