The mission of the New Mexico Economic Development Department is to improve the lives of New Mexico families by increasing economic opportunities and providing a place for businesses to thrive.
Our programs and initiatives support our mission. The New Mexico Partnership is a statutorily-created public-private organization under contract to the department to market the state globally in order to attract new jobs and investment. Department programs provide direct assistance to New Mexico businesses and communities.
The State of New Mexico’s fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30 of each year. During the summer months each state agency compiles a strategic plan of program initiatives, an accompanying budget, and a set of performance metrics that reflect the key work of each of our programs. These documents are submitted to both the executive and legislative branches on September 1. At the end of each fiscal year we report our progress in an annual report. EDD’s strategic plan and quarterly and annual reports can be found on our Publications page.
Rob Black is the Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, leading the state’s efforts to compete in the next generation of innovation-driven industries. Born and raised in Lovington, New Mexico, he is focused on building a resilient, high-wage economy that delivers long-term opportunity for families across the state.
Rob Black is the Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, leading the state’s efforts to compete in the next generation of innovation-driven industries. Born and raised in Lovington, New Mexico, he is focused on building a resilient, high-wage economy that delivers long-term opportunity for families across the state.
As Cabinet Secretary, Black has overseen the launch of a Site Readiness program designed to accelerate business attraction, secured New Mexico’s first fusion energy company, and supported the creation of a $25 million quantum venture studio, and other key efforts that have helped propel New Mexico into the top tier nationally for manufacturing and high-wage job growth. Black brings more than 25 years of experience across the public and private sectors and holds degrees from the University of New Mexico and UC Law San Francisco.
Isaac Romero is a proven leader in public service and economic development. As Deputy Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Economic Development Department, he oversees 74 staff, five divisions, and a $28 million budget while advancing the state’s strategy for sustainable growth. He played an instrumental role in launching New Mexico’s first site readiness initiative and establishing the Technology & Innovation Division, helping position the state as a competitive player in national and global markets.
Before joining state government, Isaac worked in commercial real estate, closing more than $35 million in transactions and supporting business expansion and investment. His commitment to leadership and service spans from serving as student body president at the University of New Mexico to providing fiscal analysis for the state legislature. Across roles, he is focused on strengthening organizations, improving efficiency, and delivering results that benefit New Mexico’s communities.
