In fiscal year 2016 the Certified Communities Initiative (CCI) evolved into the LEADS Program. LEADS is a funding program for economic development projects that produce sustainable outcomes. The funding provided through LEADS is intended to create jobs through recruitment, retention/expansion and startup activities; develop the tax base; and provide incentives for business development. LEADS applications will be evaluated based on these objectives.
Projects may be awarded $5,000 to $25,000 per year and funding is awarded through a cost reimbursement contract. EDD will reimburse the project applicant for work performed and/or costs incurred by the applicant up to the total amount specified in the grant. Reimbursement will be made only upon completion of the project and submittal of a project report.
Read the FY23 LEADS Policy Manual for more information.
The LEADS Program is administered by the Community, Business and Rural Development Team. Team members will work with communities to identify projects and prepare the FY23 LEADS application.
The webinar will provide an overview of the LEADS program, application process. timeline, and online application. LEADS applicants will be required to meet with their regional representative for a pre-application consultation and attend or view the webinar to apply for funding.
Click here to register for the webinar. We look forward to seeing you there!
New Mexico Economic
Development Department
Joseph M. Montoya Building
1100 S. St. Francis Drive
Santa Fe, NM 87505-4147
Mailing Address:
New Mexico Economic
Development Department
P.O. Box 20003
Santa Fe, NM 87504-5003
Main number: (505) 827-0300 (se habla español)
Fax: (505) 827-0328
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.