Meet Our Speakers
Get ready to be inspired by a lineup of industry leaders and experts who are shaping the future of consumer products in the Southwest and beyond. They'll share invaluable insights, strategies, and success stories to help your brand thrive.
Networking Social
5:00–7:00 PM
Sponsored by Vela Wood Law
Close out the Summit at the game with a fun, high-energy networking social where founders, speakers, organizers, and supporters passionate about growing Las Cruces CPG brands can connect, celebrate, and keep the momentum going.
Calling all New Mexico food trucks
Join us on May 5 at Mesilla Valley Mall as part of the Las Cruces Consumer Product Summit. This is more than a vending opportunity — it’s a chance to connect with founders, customers, and a growing local business community. Food Trucks can set up from 11 AM to 2 PM.
Apply now by filling out the form. Spots are limited.
Apply now by filling out the form. Spots are limited.
AI Packaging Rebrand Tool
Design plays a bigger role in sales than most people realize.
Studies show that around 70% of buying decisions happen at the shelf, and shoppers form an opinion about a product in under 3 seconds. About 60% of consumers say they’ve tried a new product because the packaging caught their attention, and over half are more likely to buy again when the packaging feels consistent and professional. Simply put, clear and thoughtful design helps people notice your product, trust it, and feel confident coming back for more.
Upload a photo of your product packaging and instantly see it reimagined in a polished, retail-ready design. Choose from five distinct styles—from Modern Minimalist to Heritage New Mexico—and let AI generate professional packaging concepts in seconds.
See what the Make It Market Studios: AI Packaging Rebrand Tool can do for your brand. Below are sample rebrands.
Summit Organizers
Behind the Las Cruces Consumer Product Summit are two founders who believe the next wave of iconic consumer brands can — and should — rise from the Southwest.
Jeff Villalobos and Joseph Sapien have spent years building platforms that help entrepreneurs break through barriers. Together, they co-created the Día de los Muertos Startup Pitch Conference in El Paso — an event that brought founders face-to-face with angel investors and venture capital leaders, sparking new companies, new deal flow, and new economic momentum for the Borderplex region.
Jeff’s background as a business and intellectual property attorney has helped countless makers protect what they’ve built. Joseph’s experience as a startup ecosystem builder has unlocked funding, partnerships, and growth opportunities for emerging ventures.
Jeff Villalobos, Senior Attorney
Joseph Sapien, Ecosystem Builder
Now, they’re turning their focus to Las Cruces’s consumer product innovators — the small-batch food creators, beauty makers, apparel founders, and sustainable product builders who are ready for the national stage.
Their mission is simple:
Give local brands the tools, expertise, and exposure they need to scale — right here at home.
Together, Jeff and Joseph are committed to uplifting makers, activating a stronger consumer economy, and showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Southern New Mexico.
Thank You Supporters
