Groundbreaking Partnership to Create 1,000 High-Quality Jobs and Strengthen Global Trade in Southern New Mexico
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced a transformative partnership with BorderPlex Digital Assets, LLC, establishing New Mexico as a leader in digital infrastructure and advanced manufacturing. The collaboration will bring an estimated $5 billion in construction investment and create 1,000 new jobs in Santa Teresa, further solidifying the region as a hub for global trade and innovation.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the State of New Mexico and BorderPlex Digital Assets marks the beginning of this ambitious initiative. The BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus will integrate cutting-edge digital and energy infrastructure with advanced manufacturing, data centers, and logistics facilities to enhance trade and technological advancement along the U.S.-Mexico border.
“This landmark partnership reaffirms New Mexico’s leadership in global trade, advanced manufacturing, and digital infrastructure,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “By investing in sustainable, future-ready infrastructure today, we are securing economic prosperity and innovation for generations to come.”
A New Era for Santa Teresa and Southern New Mexico
The BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus represents a comprehensive ecosystem designed to support data-driven industries, power-intensive manufacturing, and cross-border logistics. Key features of the development include:
- Integrated Power and Water Solutions: Development of an on-site microgrid and advanced desalination projects to ensure energy and water independence.
- Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Hub: Facilities to accommodate high-tech industries and streamline supply chain operations.
- Data Centers & High-Performance Computing Infrastructure: Targeting AI and next-generation computing needs.
- Job Creation & Workforce Development: High-paying jobs in IT, logistics, engineering, and manufacturing, with workforce training initiatives in partnership with New Mexico State University (NMSU) and Doña Ana Community College (DACC).
“The future of frontier technology belongs on the American frontier,” said Lanham Napier, Chairman of BorderPlex Digital Assets. “We are excited to work with Governor Lujan Grisham and the state of New Mexico to build a world-class digital infrastructure hub in Santa Teresa.”
Lanham Napier, center, chair of BorderPlex Digital Assets, talks with Transportation Secretary Ricky Serna, left, and Economic Development Secretary Rob Black, right, after the news conference.
Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal
Economic Impact and Strategic Investments
Over the next decade, BorderPlex Digital expects to invest $5 billion in construction, including $1.5 billion annually in IT equipment purchases and $230 million per year in manufacturing technology. These investments will drive economic growth, support local businesses, and improve infrastructure in Doña Ana County.
“The BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus will be an economic catalyst, spurring regional investment, enhancing employment opportunities, and strengthening New Mexico’s role in international trade,” said Rob Black, Secretary-Designate of the Economic Development Department (EDD).
BorderPlex Digital is also working closely with state and local officials on additional economic incentives, including:
- High Wage Jobs Tax Credit
- Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) Incentives
- Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs) through Doña Ana County
- Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP)
Sustainable Infrastructure & Water Security
As part of New Mexico’s commitment to sustainability, the BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus will incorporate state-of-the-art water treatment and reuse systems. The initiative aligns with the governor’s Strategic Water Supply Act, which seeks $75 million in funding to support projects utilizing brackish water.
“Ensuring long-term water sustainability is critical to our economic future,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “BorderPlex’s innovative approach to water management will serve as a model for responsible industrial growth.”
Key partners in this initiative include:
- New Mexico State University (NMSU): Researching brackish water desalination solutions.
- EPCOR: Exploring feasibility studies for industrial-scale water desalination projects.
- Orion Digital Infrastructure: Integrating power and cooling systems to support AI and high-performance computing operations.
- El Paso Electric: Collaborating on regional energy solutions to meet the demands of advanced manufacturing and data operations.
Positioning New Mexico as a Global Leader
The BorderPlex Digital Infrastructure Campus represents a major milestone in New Mexico’s strategy to attract high-tech industries and investment. The project will bolster the state’s standing in the Energy Transition Act, drive technological innovation, and position Santa Teresa as a key player in North American trade and industry.
“This development is exactly what we have been working toward—investment in critical infrastructure, job creation, and sustainable solutions for water and power,” said Davin Lopez, President & CEO of Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance (MVEDA).
With groundbreaking expected this year and operations set to begin in 2026, New Mexico is setting a new standard for economic growth, sustainability, and innovation in the digital age.
Article Source:
State of New Mexico Press Release: Link to Press Release
Albuquerque Journal: Link to Albuquerque Journal Post
