A recent study found that outdoor recreation businesses in New Mexico are poised to grow, but they need marketing help. That’s what the New Mexico Department of Economic Development’s Outdoor Recreation Division is looking for.
The survey, conducted by the department and Endeavor, collected 105 responses from outdoor recreation operators in 21 of New Mexico’s 33 counties and found that about 69% of respondents expected growth over the next three years, while only 4% expected a decline.
“The survey results provide valuable insight into the needs and aspirations of our outdoor recreation businesses,” division director Karina Armijo said in a statement. “Respondents highlighted key areas for improvement, emerging trends and challenges facing the future of our industry.”
The survey found that about 60 percent of the businesses are trying to reach customers outside of New Mexico, with the majority expressing a need for marketing assistance. The department said it is trying to address this issue with programs such as the recently launched ActivatOR Outdoor Recreation Growth Accelerator, which will provide workshops, mentoring and networking opportunities to 18 New Mexico-based outdoor recreation businesses over a 14-week program. The program will be offered at no cost for three years.
“New Mexico is poised to continue growing its outdoor recreation sector,” Acting Cabinet Secretary for Economic Development Mark Roper said in a statement.
