Taos County Economic Development Corp – Nonprofit serving Northern New Mexico

“As a 501(c)3 CDC, social justice issues are at the core of our endeavors. In our mission to support the food, land, water and cultures of the people of Northern New Mexico, TCEDC has focused on maintaining equity and ownership for land-based people, combatting poverty, as well as providing access to education, business and other sector opportunities.

In this historically agrarian region, the Food Sector represents an appropriate, relevant, and viable economic opportunity as well as a means to hold on to tradition, culture, and quality of life here in the Northern New Mexico region.
The marginalization of this rural community and its ties to agriculture has fueled TCEDC’s efforts to demonstrate that sustainable livelihoods in agricultural and food-related enterprises are vital and successful strategies for limited resource food producers, particularly women and people of color.
TCEDC’s endeavors illuminate the possibilities that exist for communities that engage in support for the values of the people and provide an environment for encouragement and assistance.” – Mercedes Rodriguez, Executive Director

Since Taos County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) was founded in 1987, the challenges facing Northern New Mexico were those of a historic, semi-isolated, rural area transitioning from a centuries old, self-sufficient agrarian base to a commercially focused economy. TCEDC has always operated utilizing a family model in its community development efforts to address these challenges. Our model builds upon the strengths and wisdom of land-based cultures that have demonstrated the ability to survive and overcome adversity by retaining beliefs and values and recognizing the inevitability of cycles.

TCEDC has chosen to work on Community-based Economic Development through value-added and educational opportunities, providing assets and tools for the community that supports and protects the environment of this unique valley. As the gap between rich and poor continues to widen, people’s sense of security, peace and quality of life is grossly unbalanced. TCEDC continues the work to expand and enhance services that provide hope and inspiration. People of all colors and backgrounds have joined together through TCEDC projects and programs in a united effort to focus on implementing strategies to strengthen families and a way of life that puts people first.

Community food security, land tenure and preservation of water rights are primary among the concerns of the peoples of Northern New Mexico and it is impossible to envision quality of life for future generations without continued attention to land care for these vital elements. It is with our most sincere and heartfelt appreciation of this community that we introduce to you the most current activities, programs and projects of TCEDC supporting food, land and cultures of the peoples of Northern, New Mexico.

Partners