Buildwise with Homewise

The nonprofit organization Homewise, known for supporting homeownership and communities, is offering up to $850 of business consultation services for free to businesses in the construction industry. The Buildwise program offers individual consulting and networking events with industry peers and experts to help contractors and construction businesses develop the skills and resources needed to build a successful business.

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Start Up Forum Sept. 4-5 in Albuquerque

Startups, entrepreneurs, innovators, support organizations, local and state government, and anyone engaged in the innovation ecosystem in New Mexico should attend the New Mexico Startup Forum September 4-5, 2024 at Isleta Resort and Casino in Albuquerque. The event features more than 55 speakers on topics ranging from bringing products to market to accessing capital.

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Route 66 Centennial Business Grant

A new microgrant program has been created to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and help support businesses and attractions owned or operated by a woman or a group of women that are located along the route. Businesses that meet eligibility criteria must apply by August 26, 2024, for the current round of ten $2,000 grants.

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The Loan Fund Helps Fund Building Purchase

Brandy Castillo, MS, MSW, LCSW-S, created her behavioral health company in 2013 when she was starting a family and looking for a way to build a home-based practice. Clients were seen at her home on an old farm just outside of the City of Belen in Valencia County, New Mexico.

In 2018, the business name was officially changed to Hearth & Soul of New Mexico when Brandy’s husband Ignacio became co-owner and billing manager after retiring from the New Mexico Department of Corrections.

The business, which is rooted in compassion, expanded to offer services in Mesilla and Albuquerque. Heart & Soul aims to foster a supportive environment that encourages growth, self-discovery, and the realization of one’s fullest potential. Its 35 healthcare providers and staff specialize in a wide range of behavioral health services, including therapy and psychiatry to treat depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, and more. It does this through individual and group therapy, psychiatry, and enhanced case management.

In January 2024, Brandy went to The Loan Fund for financial help to purchase a building in downtown Belen, where she could serve more clients from a central location.

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Calling All Creative Entrepreneurs

DreamSpring, a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Small Business Administration (SBA) lender, has launched a new loan and technical assistance program designed specifically for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the creative industries. DreamCreative, with support from Etsy’s Uplift Fund, offers personalized funding solutions and complementary business education crafted for creative small businesses. 

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New to Loans? This Will Help

The nonprofit business development organization WESST is offering a workshop to introduce small business owners and entrepreneurs to its lending program, which includes SBA loans. Participants will learn about the 5 C’s of credit as they pertain to the lending industry in general vs how WESST determines loans. Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the next steps.

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