Hey there! February’s packed with some seriously cool opportunities across New Mexico’s startup scene. Whether you’re a student looking to break into entrepreneurship or a seasoned founder ready to take things to the next level, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in.

For Our UNM Students

Lobo VC Cup
Pitch for real money. Invest with real consequences. Student founders battle for funding while student VCs learn to spot the next unicorn, all with actual startups, real mentors, and cash on the line.
📅 Monday, February 23 | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 Anderson Graduate School of Management, Jackson Student Center
💰 Free
RSVP here

Student-Led Networking & Career Connections Event
Not your typical career fair. This is where UNM students meet employers from NM Angels, AFRL, Sandia, the City of Albuquerque, and local startups in a super informal, relationship-focused setting. Think conversations and mentorship over stuffy booths. 10-15 employers hiring for internships and full-time roles, organized by students, for students.
📅 Thursday, February 26 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
📍 Anderson Graduate School of Management
💰 Free
RSVP here

Open to Everyone

Ski Lift Pitch
10 startups (5 from NM, 5 from out-of-state) pitch to investors ON THE SKI LIFT, then the top 2 from each category compete for $10,000 at the finals in the lodge. It’s elevator pitches, but way cooler. Literally.
📅 February 2-3
📍 Taos Ski Valley, NM
Learn more here

Calling All Science & Engineering Entrepreneurs and Investors
UNM researchers are presenting their latest breakthrough technologies and innovations. If you’re an entrepreneur looking for your next venture or an investor scouting new opportunities, this is where you’ll discover cutting-edge tech coming straight out of university labs. Perfect for making connections, asking questions, and finding partnership opportunities. Plus, they’re feeding you lunch.
📅 Wednesday, February 4 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
📍 Lobo Rainforest Building, Albuquerque
💰 Free
Get tickets here

From Carbon to Clean: Transforming our Workforce for a Sustainable SW
Part of the Beyond Profit series. A panel of experts including Terra Argo (Tribal energy engagement leader), Veena Parboteeah (Dean at NMHU), and Solomon Gbara (UNM student founder of TalentSync) will dig into how we’re preparing New Mexico’s workforce for the clean energy transition. Expect real talk about challenges, opportunities, and what it takes to build a sustainable future here in the Southwest.
📅 Tuesday, February 4 | Time TBA
📍 Christ Church Santa Fe
💰 Free with suggested $25 donation
Get tickets here

Getting Investor Ready: Strategies for Raising Capital
Drew Tulchin (first CFO of Meow Wolf, raised $100M+) shares how to raise capital with confidence. Whether you’re considering your first round or your fifth, this one’s practical, interactive, and worth your time. Hosted by NM Angels and City of Albuquerque Economic Development.
📅 Thursday, February 19 | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
📍 Virtual
💰 Free
RSVP here

Red Bull Basement <> NM Tech Talks Meetup
Red Bull Basement is a national tech competition where students, entrepreneurs, and innovators compete to develop and launch AI-powered ideas. Last year’s winner built an AI agriculture app that helps farmers track crops and predict threats. This meetup is your chance to learn about the competition, meet the NM tech community, chat with a Red Bull rep about how to apply, and hear how NMClimate is getting involved to boost ClimateTech innovation. Oh, and there’s Red Bull (and cocktails) involved.
📅 Thursday, February 26 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
📍 Hollow Spirits Distillery, Albuquerque
💰 Free
RSVP here

See you out there! February’s going to be a great month to connect, learn, and level up.

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🤖 NMAIC: AI After Hours!

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Calling all AI enthusiasts, researchers, entrepreneurs, and curious minds: It’s time to connect over New Mexico’s fastest-growing tech sector. The New Mexico AI Consortium is hosting the second AI After Hours, a relaxed evening where you can network with the people shaping AI in our state. No slides, no agenda, just genuine conversation about building models, shaping policy, or exploring how AI impacts New Mexico’s future. Whether you’re deep in machine learning or just AI-curious, this is your chance to meet collaborators, share ideas, and be part of something bigger.

📍 Location: NewSpace Nexus, 2420 Alamo Ave SE #104, Albuquerque, NM
🤝 What to Expect: Casual networking, light refreshments courtesy of Chevron, and the chance to build real connections in NM’s AI community
🔗 Register: RSVP Here

🎉 NM Tech Talks Holiday Party

Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

‘Tis the season to celebrate with New Mexico’s tech community! NM Tech Talks is bringing together all member organizations, including Techqueria New Mexico, Software Social Club/Google Developer Group, HealthInno, NMClimate, NM Angels, STEM Boomerang, and Rubber Ducks, for one epic holiday party. This is your chance to wind down the year, connect with fellow builders and innovators, and celebrate everything we’ve accomplished together in 2025.

📍 Location: Hollow Spirits Distillery, 1324 1st St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
🔗 More Info: Check NM Tech Talks for registration details

💡 New Collar Workforce Summit

Thursday, December 11, 2025 | 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

The future of work is here, and it’s being built in New Mexico. Join thought leaders from MIT, Santa Fe Community College, the NM Department of Workforce Solutions, employers, venture capitalists, and innovators for a full day of ideation on workforce training and the jobs of tomorrow. This summit tackles the big questions: How do we prepare workers for AI, quantum computing, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing? What policy changes will accelerate innovation in education and training? With panels on quantum, aerospace, AI, and advanced manufacturing, plus interactive ideation sessions to create community-specific solutions, this is where New Mexico’s workforce transformation begins.

📍 Location: Santa Fe Higher Education Center, Santa Fe, NM
💼 Who Should Attend: Educators, employers, policymakers, workforce development professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone invested in preparing New Mexico for the future of work
🔗 Register: Sign Up Today

⚡ DOE Boost Showcase Pitch Event: Commercializing the Future of U.S. Energy

Thursday, December 11, 2025 | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Watch innovation become reality. The DOE Boost Showcase is where cutting-edge energy technologies developed in DOE laboratories meet the entrepreneurs ready to bring them to market. This isn’t just another pitch competition, it’s a glimpse into the future of U.S. energy, from grid resilience to critical supply chains. Startups will compete for a $100,000 prize pool, with the top three teams walking away with funding to launch their companies before they even leave the stage. Plus, hear a keynote from Anthony Pugliese, Director of the DOE Office of Technology Commercialization, on federal priorities and what’s next for America’s energy future. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about innovation, this is the event of the year.

📍 Location: Q-Station, Albuquerque, NM
🌟 What to Expect: Live pitches from visionary startups, keynote address, fireside chat with DOE Boost alumni, pre-event networking (4:00 PM), and a post-event happy hour. Available in-person and virtually.
🔗 Register: Get Your Ticket

Stay Connected

Don’t miss out on what’s happening across New Mexico’s startup scene. Follow Founder St for updates, stories, and the opportunities that matter most in our community.

🏆 Rainforest Pitch Competition Live Finals

Wednesday, November 6, 2025 | 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Watch New Mexico’s most promising startups compete live for funding and recognition. The Rainforest Pitch Competition brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and community supporters for an evening of innovation and inspiration. Whether you’re looking to support local founders or get inspired for your own venture, this is the place to be.

📍 Location: Bow & Arrow Brewing Company, 608 McKnight Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM
🎟️ What to Expect: Live pitches, networking, and craft beer in one of Albuquerque’s favorite spots
🔗 Learn More: Event Details

💻 Desert Dev Lab Hackathon

Saturday, November 8 - Sunday, November 9, 2025 | 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Calling all developers, designers, and problem-solvers: It’s time to build solutions that matter. Desert Dev Lab is a 48-hour ClimateTech hackathon where teams tackle real challenges using software, data, and AI to create sustainable solutions. Hosted by NM Tech Talks, this year puts purpose at the center of innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or passionate about climate tech, this is your chance to build something impactful.

📍 Location: Builders VC NM Headquarters, 600 1st St NW, Downtown Albuquerque (Near Wool Warehouse)
⚡ Who Should Attend: Developers, designers, entrepreneurs, climate advocates, and anyone ready to build for a sustainable future
🔗 Register: Participant Sign-Up

🎤 Desert Dev Lab Demos & Networking

Sunday, November 9, 2025 | 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Can’t make the full hackathon? No problem. Join us for the grand finale where teams present the ClimateTech solutions they built over the weekend. It’s a great opportunity to see what’s possible in 48 hours, meet the builders behind the projects, and connect with New Mexico’s tech and climate innovation community.

📍 Location: Builders VC NM Headquarters, 600 1st St NW, Albuquerque, NM
🤝 What to Expect: Team presentations, demos, networking, and a front-row seat to New Mexico innovation
🔗 RSVP: Get Your Free Ticket

Stay Connected
Don’t miss out on what’s happening across New Mexico’s startup scene. Follow Founder St for updates, stories, and the opportunities that matter most in our community.

Staying Engaged in a Divided World Conference

If you’re into the bigger picture stuff, like how businesses operate in an increasingly complicated world, this one’s worth checking out. They’ve got Dr. Trita Parsi from the Quincy Institute and Jody Olsen, who ran the Peace Corps, as keynote speakers. There’s also panel discussions with different generations talking about cross-cultural exchange, plus breakout sessions on nonviolent communication and finding common ground. Good for anyone thinking beyond just local markets. Lunch is included.

October 3, 8:45 AM - 2:00 PM (doors at 8 AM) | UNM SUB Ballroom C

More info

NASA International Space Apps Challenge

NASA’s bringing their global hackathon to Albuquerque, and it’s actually pretty cool. You’ve got 48 hours to work on real problems using NASA’s data, no, seriously, actual NASA data. Teams can be anyone: developers, designers, students, random people who just think space is neat. There are 19 different challenges to pick from, ranging from beginner to advanced, so you don’t need to be a rocket scientist. Prize money comes from local sponsors, City of ABQ is putting up first place, EzeeFiber’s got second, and Sommers Realty is covering third. You’ll pitch your solution on Sunday (doesn’t have to be finished), then have until 11:59 PM to submit. Awards ceremony is the following Friday if you want to see who wins.

October 4-5, 10 AM - 3 PM | Q Station, 3225 Central Ave NE | Awards: October 10 at 6 PM

Register

Roadrunner Tech Forum

The annual tech forum is back at the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Last year they had 400+ attendees and speakers from Founders Fund, the U.S. Navy CTO, and the Department of Energy, plus investors from major firms. This year looks equally stacked, expect conversations about venture capital, deep tech, and frontier science. It’s presented by Morrison Foerster, Rho, and Google, so they’re not messing around.

October 15, 2025 | National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque

Reserve your spot

Elevate NM: Power Lunch for Entrepreneurs

Meg Whitman’s coming to town, which is kind of a big deal. This is one of those events where you actually might meet your next investor, partner, or at least someone who knows someone. It’s put together by a coalition including the Hispano Chamber, UNM Health Sciences, Anderson School of Management, and the NM Bioscience Authority. Lunch is provided, and the whole point is to bring together business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to actually connect, not just collect business cards. Fair warning though, spots fill up fast.

October 15, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM | Lobo Rainforest Building, 101 Broadway Blvd NE

Register

Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico 2025 Gala

Time to dust off something nice and head to the Sheraton. This gala celebrates Black business owners and entrepreneurs across the state, and it’s always a good mix of networking and community. The Black Chamber’s been crushing their events lately, their Juneteenth celebrations have grown from 4,000 to aiming for 10,000 attendees. Plus, who doesn’t like a good reason to dress up occasionally?

October 24, 6-11 PM | Sheraton Airport Hotel, 2910 Yale Blvd SE

Register

2025 Health AI Summit

HealthInno’s putting on their flagship summit at Sandia Golf Club, and the speaker list is stacked with founders, CEOs, and healthcare leaders working in AI. They’re covering everything from AI readiness and ethics to real-world use cases across care delivery and health equity. Topics include “AI Myth Busting,” responsible AI, and tech access beyond metro areas. There’s programming all day, then a reception from 5-7 PM if you want to keep the conversations going. They’ve even got a hotel block at Sandia Resort if you’re coming from out of town.

October 28, 9:30 AM - 5 PM (reception 5-7 PM) | The Event Center at Sandia Golf Club

Register

So yeah, that’s October. A pretty solid mix of events depending on what you’re into. Pick a couple, show up, and actually talk to people, you never know what’ll come from it.

Best of luck with the events,
Andoni & Solomon

New Mexico Tech Summit

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 | 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM MDT
Sandia Resort and Casino, 30 Rainbow Road, Albuquerque

NMTC's flagship event brings together 750+ founders, business leaders, policymakers, investors, and rising stars to transform the future of tech in our state. Features 2 thought-provoking keynote sessions (including a nationally recognized AI keynote panel), 10 breakout sessions across 5 tracks, and premium networking opportunities. This is your chance to gain insights from industry experts and connect with individuals elevating our local tech economy.

Tickets: NMTC Members $50 | Non-Members $75 (heavily discounted from regular pricing)

Buy tickets here

Founder Syndicate Workshop/Social

Tuesday, September 23, 2025 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Bow & Arrow Brewing Co., 608 McKnight Ave NW, Albuquerque

Want more sales? Join fellow founders for a workshop that's about building real traction, not just networking. This month's session is led by Mark Castelo, a GTM and sales leader with 14+ years of experience helping startups turn strategy into revenue. Learn to stop chasing problems with your solution and instead zero in on solving one clear problem for one real customer—the shift that unlocks validation, traction, and repeatable growth.

What to expect: Practical tools, fresh perspectives, and actionable strategies. Light catering provided upstairs at Bow & Arrow.
Sponsored by: Arrowhead Center Scale Up New Mexico

Register now

NM Startups Pitch & Match

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Q Station, 3225 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque

An energizing morning designed to connect New Mexico's most promising startups with the people who can help them grow. The agenda includes a fireside chat, rapid-fire one-minute pitches from up to 20 selected startups (plus pitches from startups looking to relocate to New Mexico), followed by pre-curated rotating meetings and open networking.

Come ready to: Pitch, connect, and grow—with burritos provided to fuel the exchange of ideas.
Hosted by: Arrowhead Center Scale Up NM

Register here

Founders Syndicate Deep Dive

Tuesday, September 30, 2025 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Santa Fe Business Incubator, 3900 Paseo del Sol, Santa Fe

Engage with founder-peers in the New Mexico startup ecosystem and support each other through the ups and downs of building and scaling. This Deep Dive features facilitated networking and guided discussions designed to spark collaboration and practical insight for innovative and scalable startup founders.

Hosted by: Santa Fe Business Incubator & Santa Fe Economic Development
Questions? Contact Sandy at 404-272-3104

Register here

NASA International Space Apps Challenge

Saturday-Sunday, October 4-5, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Q Station, 3225 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque
Awards Ceremony: Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM

"Albuquerque, we have a problem." Your mission: SAVE PLANET EARTH in this 48-hour global hackathon competing with hundreds of teams worldwide. The world's largest and most exciting hackathon challenges teams to "hack" real-world problems written by NASA scientists for a chance to win out-of-this-world prizes.

Prizes: 1st place $1,000 + Global Nomination | 2nd place $500 | 3rd place $300
What to bring: Laptop, charger, creativity. No coding experience needed!
Open to: All ages and skill levels (under 18 must be accompanied by parent/guardian)
Cost: FREE community event

Register now - spaces limited!

Want your startup event featured in our Community Calendar? Email us with your event details and we'll help spread the word to New Mexico's growing innovation community.

That's a wrap on September's lineup. The hardest part isn't finding good events in New Mexico, it's choosing which ones to prioritize when your calendar starts looking like a game of startup bingo. Whatever you pick, just remember that half the value is in the conversations that happen in the hallway after the official programming ends.