On Friday, April 24, 2015, the first operational space at Innovate ABQ, a public-private effort to create a center for entrepreneurship and innovation in Downtown Albuquerque, officially opened.

Mayor Richard Berry, joined by Nusenda Credit Union, the Albuquerque Community Foundation, and Central New Mexico Community College, officially opened the "The [email protected] ABQ." The space will serve as a gathering spot for educational programs, entrepreneurship training and support, and other activities.

"I'm thrilled to be opening the doors to this exciting new community center for entrepreneurship in our urban core," said Mayor Richard J. Berry. "The [email protected] ABQ will be a fantastic space to gather entrepreneurs of any age, background, or demographic, and will help to catalyze our burgeoning Innovation District."

The space has state-of-the-art work spaces, high-speed Internet access, and, soon, a commercial kitchen.

The Epicenter's first activity will be the Microsoft DigiCamps, which provide middle school students with access to cutting-edge technology and basic coding training, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. Students from Garfield and Hayes Middle Schools will hear from both local tech industry professionals, as well as Microsoft executives, on the importance of STEM education and career opportunities.

The University of New Mexico bought the Epicenter property in July with financial assistance from the city, county, federal government and Nusenda Credit Union. It is anticipated to be ground zero for the Innovate ABQ high-tech research and development district.

"It will be a community center that focuses on entrepreneurship, on economic mobility," Berry said. "It's a place for all comers to teach, learn, and inspire entrepreneurship."

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