SW New Mexico News

The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center has announced a collaboration with Startup Chihuahua and Startup Juárez. Together, they are launching the Borderplex Fundraising Sprint, a program aimed at supporting startups in the Borderplex and Chihuahua City regions.

This initiative is part of the Hunt Center's mission to strengthen the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by enhancing access to early-stage investment opportunities and encouraging innovation among students. The program targets entrepreneurs in areas such as El Paso, Las Cruces, Juárez, and Chihuahua City, offering guidance on securing funding from angel investors and venture capitalists.

Scheduled to run every Tuesday from March 4 to April 8, interested participants must apply by February 17. Those selected will be notified by February 24. Applications can be submitted online.

Carlos Murguia, director of the Hunt Center, emphasized the importance of collaboration in fostering a thriving entrepreneurial environment. “Collaboration is at the heart of building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. At the Hunt Center, we recognize the immense value of partnering with stakeholders across the Borderplex region,” he stated.

Participants in this six-week sprint will receive training on crafting pitch decks, understanding fundraising timelines, preparing data rooms, and developing strategies for engaging with potential investors. The program includes workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking events culminating in live pitches to regional investors.

Andres Guzman from Startup Chihuahua highlighted the significance of this program for local entrepreneurs. “The Borderplex Fundraising Sprint program is a pivotal resource for entrepreneurs in the region," he noted.

This collaborative effort aims to prepare startups for successful fundraising while promoting economic growth within the community. Weekly virtual sessions will focus on technology-based innovation and active participation is encouraged.

For further details about each organization involved or how to participate in the sprint, contact information has been provided for Carlos Murguia at NMSU's Arrowhead Center, Andres Guzman at Startup Chihuahua, and Rangel Abril Rangel at Startup Juarez.

Arrowhead Center functions as an innovation hub driving economic development through creativity. It was established with support from the Hunt Family Foundation. Meanwhile, Startup Chihuahua and Startup Juarez work under Desarrollo Económico del Estado de Chihuahua to boost regional competitiveness through science and technology initiatives.