People
SEED NM began in 2021 with a small group of business owners interested in approaches to economic development that were less about large corporations and more about equity, economic democracy and human-centered prosperity. Recognizing that small, sustainability-minded businesses were underrepresented in economic policy development in New Mexico, we joined forces to help build that sustainable business voice.
We are a New Mexico nonprofit corporation led by a Steering Circle. We welcome new members to our Steering Circle and want to hear your concerns, needs and ideas as a small business owner in New Mexico. To get involved, drop us a line.
Steering Circle
Angela Merkert
Angela is the Executive Director of the Alliance for Local Economic Prosperity. Her professional background includes leadership and organizational development in the corporate world, and Executive Director roles in nonprofit organizations. Since moving to New Mexico in 2006 she has been an advocate for safe, affordable housing and expanded support for homeless families, especially those with young children.
Sandra McCardell
Sandra has broad experience as a business owner, faculty member, non-profit Director and team member. Over the past three decades, she has engaged in initiatives focused on sustainability through Current-C Energy Systems, Inc, the company she founded in 1989. She has served on the Albuquerque Energy Council since 2018 and is a co-founder of the SouthWest Hemp Cooperative in New Mexico.
Peri Pakroo
Peri is an author, business consultant and entrepreneur with decades of experience working with small, indie businesses and nonprofits. She’s an active advocate for small and creative ventures, and is the founder of P-Brain Media, a strategic consulting firm. Peri runs a business coaching practice and is the author of several books including The Small Business Start-Up Kit and Starting & Building a Nonprofit.