SANTA FE, N.M. – The New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division (ORD), a division of the N.M. Economic Development Department (EDD), announced the 2021 Outdoor Recreation Division Business Accelerator Grant opportunity.

This grant will invest in business accelerators that support both early stage and established outdoor recreation businesses to help them grow and thrive in New Mexico. The grants will be awarded to accelerators with a proven track record and well-developed plan to help individuals and companies improve their business plans, hire New Mexicans, and amplify the state’s reputation as a leader in the outdoor industry.

Grants of up to $20,000 will be awarded to the highest-scoring accelerators that emphasize improving businesses’ digital presences, job creation, and rural economic development. Applicants must articulate a clear strategy to reach and recruit outdoor recreation specific companies.

Entities eligible to apply include tribal governments; universities and colleges; school districts; municipalities; and counties. Nonprofits and private businesses are not eligible to apply, but may partner with an eligible applicant.

Applications are due Friday, April 30 and awards will be announced by May 10.

“This new accelerator grant will help outdoor recreation businesses throughout the state take their vision to the next level,” ORD Director Axie Navas said. “The strongest applicants to this new grant program will have a clear-eyed plan to support these new and established outdoor recreation companies achieve their goals and further New Mexico’s reputation as an outdoor recreation capital.”

Apply here: https://nmoutside.submittable.com/submit 

For more information on the 2021 Outdoor Recreation Division Business Accelerator grant requirements and to access the online application, please visit nmoutside.com.