Jan. 23—While the federal government works to end diversity, equity and inclusion programs, the state of New Mexico is rolling out new grants to support such efforts.
The Economic Development Department's Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office Thursday announced its first round of grants, which will fund programs that aim to support the growth of socially and economically disadvantaged business owners and entrepreneurs, according to EDD officials.
The state general fund budget for the current fiscal year included the money for the grants, said Bruce Krasnow, a spokesperson for the EDD.
The grants were announced days after President Donald Trump issued an order "ending illegal discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity," which pertained to diversity, equity and inclusion policies within executive departments and agencies.
The executive order won't affect New Mexico government, Krasnow said.
"We're still committed to those programs and initiatives," he said.
The state grants announced Thursday totaled $50,000.
Krasnow said 106 entities submitted applications for the grants and 29 were considered in a second round. A committee scores each application and five received the funding.
"This initiative goes to the core of the state's strategic economic plan in furthering assistance to underrepresented and underserved businesses, delivering services to those most in need," said Rob Black, the EDD secretary-designate.
The recipients were:
—The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce received $15,000 to support bilingual training, mentorship and resources for businesses.
—The Downtown ABQ MainStreet Initiative received $15,000 to support the Downtown area.
—The New Mexico Startup Alliance received $15,000 to support its Guerilla Marketing Bootcamp.
—The New Mexico Immigrant Law Center received $2,500 to assist the center in helping immigrants.
—The Santa Fe Farmers' Market Institute received $2,500 to increase access to fresh, local food.