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Desert Dev Lab Hackathon

Code the Future at Desert Dev Lab

November 8–9, 2025
Builders VC NM HQ
Downtown Albuquerque, NM
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Desert Dev Lab is an annual hackathon hosted by NM Tech Talks. This year we're putting purpose at the center of innovation. Over two days, teams will come together to tackle one of the biggest challenges in ClimateTech using the power of software, data, and AI to build real solutions that can help shape a more sustainable future.

Whether you're a seasoned engineer, a first-time hacker, or just passionate about climate innovation, this is your chance to build something that matters.

Solve big problems fast with AI

We will provide a core problem in ClimateTech that needs to be solved. Let's get together and build!

48 hours of hands-on hacking

Intensive development sessions where you'll build real solutions from concept to prototype.

ClimateTech challenge + real-world problem statements

Work on actual challenges facing our climate with guidance from industry experts.

Mentorship from experts in AI, energy, and sustainability

Get guidance from professionals working at the forefront of climate technology.

Pitch your project to investors, founders & climate leaders

Present your solutions to decision-makers who can help bring your ideas to life.

Free meals, drinks, and coffee to keep your team going

Focus on building while we take care of keeping you fueled throughout the event.

Access mentorship from new teammates

Looking to meet new devs? Get paired with a team and unlock mentorship through a collaborative project.

The Deets

Who should come

Developers, designers, climate thinkers, founders, engineers, students—anyone who wants to use tech to make a difference. Come solo or with a team. We'll help you connect if you're looking for collaborators.

Location

Builders VC NM Headquarters
600 1st NW, Downtown Albuquerque, NM
(Near Wool Warehouse)

Saturday, November 8

8:30 AM – Check-in Opens

9:00 AM – Kickoff + ClimateTech Briefing

10:00 AM – Team Formation & Hacking Begins

All Day – Coding and mentoring

Sunday, November 9

9:00 AM – Final Push

4:00 PM – Project demos + judging

6:00 PM – Awards and networking

Organizers

Google Developers Group Abq

Google Developers Group Abq

Builders VC

Builders VC

NMClimate

NMClimate

ABQ Software Social Club

ABQ Software Social Club

Techqueria NM

Techqueria NM

Interested in partnering or sponsoring this year's program?

Intersecting AI and ClimateTech

Climate change is the defining issue of our generation. Desert Dev Lab is your opportunity to take action with code.

Spots are limited. Reserve your place now and be part of the movement.

Our Events

Highlights from our ongoing events and activities

Panel discussion at TechFest 2024 with audience view and TechFest banner
Busy networking and workshop session at TechFest 2024 with attendees collaborating
Speaker presenting from yellow chair at TechFest 2024
Two women networking and having friendly conversation at TechFest 2024
Panel discussion setup with TechFest banner and multiple speakers
Attendee with name tag networking and having conversation at TechFest 2024
Vendor booth representatives Ken and colleague at TechFest 2024 expo area
Two women posing together at TechFest 2024 networking event

We host year-round programming. Join us next time!

Ready to Code the Future?

Join us for two days of innovation, collaboration, and impact in the heart of New Mexico.

Register for Desert Dev Lab