City’s Small Business Office Receives Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development Award

ALBUQUERQUE – The City of Albuquerque’s Small Business Office (SBO) has been named the inaugural recipient of the Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development Award by New Mexico IDEA, the statewide economic development professional association. The award highlights the SBO’s innovative efforts to foster an entrepreneurial culture and support the growth of small businesses in Albuquerque.

The Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development Award honors programs that implement creative and effective strategies to cultivate entrepreneurship in a community, region, or statewide. After a thorough review of award submissions, the SBO was selected for its commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs and creating a vibrant business environment.

“By supporting local businesses, we’re building a more resilient and vibrant Albuquerque" said Mayor Tim Keller. "Listening to and working with small business owners continues to be a top priority for the City."

"I hope this award shines a spotlight on the Small Business Office, encouraging more entrepreneurs to take advantage of the valuable programs we provide," said Economic Development Director Max Gruner. "Our mission is to help businesses thrive in Albuquerque."

The New Mexico IDEA Economic Development Excellence Awards were established to recognize initiatives that contribute to a diverse and thriving economy by engaging local talent, nurturing innovation, and promoting prosperity for all New Mexicans.

The award was presented at the Governor's Conference on Economic Development during the Awards Breakfast on Thursday, September 26, at Isleta Resort & Casino.

The SBO, part of the City of Albuquerque’s Economic Development Department, serves as a central resource for entrepreneurs and small businesses, offering timely and actionable support. Since its inception in 2019, the SBO has helped businesses start, grow, and relocate in Albuquerque by connecting owners to city services, assisting with permits, licenses, and procurement processes.

For more information, visit cabq.gov/economicdevelopment.