WESST PRESS RELEASES

During the first and second week of December 2008, WESST staff prepared for and accomplished the big move from two office locations. The logistics seemed simple enough—relocating a few blocks away—but the preparatory work was daunting. Phase 1 was to sort through 17 years worth of accumulated material, furniture and equipment: deciding what should be recycled, shredded, held onto or let go of.

Phase 2 was the actual move: the good news is that we made it with everyone still speaking to each other and we are all settled in. The only major injury to report is a broken nose, but with respect, that person will remain nameless. As the saying goes, “Many hands make light work,” and that was certainly true as the staff stepped up to make the physical move. There are still a few bugs to work out but all systems are functioning.

WESST offices are located on the second level with an abundance of south-facing windows, making a refreshing change in the working environment and new office furnishings are also appreciated. The bio-filter wall in the atrium is a beautiful feature and adds an organic element to the atmosphere. Plans are underway to utilize the atrium and other venues in the building to host multi-function events.

What remains is to continue the work of business training and incubation. On that front, WESST Enterprise Center announces the first business incubation member: Biomoda, Inc., a company offering non-invasive, cancer detection processes. We are excited to be able to encourage unique, cutting edge businesses such as Biomoda and look forward to announcing new members soon.

We are reminded again of all the work and support that has brought us to this point. WESST is indeed fortunate to have such supportive donors, investors and a cooperative community. We look forward to building on this foundation to continue providing entrepreneurial and economic support in New Mexico.

WESST (www.wesst.org) is a non-profit economic development organization with offices in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Gallup, Rio Rancho, Roswell and Las Cruces. The organization provides training, consulting and loans to entrepreneurs across New Mexico as well as business incubation services to members of the WESST Enterprise Center in Albuquerque.