MVEDA Business Development Leader Recognized for Economic Development Excellence and Regional Impact
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (June 5, 2026) — The Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance (MVEDA) announced that Brian Garcia, Vice President of Business Development, has earned the nationally recognized Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The CEcD designation represents a high level of professional achievement in economic development and recognizes Garcia’s commitment to industry excellence, continued professional growth and regional economic progress.
In addition to earning the CEcD designation, Garcia was also recently named one of Consultant Connect’s Top 50 Economic Developers in North America for 2026. The annual recognition honors economic development professionals for their leadership, innovation and measurable impact in the communities they serve.
Strengthening Economic Development Leadership in Doña Ana County
Garcia is now among a small group of professionals in Doña Ana County to hold the CEcD certification. There are approximately 1,250 active CEcDs worldwide, making the designation one of the most respected credentials in the economic development industry.
Garcia has been an integral member of the MVEDA team for more than a decade, supporting business attraction, expansion and regional development efforts across Doña Ana County and the greater New Mexico Borderplex region.
Key Highlights
- Brian Garcia, MVEDA Vice President of Business Development, has earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation.
- The CEcD credential is awarded by the International Economic Development Council.
- Garcia was also named one of Consultant Connect’s Top 50 Economic Developers in North America for 2026.
- The recognition highlights Garcia’s leadership, professional achievement and commitment to regional economic growth.
- Garcia is among a limited number of CEcD-certified professionals in Doña Ana County.
- MVEDA says the accomplishments reflect continued momentum across the New Mexico Borderplex region.
Commitment to the New Mexico Borderplex Region
“Earning my CEcD has been a long-time personal goal and achieving it is more than a professional milestone,” said Brian Garcia, Vice President of Business Development for MVEDA. “It represents my commitment to helping the NMBorderplex grow into a place where my kids and future generations can find real opportunity and a future they’re proud to call home.”
Garcia said the Consultant Connect recognition is also a reflection of the broader economic development work happening across the region.
“I’m also incredibly honored to be recognized among Consultant Connect’s Top 50 Economic Developers in North America,” Garcia said. “While this recognition is presented to me personally, it truly reflects the incredible work of the MVEDA team and our outstanding regional partners who continue creating momentum and opportunity across the Borderplex.”
CEcD Designation Recognizes Economic Development Expertise
The Certified Economic Developer designation is a prestigious credential for skilled and committed professionals in the field of economic development. The designation establishes a benchmark of excellence within the industry and reflects a practitioner’s knowledge, judgment and ability to support business and community growth.
To earn the CEcD designation, candidates must complete years of economic development experience, relevant coursework, a rigorous comprehensive examination and an oral interview. The exam and interview evaluate a practitioner’s expertise across several areas of economic development, including:
- Business retention and expansion
- Finance and credit analysis
- Strategic planning
- Foreign investment and exporting
- Technology-led economic development
- Managing economic development organizations
- Community and workforce development strategies
MVEDA Celebrates Garcia’s Achievement
MVEDA President and CEO Davin Lopez said Garcia’s achievements reflect his leadership and dedication to advancing the regional economy.
“We are incredibly proud of Brian for achieving the prestigious CEcD designation and for being recognized as one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers,” said Davin Lopez, President and CEO of MVEDA. “His leadership, professionalism and passion for building a stronger regional economy continue to elevate our organization and the communities we serve.”
Supporting Long-Term Economic Growth
Certified Economic Developers work closely with public officials, business leaders, community partners and regional stakeholders to advance economic opportunity. Through strategic leadership and a commitment to excellence, CEcD professionals help strengthen business climates, attract investment, support job creation and improve quality of life.
Garcia’s recognition underscores MVEDA’s continued role in advancing economic development across Doña Ana County and the greater New Mexico Borderplex region.
