Two City Programs Win Statewide Recognition

ALBUQUERQUE – The City of Albuquerque Economic Development Department was honored with two top awards New Mexico’s Economic Development Association (NM IDEA) during the 2025 Governor’s Economic Development Conference at Isleta Resort & Casino.

The City’s Job Training Albuquerque (JTA) initiative received the 2025 Talent Development & Retention Award, recognizing its impact in strengthening workforce skills, expanding employment opportunities, building talent pipelines, and supporting untapped talent pools. Since its launch in 2020, Job Training Albuquerque (JTA) has empowered more than 3,700 workers with job-ready skills and partnered with nearly 400 local businesses. The program has helped create over 1,500 new jobs, generated more than $78 million in annual added earning power, and achieved 25 percent average wage growth. JTA has also expanded opportunities for female, minority, and LGBTQ-owned businesses, ensuring that Albuquerque’s growth is inclusive and far-reaching.

The City along with Vitality Works also received the 2025 Urban Project of the Year Award for “Vitality Works: Growing National Success While Investing Locally in Albuquerque.” The recognition highlights Vitality Works’ expansion and investment in Albuquerque, showcasing the success of a local company scaling nationally while reinvesting in its home community. The City of Albuquerque, in partnership with the State Economic Development Department, is supporting Vitality Works with a total of up to $600,000 in Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) funding. This includes up to $500,000 in State LEDA funds, and $100,000 in City LEDA.

“Job Training Albuquerque is creating pathways for our residents to succeed in good-paying careers, and Vitality Works is proving that homegrown businesses can expand nationally while continuing to invest right here at home,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Together, they reflect our city’s commitment to innovation, opportunity, and economic growth.”

The NM IDEA Economic Development Excellence Awards were launched in 2024 to celebrate impactful projects and initiatives that create a diverse and robust economy by engaging local talent, cultivating innovation, and delivering prosperity across New Mexico.

“We are honored to see both workforce development and business expansion efforts in Albuquerque recognized at the state level,” said Director of Economic Development Director Max Gruner. “These wins highlight the dedication of our staff, the strength of our business community, and the partnerships that make economic growth possible.”

The awards were presented during the Governor’s Economic Development Conference Awards Breakfast on September 25.