Staff Reports
ALBUQUERQUE — New Mexico and the City of Albuquerque are investing more than $1.5 million to help BlackVe Inc., a defense and space technology company, expand its Albuquerque headquarters and create 152 high-paying jobs over the next 10 years.
The state will provide $1 million through the New Mexico Local Economic Development Act fund, with the City of Albuquerque contributing $250,000 in local LEDA funds and a 20-year Industrial Revenue Bond.
The expansion is projected to generate more than $228 million in total economic impact for the state. Funds will be distributed as BlackVe meets construction and hiring benchmarks, with the City of Albuquerque acting as fiscal agent.
Founded in January 2024, BlackVe manufactures multi-mission spacecraft, applying advanced production technologies to accelerate how satellites are designed, built, and operated.
The Albuquerque expansion will include a 50,000-square-foot light-industrial satellite manufacturing facility.
“New Mexico continues to prove we are leaders in the advanced tech industries that will define the future,” Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said. “We’ve created an ecosystem in this state that’s designed for the long term—one that supports discovery, attracts talent and accelerates innovation.
Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said his city is ready for the challenge of new industry.
“Albuquerque is built for space and defense innovation, and BlackVe is exactly the kind of company we want growing here,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This expansion brings 152 high-paying jobs and strengthens our city’s role in national security and the future of space tech.”
In addition to LEDA funding, BlackVe has been awarded up to $295,000 through the state’s Job Training Incentive Program to immediately hire and train nine employees at an average hourly wage of $57. JTIP reimburses companies for at least 50% of wages during the training period, for up to six months.
“This is a strong win for Albuquerque’s advanced manufacturing economy,” Albuquerque Economic Development Director Max Gruner said. “With LEDA support, an IRB and JTIP training resources, BlackVe can scale a 50,000-square-foot satellite manufacturing facility here, creating great jobs and delivering real returns as they hit hiring and construction benchmarks.”
