The Scale Up New Mexico program, supported in part by the United States Economic Development Administration and hosted by the Arrowhead Center at New Mexico State University, is now accepting applications for its online Pitch Deck Sprint accelerator, tailored for tech startups based in New Mexico.
The accelerator assists entrepreneurs and startups in New Mexico in elevating their pitch deck presentations. Running each Thursday from Feb. 13 to March 20, the program is free to participants. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 31, with successful applicants notified of their acceptance by Feb. 6.
The Pitch Deck Sprint is a crucial element of Scale Up NM, which encompasses an array of programs dedicated to the growth of early-stage startups. In addition to the sprints, Arrowhead Center offers a robust suite of services, including business development support, assistance with Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer programs and other commercialization resources. This initiative aims to bolster startups' efforts to secure funding by refining their pitch decks and enhancing their presentation skills.
"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 the course of the six-week program, participants will engage in dynamic sessions that combine theoretical instruction with hands-on application. The sprint includes interactive workshops, practical exercises and real-time feedback opportunities, enabling participants to create, assess, and refine their pitch decks. The sessions incorporate a mix of lectures, group discussions, breakout activities, personalized mentoring and networking opportunities. The program concludes with live presentations to active 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 immersive, mentorship-driven framework, coupled with direct engagement with investors, equips startups with the tools and confidence needed for successful fundraising, raising the bar for entrepreneurial support in the region.
To qualify for the Pitch Deck Sprint, startups must be based in New Mexico or plan to relocate to the state. Participants are required to attend weekly two-hour virtual sessions throughout the program and demonstrate active involvement in technology-based innovation.
For additional information about the Pitch Deck Sprint, contact Carlos Murguia at
The full article can be seen at https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/nmsu-pitch-deck-sprint-accepting-applications-from-nm-tech-startups/s/addf584c-a8fd-45f0-bd95-a6866328bc32
