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Want to Get Involved? Start by Showing Up!  Santa Fe is a community that thrives on participation. With more than 1,000 nonprofits in our city, there are countless ways to give back—and volunteering remains one of the most powerful ways to support causes you care about, build relationships, and stay connected. Whether you're helping at a food pantry, mentoring a student, serving on a board, or greeting guests at a local event, volunteering is more than an act of kindness—it’s an investment in our shared future. It’s also one of the best ways to feel more connected to the place you live and work. At the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, we believe that engagement is good for business and good for the soul. That’s why we’re proud to offer a unique volunteer opportunity through our Ambassador Program—open to any current Chamber member. Chamber Ambassadors are the friendly, enthusiastic individuals you often see at ribbon cuttings, networking events, and Chamber celebrations. They play a vital role in welcoming new members, connecting businesses with resources, and building community one handshake at a time. In return, Ambassadors increase visibility for their own businesses, develop lasting relationships, and stay at the forefront of what’s happening in Santa Fe’s business landscape. It’s a win-win for anyone looking to grow professionally while giving back locally. So if you’re looking for a way to get involved, meet great people, and make a difference—this is your sign. Learn more and apply at santafechamber.com/ambassadors. We’d love to have you on the team.
 On Thursday, April 24, Santa Ana Skin Care Clinic hosted a ribbon cutting celebration featuring their exclusive Sciton Laser and RHA Filler event. Guests enjoyed live demonstrations of advanced laser treatments, complimentary skin consultations, raffles, giveaways, and product specials. The relaxed, welcoming event gave attendees the perfect opportunity to learn more about the latest in skin rejuvenation just in time for summer.
Learn more at santaanaskincare.com. Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development.
On April 3, 2025, the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce welcomed over 1,000 attendees to the 2025 Business Expo, sponsored by Daniels Insurance, Inc., at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. The afternoon was filled with opportunity, energy, and connection as local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members came together under one roof. One of the most exciting parts of this year’s expo was its strong family-friendly presence. Santa Fam celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Coffee & Crying meet-ups with a fun-filled space for families. Children’s entertainment included a Birthday Concert with Jules, a performance by Belisama Irish Dance, and several family-friendly booths—creating an inclusive experience that welcomed attendees of all ages. In addition to the family zone, there was ongoing mainstage entertainment featuring cultural and fitness performances by Ballet Folklórico de Mi Pueblo, Studio Nia, and Kenpo 5.0, keeping the energy high and attendees engaged throughout the event. Dozens of local businesses and Mercado vendors showcased their services and handmade goods, offering attendees a chance to discover new connections and support the local economy. To close out the day, the B2B Cocktail Hour brought professionals together for networking in a more relaxed setting. Sponsored by Tomasita’s and featuring a live DJ from REMIX Audio Bar, it was the perfect way to cap off a day of business-building and community celebration. The 2025 Business Expo was more than just a trade show—it was a vibrant reflection of Santa Fe’s collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial drive, and welcoming community. Thank you to our generous sponsors whose support made the 2025 Business Expo possible! Your commitment to Santa Fe’s business community helped create a vibrant, welcoming, and impactful event. From the booths to the entertainment to the connections made, your contributions were felt in every detail. We’re grateful for your partnership and continued dedication to strengthening our local economy and enriching the Santa Fe experience.
 On Friday, April 4, The Southwest Sanctuary celebrated an exciting new chapter with a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the launch of its CREATOR Self-Led and Supported Retreat. Designed for entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders, this transformative program provides a dedicated space to reflect, innovate, and bring creative visions to life. Guests had the opportunity to learn more about this unique retreat experience while exploring the serene environment of The Southwest Sanctuary.
Learn more at southwestsanctuary.org. Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. Celebrate Business, Culture, and Community at the 2025 Santa Fe Business Expo  The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to invite our entire community to the 2025 Santa Fe Business Expo—happening Thursday, April 3, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. This event is Santa Fe’s biggest and most dynamic celebration of local business. It’s a place where innovation meets opportunity, where business owners, job seekers, families, and community members come together to discover, engage, and connect. Whether you're looking to network, explore new products, or simply enjoy an afternoon filled with entertainment and family-friendly fun, the Business Expo has something for everyone. Attendees will get to experience live performances from Ballet Folklórico de Mi Pueblo, Studio Nia’s surprise flashmob, and a martial arts demo by Kenpo 5.0. Families can enjoy a dedicated Kids’ Corner, school showcases, and even free childcare for children ages 2–12. We’re especially excited to celebrate the first birthday of SantaFAM Crying Moms, a local group bringing energy and connection to Santa Fe parents. Our K-8 School Showcase and open enrollment area is a must-visit for parents interested in learning about education options in our city. The Business Expo is also a chance to explore our vibrant Feria Mercado, featuring local entrepreneurs, artists, and makers offering one-of-a-kind goods. And for those seeking career opportunities, the Hiring Fair connects job seekers with employers from across industries. After the Expo, we invite everyone to stick around for our B2B Cocktail Hour from 6:00 to 7:30 PM—a relaxed, fun-filled mixer with complimentary appetizers by Tomasita’s, a live DJ, and a great chance to continue making connections. At the Chamber, we believe in building bridges between business and community. The 2025 Business Expo is where those bridges come to life. We hope to see you there. For more details, visit santafechamber.com.
 On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, RE/MAX UNLIMITED celebrated the grand opening of their Santa Fe office with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The event marked an exciting milestone for the real estate company, which specializes in luxury, commercial, and ranch properties that showcase the beauty and spirit of the region. Guests had the opportunity to meet the professional team dedicated to providing expert market insights and personalized service.
Learn more about RE/MAX UNLIMITED at remax.com/real-estate-offices/remax-unlimited-santa-fe-nm/102293576. Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. With just four days remaining in the 2025 legislative session, it's been a whirlwind week at the Roundhouse. Several significant business-related developments have taken place, with both victories and ongoing challenges for the business community. Paid Family & Medical Leave Defeated A major point of discussion this session was House Bill 11, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act. The bill failed to advance out of Senate Finance, marking a win for the business community. The Santa Fe Chamber, along with a coalition that included the Greater Albuquerque Chamber, the Hispano Chamber, the Alamogordo and Las Cruces Chambers, the Restaurant Association, and the Hospitality Association, worked diligently to educate lawmakers on the concerns surrounding this bill. Special thanks go to Senate Finance Chair George Muñoz, Vice Chair Benny Shendo, as well as Senators Bobby Gonzales and Pete Campos, for recognizing the need for a more measured approach. This issue is likely to return next year, and discussions will continue on how to create a balanced solution that benefits both employees and employers. Key Bills Signed by the Governor Several high-priority bills have already been signed into law:
Legislation Passed by Both Chambers, Awaiting the Governor’s Action
Major Bills Still in Play With four days left, several significant measures are still making their way through the process:
Looking Ahead As we enter the final days of the session, anything can happen. The budget remains a priority, and last-minute negotiations will determine the fate of many pending bills. The Santa Fe Chamber will continue monitoring developments and advocating for policies that support our business community. Stay tuned for our final post-session update, where we will recap the outcomes and what they mean for businesses in New Mexico.  On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, TEMPLE celebrated the grand opening of their lifestyle store with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Guests explored a beautifully curated selection of home furnishings and gifts from artisans and companies around the world. The event marked an exciting addition to Santa Fe’s retail scene, offering a globally inspired shopping experience.
Learn more about TEMPLE at templesantafe.com. Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. With just 17 days remaining in the legislative session, there is still a significant amount of work to be done. Key legislative priorities continue to move through the process, and the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce is keeping a close eye on developments that will impact the business community. Legislative Progress Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has already signed two major pieces of legislation:
The House and Senate leadership committed to making behavioral health and competency treatment a priority, and they have followed through on that promise. However, with over two weeks left, many bills are still pending, and the state budget remains the top priority. State Budget and Federal Concerns The budget, which passed the House, is now in the Senate Finance Committee for review. A looming concern is potential federal budget cuts, which could have a significant impact on key sectors such as higher education and healthcare. Legislative leaders are considering adjustments to fill potential funding gaps, and there is speculation about a possible special session later in the year to address these issues. Taxation Proposals A proposed tax package is moving quickly through the House, which includes:
While these measures could generate an estimated $500-$600 million annually, they also raise concerns about the impact on industries that have been driving New Mexico’s economic growth. The Chamber will continue to monitor these proposals and advocate for policies that support a healthy business climate. Business-Related Legislation Several bills are of particular interest to the business community:
Workforce and Housing
A Call to Action The Chamber encourages business leaders to stay informed and engage with their elected officials. Visit www.nmlegis.gov to find your representatives, share your perspectives, and provide feedback on legislation that affects the local business community. Recognizing Leadership A special thank you to Bridget Dixon, President & CEO of the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, for her tireless advocacy on behalf of local businesses. Her leadership, along with the efforts of the Chamber team and board, has been instrumental in ensuring that business voices are heard at the Roundhouse. As we approach the final stretch of the session, we remain committed to keeping you updated on key developments. The next legislative update will take place on Wednesday, March 19. If you have concerns or questions, please reach out to the Chamber team. Thank you for staying engaged, and we look forward to the final weeks of this legislative session. |
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May 2025
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