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Join the BIGGEST AI Hackathon

STTE, UTEP Computer Science Department and El Paso Labs are joining forces to offer the BIGGEST AI Hackathon, April 25-27, 2025.

Are you ready to push the boundaries of AI, collaborate with top talent, and solve real-world challenges? This is your chance to innovate, compete, and turn your ideas into reality. Whether you’re a coder, designer, entrepreneur, or problem-solver, the AI Hackathon is your opportunity to make an impact.

🔥 Network with industry leaders
🎯 Develop groundbreaking AI solutions
💡 Learn from expert mentors
🏆 Compete for cash prizes and recognition

Register now and be part of the future of AI!

After registration, sign up and join the El Paso Labs STTE Discord.

Employers: Share Your Pain Points. Have AI Help!

AI is transforming industries, but many businesses struggle to adopt it. What if you could get a custom AI solution built just for you—while supporting local tech talent? 🤖💡

STTE, UTEP Computer Science Department, and El Paso Labs are launching the biggest AI Industry Hackathon in our region! 💥

💡 Why Participate?
✅ Get an AI-powered prototype to solve your biggest challenges
✅ Support local tech talent & keep innovation in El Paso
✅ Position your company at the forefront of AI adoption
✅ Help build El Paso’s future as a thriving tech hub

🔹 Submit your challenge in a brief survey
🔹 Watch innovators develop AI-powered solutions
🔹 Help shape the next big breakthrough in your industry

Here’s your chance! Share your toughest business challenges in our short survey. If selected, AI innovators will build solutions at the hackathon!

Fill out the survey below and be part of the AI revolution!

AI Professional Development for Education and Businesses

AI is reshaping how learning is delivered, from AI-powered tutoring and personalized learning experiences to automated grading and administrative efficiencies. At STTE, we now offer schools, districts, and homeschool networks navigate the future of education with AI. Our AI Professional Development for Educators equips teachers with the knowledge and tools to integrate AI responsibly into classrooms, enhance student engagement, and streamline daily operations. With experience working alongside top EdTech companies, STTE provides cutting-edge training, strategic AI planning, and even custom AI solutions tailored to district needs. Whether you’re a superintendent, principal, or homeschool leader, STTE ensures your institution is AI-ready for the next generation of learners.

AI isn’t just a tool—it’s a game-changer for business growth and efficiency. STTE’s AI Business Professional Development helps companies strategize, innovate, and implement AI solutions that enhance productivity, automate repetitive tasks, and unlock new opportunities. Our services include AI Strategy Blueprints to map AI integration, Open AI Hackathons that connect executives with AI developers to create real-world solutions, and AI Agent Development for automating customer service, operations, and decision-making. With a strong network of AI experts and proven success in launching AI-driven startups, STTE provides businesses with the resources and expertise needed to stay ahead in an AI-powered economy.

Apply to Join STTE Ventures Program

The STTE Ventures program is a year-long program designed to transform innovative ideas into market-ready startups. By focusing on five foundational pillars—People, Place, Partners, Program, and Pitches—we provide entrepreneurs with the mentorship, resources, and collaborative ecosystem necessary for accelerated growth. Our strategic partnerships with the City of El Paso Economic Development, Audaz Capital, Inicio Ventures, and other key stakeholders ensure that participants have access to industry experts and a supportive community, fostering the development of thriving local businesses.

We are excited to announce that applications for cohort three of the STTE Ventures program are now open. If you are an entrepreneur ready to scale your startup and make a significant impact in your industry, we encourage you to apply. Join us in strengthening El Paso’s startup community and driving economic growth in the region. Apply now to embark on a transformative journey with STTE Ventures.

EdTech Connect

Discover, Connect, and Transform Education with EdTechConnect.org

At STTE, we believe that innovation in education is key to preparing students for the future. However, finding the right EdTech solutions can be overwhelming for educators, schools, and decision-makers. That’s why we created EdTechConnect.org—a centralized platform designed to connect educators, entrepreneurs, and investors with groundbreaking EdTech innovations. Built on our experience hosting national EdTech pitch events, this marketplace simplifies access to cutting-edge solutions that enhance learning, empower teachers, and drive student success—all in one location.

EdTechConnect.org features AI-driven math platforms, real-time student feedback tools, and SEL-focused solutions that support emotional well-being and classroom engagement. Innovare provides data-driven dashboards for superintendents, helping school leaders make informed decisions for student success. Whether you’re looking for test prep resources, coding curricula, or leadership tools, our platform connects you to trusted EdTech providers shaping the future of education.

Beta Test Startosphere™ LOBO – Your AI-Powered Startup Legal Guide!

Startup founders, meet Startosphere™ LOBO (Legally Optimized, Brilliantly Outspoken), the AI agent designed to simplify legal and compliance for your startup! Get instant advice, save on startup costs, and ensure compliance in Texas, New Mexico, and Delaware—all with the power of AI.

🔥 Why Join the Beta?
✅ Speak to a Legal AI Agent
✅ Get Startup Compliance Advice
✅ Save Money on Legal Costs

Be among the first to experience LOBO and help shape the future of AI-driven startup guidance. Spots are limited—sign up now!

👉 Register Below:

Work Smarter at STTE Coworking

Coworking is the future of work, offering a high-end office experience without the high costs. At STTE, you get access seven days a week to a premium workspace with fiber internet, extra monitors, whiteboard spaces, and unlimited coffee—all for just $150/month. Whether you’re a startup founder, developer, or remote entrepreneur, our space fuels productivity and connects you with top-tier engineers and venture-backed founders shaping the future.

🚀 Seating is limited. Monthly memberships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t miss your chance to be part of El Paso’s premier startup community. Book a tour today and experience why STTE is the ultimate workspace for serious builders. Call us now to schedule your visit before space runs out.

Call (915) 465-4683

STTE Ventures Impact Report Release

STTE is proud to announce the release of the STTE Ventures Two-Year Impact Report, detailing the significant economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurial advancements achieved through our AI-powered programs. With a El Paso City Economic Development $250,000 investment, the program has supported 10 startups and SMBs, resulting in 30 new customer segments identified, 28 new jobs created, $1.2M fundraised, and $514K in Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR). Collectively, these efforts have generated an economic impact of $2.9M, delivering a 12X return on investment. The program has empowered high-growth startups such as Aizen Flow and Squad Pilot, alongside established SMBs like TriSum Saunas, Chuco Relic, and PCG Concrete, all of whom have leveraged STTE’s AI-driven mentorship and business development resources to accelerate their growth.

By integrating AI into the entrepreneurial journey, STTE has equipped founders with advanced business modeling tools like Startosphere and access to a thriving tech community that fosters mentorship, collaboration, and innovation. This milestone report underscores the critical role of AI and technology in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the Southwest, providing a blueprint for continued economic development. As we look ahead, STTE remains committed to scaling support for both startups and SMBs, ensuring they have the resources needed to validate, launch, and grow sustainable businesses. Explore the full STTE Ventures Two-Year Impact Report and discover how we are building the next wave of AI-powered entrepreneurs.

STTE Featured in National Startup Report

STTE is honored to be featured in the prestigious 2024 Latino Startup Hub Report by Inicio, a recognition that underscores both the organization’s impact and the Southwest region’s growing momentum in building a thriving startup ecosystem. The report examines 18 Latino startup hubs across the U.S., showcasing their economic potential while addressing the persistent underrepresentation in startup funding. By highlighting organizations like STTE, Audaz Capital, and Borderplex Alliance, the report brings attention to the mentorship, funding, and resources driving innovation in the region. This acknowledgment reinforces the resilience, cultural identity, and entrepreneurial spirit shaping the Southwest, marking a significant step toward establishing a more vibrant and sustainable startup ecosystem.

The 2024 Latino Startup Hub Report provides a data-driven look at Latino entrepreneurial regions, offering insights into population growth, household income, educational resources, and the presence of Latino-led businesses and investors. It also features profiles of Latino startup leaders and lists key organizations and events supporting the ecosystem in each region. By fostering collaboration and investment, the report aims to create a more inclusive and equitable national network. Additionally, it recognizes the contributors and data sources that helped shape its findings, further strengthening its credibility as a critical resource for advancing Latino entrepreneurship.

AI Your Idea for Free!

At the STTE Foundation, a leader in innovation, we’re thrilled to introduce the latest evolution of Startosphere. This platform stands out as the world’s first youth-focused entrepreneurship education tool, uniquely designed to transform ideas into reality through our advanced AI-powered business model canvas. Join us in shaping the future of entrepreneurial education.

Startosphere

AR Mirrors

We’re excited to announce that STTE’s Innovision AR interactive mirrors are now featured at La Nube, the new Children’s Museum. Sponsored by Bank of America and Audaz Capital, and powered by Geenee.ar, these mirrors allow youth to see themselves in various professional roles—Astronaut, Electrical Engineer, Accountant, Veterinarian, Entrepreneur, and Computer Scientist. As of August 7, 2024 the Mirrors have engaged over 110,000 individuals with over 800,000 experiences displayed. STTE’s AR Mirrors also have Google Analytics tracking usage, great for reporting impact. Be sure to check them out! Want to have STTE help design your learning environment with future technologies? Learn more about Innovision here.

Let STTE Enhance Your Classroom

STTE is driven to reimagine the future of education! With the exponential growth in technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR), redefining how learning is delivered must be explored. As smart glasses and immersive tools become more available, STTE is ready to lead the charge in creating adaptive, engaging educational environments. Our InnoVision program is at the forefront of this transformation, working with national partners and building learning experiences that will reach and inspire students everywhere—regardless of their zip code, language, or economic background.

Want to help shape the future? Contact us and join the movement as we push innovation to new heights. In the meantime, here is a sample of a virtual lesson we created with the help of ABC’s News Anchor Stephanie Valle who explains more about the power of AI and AR.

Tech Teach: Your Launchpad to EdTech Entrepreneurship

Imagine transforming the challenges you face in education into profitable, impactful EdTech solutions. Tech Teach is your launchpad to do just that. With Tech Teach, you design, we build, and together showcase your innovative product to educators at national conferences.

Tech Teach is a program specifically designed to support educators who are passionate about making a difference in education. Work on solving challenges you see every day. We provide the resources, mentorship, and expertise needed to turn your innovative ideas into successful EdTech businesses. Turn your teaching expertise into a startup that solves real-world problems in education.

Sponsored by Microsoft, this exclusive program by STTE and New Tech Network is designed for educators like you—those ready to step beyond the classroom and into the exciting world of entrepreneurship and innovation.

The Southwest Startup Showdown: Catalyzing Innovation, Empowering the Borderland

At STTE, we believe in the power of innovation to transform communities. On November 8, 2024, we proudly hosted the Southwest Startup Showdown, bringing together 23 visionary startups, 10+ investors, and over 100 attendees, including high school and college students, business leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the region. This landmark event celebrated emerging talent and provided $35,000 in cash prizes across multiple categories, recognizing ideas with the potential to reshape the economic future of the Borderland.

Winners by Category

High School Category:

First Place: Shore Elegance – Aiming to redefine elegance in sustainable fashion, Shore Elegance showcased a fresh perspective on environmentally conscious clothing.
Second Place: Nest Rise – Innovating in smart home solutions, Nest Rise impressed judges with its approach to enhancing home automation and efficiency.
Third Place: Dreams – Bringing big aspirations to the tech-driven world of youth entrepreneurship.

Microsoft Collegiate Cup:

First Place: The Space-Cryo Satellite (UTEP) – Revolutionizing space technology with advancements in cryogenics, this startup captivated judges with its potential to impact aerospace research and beyond.
Second Place: Frontierless Cash (UTEP) – Aiming to break down barriers in digital finance, Frontierless Cash presented a vision for a more inclusive, accessible financial landscape.

STTE Hackathon Team Winner:

First Place: Charge Assist – Developing efficient solutions for electric vehicle charging, addressing a critical need as the world shifts towards sustainable transportation.

Ventures Winners:

First Place: Jale (work4workers.com) – A platform aimed at enhancing the gig economy, Jale demonstrated potential for economic empowerment through flexible work solutions.
Second Place: Aurum (Aurumbio.tech) – Pioneering new technology in sustainable energy, Aurum emphasized the need for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions.

Early-Stage Category:

First Place: SCHOOLS Test Prep (www.schoolstestprep.com) – This startup is redefining test preparation, offering students effective, personalized resources to support academic success.

Building the Borderland’s Future
The Southwest Startup Showdown wasn’t just a competition—it was a powerful statement about the potential of the Borderland’s entrepreneurial spirit. “Events like these are vital for economic growth and innovation in our region,” said Joseph Sapien, Executive Director of STTE Foundation. “By supporting startups, we foster job creation, attract investment, and empower our local talent to solve real-world problems, ensuring El Paso’s brightest minds can thrive here.”

The event served as a bridge between bold ideas and strategic investors. “By connecting startups with investors, we’re opening doors for growth, partnerships, and lasting impact,” Sapien added. Local investors engaged directly with entrepreneurs, evaluating how their contributions could spark economic vitality and support homegrown innovation.

A Legacy of Innovation
As El Paso’s premier startup event, the Southwest Startup Showdown underscores STTE’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. By nurturing the next generation of creators and change-makers, we’re driving economic growth, job creation, and a culture of innovation. Together, we’re securing a brighter, more prosperous future for the Borderland region.

Thank You Sponsors

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Thank You To Our Supporters

Thanks to our trusted network of dedicated supporters, STTE is able to operate and help make a generational impact in the world.

Borderplex Alliance (https://www.borderplexalliance.org/)

Carnegie Mellon University (https://www.cmu.edu/)

EduLab Capital (https://www.edulabcapital.com/)

El Paso Chamber (https://elpaso.org/)

Geenee.ar (https://geenee.ar/)

Hispanics In Philanthropy (HIP.org)

Inicio Ventures (https://www.inicio.ventures/)

Pay It Forward (https://pif.vc/)

Sand Hill Angels Charitable Fund (Sand Hill Angels Charitable Fund)

The City of El Paso, Economic Development

The Trust For The Americas (https://www.trustfortheamericas.org/)

Bank of America (https://www.bankofamerica.com/)

Council on Regional Economic Expansion and Educational Development (CREEED) (https://www.creeed.org/)

El Paso Electric (https://www.epelectric.com/)

El Paso Water (https://www.epwater.org/)

Innovare (https://innovaresip.com/)

Microsoft

New Mexico State University Arrowhead Center (https://arrowheadcenter.nmsu.edu/)

Paso del Norte Community Foundation
(https://pdnfoundation.org/)

Sun Cruces Angels (https://suncrucesangels.org/)

The University of Texas at El Paso (https://www.utep.edu/)

VelaWood Law (https://velawood.com/)

Success Through Technology Education (STTE) Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on producing stories that inspire, building a future STEAM workforce, and fostering a startup ecosystem.

Our Mission

To develop and deploy entrepreneurship and STEAM-based educational programs for students and adults that accelerate and advance economic development.

Our Vision

To become a national leader in innovation, entrepreneurship, and STEAM education impacting a globally competitive marketplace.

Our Strategic Goals

Develop a virtual adaptive learning space, aided by a teaching assistant, to support educators in enhancing student learning.
Increase Percentage of students going into STEAM Fields
Build an entrepreneurial ecosystem through innovative programs, mind setting products and access to capital opportunities

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