WRITER: Alejandro Najera-Acosta, 575-646-2025, a_najera@nmsu.edu
The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center is partnering with Startup Chihuahua and Startup Juárez to launch the Borderplex Fundraising Sprint, a program designed for startups in the Borderplex and Chihuahua City region.
The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship is committed to strengthening the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by empowering diverse communities to engage in entrepreneurship, improving access to early-stage investment opportunities, and inspiring students to develop innovative products and services for the commercial market.
The Borderplex Fundraising Sprint is designed specifically for entrepreneurs and startups in the Borderplex region, which includes El Paso, Las Cruces, Juárez and Chihuahua City, providing the tools and strategies needed to secure funding from angel investors and venture capitalists. The program will take place every Tuesday from March 4 to April 8. To secure a spot, interested parties must apply for the no-cost accelerator by the Feb. 17 deadline. Selected applicants will be notified of their acceptance by Feb. 24.
Applications are accepted at https://tinyurl.com/borderplex.
The initiative aims to enhance startups' fundraising efforts by offering strategic assistance in refining pitch decks, improving presentation techniques, and providing crucial knowledge of financial terminology and instruments. The program will also focus on negotiating with potential investors and developing the necessary tools and materials to attract investment.
“Collaboration is at the heart of building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. At the Hunt Center, we recognize the immense value of partnering with stakeholders across the Borderplex region,” said Carlos Murguia, director of the Hunt Center. “By working together, we can strengthen our collective resources, drive innovation, and unlock new opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs. This regional collaboration is not just a strategy; it’s a commitment to fostering growth and sustainability, creating a more vibrant and resilient economy for the entire Borderplex.”
Throughout the six-week sprint, participants will engage in dynamic sessions that provide both theoretical knowledge and practical insights on creating pitch decks. They will also deepen their understanding of fundraising timelines, data room preparation and fundraising strategies. The program will include interactive workshops, hands-on activities and opportunities for immediate feedback, enabling participants to craft, evaluate and refine their pitch decks efficiently. The sprint will feature a mix of lectures, discussions, breakout groups, individual mentoring and networking events, culminating in a live pitch presentation to regional investors.
“The Borderplex Fundraising Sprint program is a pivotal resource for entrepreneurs in the region, offering essential support in refining their pitch presentations and capital-raising strategies,” said Andres Guzman, director of Startup Chihuahua. “This initiative equips entrepreneurs with the tools to effectively communicate their vision, significantly enhancing their potential for success in securing funding. It is an essential steppingstone for startups looking to make their mark in their industries.”
This hands-on approach, enriched with personalized mentorship and direct engagement with investors, is designed to prepare startups for successful fundraising, setting a new standard for entrepreneurial support in our community.
Participants are expected to attend a weekly two-hour virtual session throughout the cohort and actively engage in technology-based innovation.
For more information about the Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship, contact Murguia at cmurguia@nmsu.edu or visit https://arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu/program/the-hunt-center/.
For more information about Startup Chihuahua, contact Guzmán at andres@startupchihuahua.com or visit https://startupchihuahua.com/.
For more information about Startup Juarez, contact Rangel Abril Rangel at arangel@startupjuarez.com.
Arrowhead Center serves as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, driving economic development and fostering a culture of creativity. The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship, established through a transformative gift from the Hunt Family Foundation, spearheads these efforts by empowering diverse entrepreneurs, supporting student startups, and advancing economic growth.
Startup Chihuahua and Startup Juarez, backed by Desarrollo Económico del Estado de Chihuahua, champion entrepreneurship, science, technology, and innovation to enhance regional competitiveness. The organizations create favorable conditions for developing and scaling science- and technology-based business models.
This initiative benefits from strategic support by the Municipal Government of Chihuahua and the Instituto de Apoyo al Desarrollo Tecnológico, which provide critical resources and regional expertise to amplify its impact.
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PHOTO CAPTION: The Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship at New Mexico State University’s Arrowhead Center is partnering with Startup Chihuahua and Startup Juárez to launch the Borderplex Fundraising Sprint, a program designed for startups in the Borderplex and Chihuahua City region. (Courtesy photo)
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Aerial view of the La Equis monument in Juárez and the Bridge of the Americas.