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Arts & Cultural District (ACD) Program for Santa Fe County Communities

Santa Fe County communities may be eligible to participate in the Arts & Cultural District (ACD) program, a state initiative that supports cultural and economic development through place-based revitalization projects. The program is coordinated by New Mexico MainStreet and authorized by New Mexico Arts (NM|A).

Who Can Apply?

While originally intended for municipalities, unincorporated communities and tribal governments with populations under 50,000 may also apply.

Getting Started

Communities interested in becoming a state-authorized ACD must:

• Form a local steering committee (at least 5 committed stakeholders)
• Have a local government partner, such as the County
• Identify a specific cultural/economic development project
• Coordinate with the ACD State Coordinator at New Mexico MainStreet

New Mexico MainStreet can help the community understand the process, develop the project scope, and provide technical assistance along the way.

Application and Authorization

Once a project is defined, the local group works with MainStreet to submit an application. The New Mexico Arts Commission reviews and approves applications twice a year. Up to five ACDs may be authorized annually.

The process may take 12–18 months, starting with project planning and potentially leading to full MainStreet affiliation.

County Role

We in the County can sponsor and support applications from unincorporated communities by:

• Providing formal letters of endorsement
• Participating in the steering committee
• Supporting post-authorization activities

Support & Funding

Although state funding is not regularly provided, communities may access:

• Technical assistance from state agencies and nonprofit partners
• Historic tax credits
• Planning and cultural development guidance

Ongoing Requirements

Designated ACDs must report annually to the Arts Commission on progress, project outcomes, and community impacts.

Interested? Contact Us

If your community is interested in learning more about the ACD program or beginning the process, please contact the Santa Fe County Economic Development Division for guidance and support.