AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 20, 2026
Adventure Pitch Fest Returns to Albuquerque
The New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division is set to host its annual business pitch competition, known as Adventure Pitch Fest, at the historic Rail Yards in Albuquerque early next month. The event, organized in partnership with Activate New Mexico, aims to highlight the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial energy found within the state's growing outdoor recreation sector.
Spotlighting the Outdoor Recreation Sector
According to Economic Development New Mexico Cabinet Secretary Rob Black, the competition is designed to bring attention to the $3.6 billion outdoor recreation industry in the state. "Outdoor businesses can connect with customers, build relationships and share their innovative ideas that are shaping the future of outdoor recreation in our state," Black said.
Meet the Semi-Finalists
Five outdoor businesses from across New Mexico have advanced as semi-finalists and will compete in front of a live audience for a share of $15,000 in cash prizes. This year’s contenders are:
- Desert River Guides (Farmington): Specializing in family-friendly guided rafting and camping trips on the Animas and San Juan rivers.
- Elknrut Packgoats & Homestead (Carlsbad): Offering outdoor education programs and packgoat experience services for adventure seekers.
- Preservation Dogs (Santa Fe): Designing environmentally conscious outdoor gear to encourage sustainable recreation.
- The Ranch @ Rio Nutrias (Tierra Amarilla): Focusing on regenerative ranching practices and hands-on outdoor experiences.
- The SISU Way (Albuquerque): Organizing global outdoor endurance and adventure events.
Alternates for the competition include Outpost Media in Santa Fe—which supports outdoor brands and guides through media services—and Far Flung Adventures in Taos, known for guided rafting and multi-day river excursions.
Event Details and Schedule
The Adventure Pitch Fest will take place on Friday, November 6, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The business pitches will begin at 6:30 p.m., where semi-finalists will present their ideas to a panel and a live audience. The top proposal will receive a $10,000 cash prize, while the runner-up will be awarded $5,000.
The event is open to the public at no cost, inviting attendees to not only watch the competition but also engage with the outdoor community and local entrepreneurs.
Interactive Experiences for Attendees
In addition to the business pitch competition, those attending can look forward to a variety of interactive experiences. Visitors will be able to meet pack burros and goats, explore a range of outdoor gear and services, and converse with local outdoor business owners. These activities provide an opportunity for the public to connect with the people and ideas driving outdoor innovation in New Mexico.
Encouraging Innovation and Community
Adventure Pitch Fest aims to foster collaboration and innovation among outdoor businesses, while also offering the public an inside look at latest trends and developments in the sector. With businesses representing fields such as guided rafting, packgoat experience, regenerative ranching, and outdoor gear design, the event demonstrates the diversity and dynamism of New Mexico’s outdoor recreation industry.
Source: krqe.com.
