SANTA FE — Navitas Global, an advanced ethanol production facility in Portales, has been awarded LEDA assistance to add jobs and expand operations through a program administered by the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD).
Navitas specializes in converting whey derivatives, a sugar-rich byproduct of dairy processing, into advanced biofuels and high-protein animal feed.
Ethanol, a renewable biofuel made from plants, is gaining attention as a green alternative to fossil fuels. Climate solutions and green and sustainable energy are top priorities for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, whose administration noted it as a target industry for sustainable economic growth.
To better position them for success within the local economy, the NM Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) fund has pledged $800,000 to Navitas Global for the creation of 31 new jobs with an estimated annual payroll of $1.9 million and a capital investment up to $42 million.
"This is a great example of turning yesterday's waste into smart, sustainable economic engines," said EDD Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. "It's creating new jobs, attracting investment, and making use of existing infrastructure — all without placing additional strain on limited water resources."
The New Mexico facility not only contributes to the state's emerging low-carbon economy but also supports local efforts toward sustainable agriculture. It serves as a model for circular economy practices by turning dairy industry byproducts into valuable renewable resources, while minimizing waste and environmental impact.
"We believe Portales is an ideal project location to expand our operations," said Navitas Global Director Eduard Zaydman. "There is an existing ethanol facility that can be easily retrofitted. Several of the world's largest cheese plants are located nearby. Our technology uses very little water, as we generate large amounts of clean water every day during production."
The City of Portales is acting as the fiscal agent for the funds.
"We are very excited to have Navitas Global come to Portales," said City of Portales Mayor Mike Miller. "It will be great to have the property occupied once again, not to mention the jobs and payroll that will be created."
The Navitas facility is located in the city's industrial park at 1827 S. Industrial Dr. The plant was built in 1984 but has been inactive since Abengoa Bioenergy suspended ethanol production at the plant in 2012.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Navitas was also awarded Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) funds from EDD in June to train up to 34 new hires. JTIP reimburses the company a minimum of 50% of trainee wages for up to six months. The jobs being offered by Navitas qualify for higher rates of reimbursement for frontier region location and meeting high wage criteria.
For more information about the LEDA program, visit the page on EDD's website at edd.newmexico.gov/LEDA.
