WRITER: Alejandro Najera-Acosta, 575-646-2025, a_najera@nmsu.edu
The Scale Up New Mexico program, hosted by Arrowhead Center at New Mexico State University and partially funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, is now accepting applications for its virtual C-Suite Sprint accelerator, designed specifically for tech startups in New Mexico.
The C-Suite Sprint is tailored for entrepreneurs and startups in New Mexico looking to strengthen their leadership teams. The program will run every Thursday from June 5 to July 10. Entrepreneurs interested in participating should apply to this free accelerator by May 23 to reserve their place. Successful applicants will be notified of their acceptance by May 27.
The C-Suite Sprint is a key component of Scale Up NM, a comprehensive suite of programs designed to accelerate the growth of early-stage startups. It complements the broad range of support services offered by Arrowhead Center, including business development, assistance with SBIR/STTR applications and a variety of commercialization support programs. The C-Suite Sprint initiative is designed to strengthen startups’ leadership by providing strategic guidance on essential skills, strategies and capabilities required for effective executive decision-making. The program places particular emphasis on the distinct roles of CEOs, COOs, CFOs and fractional executives.
“Programs like our C-Suite Sprint serve as vital catalysts in New Mexico’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, laying the foundation for cultivating leadership excellence across the startup landscape,” said Dana Catron, interim director of Arrowhead Center. “By empowering a new generation of well-rounded, visionary leaders, we are paving the way for transformative growth and innovation in New Mexico’s business community, strengthening our economic foundations, and elevating our competitive position both nationally and globally.”
Over the six-week sprint, participants will take part in dynamic sessions designed to provide an understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of key leadership roles within a startup. The program features interactive fireside chats, breakout discussions and opportunities for real-time feedback, enabling participants to develop, evaluate and refine their strategies. In addition, the sprint will explore topics related to advisory relationships and board governance.
“Our C-Suite Sprint is thoughtfully designed to equip startup leaders not only with the essential skills and strategies for success but also with a deep understanding of the complex dynamics between executive roles and corporate governance,” said Carlos Murguia, program manager for Scale Up NM. “This program is about transforming high-potential executives into visionary leader, individuals who are not just prepared, but truly positioned to take their companies to the next level.”
“I’ve participated in other accelerator and sprint programs, and I’ve been absolutely blown away by how well this one has been coordinated, planned and communicated, as well as by the level of engagement from the participants,” said Ashley Maguire, CEO of Helen’s Foundry and a member of the 2024 C-Suite Sprint cohort. “It really speaks to the dedication of both the staff and New Mexico’s founders. We’re a bit scrappier than what you see in some other programs, and that grit and commitment are what truly make this program stand out.”
To be eligible for the C-Suite Sprint, startups must be based in New Mexico or have plans to relocate to the state. Participants are expected to commit to a weekly two-hour online session throughout the duration of the cohort and be actively engaged in technology-driven innovation.
For additional information about the C-Suite Sprint, contact Carlos Murguia at cmurguia@nmsu.edu, or apply online at https://tinyurl.com/sprints2025.
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PHOTO CAPTION: The Scale Up New Mexico program, funded in part by the United States Economic Development Administration and housed at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center, will offer its C-Suite Sprint online accelerator to tech startups in New Mexico. (NMSU photo)
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Building profile photo