Santa Fe County communities may be eligible to join the Arts & Cultural District (ACD) program, a state initiative designed to promote cultural and economic development through local revitalization projects. The ACD program is managed by New Mexico MainStreet and authorized by New Mexico Arts.
The eligibility for the program extends beyond municipalities. Unincorporated communities and tribal governments with populations under 50,000 are also invited to apply. Interested groups must form a local steering committee of at least five stakeholders, secure a local government partner such as the County, identify a specific project focused on cultural or economic development, and coordinate with the ACD State Coordinator at New Mexico MainStreet.
New Mexico MainStreet offers support in understanding the application process, developing project scopes, and providing technical assistance throughout. After defining their project, local groups collaborate with MainStreet to submit an application. The New Mexico Arts Commission reviews applications twice each year and can authorize up to five new districts annually. The entire process may take between 12 and 18 months from planning to potential full affiliation with MainStreet.
Santa Fe County plays a role in supporting unincorporated community applications by providing formal letters of endorsement, participating in steering committees, and assisting with activities after authorization.
While direct state funding is not routinely available through this program, communities can access technical assistance from state agencies and nonprofit partners, historic tax credits, as well as guidance on planning and cultural development.
Designated Arts & Cultural Districts are required to report annually to the Arts Commission about their progress and community impacts. Community members interested in learning more or starting an application are encouraged to contact the Santa Fe County Economic Development Division for support.
