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Person using machine at FUSE Makerspace

CNM Ingenuity’s FUSE Makerspace Awarded Grant from PNM | TNMP Foundation to Support Veterans and Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

Recipients will receive a free six-month membership to FUSE Makerspace to help them build skills and connect with the community
November 19, 2025

CNM Ingenuity is excited to announce that FUSE Makerspace recently received a $15,000 grant from PNM | TNMP Foundation to fund FUSE memberships for US Military Veterans or individuals who were formerly incarcerated. These Light the Way scholarships provide six-month memberships – a $351 value. Through the grant, recipients will have access to FUSE Makerspace equipment, including wood and metal shops, laser cutters, 3D printers, and more.

Overall, the goal of the grant is to help veterans or formerly incarcerated individuals find their footing and provide them with the tools they need to start their own business, learn a new skill, or discover their next career.

“We are thrilled to be able to work with the PNM | TNMP Foundation to provide this opportunity for two underserved communities,” says CNM Ingenuity Program Director Jeff DeBellis. "For veterans, it doesn’t matter how long ago you served. For individuals that have been incarcerated, we recognize that it can be challenging to find employment. FUSE is designed as a place where you can build skills that can lead to self-employment."

The application for the Light the Way program is open, and individuals are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. After receiving funding, participants will complete an introductory workshop to learn how to use the available tools and equipment. Recipients are encouraged to share their work on social media and tag @pnmtalk throughout their six-month membership.

In addition to the Light the Way grant funds, individuals can apply for the Training for Your Future Fund to cover the cost of workshops at FUSE Makerspace or CNM Ingenuity. Applicants are encouraged to apply for both scholarships at the same time.

Scholarships will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or by the end of June 2026, whichever occurs first.

Are you or someone you know interested in applying for the Light the Way program? Apply now! You can also apply for the Training for Your Future Fund.