The University of New Mexico (UNM) has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) Innovation Award by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) for its outstanding contributions to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-based economic development.
UNM has implemented a multi-faceted approach to support entrepreneurship both on campus and across the state. The university has led a statewide initiative to share resources and knowledge with current and aspiring entrepreneurs, partnering with civic and private sector organizations to cultivate a thriving start-up ecosystem. Notably, UNM’s New Mexico Tribal Entrepreneurship Enhancement Program, supported by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, has made significant strides in engaging Indigenous entrepreneurs, helping to overcome barriers to business creation, and connecting tribal communities with resources. Since its inception, the program has mentored nearly 60 Indigenous entrepreneurs.
“This award highlights the strength of our collaborative ecosystem, where research, entrepreneurship, and community engagement come together to create a lasting impact,” said Lisa Kuuttila, CEO and Chief Economic Development Officer of UNM Rainforest Innovations. “It reflects how we are working to drive economic prosperity across New Mexico and beyond, ensuring entrepreneurs have the resources and support they need to succeed.”
In addition to these programs, UNM’s broader entrepreneurial impact is clear in its impressive economic contributions. In 2021, UNM-supported startups generated a $55.4 million economic impact. The university has also been a leader in research and innovation, with 885 U.S. patents issued and 170 start-up companies spun off from technology developed at UNM.
These efforts reflect the university’s deep commitment to driving economic growth and fostering innovation, particularly in underserved and Indigenous communities.
For more information, read the APLU’s November 12 article, “APLU Names Winners of 2024 Innovation & Economic Prosperity Awards,” here: https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/news/aplu-names-winners-of-2024-innovation-economic-prosperity-awards/
Also read the UNM Newsroom article, “APLU names UNM as a 2024 Innovation & Economic Prosperity winner,” here: https://news.unm.edu/news/aplu-names-unm-as-a-2024-innovation-economic-prosperity-awards-winner