NM Tech Talks to host inaugural software hackathon as organizers seek to build momentum

New Mexico boasts multiple deep-tech startups and rich roots in traditional sciences through its national labs and universities.

But coming from the world of software development, Vicki Apodaca feels she and others are a bit of a “niche group” in the state. In an effort to bring the ecosystem together, NM Tech Talks will host a first-of-its-kind software hackathon.

“I would be so bold (as) to say it’s probably one of the largest software hackathons in New Mexico,” Apodaca, co-founder of NM Tech Talks, said.

The Desert Dev Lab hackathon will run Saturday through Sunday at the Builders VC office in Albuquerque. Participants, many of whom are established in their fields, will have 48 hours to pitch and build prototypes before ending the competition with demos and judging.

Design challenges will revolve around climate and energy, Apodaca said. Participants will have access to tools for their builds and hands-on guidance from mentors. Competition judges come from startups like UP.Abundance, as well as experts from state national labs and higher education institutions.

The convergence of software and artificial intelligence with climate issues is not always heard together, Apodaca said, lending to the “great fit” of hosting at Builders VC.

Angelica Maestas, Builders VC director of strategic partnerships, said the company focuses on investments in health care, climate and agriculture technology. With the venture firm based in California, she said its New Mexico branch wants to do something different.

“What we are doing is really investing in the startup ecosystem development and bringing knowledge and networks to the community to, one day, have a venture-ready pipeline of founders to invest in,” Maestas said.

Maestas said ecosystem development is contingent on fostering good partnerships, adding that even just providing the space for NM Tech Talks’ event is a way to bring everyone together. Builders VC also wants to host a “health tech hackathon” in the future, through which Apodaca is helping get going, Maestas said.

Hackathon prizes include $500 for first place, $250 for second and $100 for third, Apodaca said, made possible by local entrepreneurs, startups and businesses. Apodaca said the community’s support lets her know she’s “doing the right thing.”

Marking the inaugural hackathon, Apodaca is already looking forward to next year’s event in April.

“A lot of us are just ready to get our hands dirty and build,” Apodaca said.