News and Media
Welcome to the Develop Carlsbad News & Media hub—your source for the latest updates on economic development, business expansion, and community initiatives in Carlsbad, NM. Here, you’ll find insights into new investments, workforce opportunities, and the innovative projects shaping the future of our region.
Stay connected with our news articles, press releases, and success stories, and discover why Carlsbad is a thriving destination for businesses, talent, and economic opportunity.
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News Articles

CDOD Personnel Update
May 24 2024For Immediate ReleaseKristen Gamboa Named Executive Director of Carlsbad Department of DevelopmentCarlsbad, NM – 5/24/24 - The Carlsbad Department of Development /(CDOD) gladly announces the appointment of Kristen Gamboa as its new Executive Director. With a robust background in economic development, community engagement, and strategic planning, Gamboa brings a wealth...

Carlston Ranch, a 1,200+ acre development located south of Derrick Road on National Parks Highway, has renamed several of its streets. The impetus for renaming the streets is a nod to the history of the Carlsbad Army Airfield, now the Cavern City Airport. The history of these names goes back...

Residents and business leaders in Carlsbad, New Mexico, have a powerful partner in their financial journey through Financial Security Credit Union (FSCU). Serving all of Eddy County, FSCU welcomes anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in the area.As a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative, FSCU is guided by the philosophy...

There’s a new restaurant for residents of Carlsbad, New Mexico, interested in upscale American cooking and modern Mediterranean dishes. Cascades Grill has a soft opening planned for the weekend of May 14-17 and will then be open for guests to enjoy its cuisine. The location of the Cascades Grill (400-2...

CARC, Inc. Creates Opportunities for Developmentally Disabled Residents to Live Fulfilling Lives
Mar 27 2025If you visit the Carlsbad Farmers Market, you can pick up some locally grown pecans and various garden plants grown by the individuals at CARC, Inc. For more than 50 years, CARC, Inc. has provided housing, work opportunities, and recreational options for people with developmental disabilities. “We’re very big in the programs we...

Carlsbad is one of the fastest-growing cities in New Mexico. Not only are individuals drawn to Carlsbad because of its job opportunities and high quality of life, but new businesses are constantly moving here. Good banking partners are the heart of this growth, and Pioneer Bank is one of the...

Carlsbad and Eddy County are one of the fastest-growing areas in New Mexico, with a growth rate of 15.8% according to the last census. Manufacturing firms that move to New Mexico will find the perfect mixture of a strong workforce and ample space for expansion. The state also offers several...
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Carlsbad has many natural wonders and recreational areas that significantly contribute to the local economy. This National Parks and Recreation Month, join the Carlsbad Department of Development in celebrating the century-long legacy of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, along with the notable parks in New Mexico including Lincoln National Forest, Brantley...

Carlsbad, NM, June 2024 – The business community came together in Carlsbad, New Mexico to celebrate local business and industry at the Carlsbad Department of Development’s (CDOD) Annual Banquet. The theme of this year’s event was ‘We Treasure Our Members.’ Among the milestones acknowledged included 25 years of shipments to...

New director brings 15 years of experience to the positionCarlsbad, NM (6/12/24) – CARC, INC. has named Karla Niemeier as Director of Development and Communications to lead the organization's fundraising, external communications, and marketing initiatives. She will direct efforts to increase and diversify funding while enhancing CARC’s brand recognition.A former...

The City of Carlsbad will soon see the development of a MasterPlanned community. Carlston Ranch, a project over 10 years in the making, recently brokeground on their first of four phases. This first phase will cover 297 acres and features 139 single family lots, apartments, commercial/retail, business park, and RV...

Marking its 25th anniversary, the Carlsbad River Blitz, a collaborative endeavor by Eddy County, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the City of Carlsbad, the New Mexico Department of Tourism, and Salado Isolation Mining Contractors, has reached a significant milestone this year.The community's collective effort in removing a staggering 19,400...

In 1924, CNB Bank was established as a community-owned bank with a mission to serve and strengthen its community. As CNB Bank celebrates its 100th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring impact a local bank can have on individuals, businesses, and the broader community. The bank's philosophy,...

Carlsbad, NM, January 2024 – Growth in Carlsbad continues at a high rate. Already boasting the fastest growth in the state at 15.8% according to the most recent US Census numbers, Carlsbad has a number of new retail and restaurant businesses opening in 2024. Coupled with a balanced approach to...

Albuquerque, NM - Goodwill Industries of New Mexico is proud to announce the opening of its newest location at 1108 Pierce Street, Carlsbad, New Mexico. The 23,377 square-foot facility features a retail store, donation center, and services office including a training center, offering the GoodJobs Program, which provides free job...

Carlsbad, New Mexico’s Real Estate Market Provides Competitive and Modern Options for Residents
Dec 4 2023Housing is a cornerstone that shapes the quality of life for residents, serves as a catalyst for population growth, drives workforce expansion, and contributes significantly to a city’s overall development. Recognizing the pivotal role that housing plays in the comprehensive well-being of the community, the Carlsbad Department of Development (CDOD)...

Carlsbad Department of Development Category 4 membership is for emerging industry leaders interested in economic development issues. This level offers networking opportunities, visibility, and access to the information needed to capitalize on opportunities to advance market share. As a Category 4 Member, your investment level is $1,000 - $1,999. The...

Carlsbad Department of Development Category 2 membership is for those recognized as local leaders who want to surround themselves with others who support a progressive vision. As a Category 2 Member, your investment is $3,000 - $4,999. The benefits this level of membership offers include:Access to research staff and capabilitiesListing...

Carlsbad, New Mexico, is home to a thriving community of innovative entrepreneurs who play a vital role in shaping our local economy. These forward-thinkers are the heart and soul of our business community, employing countless residents and contributing significantly to our city's prosperity. Their problem-solving skills and dedication to finding...

A Category 1 member can significantly contribute to economic development in Carlsbad by playing an integral role in driving strategy, setting long-term goals, and helping advance Carlsbad, New Mexico’s potential. Category 1 membership is for those committed to elevating Carlsbad and South Eddy County to its highest level.Benefits of Category...

Becoming a member of the Carlsbad EDC has many benefits in addition to supporting the economic growth of our region. Members are true partners in economic development, able to participate in strategic planning, represent Carlsbad, New Mexico, on the national level, and promote their businesses through various networking opportunities. Our...

Carlsbad Department of Development Attracts and Expands Opportunities for Carlsbad, New Mexico
Nov 1 2023The Carlsbad Department of Development actively engages with its economic development partners to retain and grow local businesses, recruit national and enterprise companies, and expand the economic landscape to benefit all Carlsbad, New Mexico residents. Carlsbad and South Eddy County communities are committed to economic development, growth, and sustainability.Carlsbad Department...

Manufacturing in Carlsbad, New Mexico, is Pioneering Innovation for Today and the Future
Oct 27 2023Manufacturing jobs have long been associated with repetitive, laborious tasks conducted in grimy, dimly lit, and sometimes dangerous settings. However, the landscape of modern manufacturing in 2023 has undergone a dramatic transformation. This shift is characterized by cutting-edge technologies harnessed to craft exceptional and distinctive products.According to MNI, compiler of...

Due to the increase in economic development in Carlsbad, New Mexico, you can find a new job that can lead to better opportunities and build a life. Workers in Carlsbad, New Mexico, can benefit from choosing the type of company they want to grow with. Whether it’s a national energy...