The ActivatOR Outdoor Recreation Growth Accelerator is a 14-week program launched by the Outdoor Recreation Division in partnership with CNM Ingenuity, funded through the U.S. Economic Development Administration Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. This federal investment supports economic development and recovery, enabling innovative initiatives like ActivatOR to strengthen New Mexico’s outdoor recreation economy.

In its inaugural cohort, ActivatOR supported 18 companies, offering flexible online sessions, access to the Outdoor Economics Conference, and diverse instruction on marketing, customer identification, and business development. Peer-to-peer breakout sessions stood out as a favorite, fostering collaboration and idea exchange in a supportive environment. Participants reported gaining valuable frameworks to identify customers, clarify value propositions, and address outdoor recreation-specific challenges.

This program exemplifies the impact of strategic funding in fostering local entrepreneurship and economic growth. Looking ahead, future cohorts will incorporate participant feedback, including virtual kick-offs, more in-person networking opportunities, an alumni network, and expanded sessions on business basics and funding strategies. ActivatOR reflects ORD’s commitment to supporting outdoor recreation businesses and ensuring long-term growth and innovation in the sector.

For more information: ActivateNM.com/ActivatOR.