News and Articles

06/03/2025

Dream of Starting an Outdoor Adventure Business? Santa Fe County and City of Santa Fe Invite Outdoor Entrepreneurs to Connect

Santa Fe, NM – New Mexico’s outdoor recreation economy is thriving, and Santa Fe County and the City of Santa Fe want to meet you if you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own outdoor business.

Whether you're an aspiring trail guide, gear manufacturer, bike mechanic, or someone with a bold idea to rent or sell outdoor equipment, this is your chance to connect. Santa Fe County Economic Development, in collaboration with the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development, is hosting two in-person gatherings to meet current and future outdoor recreation entrepreneurs, share available resources, and spark new business ideas.

Event Dates and Locations:

Tuesday, June 24, 2025, | 8:30–10:00 a.m. | Buffalo Thunder Resort (30 Buffalo Thunder Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87506)

Thursday, June 26, 2025, | 9:00–10:30 a.m. | Stanley Cyclone Center (22 W Kinsell Ave, Stanley, NM 87056)

“With the steady growth of New Mexico’s outdoor economy, now is a great time to turn that dream into a business, especially for those interested in trail, wheel, snow, or water-based recreation,” said Juan Torres, Santa Fe County Economic Development Manager. “The County and City are eager to support local entrepreneurs and help new outdoor recreation ventures take root and thrive. These events are all about making those first connections.”

“We are committed to supporting efforts to grow the outdoor recreation economy in our region,” said Ricardo Cunha, event manager at Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder. “We are proud to sponsor Santa Fe’s upcoming outdoor recreation meet-up on June 24th here at the hotel. This gathering nicely complements Buffalo Thunder’s Outdoor Expo, scheduled for June 28-29, 2025.    

The outdoor recreation meet-ups are free events and an open invitation to anyone in the region who is passionate about the outdoors and considering starting a business. 

“Even if the idea is a long way off, we still encourage people to join us,” added Torres. “It's a fun and informal way to get to know local government, network with other outdoor enthusiasts, and learn about the support services available to launch and grow an outdoor enterprise.”

To learn more about Santa Fe County Economic Development, visit:
santafecountynm.gov/community-development

For additional information, please contact Juan E. Torres, Santa Fe County Economic Development Manager, at jetorres@santafecountynm.gov, or Lelia Shadabi, Economic Development Specialist, at lshadabi@santafecountynm.gov.

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