Economic Development

Why Albuquerque

Albuquerque is New Mexico’s urban center. With one of the fastest growing job markets and the 32nd largest city in the United States, Albuquerque is a top mid-sized city on the rise! Albuquerque’s economy is emerging with strength in the areas of directed energy, commercial aerospace, film and digital media, and technology. Not only is Albuquerque a great place to do business, but also a place with an excellent quality of life. We invite you to find out for yourself why Albuquerque is the place to be.

Central Avenue and Downtown Albuquerque at Night from a high vantage point.

Business Development

The Economic Development Department is focused on recruiting companies from specific industries that build on Albuquerque’s strengths and assets. Albuquerque welcomes businesses of all sizes and types, from start up’s to expansions and relocations of global businesses. We support new enterprise creation, cluster development, and strategic attraction and recruitment of businesses that align with and complement existing strengths.

Small Business Development

Small business is the backbone of our economy. Supporting its growth and empowering the entrepreneurs who lead them is the core of our economic development strategy. Learn more about programs in place to assist Albuquerque small businesses.

A man picking up food from a food truck.

International Business Development

Capitalizing on our unique placement along two major interstates, an international airport, and a foreign trade zone, Albuquerque is a strategic location for foreign small to medium-sized enterprises.

The Albuquerque Skyline, Rio Grande River, and Sandia Mountains

Workforce Development

Albuquerque offers a young, affordable, talented, innovative, and smart workforce. With an accredited research university and an innovative community college, Albuquerque has a deep talent pool to recruit from for employment. Our community is nimble and eager when it comes to workforce development programs that provide employers with the talent they need.

Three workers at the Air Force Research Lab

Albuquerque Film Office

Film and TV has become an important part of our creative economy, providing high-paying creative and technical jobs and benefiting other industries and businesses. We support this rapidly expanding industry by serving as a liaison between City agencies, the community, and productions. We maintain Albuquerque's safety and well-being by providing resources and support to productions, oversee permitting for City property, and ensure film and TV guidelines are upheld.

The Creative Economy + Tourism

Albuquerque’s entrepreneurial spirit is strong and an inherent part of Albuquerque's culture. From artists and makers, to film tourism and beer tourism, the creative economy and tourism industry are key components of the economic vitality of Albuquerque.

About the Office of Economic Development

The Office of Economic Development was created to promote and facilitate business development, create and implement economic development strategy, and strengthen ties with the private sector. The department is made up of about 15 passionate individuals who are working hard daily to move Albuquerque forward.