Many members of Cuba’s business community attended an economic growth-focused event at the Eichwald Center on Aug. 5. Business owners and officials explored opportunities to boost the village’s economy and support local businesses.
The event was organized by Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernandez’s office in collaboration with the Rural Development Corporation (RDC), a nonprofit dedicated to diversifying and strengthening the economy in northern New Mexico. RDC focuses on business retention and the expansion of existing or early stage businesses, making direct investments through various grant programs.
“We were there really for a couple of purposes,” Pat Vanderpool, the executive director of RDC, said. “One was to talk to the community and listen to the community about what their goals are, and then the other was to start connecting with some of those small businesses that we hope we can provide some services to.”
According to Richard Lavallee, RDC’s business outreach specialist, approximately 22 people attended the event, including Cuba Mayor Denny Herrera, County Manager Wayne Johnson and several local business owners.
Conversations at the event highlighted the significant impact of the Navajo Nation on Cuba.
According to Vanderpool, the RDC plans to connect with local initiatives, such as supporting one woman’s effort to start a growers’ market. RDC has a partnership with the Santa Fe Farmers Market Institute, which serves the Cuba area, and will facilitate this connection to provide additional support.
“The first challenge is the fact that a community like Cuba is a bit like an island,” Vanderpool said. “They feel disconnected from what’s available.”
He said Highway 550 is the “lifeblood” of Cuba, with about 10,000 cars passing through daily. This high traffic volume presents numerous opportunities to expand services and offerings for travelers.
The next step for the RDC is to follow up with the businesses they connected with, assessing their needs and determining what support or funding they may require for community entrepreneurship programs.
For More InformationBusinesses and community members interested in support opportunities can reach out to the Rural Development Corporation at info@rdcnm.org or 505-820-1226.