March 20 & 21 2026
University of New Mexico Continuing Education Conference Center
We’re bringing together people across New Mexico who care about how local news works—and how it can work better. Whether you’re a journalist, student, nonprofit leader, funder, tech expert, or just someone who cares about keeping your community informed, this summit is for you.
We want this summit to be accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, or if you need assistance with ticket purchase options, please reach out to us. We are happy to work with you to find a solution. Email us: summit@nmlocalnews.org
We believe access to conversations about local news, technology, and community should not be limited by cost. A limited number of summit stipends (up to $250) are available for those who need support with registration or participation expenses.
If you are requesting an attendance stipend, please let us know which ticket you are seeking (one-day or two-day) and whether you need support for registration only or also for travel-related costs. No additional documentation is required.
Register for Summit 2026
Available on Apple and Android Devices
Keynote Speaker Spotlight
Christopher Wink
“The Risks, Ethics, and Opportunities of AI in Local News,” led by Technical.ly CEO Christopher Wink. As generative AI reshapes the newsroom, local journalists face a stark truth: the tools are only as ethical as the people behind them. Clear gains are possible, but come in a contested and controversial period of change. In this keynote, a longtime local news journalist, publisher and tech watcher will introduce a new Elements of AI for Ethical Storytelling framework, produced with the Lenfest Institute for Journalism, and share how community-rooted newsrooms can navigate the risks, uphold journalistic values and seize new opportunities—guided by our five principles of AI for ethical storytelling.”
Christopher Wink is a journalist and entrepreneur who is cofounder and CEO of Technical.ly, the multi-local news organization with a community of technologists and entrepreneurs. He specializes in local economic development, including entrepreneurship and tech workforce trends, journalism strategy and building trust online. Founded in 2009, Technical.ly has pioneered local reporting on emerging technologies, commercialized sciences, entrepreneurship and workforce change. In 2024, Technical.ly was awarded LION's national Journalistic Impact report for their multi-year, multi-city reporting series on economic mobility, including an award-winning podcast. In 2017 Folio magazine listed him as one of the 100 most innovative media leaders in the country. Most recently, Christopher led the development of the Lenfest Institute for Journalism's Elements of AI for Ethical Storytelling.
Why Your Support Matters
Your support helps create space for connection, training, and innovation in New Mexico’s news ecosystem. Every contribution ensures that journalists, students, educators, and community leaders have the resources they need to strengthen local information and democracy.
Expands Access: Provides travel grants and scholarships, enabling students, rural journalists, and first-time presenters to participate fully.
Builds Capacity: Funds workshops, panels, and training sessions that equip New Mexicans with practical tools to meet today’s information challenges.
Strengthens Community: Creates opportunities for collaboration across newsrooms, nonprofits, educators, and technologists statewide.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Support the future of local journalism in New Mexico by becoming a Summit sponsor. Your sponsorship is considered a charitable donation through the Santa Fe Community Foundation and directly fuels this statewide gathering of journalists, students, educators, and community leaders. Sponsors make it possible to provide travel grants, keep registration affordable, and ensure diverse voices are at the table.
Complete your payment using the Santa Fe Community Foundation’s donation form. In the notes section, be sure to include the sponsorship level you are selecting.
Together, we can strengthen New Mexico’s news ecosystem and shape a more connected future.
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Recognized on the Website
Recognized in the Newsletter
Recognized in the Program Guide
Recognized During the Summit
One Complimentary Summit Ticket
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Promotional Table Tents
Recognized on the Website
Recognized in the Newsletter
Recognized in the Program Guide
Recognized During the Summit
One Complimentary Summit Ticket
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Promotional Table Tents
Recognized on the Website
Recognized in the Newsletter
Recognized in the Program Guide
Recognized During the Summit
Two Complimentary Summit Ticket
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Recognized on the Website
Recognized in the Newsletter
Recognized in the Program Guide
Recognized During the Summit
Featured on Summit Signage
Address Attendees at the Reception
Booth in Main Lobby
Three Complimentary Summit Tickets
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Recognized on the Website
Recognized in the Newsletter
Recognized in the Program Guide
Recognized During the Summit
Featured on Summit Signage
Present During the Summit
Booth in Main Lobby
Three Complimentary Summit Tickets
Need a custom sponsorship? Get in touch.
Exhibit at the Summit
Share your work, connect with attendees, and play a role in shaping the future of local news in New Mexico. Booths offer organizations, nonprofits, and businesses the chance to highlight resources, build relationships, and demonstrate their commitment to strong local information ecosystems.
Booth fees are processed as a charitable donation through the Santa Fe Community Foundation. Please complete your payment using their donation form and note that your gift is for a Summit Booth Sponsorship.
Your presence helps create a vibrant, engaged space for collaboration and innovation.
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One 6’ Table With Two Chairs
Basic Signage With Organization Name
Complimentary Wi-Fi Access
Listing in Summit Program and Website
Discounted Rate for Nonprofits, Students, and Community Groups
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One 6’ Table With Two Chairs
Custom Signage With Organization Name or Logo
Complimentary Wi-Fi and Standard Electrical Outlet
Listing in the Summit Program and Website
One Complimentary Summit Registration
Networking Opportunities With Attendees and Presenters
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Premium Booth Placement in High-Traffic Area
One 8’ Table With Two Chairs
Branded Signage With Prominent Logo Display
Complimentary Wi-Fi and Dedicated Power Connection
Featured Listing in Summit Program, Website, and Signage
Two Complimentary Summit Registrations
Recognition as a Supporting Partner in Opening Remarks and Materials
Need a custom booth? Get in touch.
Accommodations
We’re pleased to offer a special room block at Hotel Parq Central for Summit 2026 attendees. To reserve, please call the hotel directly and request a reservation under the New Mexico Summit group block. A variety of room types will be available, with the Traditional King rooms starting at $170 per night. Other room categories will have nominal rate adjustments based on room type.
These discounted rates will be honored for up to three days before and three days after the summit, giving you the flexibility to extend your stay and enjoy Albuquerque.