Sandoval Economic Alliance celebrates 10-year anniversary

The Sandoval Economic Alliance marked a decade of fostering economic growth in Sandoval County with a celebratory event at Deluxe Design July 24.

Since its inception, the SEA, an economic development agency based in Rio Rancho, has been driving job creation and economic development across the county. The organization has played a pivotal role in attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones and cultivating a thriving business environment.

SEA President and CEO Fred Shepherd expressed gratitude for the community's support and highlighted the collaborative efforts that have contributed to the organization's success.

Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull, Sandoval County Commission Chair Dave Heil, City Councilor Nicole List, Rio Rancho Public Schools Superintendent Sue Cleveland and several local business owners were all part of a large crowd that gathered at Deluxe Design to celebrate with SEA.

"Economic development is a team sport," Shepherd said. “This is not just about what SEA does. This is not just what the county or the city or what the economic development partner does. This is what everyone is involved with. You all play a critical role in what we do and are so important to our community. So I just want to say thank you to everyone that's here for your support and your involvement in economic development.”

Over the past 10 years, the SEA has facilitated 57 projects, resulting in the creation of 2,980 direct jobs. Shepherd, who took over in 2019, said the organization has generated an additional 1,141 direct jobs, more than 500 indirect jobs and a total economic impact of over $2.5 billion for Sandoval County.

“I would like to congratulate SEA on 10 years of serving the Rio Rancho region,” Hull said. “Their mission to promote and foster economic development has had a great impact on the city and surrounding areas. I look forward to their continued growth and success.”