Certified EDO Program
Certified Economic Development Organization Program
Economic Development Department New Mexico recognizes its partner Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) that provide a high level of professional service to their communities.
Through the Certified Economic Development Organization program EDNM supports local EDOs to build capacity within their organizations so that they are able to provide Economic Development services and support to their communities. The program emphasizes the importance of having a strong, well-rounded, and well-prepared EDO at the community level.
Program Objectives
- Recognize excellence in local EDOs
- Heighten the visibility of the economic development process in New Mexico
- Build capacity for economic development among organizations
- Encourage professional development for New Mexico’s economic developers
- Facilitate the recruitment, retention, expansion, and creation of economic-base jobs throughout New Mexico
- Establish a stable, diversified economy that will improve the quality of life for New Mexicans
Certified EDOs will receive funding from EDNM (subject to availability) up to $40,000 annually. A year-end report is required of all grantees. The certification is a two-year grant, renewable for up to 10 years through a recertification process. Recertification may be allowed provided:
- There have been no significant changes in organizational structure
- There have been no reductions in staffing
Website is up to date - All other recertification requirements have been met
Eligible Applicants
New Mexican not-for-profit organizations that are public-private partnerships with the primary purpose of developing the economic base in their community are eligible to apply to become an EDNM Certified EDO.
Eligible Expenses
Sustainable functions of an EDO will be taken into consideration, including but not limited to:
- Marketing events (trade shows & sales missions), booth rental, travel expenses
- Additional staff costs over and above (1) full-time position.
- Advertising costs actual ad placement or time purchased. Not for printing, web design, or production costs
The Process
Recertification: EDO’s wishing to recertify will be invited to join an optional webinar. Contact your regional rep to recieve an invitation.
New Applicants:
- Contact your regional rep to determine eligibility.
- Regional reps will give the applicants information to attend a mandatory pre-application webinar.
- Qualified applicants will be contacted to schedule a site visit.
- Once the site visit is complete, awardees will be notified of certification status by the regional rep.