OPINION: Building the next revolution in tech, right here in New Mexico

New Mexico has always been a place where bold ideas take root. From unlocking the power of the atom to exploring the edges of space, our state has a legacy of discovery and innovation. Today, we are building on that legacy, not out of nostalgia, but because building the future requires intention and investment.

Innovation is a major part of our economic strategy, and it’s also a generational commitment. The breakthroughs our children and grandchildren will rely on — new energy systems, advanced water technologies, medical innovations — are being developed today. To secure that future, we must invest in the people and ideas that make it possible.

That’s why New Mexico — under the leadership of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham — created the Technology and Innovation Office (TIO) within the Economic Development Department, with more than $90 million in funding from the Legislature to accelerate innovation and connect scientific discovery with real-world impact. The TIO’s mission is to support the startup, growth and relocation of technology-based industries, rapidly move research from labs to markets, and diversify our economy so it is resilient, competitive and future-focused.

New Mexico is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. We are home to three national research laboratories, three research universities, business incubators with technology expertise, a research-and-development-friendly tax climate, and multiple funds dedicated to investing in science and technology companies. This is a rich environment to grow any science or technology business, and it’s only getting stronger.

Momentum is already building. Just in the past month, we announced a $25 million quantum campus in Downtown Albuquerque with Roadrunner Venture Studios to accelerate quantum innovation and commercialization. IEEE Quantum Week — an international conference on quantum computing and engineering — was held in the heart of New Mexico, bringing global leaders together to shape the future of the field. And we launched a new partnership with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) — the same group responsible for breakthrough technologies like the internet and GPS — to fund research that transforms both military capabilities and civilian life.

But building the next revolution in tech here in New Mexico means supporting the scientists and entrepreneurs behind the breakthroughs, building networks that connect research to capital and creating a pipeline of talent ready to tackle next-generation challenges. Through the TIO, we are investing in people, ideas and infrastructure. We are creating an environment where innovation thrives, and New Mexico’s legacy of discovery becomes its greatest economic advantage as we step boldly into the future.