Over 30 people packed “The Grill” restaurant inside the Monte Carlo on the morning of Wednesday, May 7, for the Questa Business Bridge Networking & Support Services breakfast meeting. Attendees included active business owners operating in and around Questa and those interested in learning about possible avenues to launch and grow their business ideas. Regardless of entrepreneurial status, there was something for everyone, along with a delicious complimentary breakfast provided by “The Grill” and purchased by the LOR Foundation.
Facilitated by Director of the Questa Economic Development Fund (QEDF) Lynn Skall, the meeting focused on the needs of current business owners and prospective entrepreneurs. A warm welcome by QEDF Chair Malaquias Rael was followed by brief introductions by all attendees. Guests heard from 11 presenters on services and resources they can provide to business owners to help establish and grow businesses.
Presenters offered information on a range of services:
- The LOR Foundation detailed their support for innovative projects (up to $25,000) focused on community wellness and social well-being.
- Lynn Skall provided an overview of the funding sources and initiatives in the works by QEDF, including dedication to workforce housing, business retention and expansion, outdoor recreation, production and publication of the Questa del Rio News, area tourism and promotion campaigns, water, agriculture, and sustainability efforts.
- Manager Katherine Flory of the Questa Credit Union highlighted their new business commercial loan offerings.
- Peter Mitchell with the New Mexico economic development department shared information from the state’s business toolbox, jam-packed with a variety of resources to help businesses thrive and grow, from job training, incentives, small business funding, grants, and more.
- Louise Majorey of the Regional Development Corporation discussed the micro-grant program for businesses, with applications opening June 2.
- Alex Lugo of the New Mexico Small Business Assistance program, representing Los Alamos and Sandia National Labs, shared that the labs provide technical assistance for small businesses to help solve challenges and create job growth.
- Representatives from the Carson National Forest provided details on the process for getting USFS outfitter and guide permits.
- Seth Williams of the University of New Mexico HIVE in Taos described their technology resources, business coaching, and free business-oriented workshops.
The meeting also highlighted two new initiatives:
- Questa Business Bridge (QBB) Pitch Contest: QBB is launching a funding contest for new and existing businesses with up to $20,000 in grant funding to help your business launch or your existing business add services or equipment. Applications are due June 25, 2025. Contact Monica Boyle at QBB-Coordinator@QuestaEDF.com or Lynn Skall at lynn@QuestaEDF.com; (575) 586-2149 for details and to request an application.
- Women of Impact: A new networking group for women in and around Questa who are current or aspiring business owners or women who are making positive impacts within the community. The first meeting is June 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the LOR Foundation building, 62 Highway 38, Questa, NM 87556, with quarterly meetings to follow. Contact Lora Arciniega at arciniegalora@gmail.com for more information.
Authors
-
-
Experience working with the USDA Forest Service and extensive knowledge of the northern region, while maintaining and fostering strong community relationships remain a big priority.
View all posts