Cohort completes Scale Up NM’s Pitch Deck Sprint for tech startups

Original Article | Andrea Vasquez | andreapv@nmsu.edu | June 5, 2024

The Scale Up New Mexico program, which is partially funded by the United States Economic Development Administration and based at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center, recently celebrated the completion of its second 2024 cohort's Pitch Deck Sprint accelerator program.

The accelerator initiative, aimed at equipping founders of tech startups in New Mexico with strategic assistance in refining their pitch decks and advising on their presentations, achieved notable success. It enabled promising startups to make significant progress in understanding the elements of a pitch deck, mastering the art of persuasive pitching and tailoring their presentations to diverse audiences. Throughout the sprint, more than 35 mentors shared their knowledge and feedback with participants.

The Pitch Deck Sprint is one of several projects included in Scale Up NM, an integrated collection of initiatives aimed at fostering the development of early-stage startups. Following a thorough selection phase, 12 startups from New Mexico forming the second 2024 cohort embarked on a rigorous journey filled with mentorship, educational opportunities and networking.

Throughout the six-week sprint, participants took part in dynamic sessions designed to provide a thorough understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of creating a pitch deck. The program featured interactive workshops, hands-on activities and opportunities for immediate feedback, enabling participants to efficiently craft, evaluate and refine their pitch decks. This included a mix of lectures, discussions, breakout groups, individual mentoring and networking events. The sprint culminated in a live presentation before active regional investors.

“We are thrilled with the exceptional progress our participants have made through the Pitch Deck Sprint program. Over the past six weeks, they have immersed themselves in an intensive curriculum combining theoretical insights and practical exercises,” said Carlos Murguia, Scale Up NM program manager. “This blend of learning and real-world application is what sets our sprint apart and positions our cohorts for success in the competitive business landscape”.

The startups within the cohort spanned a diverse range of industries, such as photonics, electric vehicles, life science instrumentation, medical devices, water desalination, natural products technology, and biotechnology. Their innovative concepts and technological advancements hold the promise of transforming their specific fields.

“We eagerly anticipate the future successes of our participants in upcoming pitch competitions and their engagements with investors,” said Dana Catron, deputy director of Arrowhead Center. “The skills and confidence they've developed through our Pitch Deck Sprint are foundational, and we are confident these entrepreneurs are well-prepared to not only present their innovative ideas but also to thrive in these critical discussions.”

The Pitch Deck Sprint fostered a dynamic environment where participants engaged with experienced entrepreneurs, mentors and advisers, forming crucial connections. This setting accelerated their journey toward successfully preparing and refining their pitch deck presentations. Additionally, participants benefited from graphic design support provided by NMSU students, who assisted in developing branding and enhancing graphic storytelling.

“The Pitch Deck Sprint Program revolutionized my investment preparation approach and presentation style. I now feel empowered and more confident when speaking to investors about my business plan and our unique selling proposition. The program has provided invaluable skills and mindset shifts that will be instrumental as I continue pitching my company to potential investors and stakeholders.” said Monica Vialpando, Ph.D., founder of Vialar.

For more information about Scale Up NM contact Murguia at cmurguia@nmsu.edu or visit https://arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu/program/scale-up-new-mexico/.