The City of Albuquerque Economic Development Department received two major awards from the New Mexico Economic Development Association (NM IDEA) during the 2025 Governor’s Economic Development Conference held at Isleta Resort & Casino.
Job Training Albuquerque (JTA), a city initiative launched in 2020, earned the 2025 Talent Development & Retention Award. The program has provided job-ready skills to over 3,700 workers and collaborated with nearly 400 local businesses. It has facilitated the creation of more than 1,500 new jobs and generated upwards of $78 million in annual added earning power. The average wage growth for participants stands at 25 percent. JTA also aims to support female, minority, and LGBTQ-owned businesses as part of its goal to promote inclusive economic development in Albuquerque.
In addition, the city partnered with Vitality Works to win the 2025 Urban Project of the Year Award for “Vitality Works: Growing National Success While Investing Locally in Albuquerque.” This project demonstrates how a local company can achieve national expansion while reinvesting in its home community. Support from both the City of Albuquerque and the State Economic Development Department includes up to $600,000 through Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) funding—$500,000 from state sources and $100,000 from city funds.
Mayor Tim Keller stated: “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. Together, they reflect our city’s commitment to innovation, opportunity, and economic growth.”
The NM IDEA Economic Development Excellence Awards began in 2024 to recognize initiatives that help diversify New Mexico’s economy by engaging local talent and promoting innovation.
Director of Economic Development Max Gruner said: “We are honored to see both workforce development and business expansion efforts in Albuquerque recognized at the state level. 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 an awards breakfast on September 25 as part of the conference.
