Startup Accelerator Seeking Startups for Ski Lift Pitch in Taos, NM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Jan. 11, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pitching a startup on a ski lift in the world renowned Taos Ski Valley can only be topped by the opportunity to win $10,000. ABQid, a startup accelerator based in Albuquerque, NM, is seeking nationwide startups to participate in the unique ABQid Ski Lift Pitch, which will be held on March 1, 2016.

The pitch event pairs startup founders with venture capitalists (VCs) and industry leaders on Taos Ski Valley chair lifts. The startup founders make their pitches as the elevation rises. Each founder will have three opportunities to pitch and the VCs will vote on their favorites. Three finalists will then pitch to a full crowd, including the VC judges, over lunch at 1pm. The grand prizewinner will be selected among the three finalists and announced at the 3:30pm Aprés Ski event.

New Mexico attracts entrepreneurs who seek instant access to outdoor adventure and seek opportunities to make a real impact where they live and work. New Mexico's ultimate diversity of people and terrain make it an ideal home base for tech geeks and entrepreneurs seeking a fusion of rich culture and instant access to the southern Rocky Mountains and unlimited outdoor adventure.

Last year's inaugural Ski Lift Pitch event allowed VC's from all over the country to check off a box on their bucket list and declare they've skied the new Kachina Lift at Taos Ski Valley, a world-class destination for both amateur and die-hard skiers.

"This year we are expanding the Ski Lift Pitch to entrepreneurs from all over the country to apply and experience New Mexico's ideal conditions for startups," said Katie Rice, one of the event co-founders.

Last year's Ski Lift Pitch Winner was Taos Energy Bars. "I have immense passion for the entrepreneurial spirit and opportunities that New Mexico offers. It's an amazing place for entrepreneurs to greatly benefit the startup ecosystem while driving economic development forward," said Brooks Thostenson, President and Co-Owner of Taos Mountain Energy Bars.

New Mexico Magazine editor, Dave Herndon, after participating in the 2015 Ski Lift Pitch said, "the takeaway for me was that this event represents the sweet spot nexus of New Mexico's natural assets, the recreation/lifestyle/travel options they present and the opportunity for grass roots economic development they can inspire."

Startup founders interested in applying for the Ski Lift Pitch, should visit www.skiliftpitch.com. All applicants should have some experience with either skiing or snowboarding.

ABQid (www.abqid.com) is an organization that supports local entrepreneurs who are building great businesses and is a key element in Albuquerque's efforts to grow a culture of innovation, so organizing the contest aligned well with their mission. Current ABQid Ski Lift Pitch Contest sponsors include the New Mexico Tourism Department, Taos Ski Valley, Silicon Valley Bank, City of Albuquerque, ReCARnation, NewsCastic, Horizon Group at Morgan Stanley, Zia Trust, and Taos Mountain Energy Bar. Others interested in sponsoring the event can contact ABQid at [email protected]

Photos accompanying this release are available at:

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http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=38416

CONTACT: Joanie Griffin
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         (505) 764-4444 ext. 222