STTE

(915) 229-1818

STTEFoundation@gmail.com

STTE Foundation Welcomes New Executive Director, Stephanie Schilling

The STTE Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Stephanie Schilling as Executive Director, marking a bold new chapter in our mission to fuel entrepreneurship, technology education, and workforce innovation across the Borderplex and beyond. Stephanie brings a powerful track record of impact—leading AI Hackathons, launching national initiatives like the LatinX EdTech Summit, and securing transformative funding through grants such as SBIR, Nusenda, and El Paso Electric. Her recent selection to the Stanford Latino Business Action Network (LBAN) underscores her leadership as a rising national changemaker in Latino innovation.

As Executive Director, Stephanie will spearhead STTE’s expansion into national entrepreneurship and education programming, revitalize the SunCruces Angels investor network, and align efforts with regional economic development goals. With a deep commitment to underserved communities and a visionary approach to innovation, Stephanie invites educators, founders, funders, and business leaders to partner with STTE in shaping a thriving future for the Borderland. To schedule a strategy session or explore collaboration opportunities, please reach out at venture@sttefoundation.org.

Startosphere™

At the STTE Foundation, a leader in innovation, we’re thrilled to unveil the latest evolution of Startosphere™ — the world’s first AI Lean Business Model Canvas generator. This game-changing platform empowers young founders to transform raw ideas into validated startup models in minutes, not months.

But we’re not stopping there.

Introducing LOBO — your AI Legal Agent for startup success. Fully integrated into Startosphere.io, LOBO gives founders instant, voice-activated legal support on everything from entity formation and IP protection to contracts and compliance.

With Startosphere, you can now go from idea → pitch deck → legal game plan in record time — what used to take weeks of Googling, guessing, and costly consultations now takes minutes with AI by your side.

LOBO: Legally Optimized, Boldly Outspoken.
Welcome to the future of entrepreneurship. Powered by Startosphere™ and LOBO.

Build Big Tech with the Borderplex’s Brightest.

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) 229-1818

If you’re a founder or developer ready to create something bold, scalable, and impactful, then STTE is your home. Our vibrant startup community is made up of ambitious innovators building the future of technology across industries. When you join STTE, you’re not just getting workspace — you’re plugging into a powerhouse network of visionary builders and growth-stage ventures. Join the ranks of promising startups like:

Aizen Flow
Audaz Capital
Aurum Tech
Belle.AI
CFC Show
Charge Assist
El Paso Labs
JobFlow
ProVizual
R S Real Estate Solutions LLC
Schematriz
Seraphim Predictive Systems

Save The Date: Dia de Los Muertos

Get ready for the Borderplex region’s most electrifying celebration of innovation — STTE’s Día de Los Muertos Pitch Event returns on October 30, 2025! As STTE’s premier end-of-year pitch event, this signature night brings together visionary founders, bold investors, and cutting-edge ideas from across the Southwest and Mexico. From STTE Ventures teams to AI Hackathon standouts and high-potential regional startups, the energy will be unmatched.

As the Borderplex’s leading startup coworking community, STTE proudly fuels the region’s innovation pipeline — and this capstone event is where it all comes together.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of it. Sign up for our newsletter to get insider updates, early access, and exclusive content.

Want to relive the magic? Visit our Día de Los Muertos page for a recap of the past three unforgettable pitch nights!

Since 2018, STTE has proudly led the Borderland’s most vibrant startup pitch tradition—Día de Los Muertos. What began as a bold idea has grown into a launchpad for founders to connect with local and national investors and secure their first checks. This event has become the region’s ultimate celebration of innovation, storytelling, and entrepreneurial spirit.

💡 Are you a founder with a big idea? Now’s the time to reach out to STTE and get the guidance you need to step into the spotlight and pitch with confidence.

👇 Watch the 2021 recap and see why this event is a must for any rising entrepreneur.

Cohort 3 Has Landed: Meet Our Next Venture Startups

We’re proud to officially announce Cohort 3 of the STTE Ventures Startup Program, featuring five visionary startups ready to shape the future. This diverse group includes: Belle.ai, an AI-powered skin health platform; Charge Assist, a climatetech solution tackling the U.S. electrician shortage through workforce training and EV infrastructure support; JobFlow, a personalized career tech platform streamlining job search and workforce matching; Schematriz, a low-cost circuit prototyping tool for educators and engineers; and Seraphim Predictive Systems, an AI civic tech startup delivering hyper-local water forecasting for cities.

Over the next several months, these startups will participate in STTE’s hands-on venture building program designed to refine their go-to-market strategies, sharpen storytelling, and prepare for scale. Each founder will receive mentorship, access to strategic partnerships, and tools for customer and capital readiness. The journey will culminate in a high-stakes pitch event at Dia de Los Muertos in November, where the teams will present their solutions to an audience of venture capitalists, angel investors, and industry leaders. Stay tuned as we highlight their growth—and follow STTE, the leader in startup ecosystem building.

The STTE Foundation proudly hosted the Biggest AI Hackathon in the Borderland, April 25-27, a landmark event that brought together high school students, university developers, and professional coders to solve real-world challenges using artificial intelligence. Held in partnership with UTEP’s Computer Science Department and El Paso Labs, the three-day event saw 184 participants, including 82 first-time hackers, collaborate across six critical sectors: education, health tech, water innovation, economic development, immersive learning, and sports management.

The energy was electric as teams engaged in workshops, received mentorship, and sprinted toward creating AI-powered software prototypes. In total, $4,500 in cash prizes were awarded, and hundreds of thousands in Microsoft for Startups credits are available to high-potential teams. From a high school finalist team to an all-female team in the finals, the talent and ambition were clear. Industry leaders and judges were on hand to provide feedback, award prizes, and help select the teams most likely to evolve into investable startups.

Winning teams included the Grand Prize Winner Seraphim for water innovation, Pythons for immersive learning, Shadow Roots for education, NYSFDC for sports, Mind Mesh for health tech, and Team Ready for economic development. Each industry room also selected an Innovator Award team—recognized for the highest startup potential and awarded Microsoft Azure credits and coworking access at STTE’s Sandbox space.

The hackathon not only equipped participants with new tools like OpenAI, LittleHorse, LangChain, HuggingFace, and Supabase AI but also sparked a broader regional movement. With 69 participants achieving their primary goals and 50 planning to continue developing their projects, the event has laid the groundwork for a new wave of entrepreneurship and tech-driven solutions in the Borderplex.

STTE is now actively supporting top teams in forming entities and seeking investment, with a mission to grow the region’s innovation economy. The hackathon was just the beginning—Borderland builders are just getting started.

The BIGGEST AI Hackathon in The Borderland

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.

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.

AI Professional Development for Education and Businesses

AI is transforming education, enabling AI-powered tutoring, personalized learning experiences, automated grading, and administrative efficiencies. At STTE, we offer schools, districts, and homeschool networks guidance on integrating AI into education. Our AI Professional Development for Educators provides teachers with the knowledge and tools to incorporate AI into classrooms, improve student engagement, and optimize 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.

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.

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.

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.

Audaz Capital (https://audaz.capital/)

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/)

Nusenda Credit Union (https://www.nusenda.org/)

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 Foundation (https://www.epelectric.com/)

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

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/)

Texas Gas

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

Vela Wood (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

SayWhat News for the Future

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