Albuquerque, NM – November 5, 2025 – Desert Dev Lab, part of the NM Tech Talks series of events, is set to become the largest software and developer-focused event ever held in New Mexico. Created by and for the blooming New Mexico tech community, Desert Dev Lab brings together developers, startups, investors, and educators for two days of workshops, networking, and hands-on software and AI innovation in the Climate and Energy sector.
As New Mexico’s largest community-driven software event, Desert Dev Lab is planned and led by local tech professionals and backed by a coalition of forward-thinking partners including CNM Deep Dive/Ingenuity, Explora, Hevesta Capital, UP.Partners, Sunward Federal Credit Union, Growvera, VetsinTech, Adelante/DiverseIT, Builders VC, Scaleway Consulting, SUNNY505, and more. The event represents a united push to grow and empower New Mexico’s technology ecosystem.
“We’re thrilled to host Desert Dev Lab as the first major event at our New Mexico headquarters,” said Angelica Maestas, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Builders VC. “Our mission has always been to invest in bold thinkers and problem solvers, and this event brings that spirit to life. Desert Dev Lab showcases the incredible innovation happening right here in New Mexico and reinforces our belief that this region is becoming a true hub for technology—especially in the climate and energy sectors.”
Participants will collaborate in teams to develop innovative software solutions to real-world problems centered on Climate and Energy. Submissions will be live prototypes evaluated by a panel of venture capitalists, software professionals, and climate entrepreneurs, with prizes of $500 for first place, $250 for second, and $100 for third.
“Desert Dev Lab is more than just a conference, it’s a catalyst for collaboration,” said Vicki Apodaca, NM Tech Talks co-founder and one of the event’s organizers. “Our goal is to highlight New Mexico’s incredible talent and create opportunities for developers, founders, and investors to connect, learn, and build together.”
The event will feature hands-on coding, industry and technical mentorship support, showcases, and networking designed to inspire innovation across industries — all culminating in a live demonstration of the development teams’ prototypes. More than just a competition, and by emphasizing local talent and grassroots leadership, Desert Dev Lab is a celebration of community innovation, one that amplifies New Mexico’s growing reputation as a destination for talent and investment in the tech sector.
Desert Dev Lab will take place at the Builders VC New Mexico Headquarters (600 1st St NW, Albuquerque) across two days, highlighting the state’s rapidly growing role as a regional tech hub, especially in the Climate and Energy sector. Next year’s event is scheduled for April 11-12, 2026 and will focus on problem statements in the Food and Agriculture sector.
For more information, visit www.nmtechtalks.com/desert-dev-lab.
Media Contact
Company Name: NM Tech Talks
Contact Person: Vicki Apodaca
Email: Send Email
Phone: 5056105932
City: Albuquerque
State: New Mexico
Country: United States
Website: https://www.nmtechtalks.com/about