​​Businesses make an economy. And strong businesses are the foundation for a strong economy. I was reminded of the important role Chambers of Commerce have in cities when I recently attended the New Mexico Chamber Association conference in Albuquerque. When you blend the membership of hundreds of strong businesses with the Chamber, the collaboration drives innovative solutions and opportunities. Below are five of the Chamber’s initiatives that benefit all Santa Feans.​

Addressing Crime and Supporting Local Businesses
In partnership the New Mexico Organized Retail Crime Association (NMORCA), we provide businesses with resources, education, and safety tools to combat retail crime. We will soon have a page on our website to offer information and support to businesses, and I have been meeting with elected officials to explore programs and innovative solutions that can help local businesses.

Celebrating Diversity and Supporting Entrepreneurs
Our Feria events support Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs and has engaged a growing and powerful community. This year-round initiative is a prime example of how we promote diversity and offer budding entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their goods and services to the community.

Enhancing Workforce Development
Our Workforce and Education Committee has developed informative workshops with community partners tailored to the needs of our business community. This includes upcoming workshops in Spanish to help people start a food business and a Mastery Course to become an Independent Contractor.

Networking and Community Engagement
Networking is the heartbeat of our mission. Because this is the way we build business—by building relationships. We host events that connect businesses with potential partners and customers. Mark your calendar for our annual Women’s Leadership Luncheon on November 1st that celebrates female leadership and supports women in business.

It is in these ways and more that Chambers of Commerce play a crucial role in supporting local businesses and fostering community collaboration. As a member of the Santa Fe Chamber, businesses access valuable resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to ensure a thriving local economy.

Whether you are a solopreneur, startup, small business, large corporation, or a nonprofit, we invite you to be part of the change and support our vibrant business community. Together, we can address local challenges, celebrate diversity, and drive economic growth. Visit santafechamber.com or call 505-988-3279 to learn more and become a member today. Your involvement is crucial in shaping the future of our business community and enhancing the quality of life in Santa Fe.

​The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce had a beautiful day on the green at the Santa Fe Country Club on Monday, August 26, for the annual Banking on Birdies golf tournament presented by Enterprise Bank & Trust! Congratulations to our winners: First Place—Red or Green Properties, Second Place—Capitol Ford, Third Place—ExxonMobil, and a special shoutout to La Fonda Hospitality Group for their "Best Effort." A big thank you to all participants and sponsors for your endless support and making this event such a great success!

​As the Voice of the Business Community, the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce advocates for issues impacting businesses, and the lack of quality childcare options is a significant problem in our city. Without accessible and affordable childcare, many parents find it difficult to maintain a job.

The Chamber is committed to addressing this issue through programming, surveys, and legislation aimed at expanding and improving childcare options. Childcare is one of the top obstacles for working parents, not only as a significant monthly expense but also due to the scarcity of providers.

The importance of childcare was underscored during a recent Early Childhood Summit hosted by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham at Santa Fe’s Bishop’s Lodge. Over 100 lawmakers, officials, business owners, and tribal leaders gathered to discuss the future of early childhood programs in New Mexico. The Chamber had the honor of participating in a panel conversation during this conference, providing a valuable opportunity to share some of the successes we've achieved through our collaboration with Growing Up New Mexico.

Gov. Lujan Grisham shared her vision for a universally accessible early childcare and education network in the state, emphasizing support for the workforce in this field. She highlighted the need for more choices for parents and for providers to incentivize the childcare workforce and create better opportunities for all.

Early Childhood Education and Care Department Cabinet Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky noted that New Mexico now has “the best-resourced early childhood system in the nation.” By fiscal year 2027, the state expects to serve 99,200 children statewide, with significant growth in childcare and Pre-K program enrollments.

As our community’s children continue to enjoy their summer break, consider offering flexible hours to your employees or hiring college students to babysit or take your staff’s children on educational field trips. These are just a few ways to support Santa Fe’s families. I cordially invite you to join our movement in support of our growing households and families that need childcare. For more information, call (505) 988-3279. Our future, our businesses, and our children depend on our support and advocacy.

Together, let’s make a difference for our community’s families.

​Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. Celebratory cupcakes generously provided by Sam's Club.