Rio Vista, Española, NM;

 Ed Montaño has worked as a drug and alcohol counselor for most of his life. As someone who experienced substance abuse personally, he believes that his own practice can offer more valuable services to clients.“Not only do I understand the clients through first-hand experience,” says Montaño, “but I am proof that a person can recover and lead a healthy, productive life.”

When Montaño heard that the building next to his former employer would be up for sale, he recognized a unique opportunity. “I befriended the family over the years. When CPA Rudy Valdez died, they allowed me to make the fi rst offer,” recalls Montaño. But Montaño needed financing to make his dream a reality.

LINK helped Montaño develop a package to present to funders and banks, and introduced him to several small business loan funds. Ultimately, Los Alamos National Bank approved a commercial loan for Montaño, enabling him to open his own practice, Rio Vista. LINK remains involved in helping Montaño develop solid financial practices. “LINK really cares,” says Montaño. “They have a heart.”

Rocky Mountain Technology, Española, NM

 Randy Roybal’s many business ideas have a personal origin. “I’m a consumer, so if I’m interested in a product, chances are other people are, too,” he says. Roybal was recently motivated to find a cheaper alternative for the large, costly tires used to lift trucks.

 On the internet, he discovered TreadWright, Inc., a family-owned business that makes recycled tires by pressure vulcanizing new treads onto old casings. TreadWright’s tires sell for half the cost of new tires and carry an excellent warranty. “This entire concept is green and great for the environment,” says Roybal. Roybal became an authorized dealer for TreadWright and is currently selling tires to both wholesale and retail customers.

 Northern New Mexico Connect’s LINK Program introduced Roybal to potential partners and customers, and helped him to secure a working capital loan from Accion New Mexico to build his inventory. In just a few short months, Roybal is turning a profit. “It’s great to have people who help you along the way, and LINK is building that network right here in the Española Valley,” says Roybal.