Rolling Still Distillery, a women-owned, family-operated craft distillery in Taos, has been granted state economic support to expand its operations. This initiative is part of a program managed by the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) aimed at fostering job creation and facilitating business growth through the New Mexico Local Economic Development Act (LEDA).

Rolling Still currently has a manufacturing facility and two retail lounges in Taos County. As an economic base business, the distillery distributes its premium spirits across multiple states, including Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Thanks to LEDA, Rolling Still has been awarded $50,000. This funding is designed to help the business relocate its manufacturing operations and add new jobs, with funds being disbursed as specific construction and hiring milestones are achieved. Taos County is playing a crucial role as the fiscal agent for this project, ensuring proper allocation and management of the funds.

How LEDA Supports Local Business Growth

The completion of the expansion project is anticipated by May 2026, and Rolling Still plans to employ 26 new full-time staff members as part of their growth strategy. This endeavor not only promises economic growth but also represents a significant investment in the community. “Supporting growth-driving businesses like Rolling Still has a substantial impact on the local community,” EDD Cabinet Secretary Rob Black remarked. “Every job created in these rural markets generates a ripple effect that supports families and bolsters our local economies.”

LEDA is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at channeling public funds into private enterprises to alleviate costs associated with land, buildings, and infrastructure. It serves as a vital resource for local companies aiming to expand, facilitating business growth and economic development. Moreover, LEDA offers invaluable support to other local companies looking to expand or revamp their operations in Taos County and beyond.

“Taos County is delighted by the ongoing public investment in Rolling Still Distillery, which is a valued economic driver in our community,” expressed Jessica Stern, Economic Development Director of Taos County. “We are grateful for the collaboration with EDD and are eager to support the growth of Rolling Still.”

In response to its expanding operations and customer base, Rolling Still has acquired a 5,500-square-foot warehouse located at 1310 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571. This facility, once a bustling gas station, has been abandoned for 17 years and is in a state of disrepair. Rolling Still intends to transform this building, breathing new life into it as part of their manufacturing expansion.

“As a women-owned business in a small rural community, the support from programs like LEDA enables us to undertake significant projects—such as reviving a long-abandoned warehouse—that would otherwise be out of reach,” stated Liza Barrett, Co-Owner of Rolling Still. “This funding empowers us to grow, create jobs, and invest in our community in ways that would be impossible on our own.”

Beyond the new funding from LEDA, Rolling Still has also received state Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) funds for the fiscal year 2025. This will cover up to five new trainees, reflecting the company’s steadfast commitment to nurturing local talent and growing its Taos-based workforce.

JTIP is an EDD program that offers reimbursement to companies for at least 50% of wages during employee training periods. This initiative further strengthens Rolling Still’s commitment to community development by ensuring that local residents are equipped with the necessary skills to contribute to the success of the business.

For more information on how LEDA can support local businesses seeking expansion, or to explore potential collaborations, interested parties are encouraged to contact us. Additionally, detailed program information can be accessed on the LEDA page on EDD’s website.