New Mexico State University (NMSU) has recently announced the upcoming 2023 Scale Up NM Pitch Competition for technology startups based in New Mexico. The event, hosted by the Scale Up NM program, is scheduled to take place on October 26, 2023, at Electric Playhouse in Albuquerque. Aspiring entrepreneurs with innovative ideas have until September 25 to submit their applications for a chance to participate in the competition.
The Scale Up NM program, funded by the United States Economic Development Administration and operated under NMSU's Arrowhead Center, aims to support technology-based businesses in their early-stage development. The Pitch Competition is a key component of this initiative, offering emerging startups a platform to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and compete for cash prizes. In addition to the prize opportunities, participants will also have the chance to receive valuable mentorship and network with industry experts, potential investors, and fellow entrepreneurs at the event.
Dana Catron, the deputy director of Arrowhead Center, expressed excitement about the upcoming competition, stating, "This premier event is set to captivate the entrepreneurial community." The judging panel, comprised of seasoned investors and venture capitalists from the Southwest region, will assess the pitches and provide valuable feedback to the participants.
Notable speakers at the event include Justin Crowe, the Founder and CEO of Parting Stone, who specializes in digital marketing and AI prompt expertise. The panel of judges consists of individuals from prominent companies such as Audaz Capital, Kickstart, Raven Capital, EPIC Ventures, and Dangerous Ventures, according to the Scale Up website.
Overall, the 2023 Scale Up NM Pitch Competition promises to be an exciting opportunity for tech startups in New Mexico to gain recognition, valuable feedback, and potential investment. With the support of NMSU's Arrowhead Center and the Scale Up NM program, these entrepreneurs have a chance to accelerate their early-stage development and contribute to the thriving technology ecosystem in New Mexico.