Anderson hosts first New Mexico qualifier for 2026 Global Scaling Challenge

The Anderson School of Management at The University of New Mexico hosted the first-ever in-person New Mexico regional qualifier for the 2026 Global Scaling Challenge (GSC), marking a major milestone in the program's continued expansion.

Five teams from across New Mexico presented innovative scaling strategies for Mesa Quantum, a New Mexico operating quantum sensing company developing next-generation positioning, navigation, and timing solutions beyond GPS. From this event, Team North of Northern New Mexico College and UNM Anderson team, MOT Express, were selected as the region's representatives at the GSC Finals on April 3, joining top teams from around the world.

"Introducing an in-person New Mexico regional qualifier was a natural next step as the Global Scaling Challenge continues to grow globally," said Corey Cooper, GSC Program Director. "It allows us to more directly engage local students while connecting them with high-growth companies here in New Mexico."

At the regional qualifier events, teams receive a live business case and develop a scaling strategy under tight timelines. During the competition, teams deliver a 10-minute presentation followed by a 10-minute Q&A with company executives and an expert panel of judges.

"The Global Scaling Challenge was a very rewarding experience that allowed my team to combine creativity with business strategy. Competing gave us real-world experience that strengthened our excitement for entrepreneurship and scaling business," said Gabriella Gonzales of Team North.

Gonzales, along with her teammates, Julian Baros and Jeff Klingbeil, came in first place at the New Mexico Qualifier event.

MOT Express secured second place and was represented by students - Angela Boone, Omar Estrada, Marisa Martinez, and Madison Montoya.

Angela Boone, a Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) graduate and current MBA student, also participated in last year's GSC event. Boone reflected on how both this year's and last year's experiences have enriched her graduate career.

"I loved brainstorming to develop a plan that might help a New Mexican firm to scale. This event is unique. We compete against teams from around the world and learn so much about growing and scaling a firm," said Boone. "Last year my team placed 2nd in the Americas regional and 6th in the UNM Global Anderson Global Scaling Challenge out of 48 teams. The best educational experience I ever had. A once (twice) in a lifetime opportunity."

Madison Montoya, MSPM student added, "Being a part of this event was a great opportunity. I got exceptional experience in presenting real-world solutions to firms that are the basis for the new transformative New Mexico economy. I look forward to taking my real-world experiential learning from the MSPM program to assist the next New Mexico based firm."

About the Global Scaling Challenge

The Global Scaling Challenge (GSC), hosted by the Anderson School of Management, is the world's first student competition dedicated to business scaling. Now in its sixth year, the program has grown into an international platform where student teams develop actionable, data-driven strategies to help real New Mexico companies accelerate growth on a global level.

The 2026 Challenge has brought together 61 teams globally competing across four regional qualifiers: Americas, New Mexico, Asia & Oceania, and Europe & Africa. From this field, 25 teams advanced to the finals, representing 10 countries and 23 universities.

This year's competition features over $40,000 in awards, reflecting expanded regional participation and increased support from sponsors and partners.

"The Global Scaling Challenge bridges academic learning with real-world applications," said Steven Walsh, director of the GSC and Anderson distinguished professor. "By working directly with companies on live scaling challenges, students gain experience that extends well beyond the classroom and reinforces Anderson's commitment to innovation and experiential learning."

To learn more about the GSC impact and finals, visit the Global Scaling Challenge website and LinkedIn page for event details, updates, and how to get involved.