Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) — New Mexico Community Capital (NMCC) has been selected as a recipient of the Downtown Storefront Activation Grant Program, receiving a $75,000 grant from the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA). The funds will enable the nonprofit organization to expand their impact and continue their vital work in the heart of Downtown Albuquerque.
With this funding, NMCC will be leasing an additional 4,000 square feet of space in the historic Occidental Life Building at 3rd and Gold, adding to their existing 4,000 square feet. This expansion is set to bring about transformative changes, as the newly acquired space will be thoughtfully renovated to create a multi-cultural community gathering hall, a wellness center, and a seed vault, all set to be operational by the summer of 2024.
“Thanks to this funding, New Mexico Community Capital will work to uplift a larger community space in the Occidental Building in Downtown Albuquerque. We envision the space as a cultural hub of diverse leaders and entrepreneurs creating both belonging, and a thriving marketplace and networking space for our community,” said NMCC Executive Director Liz Gamboa. “Featuring a gathering hall, wellness space, and seed library, we believe the expansion project will be a catalyst to the revitalization of downtown.”
NMCC’s mission is deeply rooted in their commitment to reshaping the landscape of Native-owned businesses. They do this by providing tailored mentorship, financial literacy, digital skills programs, and specialized technical assistance and services for tribes and tribal enterprises. NMCC operates to empower Indigenous communities throughout New Mexico and across the United States by equipping them with the tools necessary for economic success and sustainability.
“When local nonprofit organizations like NMCC leverage the resources and support provided by the City, it creates a benefit to our whole community and our families,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Together we are creating a stronger, more diverse city center.”
“NMCC’s expansion will not only help invigorate downtown Albuquerque but also align with our commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future,” said MRA Director Terry Brunner. “The Downtown Storefront Activation Grant Program continues to be a catalyst for positive change in our community; fostering innovation, economic growth, and the revitalization of our downtown area.”
The Downtown Storefront Activation program is designed to support thriving urban districts, with goals to attract established businesses with an existing customer base; improve safety by increasing foot traffic to new businesses; decrease the number of vacant commercial spaces in Downtown Albuquerque; and create an attractive physical environment with well-designed and engaging storefronts. There are more recipients in the final stages of the process. Applications are still being accepted!
More details on the application process can be found at cabq.gov/storefront. For questions, email storefrontgrants@cabq.gov or call 505-810-7502.
