UNM-Taos HIVE has received a $30,000 New Mexico Incubator Certification Support (ICS) grant to help advance certification of the HIVE Pollinator business incubator program through the state’s Certified Business Incubator Program. The funding will strengthen entrepreneurial support services in Northern New Mexico and expand resources for local startups and small business owners.
The HIVE, a partnership between UNM-Taos, Kit Carson Electric Co-op, and the Taos Community Foundation, provides year-round business incubation, mentorship, and technical assistance to approximately 1,700 to 2,000 entrepreneurs each quarter. The grant builds on recent momentum for HIVE, including the launch of the Advanced Energy Innovation Bridge with KCEC, which helps energy startups pilot new technologies in real-world settings.
“We greatly appreciate the state’s investment and vote of confidence as we work toward achieving certification and enhancing the resources available to local entrepreneurs,” said Rose Reza, HIVE executive director.
Looking ahead, the HIVE also plans to establish an additional office at the BRIC (Business Resource and Innovation Center in Taos), bringing entrepreneurship and workforce development programming to the center.