The New Mexico Rural Alliance, in partnership with the New Mexico Industrial Development Executives Association, welcomes your proposal to serve as the host of the 2010 New Mexico Rural Economic Development Forum. The event is tentatively scheduled for April or May 2010, subject to availability of adequate facilities.

The event will focus on important rural economic development issues, provide educational training for rural community leaders, and professional development. A planning committee will be formed, including members from the host community, to finalize dates, develop the agenda, and carry out the Forum

Those wishing to respond to this request for interest should anticipate 150 – 250 attendees. For purposes of meal and facilities planning, the tentative schedule would provide for the following at a minimum:

• First Evening – Welcome reception
• Next Day – Breakfast, Lunch
• Evening reception
• Thursday – breakfast

(and appropriate refreshments for breaks)

The key site selection criteria for the NM Rural Economic Development Forum are presented below. Please complete your proposal detailing your community’s capabilities and costs in these areas.

• Lodging – blocked rooms and rates
• Meeting Space – auditorium plus 4 breakout rooms / cost, if any
• Meals – costs
• A/V equipment – costs
• High Speed Internet access – computer lab availability and/or Internet café
• Point of contact – to include handling of local logistics
• Initial local sponsorship of at least $1000.
• Local Volunteers – (registration, etc.)
• Local recreation and amenities (golf, galleries, etc.)
• Host a reception and booth promoting the 2010 Forum at the 2009 Forum in Farmington, NM April 22-24, 2009.

If you are interested in becoming the host for this event, please contact:
Margaret McDaniel via e-mail at sjeds@sanjuaneds.com no later than
September 30, 2008.