New Mexico has long been known as a destination for outdoor recreation, and now you have the opportunity to take part in the think tank that makes it all happen. The 6th annual statewide Outdoor Economics Conference, which focuses on issues connected to the state’s growing outdoor economy, takes place this year at the Santa Fe Convention Center, October 23 – 25, 2023. Join top leaders in government, tourism, and advocacy organizations as they meet and discuss topics related to growing the state’s billion-dollar outdoor recreation industry.
The ultimate goal of the New Mexico Outdoor Economics Conference is to help advance economic development strategies and opportunities connected to protected public lands. It will highlight successful community economic development efforts within and outside of New Mexico that are connected to protected lands. It will also focus on the development of governmental policies and local entrepreneurship connected to these opportunities.
What You Can Expect
As in past years, the 2023 Outdoor Economics Conference will cover a wide variety of topics, including outdoor marketing, community infrastructure, small business development, sustainability, outdoor equity, and more. It will also showcase regional and statewide outdoor recreation-based companies, organizations, and products. Activities will include panel discussions, forums for outdoor companies, outdoor trips to regional hot spots, and evening networking receptions.
Among the trips scheduled during the Outdoor Economics Conference are visits to The New Mexico Wildlife Center, Valles Caldera National Preserve, Santa Fe’s Urban Bikeway and Trail System, Puye Cliff Dwellings, Caja Del Rio and Diablo Canyon, and more. Offering first-hand looks at the kinds of outdoor recreational opportunities available just within short distances from Santa Fe, Outdoor Economics Conference attendees will gain an appreciation for the kinds of experiences only New Mexico can offer.
“We’re excited to host this conference recognizing the growing importance of the outdoor economy to the whole state and to Santa Fe,” said Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber. “This is another important step in diversifying our economy around the special attributes of our community.”
Santa Fe County Commission Chair Anna Hansen added “Santa Fe County is thrilled to co-host the 2023 Outdoor Economics Conference. Places like the Caja Del Rio symbolize New Mexico’s richness in nature and recreation, and the need for greater preservation. This Conference will take a deeper dive into these important topics.”
The Adventure Pitch
A highlight for many is the startup pitch event for outdoor companies, known as the Adventure Pitch. The culminating event of the Outdoor Economics Conference, Adventure Pitch attracts investors from across the country to experience the ideas and proposals from the state’s most passionate entrepreneurs. Any startups with high-growth potential, and a core offering that touches on outdoor recreation, the environment, and/or health and wellness are invited to apply for this one-of-a-kind opportunity. To apply for the Adventure Pitch, visit the website, before or by Sunday, October 8, 2023.
About Outdoor New Mexico
Outdoor New Mexico is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the protection, appreciation, sustainable management, appropriate recreational use, and economic benefits of outdoor natural areas in New Mexico, and to promote educational and workforce development activities that advance these objectives.
Conference organizer Outdoor New Mexico Executive Director Jeff Steinborn said that this year’s Conference will be one of the best yet. “With Santa Fe’s incredible beauty, historical and cultural legacy, and rich diversity of outdoor recreation opportunities, it will be an incredible destination for this year’s Conference. Santa Fe also has a spectacular convention center which will help provide Conference goers a great experience.”
For more information about the Outdoor Economics Conference, including how to register, and a complete schedule of events, visit the website.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams