December Events Roundup
Celebrate, Connect, and Compete: December’s Biggest Opportunities
December is packed with opportunities to close out the year strong. From AI networking and workforce innovation to pitch competitions with real prize money, this month has something for everyone in New Mexico’s startup ecosystem. Bundle up and mark your calendars, here’s what you can’t miss.
🤖 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
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People underestimate how much momentum comes from just being present. Not pitching. Not collecting business cards. Just real conversations, then disciplined follow-through. Community is built one coffee at a time ☕
This articles timely. 'No agenda' AI networking is an intriguing concept.