Albuquerque Economic Development is collaborating with UNM Anderson School of Management for the first of a series of action-oriented competitiveness programs with a focus on regional collaboration and innovation.

[GREATER ALBUQUERQUE, NM, August 2, 2021] – A new series of sessions focusing on working together to advance the New Mexico economy will kick off Sept. 16 with a half-day session featuring a showcase of research and analysis projects recently completed by UNM Anderson in support of AED strategic initiatives.

“Anderson’s partnership with AED aligns with our commitment to help advance New Mexico’s economy,” said Mitzi Montoya, Anderson School dean. “This series of working sessions is part of a larger vision to combine the energy and ingenuity of our business leaders, policy makers, educators, nonprofits and stakeholders to work collectively toward achieving inclusive prosperity.”

Early in the process, the AED team developed a list of areas of research and analysis needed, and Anderson fellows have been tackling each item, all through a regional lens.

“Having students as well as the talented faculty overseeing their work delve into research on topics from business retention to innovation assets and talent attraction best practices has been very insightful, as they have the ability to look at opportunities and challenges through a fresh lens,” commented Danielle Casey, President & CEO of AED.

In addition to project presentations that will include breakout group discussions with a goal of identifying actionable next steps, guest keynote speaker Christiana McFarland, PhD, Research Director for the National League of Cities Center for City Solutions, will discuss the findings of a recently published national report regarding developing regional economic connectivity and the interdependence of urban and rural segments of regional economies.

The program will also include a panel discussion of local experts reflecting on the student presentations, the criticality and interconnectedness of regions and mega-regions, and steps to developing a truly inclusive innovation ecosystem for New Mexico.

For more information or to register for this program, visit www.ABQ.org/events.