SW New Mexico News

The Scale Up New Mexico program, hosted by the Arrowhead Center at New Mexico State University and partially funded by the United States Economic Development Administration, is now accepting applications for its Pitch Deck Sprint accelerator. This initiative targets tech startups located in New Mexico.

This online accelerator aims to help entrepreneurs and startups enhance their pitch deck presentations. The program runs every Thursday from February 13 to March 20 and is free for participants. Applications are due by January 31, with successful candidates notified by February 6.

The Pitch Deck Sprint is part of Scale Up NM, which includes various programs aimed at supporting early-stage startups. Besides the sprints, Arrowhead Center provides business development support and assistance with Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer programs, among other resources. The initiative's goal is to help startups improve their pitch decks and presentation skills to secure funding.

“The Pitch Deck Sprint program serves as an essential platform for New Mexico’s entrepreneurs, providing them with the critical guidance needed to sharpen their pitch presentations,” said Dana Catron, interim director and CEO of Arrowhead Center. “Through this program, participants gain not only the ability to clearly convey their business vision but also a significant competitive edge when seeking funding. It’s a transformative opportunity for startups striving to establish themselves in the marketplace.”

Over six weeks, participants will attend sessions combining theoretical instruction with practical application. The sprint features interactive workshops, exercises, and real-time feedback opportunities to help participants create and refine their pitch decks. Sessions include lectures, group discussions, breakout activities, personalized mentoring, and networking opportunities. The program ends with live presentations to regional investors.

“Our approach to the Pitch Deck Sprint is holistic and innovative, designed to empower entrepreneurs with both foundational knowledge and practical expertise,” said Carlos Murguia, program manager for Scale Up NM. “We take a comprehensive look at the intricacies of crafting a compelling pitch deck, ensuring participants grasp the core concepts and apply them effectively in a real-world context.”

This mentorship-driven framework provides direct engagement with investors and equips startups with necessary tools for fundraising success.

Eligible startups must be based in or plan to relocate to New Mexico. Participants must attend weekly two-hour virtual sessions throughout the program and demonstrate active involvement in technology-based innovation.

For more information about the Pitch Deck Sprint or to apply online visit https://forms.gle/n3bRUxVryRc3mdXB9 or contact Carlos Murguia at cmurguia@nmsu.edu.