A new Early Childhood Center is also in the works. A new Economic Development Center at Highlands University will offer small business management preparation, international trade instruction, non-profit management development, a business and economic survey center and a program to promote new business in Northern New Mexico. A date of completion is not yet set. Growth in the area of high technology complements the city's economic development that is already in place. Public and private elementary through post-secondary schools employ 1,200 people.
Tourism is an important part of the Las Vegas economy.
Retail stores and restaurants lining and surrounding the plaza greatly depend on the tourist industry for their survival and growth. Since Las Vegas hosts very few conventions, the city's 16 motels and hotels depend on tourist traffic to support their businesses. Ranching and farming remain vital industries. Ranchers in the plains around Las Vegas raise cattle for meat and for show. Regional farmers bring their produce to the town's farmers market twice a week during the growing season.