As true fans of small business, B:Side Fund is here to provide New Mexico entrepreneurs with small business support, resources, referrals, and funding with direct lending options. Find resources for every aspect of your business.

Meet Your New Mexico Client Relations Officer

MONICA MCCASLIN

 

I am a passionate small business advocate dedicated to building and nurturing relationships rooted in trust and authenticity. I thrive when I am actively contributing to a greater cause, whether it's a client's project, a company mission, or a community initiative. With a commitment to integrity and doing things the right way, I'm here to forge partnerships that truly matter. My journey has been shaped by a desire to make a positive impact, and I bring adaptability, resourcefulness, and a strong sense of community to every endeavor. When I'm not forging new bonds in the world of finance, you'll find me working on my golf swing, dancing in the rain, embracing new learning opportunities, or savoring the great outdoors with my family.

"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." -Thomas A. Edison

  • New Mexico Finance Authority: NMFA assists businesses throughout the state by administering several recovery and stimulus programs on behalf of the State of New Mexico, including the Small Business Recovery Loan Fund created by the New Mexico Legislature and expanded in the 2022 Session. See below for detailed information.

    The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA): The MBDA works with minority-owned businesses looking to expand into new markets, both domestic and international. Whether you need help acquiring finance, competing for contracts, discovering a strategic partner, or becoming export-ready, we can assist you.

    Office of International Trade: The Office of International Trade was created by the legislature within the New Mexico Economic Development Department to support job creation, retention, and expansion by assisting New Mexico companies to capitalize on opportunities in the competitive global marketplace.

    New Mexico Business Finance Finder: Portal for Lenders & Financial Assistance Organizations

    New Mexico Partnership: Our team of experts works closely with local and statewide economic developers throughout New Mexico as well as our state and local officials to ensure you have the assistance your business needs to succeed. We offer a coordinated approach and a formal network of economic developers to simplify the site selection process by providing expertise on talent availability, critical infrastructure, educational and R&D institutions, real estate and facilities, incentives, and all the other factors that go into a business location decision.

    New Mexico Economic Development Department: The mission of the New Mexico Economic Development Department is to improve the lives of New Mexico families by increasing economic opportunities and providing a place for businesses to thrive. Contact: Alicia Reyes, Cabinet Secretary, Alicia.Reyes@edd.nm.govd.nm.gov

    City of Albuquerque: The Small Business Office (SBO) is a division of the City of Albuquerque’s Economic Development Department. It is the central point of entry for Albuquerque entrepreneurs and businesses, providing timely, relevant, actionable information and assistance.Established in 2019, the SBO has the people and tools to help you start, expand, or relocate your business in Albuquerque. Through online resources and in-person customer service, the SBO connects you to the right people and appropriate city agencies to provide assistance in navigating City processes such as permitting, licensing, other business services, and understanding the City’s procurement process. Contact Christopher Chavez, Economic Development Manager, chrisjchavez@cabq.gov

    City of Santa Fe Economic Development (EDD): The City of Santa Fe’s Economic Development Division works to cultivate a vibrant business community and to build a diverse, innovative economy that provides opportunity and prosperity for the community. Contact: Johanna Nelson, Director, Office of Economic Development, jcnelson@santafenm.gov

    Northeast Economic Development Organization, Inc. (NEEDO-NM): The goal of NEEDO-NM is to improve regional infrastructure, expand new job opportunities, focus on alternative energy and sustainability, increase tourism and online businesses, and achieve business development and retention for a stronger future together. Contact: Pat Vanderpool, President, president@needo-nm.org

    Acoma Economic Development Office: The Pueblo of Acoma has resources available to assist businesses wishing to relocate or expand on the Pueblo of Acoma. The Pueblo has adopted a local economic development act (LEDA) ordinance, which allows us to engage in economic development activities to comply with the State of New Mexico’s anti-donation clause. The Pueblo works through the Acoma Business Board, to qualify applicants and to negotiate agreements that allow businesses to take advantage of these resources. Contact: John “Chris” Ahmie, cahmie@skycity.com

    North Central New Mexico Economic Development District: The North Central New Mexico Economic Development District (NCNMEDD) is the regional Council of Governments for local governments in Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, Taos, Colfax, Mora, San Miguel, Los Alamos, and Sandoval counties. Established in 1967, NCNMEDD assists local governments with community and economic development projects and initiatives. We serve as the conduit for U.S. Economic Development Administration funding and manage the Northern Pueblos and North East Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs). NCNMEDD also oversees the Non-Metro Area Agency on Aging (AAA), which administers senior services for the entire state of New Mexico outside of Bernalillo County. Contact: Abeita Monica, Executive Director, monicaa@ncnmedd.com

    Sandoval Economic Alliance (SEA): Sandoval Economic Alliance (SEA) is a private, not-for-profit economic development corporation established to strengthen and diversify the economic base of Sandoval County, including the municipalities of Bernalillo, Corrales, Cuba, Jemez Springs, and Rio Rancho, along with the nine Native American pueblos, three Navajo Chapters, and part of the Jicarilla Apache Reservation.

    SEA provides a broad range of free and confidential services to businesses and industries considering new locations for expansion, relocation, or consolidation. Services include identifying sites, facilities, incentive programs, and workforce research while cultivating local and state support. SEA also assists existing businesses through retention and expansion programs, as well as, economic gardening to foster positive growth in the business community.

    SBA New Mexico District Office: Provides help with SBA services including funding programs, counseling, federal contracting certifications, and disaster recovery. We can also connect you to our partner organizations, lenders, and other community groups that help small businesses succeed.

    Ascent Program (Women’s): A free learning platform for women entrepreneurs Contact: mercedes.chavez@sba.gov, New Mexico District Office

    Clovis Economic Development (CED): A local economic development organization. CED's mission is to develop business opportunities and recruit new business and industry which will strengthen and diversify the economic base of Clovis and Curry County, New Mexico by investing in new capital and creating new jobs.

    The Regional Development Corporation (RDC): The Regional Development Corporation (RDC) is a private non-profit 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to improving economic development in Northern New Mexico. The RDC provides private investment opportunities and technical assistance to facilitate job growth and diversify the economies of communities in the following seven counties: Los Alamos, Mora, Rio Arriba, Sandoval, San Miguel, Santa Fe, Taos, and the municipalities and Native American Pueblos therein.

  • Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute (RMMFI): RMMFI creates the space for communities and people of all backgrounds to realize their unique potential through the power of entrepreneurship. We invest in entrepreneurs’ personal and business development through a proven mix of classroom, coaching, capital, and community.

    B:Side Fund and RMMFI have partnered to bring a capital-meets-capacity approach to supporting underserved and low-income entrepreneurs in rural New Mexico as part of a USDA grant. RMMFI will deliver their proven educational programming, while B:Side Fund will continue to provide inclusive access to capital. The rural New Mexico programming will kick off with two Business Idea Labs Fall 2024, followed by a Business Launch Boot Camp in early 2025. Learn more.

    New Mexico Small Business Development Center (SBDC): The New Mexico SBDC offers no-cost business consulting services, training programs, and resources to help small businesses start, grow, and thrive. They provide guidance on various aspects of business management, including business planning, marketing, financial analysis, and access to capital.

    New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD): The EDD offers a range of programs and resources to support economic development in the state. They provide assistance to small businesses through initiatives such as business retention and expansion, entrepreneurship support, workforce development, and access to funding and incentives.

    New Mexico Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP): The New Mexico MEP is part of a nationwide network aimed at helping manufacturers enhance their competitiveness. They offer technical assistance, training, and expertise in areas such as lean manufacturing, process improvement, supply chain optimization, and technology adoption.

    New Mexico Technology Council (NMTC): The NMTC is an industry association that supports technology-based businesses in New Mexico. They provide networking opportunities, educational programs, advocacy, and resources to help small businesses in the technology sector thrive.

    New Mexico Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC): The VBOC assists veteran entrepreneurs and veteran-owned businesses with various aspects of starting and growing a business. They offer business training, counseling, mentoring, and access to capital resources specific to the needs of veterans.

    New Mexico Women's Business Center (WBC): The New Mexico WBC provides resources and support to women-owned businesses in the state. They offer training, counseling, networking opportunities, and access to capital resources to help women entrepreneurs succeed.

    SCORE Santa Fe: Provides free and confidential business counseling via zoom, phone, and email in New Mexico. We also conduct workshops for both start-up entrepreneurs and seasoned small business owners.

    SCORE Las Cruces: Hundreds of southern New Mexicans count on SCORE for no-cost mentoring, support, guidance and training to small businesses, nonprofit organizations and entrepreneurs.

    SCORE Albuquerque: Our chapter provides free business mentoring and education on a wide range of topics for businesses at any stage -- for the life of your business!

    Finance New Mexico: Free and low-cost consultants, mentors and small-business loans that can help you grow your business or idea. Get help whether yours is an established or startup business.

    WESST: WESST's mission is to be a home to New Mexicans starting or growing a small business. We provide a support system of consulting, training, incubation and lending to help women, people of color and low-wealth individuals successfully strengthen and grow their businesses through sustainable sales, financial knowledge, and job creation.

    Rural Community Assistance Corporation: RCAC partners with rural and Indigenous communities to achieve their vision and well being through technical assistance, training, financial resources and advocacy.

  • CRF USD: As a nonprofit organization, CRF does SBA 7(a) lending differently. Working in tandem with community partners, the CRF team combines exceptional customer service with the traditional benefits offered by the SBA 7(a) program to collectively create impact in communities across the country.

    Impower: Our experienced lending team brings an unparalleled depth of knowledge to help clients navigate traditional and SBA financing options. As a result the Momentus Direct Capital team has delivered over $2 billion in financing to close over 1000 transactions. The result is well over 12 million sq. ft. of small businesses properties created or supported – generating real impact for economic development and communities.

    WESST: WESST's mission is to be a home to New Mexicans starting or growing a small business. We provide a support system of consulting, training, incubation and lending to help women, people of color and low-wealth individuals successfully strengthen and grow their businesses through sustainable sales, financial knowledge, and job creation.

    New Mexico SBIC: Help create new job opportunities throughout the State of New Mexico. The NMSBIC does this by providing equity and debt capital to small businesses through its Lending Program and Equity Program.

    Rural Community Assistance Corporation: RCAC partners with rural and Indigenous communities to achieve their vision and well being through technical assistance, training, financial resources and advocacy.

    DreamSpring: DreamSpring is a nonprofit community lender dedicated to eliminating systemic wealth inequities and accelerating the economic inclusion and strength of underserved communities. Founded in 1994, the organization, which operates in 19 states, provides rapid access to capital and customized wrap-around support to the most vulnerable small business owners, focusing on communities including people of color, women, low- to moderate-income earners, people with disabilities, and start-ups.

    New Mexico Fundit: FUNDIT facilitates one-on-one connections for projects with a large number of important funders, face-to-face at our quarterly project pitch meetings.

    The Loan Fund: We provide loans and assistance to improve the economic and social conditions of New Mexicans.

  • Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico: Our purpose is to promote sustainable economic growth and empowerment within the black-owned business community. We are committed to achieving this by focusing on four key pillars: education, advocacy, mentorship, and networking.

    Through education, we strive to equip black-owned businesses with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to thrive in a competitive marketplace. By providing access to educational programs, workshops, and seminars, we aim to empower entrepreneurs with valuable insights, industry trends, and best practices.

    New Mexico Chamber of Commerce: The New Mexico Chamber of Commerce exists to make New Mexico a better place to do business. As the statewide chamber of commerce and business advocate Contact: Janae Amparan, Director of Operations & Business

    Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce: Work with government, business, and community partners to promote and develop a welcoming business environment and thriving, diverse economy in New Mexico. Our goal is to make our city and state a great place to start and grow a business and a safe, exciting place to work and raise a family. Contact: Alicia Sanchez, VP Business Development

    The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber: To promote economic development, to enhance economic opportunities, and to provide business and workforce education with an emphasis on the Hispanic and small business community in Albuquerque and New Mexico. Contact:, Jessica Priego, Director, Business Development

    Artesia Chamber of Commerce: Their mission is to develop positive economic opportunities, foster a favorable business climate and encourage a vibrant quality of life in the City of Artesia and Eddy County. Contact Hayley Klein, Executive Director

    Hobbs Chamber of Commerce: Founded in 1930, the not-for-profit Hobbs Chamber of Commerce is the premier business association for the promotion of commerce, the promotion of community, and the promotion of character in the greater Hobbs area. Contact: Patty Collins, President & CEO

    Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce: The Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce develops programs and strategic partnerships to strengthen our region by increasing opportunities for our businesses to expand. Contact: Jerry Schalow, President & CEO

    Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce: To provide leadership, guidance and support to the business community for the promotion of economic, community and tourism growth. Contact: Chad E. Ingram, Chief Executive Officer

    Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce: The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce was established in 1882 as the Santa Fe Board of Trade; the Chamber has since been the voice of the region’s business community. Contact: Bridget Dixson, CEO/President

    Taos County Chamber of Commerce: The Taos County Chamber of Commerce was incorporated in 1962 and exists for the sole purpose of advancing our community's business, agriculture, and commercial sectors through the building of entrepreneurial and economic growth. Contact:Lindsey Pfaff Bain, Executive Director

    Farmington Chamber of Commerce: The Farmington Chamber of Commerce was incorporated January 9, 1953 as a 501(c)(6) business. It consists of a volunteer association of business people who coordinate efforts of commerce, industry and professions to maintain a healthy business. Contact Jamie Church, President/CEO

    Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce: The Hispano Chamber engages entrepreneurs through community advocacy, networking, and innovative one-on-one training designed to help them be successful. Contact Roberta Ricco, Chief Experience

    Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce: The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce has served as the voice of business in Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley Region and Southern New Mexico. Contact: Debbi Moore, President & CEO

    Roswell Chamber of Commerce: Promote economic and social prosperity, assist in business development and tourism, and foster community spirit and pride. Contact: Andrea Moore, President/C.E.O.

    Aztec Chamber of Commerce: The Aztec Chamber is a community resource. Contact: Debbie Klein, President

    Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce: The Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce is a program of the Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation. Contact: Ryn Herrmann, Chamber Director

    Raton Chamber of Commerce: Dedicated to improving the quality of life in Raton by revitalizing our downtown area

    Chama Valley Chamber of Commerce: The Chama Valley Chamber of Commerce is a leading organization existing to cultivate, promote, support, and connect its members through advocacy, education, and economic development.Contact: Roseann Talamante, President

    Espanola Valley Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber acts as the main source of information regarding businesses and community issues. Collaborative efforts and support for an innovative-based economy creates a synergy to find creative economic development opportunities. Contact: Tilly Nichols, Executive Director

    Gallup Mckinley County Chamber of Commerce: To be the driving force for positive influence and action in business and leadership for Gallup-McKinley County. Bill Lee

    Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce: The Alamogordo Center of Commerce is a nonprofit organization designed to meet community and area business needs. Membership is voluntary and consists of individuals, organizations, and businesses joining together to advance the commercial, financial, and civic interests of Alamogordo. Contact: Lorrie Black, Director

    Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce: The Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce (RVCC) is a voluntary, action-oriented organization of business men and women working together to improve the business climate and quality of life in Ruidoso and the surrounding area. Contact: Deborah Douds, Membership Director

    Greater Belen Chamber of Commerce: Advocate at the local, county and state level for laws and statutes that are conducive to good business support and we shout from the mountaintops through social media and traditional media about our members and their happenings Contact: Rhona Baca Espinoza

    Greater East Chamber of Commerce: Whether it’s local businesses or local communities, their goal is to support prosperity throughout the region.

    Hispano Chamber of Commerce De Las Cruces: The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce provides leadership for the advancement of economic prosperity for our region and our diverse membership. Contact: Curtis Rosemond.

  • Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS): CCCS is a nonprofit credit counseling agency that offers a range of services, including credit counseling, debt management plans, and financial education. They work with individuals to assess their financial situation, create a budget, and develop a strategy to reduce debt and improve credit.

    Money Management International (MMI): MMI is a national nonprofit credit counseling agency that provides counseling services to individuals in Utah and across the country. They offer credit counseling, debt management plans, financial education, and other resources to help individuals regain control of their finances.

    Navicore Solutions: Navicore Solutions is a national nonprofit organization that offers credit counseling services. Their certified credit counselors provide personalized counseling sessions to help individuals understand their credit, develop a budget, and create a plan to manage their debt and improve their credit score.

    GreenPath Financial Wellness: GreenPath Financial Wellness is a nationwide nonprofit organization that offers credit counseling and debt management services. They provide one-on-one counseling to help individuals with credit and debt-related issues, budgeting, and financial planning.

    National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC): The NFCC is a network of nonprofit credit counseling agencies. These agencies provide credit counseling, debt management plans, and financial education services to help individuals achieve financial stability.

    Operation Hope: Operation HOPE has a broad array of individualized services that level the playing field by offering customized one-on-one programs for youth, adults, and disaster survivors—on their own or through their employers—to equip them with the financial knowledge and tools they need to create a more secure future – all at no cost.

    Take Charge America: Take Charge America is a nonprofit credit counseling and debt management organization that offers personalized credit counseling services. They provide financial education, budgeting assistance, and guidance on credit management to help individuals improve their personal credit.

  • FatPipe ABQ: FatPipe ABQ is a coworking space and incubator program located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It provides workspace, mentorship, networking events, and resources for startups and small businesses.

    Arrowhead Center: Arrowhead Center, affiliated with New Mexico State University, supports entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. It offers various programs and services, including an incubator, to help startups develop their ideas and business ventures.

    Santa Fe Business Incubator : The Santa Fe Business Incubator (SFBI) provides support and resources to startups in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It offers access to office space, mentoring, networking events, and educational programs to help startups launch and grow.

    WESST: WESST is a nonprofit small business development organization that operates in New Mexico. It offers business consulting, training, and support services to entrepreneurs and small business owners. WESST has offices in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, and Las Cruces.

    New Mexico Technology Council: The New Mexico Technology Council is an organization that supports the growth and development of the technology industry in the state. It provides resources, networking opportunities, and events for tech startups and professionals.

  • ABQid: ABQid is an accelerator program based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It offers a 12-week program that provides mentorship, education, and access to a network of experienced entrepreneurs and investors. ABQid focuses on startups in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and clean energy.

    Creative Startups: Creative Startups is an accelerator program that supports creative and cultural entrepreneurs. It provides mentorship, training, and connections to investors and industry experts. Creative Startups operates in Albuquerque and partners with organizations in other locations as well.

    The BioScience Center: The BioScience Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico, offers an accelerator program for bioscience startups. It provides access to laboratory space, equipment, mentorship, and resources to support the development and growth of bioscience ventures.

    Arrowhead Innovation Fund: The Arrowhead Innovation Fund, affiliated with New Mexico State University, is an early-stage seed fund and accelerator program. It supports startups and entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and resources to bring their ideas to market.

  • Flywheel Ventures: Based in Santa Fe, Flywheel Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in early-stage technology companies, particularly in the Southwest region.

    Cottonwood Technology Fund: Also headquartered in Santa Fe, Cottonwood Technology Fund invests in startups and early-stage companies in technology and life sciences sectors.

    Verge Fund: Located in Albuquerque, Verge Fund is an early-stage venture capital firm that supports high-growth companies in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and clean energy.

    New Mexico Angels: This is a group of angel investors based in Albuquerque that provides funding and mentorship to promising startups in the state.

    Sun Mountain Capital: With offices in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, Sun Mountain Capital is an investment firm that manages various funds, including venture capital, private equity, and mezzanine debt.

    Tramway Venture Partners: Tramway Venture Partners is a venture capital firm in Albuquerque that invests in early-stage companies in technology and life sciences.

    Arrowhead Innovation Fund: Associated with New Mexico State University, this fund invests in startups and technologies originating from the university and the surrounding region.

    Creative Startups: While not exclusively a venture capital firm, Creative Startups provides accelerator programs and support for creative and cultural entrepreneurs, which can include funding opportunities.

    New Mexico Angels: This is a prominent angel investor group based in Albuquerque that focuses on early-stage investments in startups across various industries.

    ABQid: While not exclusively an angel network, ABQid is an accelerator and startup ecosystem in Albuquerque that can connect entrepreneurs with potential angel investors.

    Arrowhead Innovation Fund: Associated with New Mexico State University, this fund provides funding and support for startups and technologies originating from the university and the surrounding region.

    Technology Ventures Corporation (TVC): TVC is an organization that aims to commercialize technologies and innovations from national labs and research institutions, which can involve angel investment opportunities.

    Santa Fe Angels: This group is focused on connecting investors with startups in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas, potentially providing angel funding.

    Taos Angel Network: While smaller in scale, this network of angel investors is based in Taos and may provide funding opportunities for local startups.