We have partnered with the New Mexico Green Chamber of Commerce, a statewide organization whose mission is to foster the success of local economies and promote businesses committed to environmental and social responsibility.

The New Mexico Green Chamber of Commerce (NMGCC) and its local chapters are a coalition of New Mexico-owned, independent businesses, organizations and community members dedicated to building healthy local economies in New Mexico’s diverse communities.

• Building Strong Local Economies: Through programs such as Think Local First, the NMGCC promotes locally owned, independent businesses that contribute to strong local economies. Locally owned businesses recycle a higher percentage of profits back into the local economy. Local businesses keep taxes in our community to support schools, parks, police, fire departments, etc.

• Supporting Green Business Practices: New Mexico’s businesses can contribute to a sustainable future by greening the way that business is done. Through the NMGCC Green Certification program, businesses are provided with resources and steps to make their business more energy efficient thus reducing expenses for business owners and reducing the business’ carbon footprint. This will ultimately improve the quality of life in our communities.

• Promoting Green Businesses to Consumers: The NMGCC offers extensive advertising and promotional opportunities to businesses that participate in the Green Certification and Think Local First Programs. In addition, our online business directory serves as a clearinghouse of information for consumers. Attracting consumers to local and green businesses will encourage sustainable economic development by keeping money in the community as opposed to money leaking to out of state shareholders.

• Creating Economic Development with Clean Energy: The NMGCC seeks to position New Mexico as a leader in creating jobs and investment in New Mexico’s economy with clean, renewable energy. New Mexico is ranked 2nd in the nation for solar potential, 12th for wind potential, and has vast untapped geothermal and biomass resources. The NMGCC is working to promote policies and practices that will create jobs and investment in New Mexico’s local economies through clean energy development.

• Growing Small Businesses: In 2006, small employers in New Mexico accounted for 96.2% of the state’s employers and 57.0% of its private-sector employment. (Source: U.S. Dept. of Commerce: Bureau of the Census.) Recognizing the importance of small business development, the NMGCC is a strong advocate for the interests, development, and growth of small businesses in NM.