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Category: Press Release

The Collectiv launches AI native, dual-use sports, health & wellness accelerator in Rice’s Ion District

Posted on by Torey Brown

Original Rice News article

The Collectiv Foundation, in collaboration with Rice University, today announced the creation of the AI Native Dual-Use Sports, Health & Wellness Accelerator powered by The Collectiv in Houston’s Ion District, a 16-acre innovation hub in Houston’s Midtown developed by Rice. The accelerator platform is designed to support early-stage founders building artificial intelligence technologies validated in sports and scaled across health, enterprise and consumer markets.

The accelerator will officially launch in March and will be hosted at the Ion, the epicenter of the Ion District and Houston’s emerging venture advantage platform. It will connect founders with emerging and established professional sports leagues and franchises, university athletic conferences and departments, hospital systems, corporate partners, leading university entrepreneurship and business programs, and venture capital. Through The Collectiv’s platform, founders gain direct access to mentors, advisers, operators, pilot opportunities and investment capital, with the sports sector serving as an early validation layer and commercialization pathways extending into larger global markets.

The accelerator will focus on high-growth sportstech verticals, including but not limited to performance and health, fan experience and media platforms, data and analytics, and enterprise infrastructure. Additional details on accelerator programming, partners and application timelines will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Houston is quickly becoming one of the most important innovation hubs at the intersection of sports, health and AI,” said Ashley DeWalt, co-founder and managing partner of The Collectiv and founder of The Collectiv Foundation. “By launching this platform with Rice University in the Ion District, we are building a category-defining acceleration engine that gives founders access to world-class research, global sports properties, hospital systems and venture capital. This is about turning sports-validated technology into globally scalable companies at a moment when the world’s attention is converging on Houston ahead of the 2026 World Cup.”

The Collectiv’s accelerator is launching at a time when innovation across these sectors is accelerating, and AI-driven performance, data, and health technologies are expanding into global commercial and consumer markets. Houston is emerging as a national hub at this intersection, driven by major initiatives including the Rice-Houston Methodist Center for Human Performance, the Rice Brain Institute, the Rice Gateway Project and stadium revitalization.

At the same time, Houston’s health and life sciences ecosystem is gaining national prominence in brain health research and translational medicine with Rice and Texas Medical Center institutions advancing new funding initiatives and interdisciplinary collaborations that are strengthening the region’s leadership at the intersection of health, technology and commercialization.

“The combination of Rice University’s research leadership, Houston’s unmatched health ecosystem, and The Collectiv’s operator-driven investment platform creates a powerful acceleration engine,” said Blair Garrou, co-founder and managing partner at Mercury Fund and senior adviser to The Collectiv. “This is exactly the type of venture-scale infrastructure needed to support founders building the next generation of AI Native sportstech and wellness companies.”

With capital, research, infrastructure, and global visibility converging ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, this represents a generational opportunity to support founders building dual-use technologies validated in sports and scaled into health, enterprise and consumer markets, the founders said.

“This platform gives founders something that is incredibly rare — direct access to decision-makers across professional sports, health care, academia and enterprise,” said Chantell Preston, managing partner at The Collectiv and vice chair of The Collectiv Foundation. “We are creating real commercialization pathways through mentorship, pilots, partnerships and capital, all built around a global stage that few cities in the world can offer.”

The accelerator is backed by The Collectiv, a community-powered venture capital fund built and backed by senior leaders across sports, technology and venture, in strategic partnership with venture capital firm Mercury Fund.

“The Ion was built to serve as the front door for innovation in Houston, bringing together founders, corporations, universities and investors,” said John Reale, interim associate vice president and executive director of the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship, which drives activation at the Ion. “This accelerator embodies that mission and positions Houston as a global destination for sports, health and AI innovation.”

Rice becomes Houston host city supporter for World Cup, will host watch parties

Posted on by Torey Brown

Original Houston Chronicle article

Rice University has been named to be an official Houston host city supporter for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the university and Houston’s World Cup host committee announced Friday.

The university plans to host watch parties, community programs and soccer clinics, and to create opportunities for students to pitch in on World Cup-related activities ahead of the World Cup. It will even run FIFA-themed campus tours.

“Our role as a university is to create opportunities for learning, connection and service that extend far beyond our campus,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said in a statement. “Supporting the FIFA World Cup 2026 Houston Host Committee allows Rice to help welcome the world to Houston — to showcase the spirit of this city, to engage our students in meaningful, hands-on experiences and to contribute in ways that reflect our commitment to having global impact at a personalized scale.”

Chris Canetti, the local host committee president, said Rice is the first university or college to partner with a World Cup host city in North America as a supporter.

Houston is hosting seven matches this summer at NRG Stadium for the World Cup. Five of those are in the group stage and two are in the knockout round, including an exciting match set for July 4.

FIFA Fan Fest will be held in EaDo, meaning people who are taking public transportation from the fan festival and downtown to games will pass the university on the light rail.

World Cup watch parties will be hosted at Tudor Fieldhouse and the Ion, the innovation center located in Midtown, according to a news release.

DesRoches also said that Rice will collaborate with Art Club for a “sustainable ecologies installation exhibit” that will be found on campus and other places across the city.

“The FIFA World Cup represents the very best of global sport, and Rice Athletics is thrilled to help welcome the world to Houston,” Rice athletic director Tommy McClelland said in a statement. “We are excited to welcome soccer fans to Tudor Fieldhouse and the Ion District to celebrate the ‘beautiful game’ at its highest level. These events allow us to showcase our campus and students while elevating interest in the sport of soccer across Houston and bringing our community together around an unforgettable global moment.”

Burke to conclude 25 years of leadership at Rice Alliance, marking defining chapter for university’s work in entrepreneurship

Posted on by Torey Brown

Original Rice News Article

After nearly 25 years of leadership that helped shape Rice University’s role in entrepreneurship, Brad Burke will conclude his tenure leading the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and programming in the Ion District, Houston’s transformational innovation district, June 30.

“Brad’s impact on Rice extends far beyond any single program or initiative. He grew the Rice Alliance from a promising campus initiative into one of the most respected university-based entrepreneurship platforms,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said. “We are deeply grateful for this lasting legacy, and we are confident in the leadership moving forward and the future of the Rice Alliance and the Ion District.”

During Burke’s tenure, Rice Business went from unranked in entrepreneurship to the No. 1 graduate entrepreneurship program by The Princeton Review for the past seven years and a top 20 entrepreneurship program in the U.S. News & World Report rankings for the past 14 years — landing in the top 10 the past four.

“Brad didn’t just build programs — he built an ecosystem, a culture and a reputation for Rice that now resonates around the world,” Rice Business Dean Peter Rodriguez said. “Through his vision and steady leadership, Rice became a place where founders are taken seriously, ideas are rigorously supported and entrepreneurship is embedded in the fabric of the university.”

One of Burke’s most visible and enduring contributions is the Rice Business Plan Competition (RBPC). Under his leadership, the RBPC grew from nine student teams competing for $10,000 into the largest and richest intercollegiate student startup competition in the world, now welcoming 42 student startups competing annually for more than $1 million in prizes.

Beyond campus, Burke played a central role in building Houston’s energy entrepreneurial landscape. He helped establish a world-class energy venture conference and was instrumental in launching and growing Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week, now a cornerstone convening event.

“The Rice Alliance stands as a rare and enduring institution in the entrepreneurial support landscape,” said Adrian Trömel, interim vice president for innovation and chief innovation officer at Rice. “This steady leadership and commitment to building something designed to last is reflected in Brad’s rapid impact at the Ion, which has grown into a vibrant center for founders, partners and community members.”

Burke co-founded the Texas University Network for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in 2008 to bolster the entrepreneurship programs at every university in Texas. In 2016, the Rice Alliance assumed leadership of the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC), the preeminent university-based consortium designed to foster sharing of best practices.

Burke’s contributions and the Rice Alliance have been recognized both nationally and internationally with numerous awards, including the 2011 GCEC Nasdaq Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence. In 2013 and 2014, Rice Alliance was recognized as the world’s best university startup incubator by UBI Index. In 2023, Burke received both the Trailblazer Award from Houston InnovationMap and was honored by the Deshpande Foundation for outstanding contributions to advancing innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education.

Looking ahead, John (JR) Reale Jr. will serve as interim associate vice president and Rice Alliance executive director beginning April 15. Reale is a longtime Rice supporter, contributing more than 17 years on the Rice Alliance Advisory Board, and a lecturer at Rice Business who joined the Rice Alliance as managing director in 2025.

Reale co-founded Station Houston, which served as a thriving center of gravity for Houston’s startup ecosystem. Since then, through founding Integrated Capital and serving in various roles at the Texas Medical Center, he has invested in and advised countless startups, built teams and raised capital that has driven impact.

“The Rice Alliance has always been about helping founders gain advantages to realize their visions,” Reale said. “Under Brad’s leadership, the Rice Alliance has become a globally recognized platform that is grounded in trust and drives transformational founder outcomes. My commitment is to honor what Brad has built and led while continuing to serve our team and community, deepen relationships and deliver impact.”

Burke will remain at the Rice Alliance as an adviser to ensure a smooth transition until his retirement June 30.

“Working with an amazing team to build the entrepreneurial ecosystem at Rice, in Houston and beyond, has been the privilege of my career,” Burke said. “It has been extremely gratifying to hear entrepreneurs say our efforts changed their lives, while bringing new innovations to market. The organization is well-positioned to help drive exponential growth across startups, investors and the entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

With this leadership transition, the Rice Alliance and the Ion move forward on a strong foundation, supported by the university and many corporate partners.

Ion District Unveils New Art Displays Showcasing Local Artists

Posted on by Torey Brown

Creativity collides with innovation as Houston artists reveal new public art displays at the Ion

HOUSTON, OCTOBER 28, 2025 – Ion District, Houston’s 16-acre innovation hub developed by Rice University, today announced its next round of site-specific window art installations. Created by Houston-based artists Luisa Duarte and Joel Zika, the new installations will be unveiled by the artists on October 29, 2025, during a public event hosted by the Ion and Piper Faust Public Art at Second Draught located in the Ion from 5:30 – 7:30 pm CT.  

Following the event, the installations will be available for the public to view for free for the next six months as part of the Ion District’s “Eye on Art” program. The rotating art installations create opportunities for Houston-based artists and demonstrate the importance of cross-disciplinary connections when fostering innovation. 

As the epicenter of the Ion District, the Ion provides a variety of programming aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship for Houston companies and beyond. Eye on Art enhances this mission by showcasing creativity through accessible art experiences for the community and visitors—displayed prominently in the building’s windows, which serve as welcoming focal points at its entry.

Chosen by the Ion and the Ion District Art Advisory Council, with support from public art consultant Piper Faust, the installations are a nod to the original window displays of the historic Sears building on which the Ion was built.   

Luisa Duarte: “Urban Sentinels” 

Bold geometry and radiant color transform in this dynamic exploration of structure, balance, and the pulse of urban life. 

Luisa Duarte is a multidisciplinary artist with a foundation in architecture that deeply shapes her practice. Rooted in abstract geometry, her work transforms structured design into intuitive, expressive forms that explore memory, identity, and belonging. As a Venezuelan immigrant, Duarte’s art reflects the duality of nostalgia and discovery, blending the precision of architecture with the emotion of lived experience. 

Her latest installation, Urban Sentinels, is a site-specific work composed of four three-dimensional sculptures derived from her geometric works on paper. These “sentinels” are quiet observers and guardians of presence that invite reflection rather than defense. 

Rooted in architectural language yet alive with color and rhythm, the sculptures interact with their surroundings to create moments of stillness within the city’s motion. Framed by a green-painted mural Urban Sentinels transforms the Ion’s windows into a space for contemplation and connection. 

More than an installation, Duarte’s sentinels act as beacons of care, holding space for imagination, memory, and belonging within the urban landscape. 

Joel Zika: “Acanthus”  

Victorian decoration comes to life in this cutting-edge interactive sculptural installation. 

Joel Zika is a Houston-based media artist originally from Australia who uses emerging technology to tell stories in site-specific environments. His practice combines deep research with a fascination for both contemporary and historical forms of entertainment, creating immersive works that connect communities through shared visual experiences. 

Zika’s latest work, Acanthus, uses digital technology to explore our relationship with ornament in public space. The installation features digital sculptures and holographic projections that audiences can control. Through this interactive experience, participants manipulate richly decorative, Victorian-inspired forms as if tending to flowers in a garden. The work continues Zika’s exploration into how we communicate through our built environments using motifs of classical decoration to create an immersive, participatory environment that encourages curiosity and engagement. 

Zika has exhibited internationally in galleries, festivals, and public spaces, with recent projects featuring digital installations in windows and vitrines similar to those at the Ion. 

“Innovation comes in many forms, and the Eye on Art program is a testament to artists, creatives, and Houston residents being an integral part of Ion’s innovation community,” said Faust. “As we unveil the fifth round of art installations, we celebrate the extraordinary work of our local artists, and also the inclusive, welcoming, and collaborative space that Ion offers to all innovators in Houston.”  

To learn more about the Eye on Art program and its application process, please visit the Artist Residency page on the Ion District’s website or contact Piper Faust at piper@piperfaustpublicart.com.  

About Ion District:  

The Ion District is a 16-acre innovation hub in Houston’s Midtown, developed by Rice University to foster collaboration among entrepreneurs, academics, startups, and established companies. Anchored by the Ion building—a centerpiece for technology, research, and entrepreneurship—and home to Greentown Labs, one of North America’s leading climate tech incubators, the District offers dynamic workspaces, labs, and event venues designed to accelerate innovation and economic growth. The District will soon expand with The Arc, a nearly 200,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art research and technology facility purpose-built to accelerate collaboration, research, and commercialization across key industries. Together, these resources make the Ion District a central destination for Houston’s rapidly evolving innovation ecosystem.

Rice Real Estate, Lincoln Property Co. announce plans for The Arc, significant expansion of Ion District

Posted on by roslynn

New state-of-the-art research, technology facility to expand Houston’s innovation corridor

Article originally published via Rice News here.

Rice Real Estate Co., in partnership with Lincoln Property Co., today unveiled plans to develop a landmark research, laboratory and office building designed to catalyze world-class innovation and enterprise in Houston. The new facility, named The Arc at the Ion District, will bring almost 200,000 square feet of modern, flexible research and development space to the Ion District.

Accelerating collaboration, technology, discovery

The Arc’s location within the Ion District positions the new facility to extend the district’s success as a hub for innovative ideas and collaboration. The Ion building — now over 90% leased — includes tenants and corporate partners from Chevron, Microsoft, Aramco, Baker Botts, ExxonMobil, Oxy, BP, Shell, United, Transocean and Woodside Energy as well as leading startups and investors such as Persona AI and Liongard. This impressive roster demonstrates the Ion’s strong market demand as a destination for innovation-driven companies. The Arc, which will share a plaza with the Ion, will be purpose-built to accelerate the transition of ideas from the lab to the marketplace and support a broad spectrum of research and enterprise activities.

Rice University: Powering research at The Arc

Rice University will be a lead tenant at The Arc, occupying almost 30,000 square feet of premier office and lab space for its world-class faculty and students. Rice’s presence will offer cross-disciplinary research and idea exchange with a focus on key fields of energy, artificial intelligence, data science, robotics and computational engineering. The Arc will accelerate the translation of discoveries from the laboratory to real-world solutions by connecting Rice’s academic resources and research infrastructure with industry, institutional and entrepreneurial partners.

“The Arc will offer Rice the opportunity to deepen its commitment to fostering world-changing innovation by bringing our leading minds and breakthrough discoveries into direct engagement with Houston’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said. “Working side by side with industry experts and actual end users at the Ion District uniquely positions our faculty and students to form partnerships and collaborations that might not be possible elsewhere. We look forward to building on our legacy of academic excellence to inspire new ventures, advance bold research and deliver solutions that will transform our community and the world around us.”

The Arc
Rendering by Neoscape courtesy of HKS.

A design for the future

Designed with flexibility, The Arc will offer floor plates ranging from 28,000 to 31,000 square feet and generous 15-foot floor-to-floor heights. Infrastructure will be future-proofed to accommodate advanced HVAC, high-capacity electrical and emergency power systems and core lab systems that meet demanding research requirements. The project is targeting LEED Gold certification, integrating smart building automation and energy-saving features to promote sustainability and operational excellence.

Within The Arc, tenants and visitors will benefit from a suite of amenities designed to foster wellness, creativity and community. Highlights include a fully equipped gym, an amenity lounge, conference and meeting spaces and expansive outdoor plazas for events and informal gatherings. Additional conveniences include underground parking, secure bike storage, on-site retail and dining and proximity to the METRORail Red Line — all within one of Houston’s most vibrant and walkable districts. Tenants will also have access to the Ion’s public amenities, including shared conference areas and the forum stairs amphitheater, further supporting opportunities for collaboration and community engagement.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Rice University and play a role in shaping the next chapter of the Ion District,” said Gabe Lerner, executive vice president of Lincoln Property Co. “The Arc at the Ion District represents a rare opportunity to help add to and grow a nationally significant innovation hub right here in Houston — one that fosters breakthrough ideas, fuels inclusive economic growth and anchors the city’s rise as a global leader in science and technology.”

“The Arc at the Ion District will be more than a building — it will be a catalyst for the partnerships, innovations and discoveries that will define Houston’s future in science and technology,” said Ken Jett, president of Rice Real Estate Co. “By expanding our urban innovation ecosystem, The Arc will attract leading organizations and talent to Houston, further strengthening our city’s position as a hub for scientific and entrepreneurial progress.”

Construction timeline, preleasing

Construction on The Arc is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026, with completion anticipated in the first quarter of 2028. Preleasing opportunities are now open for organizations ready to join Rice at the heart of Houston’s innovation future. For more information, visit TheArcIonDistrict.com.

New Morning Speaker Series at the Ion Spotlights NASA Space Stories

Posted on by Torey Brown

Innovation doesn’t just happen in labs or boardrooms—it happens when stories are shared, and ideas and imaginations are sparked. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of a new speaker series: NASA Stories at the Ion.

This morning series will spotlight the human side of space exploration. Each session will feature personal and powerful stories from astronauts and key NASA personnel. From breathtaking missions aboard the ISS to unexpected lessons in leadership and teamwork, this series offers a behind-the-scenes look at spaceflight, told by the people who’ve lived it.

Join us for the inaugural edition of “NASA Stories at the Ion” on Tuesday, July 1 featuring veteran NASA astronaut Dr. Tracy C. Dyson. In this conversation, Dr. Dyson will share stories from her remarkable 373 days in space, her experiences aboard the International Space Station, and the leadership lessons she’s learned while orbiting 250 miles above Earth.

NASA Stories at the Ion builds on the success of NASA Tech Talks, offering a new, more personal perspective to complement the technical insights shared in that ongoing series. Together, these programs offer a more complete picture of the innovation, leadership and resilience behind space exploration.

NASA Stories at the Ion is family-friendly and open to the public. This speaker series is designed to inspire anyone curious about what it takes to push the boundaries of human potential. Complimentary breakfast and networking kicks off each event.

Stay tuned! NASA Stories at the Ion is just getting started. Be sure to check the Ion Events Calendar regularly for upcoming speakers and future sessions in this new series.

Impact Hub Houston Announces New Headquarters at the Ion District!

Posted on by Torey Brown

Read the article originally published through Impact Hub Houston here.

Impact Hub Houston Moves to the Ion to Expand Support for Impact Ventures and Entrepreneur Ecosystem Development

 

Houston, TX – 2025 April 2 – Impact Hub Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring, connecting, and empowering people with the resources they need to build businesses that address humanity’s most pressing challenges, is excited to announce its move to the Ion, Houston’s growing hub for innovation and entrepreneurship powered by Rice University. This strategic move aligns with Impact Hub Houston’s commitment to advancing equitable economic growth by connecting its regional and international community with a thriving local ecosystem to foster greater collaboration, connectivity, and capital access for entrepreneurs.

Impact Hub Houston works with over 52 community partners in the region and over 120 Impact Hubs in 68 countries around the world to create programs and opportunities that advance the launch and growth of impact ventures. In its mission to accelerate purpose-driven entrepreneurship and upward mobility for Houstonians, embedding itself in the Ion’s environment of startups, corporate partners, and investors presents an unparalleled opportunity to amplify its impact.

“As a founder who has been deeply involved in evolving Houston’s startup community over the past two decades, this move represents a pivotal moment in our impact story—one where local and global communities, businesses, and institutions start aligning strategies and come together to build a more collaborative, equitable, and sustainable economy,” said Grace Rodriguez, Executive Director of Impact Hub Houston. “At the Ion, we will not only deliver more impactful programs and events, but also unite the unique entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystems we’ve been facilitating through Impact Hub Houston’s equitable energy, capital readiness, procurement, talent, and impact initiatives. The Ion and Rice offer a convergence of resources that will enable us to deepen our partnerships and strengthen regional support for local changemakers to accelerate impactful solutions for Houston and beyond.”

“We’re excited to welcome Impact Hub to the Ion. Their mission and programming align naturally with our efforts to support entrepreneurs at every stage—from first-time founders to seasoned innovators. This collaboration strengthens our shared commitment to growing a thriving innovation ecosystem in Houston,” said Brad Burke, Associate Vice President for Industry and New Ventures at Rice Innovation.

Moving to the Ion District, Houston’s dynamic epicenter for innovation, will allow Impact Hub Houston to::

  • Strengthen its Greater Houston Support Stack initiative, a coalition of incubators, accelerators, and economic development organizations that provide entrepreneurs with coordinated programs, resources, mentorship, and access to contracts and capital.
  • Expand collaboration among innovators and ecosystem partners to develop solutions that address Houston’s challenges, from climate resilience to education to good health and wellbeing.
  • Enhance programming and events that equip purpose-driven entrepreneurs with the knowledge, networks, and funding they need to scale their impact ventures.
  • Increase accessibility by being in a highly visible central hub with parking, public transportation, and digital infrastructure to bridge Houston’s innovation ecosystem with the drivers and influencers of the region’s economy.

Open Invitation to Entrepreneurs and Ecosystem Builders to Advance Impact Innovation

Impact Hub Houston invites innovators, entrepreneurs, business owners and leaders, investors, experts, and community members to engage with our programs and events at the Ion. Whether through learning opportunities, mentorship, funding, or strategic partnerships, there are many ways to contribute to the growth and success of Houston’s impact entrepreneurs.

For more information on Impact Hub Houston’s upcoming initiatives, partnerships, and opportunities to get involved, visit https://houston.impacthub.net.

For more information about Impact Hub Houston’s programs and upcoming events at The Ion, visit http://iondistrict.com/events/.

For media inquiries, please contact: Grace Rodriguez, Executive Director, Impact Hub Houston: grace.rodriguez@impacthub.net

###

About Impact Hub Houston

Impact Hub Houston is a locally rooted, globally connected nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring, connecting, and empowering impact innovators, leaders, and supporters. We work alongside 120+ Impact Hubs in 68 countries around the world to connect, support, and accelerate businesses that tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. Through a vibrant community, collaborative partnerships, inspiring events and transformative programs, we empower changemakers to turn their ideas into scalable solutions for a more just and sustainable world. Website: https://houston.impacthub.net/

About The Ion

Located in Ion District, the Ion building is the transformative centerpiece of Houston’s innovation corridor, powered by Rice University. Designed to bring our city’s entrepreneurial, corporate, and academic communities into collaborative spaces and programs, the sunlit structure of steel and glass is a home for advancing diverse knowledge, teams, technologies, and products that propel our world forward.

For more information about the Ion, visit IonDistrict.com or email: start@ionhouston.com.

Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week Announces 2025 Dates

Posted on by roslynn

The second annual conference returns September 15-19, 2025, to accelerate the development and scaling of real solutions for the dual challenge.

(Houston, Texas) Building on the success of its inaugural year, Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week will return September 15-19, 2025, bringing together thousands of startups, investors, and industry leaders from around the world.

“Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week was created to answer a fundamental question: Can we achieve more by working together than we can alone?” said Jane Stricker, Senior Vice President, Greater Houston Partnership and Executive Director, Houston Energy Transition Initiative. “By joining forces, we’re strengthening Houston’s role as a global leader in energy innovation, uniting top talent to turn bold ideas into real solutions. In 2024, we set out to build something with lasting impact—rooted in the ingenuity of Houston’s technologists and founders. Thanks to a collaborative effort across industry, academia, and startups, we’ve only just begun to showcase Houston’s strengths and invite others to be part of this movement. We can’t wait to see the city rise to the occasion again in 2025.”

Founded by Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship, Halliburton Labs, Greentown Labs, Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HETI), Digital Wildcatters and Activate, this city-wide initiative was launched to showcase Houston is developing and scaling real solutions for the dual challenge—meeting growing global energy demand while reducing carbon emissions. The event’s inaugural year in 2024 demonstrated the power of this collaboration, drawing more than 2,000 attendees across 30+ events, featuring 100+ speakers and 125+ startups.

Anchor Events for 2025 Include:

  • Monday, September 15
    • Official Kickoff Event at the Ion, hosted by HETI
  • Tuesday, September 16
    • Activate Meet the Cohort
  • Wednesday, September 17
    • Rice Alliance Energy Tech Venture Forum (Invite-only Startup/Investor Office Hours)
  • Thursday, September 18
    • Rice Alliance Energy Tech Venture Forum at Rice University
    • Greentown Labs ACCEL Showcase
  • Friday, September 19
    • Halliburton Labs Pitch Day at the Ion

In addition to these marquee events, returning programming from New Climate Ventures, Digital Wildcatters, and Global Corporate Venturing are already confirmed. New partners, including Decarbonization Partners and Avatar Innovations, are also joining the lineup. With the date announced, the founding partners invite 2024 hosts and others, to begin planning their events and programs. Calendar submissions will be opened in May.

Programming will take place across Houston, with the Ion District, powered by Rice University, serving as a key hub.

For more information and to get involved, visit houstonenergyclimatestartupweek.com

About Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week
Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week is a collaborative, city-wide initiative dedicated to advancing solutions for the energy transition. Launched by Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship, Halliburton Labs, Greentown Labs, Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HETI), Digital Wildcatters and Activate, the annual activation brings together startups, investors, and industry leaders to showcase innovation and drive meaningful impact. Events are hosted by many organizations across the city.

Ion Announces New Coworking Partnership

Posted on by roslynn

New flexible workspace partner, Industrious, offers enhanced hospitality experience


HOUSTON – JANUARY 22, 2025 – Rice Real Estate Company today announced Industrious as the new operator of the Ion’s coworking community. The partnership seeks to deliver a new hospitality-focused member experience for the Ion’s innovation community.

“The Ion’s coworking space is vital for our startups, small businesses and innovation partners. It’s more than just a physical location to work, the dynamic environment fosters organic idea exchange and collaboration that is flexible to scale with a company’s needs as they grow. Partnering with Industrious enhances the Ion’s hospitality offerings in this way,” said Ken Jett, President of Rice Real Estate Company. “Their unparalleled expertise in delivering quality, hospitality-driven workspaces complements our vision of creating a world-class ecosystem where entrepreneurs, corporations, and academia converge to drive innovation forward.”

Industrious, renowned for its community-minded, hospitality-driven approach to coworking, will take over the management of the Ion’s existing 86,000-square-foot coworking space. This expansive area features a diverse range of workspaces including private suites and offices, dedicated desks, phone booths, and conference rooms of varying sizes. Under Industrious’ management, members will continue to enjoy the Ion’s exceptional workspace while benefiting from enhanced, all-inclusive amenities. Members can expect an elevated workplace experience, delivered by experienced staff trained in Industrious’ signature hospitality-oriented service model, which emphasizes comfort, design, and connection. Industrious will also offer new, curated networking events, and a host of complimentary and enhanced services including robust snack and coffee service. These offerings are designed to make our members feel welcomed, empowered to do their best work, and delighted to show up to the office.

“The Ion plays a valuable role in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Houston. We’re thrilled to add our expertise in running engaging spaces and join forces with The Rice Real Estate Company to continue to position the Ion as an invaluable contributor to the growth of Houston’s innovation community,” said Natalie Levine, Senior Manager of Real Estate at Industrious.

In addition to the hospitality offerings managed by Industrious, the Ion boasts three chef-driven restaurants, a tap room, and recently launched “Ion District Eats To Go”, powered by DoorDash. This ordering and pickup service aggregates menus from Ion District restaurants into a single, convenient digital platform. Users can order from various eateries on one ticket, making it ideal for team lunches or individual meals. These offerings are open to tenants and visitors alike. The recent hospitality upgrades along with the Ion’s collection of state-of-the-art amenities—a 250-seat public forum space, a 6,500-square-foot prototyping lab, Investor Studio, fitness center and expansive meeting and event spaces—will continue to make the Ion the premiere destination for startups and corporate innovation.

The Ion, located at 4201 Main Street, is a 266,000-square-foot, Class AA office building and innovation hub at the heart of the 16-acre Ion District. As the transformative centerpiece of Houston’s innovation corridor, the Ion brings together entrepreneurial, corporate, and academic communities to foster collaboration and growth. The building boasts LEED Gold, WiredScore Platinum, and WELL Silver certifications, setting a new benchmark for office environments in Houston.

This partnership marks Industrious’ second location in Houston, reflecting the company’s expanding presence in key markets nationwide. For more information about Industrious coworking memberships at The Ion, visit industriousoffice.com.

About the Ion:
Located in Ion District, the Ion building is the transformative centerpiece of Houston’s innovation corridor, powered by Rice University. Designed to bring our city’s entrepreneurial, corporate and academic communities into collaborative spaces and programs, the sunlit structure of steel and glass is a home for advancing diverse knowledge, teams, technologies and products that propel our world forward. For more information about the Ion, visit IonDistrict.com or email: start@ionhouston.com.

About Rice Real Estate Company:
Rice Real Estate Company, a subsidiary of Rice University, strategically acquires and manages properties to support the university’s growth and financial sustainability. The company’s portfolio includes iconic holdings such as Rice Village and Ion District, which extend beyond the main campus boundaries. By leveraging market trends and diversifying assets, Rice Real Estate Company focuses on creating long-term value for the university, generating income to sustain operations and fund scholarships, research grants, and other initiatives that enrich the educational experience at Rice University. The company’s efforts contribute to the academic community and the broader public, ensuring a strong foundation for Rice University’s future. For more information, visit https://realestate.rice.edu/.

About Industrious
Industrious delivers the world’s best workplaces by making the office a welcoming, empowering, and delightful experience. From private offices to suites, meeting rooms, and desks, we make it easy to find a workspace that works for you – whether you come in just a few days a week, want the flexibility to work from more than one location, or need an HQ just for a day. Founded in 2012 and recognized as one of America’s 500 fastest-growing companies by Inc. Magazine, Industrious offers flexible workplaces at more than 200 locations in over 65 cities globally. For more information, visit industriousoffice.com.

 

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CONTACT:

Laura Jones, ljones@dpwpr.com

Dancie Perugini Ware Public Relations

713-224-9115

Software Day at the Ion is Back in 2025!

Posted on by Torey Brown

The Ion and Mercury are back with Software Day, a monthly program series designed to empower software startups on their journey toward rapid, sustainable growth. Whether you’re looking to gain actionable advice, expand your network, or showcase your startup, Software Day is the place to be in 2025.

What is Software Day?

This monthly series, comprising mentor office hours, fireside chats, and networking, establishes a critical axis for the software innovation community to rally around at the Ion. It brings together leading mentors, promising early-stage startups, and like-minded Houstonians focused on building transformative software innovations.

Prior to a fireside chat, a select group of seed-stage software startups will participate in mentor office hours. Over the course of 2 hours, startup entrepreneurs looking for guidance and seasoned founders needing help tackling tough challenges will have access to a group of curated mentors from the Mercury network. The ideal profile of a company for this mentorship program is a pre-Series A software startup that is in the early stages of revenue generation. Interested startups are encouraged to submit their applications here. Each month, startups will be selected to participate in the mentor office hours.

2025 Software Day Schedule
Mark your calendars for the upcoming Software Days at the Ion:

  • February 4, 2025
  • March 25, 2025
  • May 20, 2025
  • June 24, 2025
  • August 26, 2025
  • October 14, 2025

Applications for February 4 Are Open!
Are you a pre-Series A software startup in the early stages of revenue generation? Don’t miss the chance to participate in curated office hours, where you’ll receive guidance from mentors with expertise in high-growth software innovations.

Submit your application now to secure your spot for February’s Software Day.

Visit our new Software Day page for details about the program, see past topics, upcoming date, and opportunities to get involved.

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About Ion: Located in Ion District, the namesake building is the transformative centerpiece of Houston’s innovation corridor, powered by Rice University. Designed to bring our city’s entrepreneurial, corporate, and academic communities into collaborative spaces and programs, the sunlit structure of steel and glass is a home for advancing diverse knowledge, teams, technologies, and products that propel our world forward.
From Fortune 500s seeking flexible office space to first-time startups looking for the funding to design a prototype, the Ion provides wide-reaching space and support—welcoming individuals and teams of all kinds to a place to build a better way. The Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship leads programming at the Ion.

About Mercury: Mercury is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on software startups outside the coasts. Mercury’s investment themes target B2B and B2B2C SaaS and data platforms enabling the digital transformation of markets, industries, and customer relationships. To date, Mercury has created over $9 billion of value with an operationally focused investment strategy helping startups achieve rapid, sustainable growth. Mercury is headquartered in Houston with offices in Austin, Chicago, and Detroit. To learn more, visit mercuryfund.com.

Rice partners with Greentown Labs to accelerate innovation in Houston’s Ion District

Posted on by roslynn

(Originally distributed by Rice University News & Media Relations)

Rice University is partnering with key stakeholders to bolster Houston’s role as a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, with a focus on addressing the dual challenge of an energy-abundant and low-carbon future. The university is joining a new partnership to support climate tech solutions through Greentown Labs, North America’s largest climate tech incubator with locations in Houston’s Ion District and Somerville, Massachusetts, near Boston.

Greentown Labs
Greentown Labs, Houston

Rice, a joint partnership between David Baldwin and Bobby Tudor, MassDevelopment, Massachusetts’ development finance agency and land bank, and the city of Somerville are making a $4 million investment to bolster the nonprofit incubator and allow it to support even more climate and energy transition entrepreneurs.

“Greentown Labs has played an important role in jumpstarting the energy transition in Houston, and we want to contribute to making it bigger and better,” said Tudor, a Rice alumnus and trustee emeritus, and founder and CEO of Artemis Energy Partners. “As we continue to grow the Ion District and Rice increases its commitment to innovation, this partnership between Houston and Massachusetts will boost our shared commitment to accelerating the energy transition. We are collectively making a greater investment because we see the importance and promise of this ecosystem.”

At Rice, generating sustainable futures is a key driver of the university’s recently launched strategic plan, Momentous: Personalized Scale for Global Impact. The plan outlines a roadmap for Rice to be the most innovative institution accelerating long-lasting advances and discoveries aimed at developing sustainable solutions that address challenges to energy, climate and the environment.

“The collaboration between industry, investment and academic institutions is central to the solutions we urgently need for innovation in the energy transition,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said. “It’s part of Rice’s leadership in entrepreneurship and climate tech. We invite our higher education and research peers in Texas and Massachusetts to join us in this mission.”

In addition to a search for a new CEO for Greentown Labs, a new board of directors has been appointed to provide strategic guidance and expertise, amplifying Greentown’s mission to accelerate climate tech innovation and commercialization by empowering entrepreneurs and enabling collaboration. Tudor will serve as chairman of the new board.

Ion District
Ion District, Houston, Texas. 

Greentown Labs Board of Directors:

  • Bill Aulet, Ethernet Inventors Professor of the Practice of Entrepreneurship (MIT Sloan) and managing director of the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship
  • David Baldwin, founder and board chair of TEX-E
  • Georgina Campbell Flatter, co-founder and executive director of TomorrowNow
  • Jason Hanna, co-founder of Greentown Labs; head of product, AI Solutions Group at Analog Devices
  • Bob Harvey, former president and CEO of Greater Houston Partnership, board member of TEX-E
  • John Hitt, general counsel at Massachusetts Clean Energy Center
  • Juan Carlos Morales, founder and managing director of Surfside Capital Advisors; board member of MassDevelopment
  • Pam Reeve, former CEO of Lightbridge; active public, private and nonprofit board member
  • Jane Stricker, senior vice president, energy transition and executive director of the Houston Energy Transition Initiative at the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Bobby Tudor, Greentown Labs board chair, founder and board chair of the Houston Energy Transition Initiative at the Greater Houston Partnership

“In 2021, Greentown Labs expanded to Houston, setting the stage for a thriving energy transition innovation ecosystem,” said Steve Kean, president and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership. “Since then, Houston has continued to attract climate tech companies from around the world, with over 260 startups now calling the region home. Greentown’s mission aligns closely with the Houston Energy Transition Initiative’s goal of accelerating global solutions to meet the dual challenge of meeting growing energy demand globally while also significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The addition of Tudor and HETI Executive Director Jane Stricker to Greentown’s board of directors will enhance collaboration across the energy and climate ecosystem and advance the work of both organizations.”

“With this new funding, Greentown is poised to expand its impact across its existing ecosystems and support even more climate tech startups,” said Greentown Labs Interim CEO Kevin Dutt. “We believe in the essential role entrepreneurship will play in the energy transition and we’re grateful for the support of our partners who share in that belief and our collective commitment to commercializing these technologies as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Community Artists’ Collective Announces New Location in the Ion District

Posted on by Torey Brown

Press release originally distributed by Community Artist Collective.

The Community Artists’ Collective, (CAC), is thrilled to announce its new home within the Ion District. The new location allows CAC opportunities to expand its impact by offering a spacious gallery, classroom, and retail space that helps CAC reintroduce their robust arts programming. This move marks a significant milestone in CAC’s ongoing mission to foster cultural enrichment and artistic expression within the community.

“We are excited about the opportunities this move presents,” said April M. Frazier, Assistant Director of the Community Artists’ Collective. “Our new location at the Ion District, in partnership with Rice Real Estate Company and Rice University, will allow us to reach new heights in our mission to support and celebrate the arts in Houston.” Co-Founder and Executive Director Michelle Barnes adds, “Since its inception, we have dreamed and planned for growth and enhanced reach in the community, we believe this partnership positions us to continue our mission to provide the link to arts and culture to inspire unlimited creativity.”

The new location in the Ion District was facilitated through a strategic relationship with Rice Real Estate Company, a division of Rice University, and underscores a shared commitment to supporting the arts and supporting a vibrant cultural landscape in Houston. “We’re proud to support the Community Artists’ Collective in this new chapter,” said Sam Dike, Investment Manager of Strategic Investments. “The arts are a vital part of our community, and this partnership reflects our dedication to fostering a rich cultural environment.”

Cultural Significance of the Community Artists’ Collective

For over three decades, the Community Artists’ Collective has been a cornerstone of Houston’s cultural and artistic community. CAC’s programs and initiatives have empowered countless artists, provided vital arts education, and enriched the cultural fabric of the city. The move to the Ion represents a new chapter in CAC’s storied history, offering a state-of-the-art space that will enable the organization to continue its mission with renewed vigor.

The Collective invites the community to experience the new space during the Ashe` Holiday Market, December 12th through December 21st.

Open Hours: Thursday – Saturday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

4111 Fannin Street, Suite 100

Houston, TX 77004

Contact Information

For more information, please contact: Community Artists’ Collective | 713-523-1616 info@thecollective.org | www.thecollective.org

The Ion adds new partners Oxy, Fathom Fund and Activate

Posted on by Torey Brown

Rice University and the Rice Real Estate Company are proud to announce new partnerships with Houston-based Occidental (Oxy), Fathom Fund and Activate, marking a major milestone as the Ion is now 90% leased. These new leases highlight the Ion’s growing role as a premier destination for partners dedicated to empowering startups and fostering technological innovation in Houston’s thriving Midtown district.

“As the Ion continues to attract leading companies and organizations across industries, it’s clear that our vision of creating a dynamic and collaborative environment for innovation is resonating,” said Ken Jett, president of the Rice Real Estate Company and vice president of facilities and capital construction at Rice. “We are proud to set the standard for how the workplace can evolve to foster the commercialization and growth of transformative technologies that enhance quality of life in our community and beyond.”

Partners fueling Houston’s startup ecosystem

Oxy, Activate and Fathom Fund are playing key roles in nurturing the growth of Houston’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Beyond their leases, these partners contributed significantly to high-impact programming such as the inaugural Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week last month and key partners in bringing venture capitalists, startups and innovators to highlight Houston’s leadership in the energy transition. Notably, Oxy President and CEO Vicki Hollub was featured recently in a live podcast recording with “My Climate Journey,” and Activate recently hosted its first “Meet the Cohort” event showcasing breakthrough technologies from its entrepreneurial fellows.

Collaborative space for startups

Oxy, which seeks to engage with innovators who are aligned with its initiatives to address atomospheric emissions and develop lower carbon products, has secured a prime location spanning nearly 6,500 square feet on the fourth floor of the Ion. Joining Oxy are two innovation powerhouses that are shaping the future: Fathom Fund and Activate. Fathom Fund, a Houston-based deep-tech venture capital firm, stands apart from most VC funds with its unique ability to dive deep into emerging technologies, backing visionary founders and high-risk, high-reward innovations that have the potential to redefine entire industries.

Activate, a national leader in translating cutting-edge science into marketable technologies, has established locations in Berkeley, California, New York and Boston. With the Ion as its only Texas location, Activate is expanding its renowned fellowship model to Houston and the Midwest, providing not just funding but also unparalleled mentorship, resources and strategic networks to bring breakthrough discoveries to market. With Fathom Fund and Activate already utilizing their new spaces, their presence solidifies the Ion as a premier hub for innovation, collaboration and technological advancement.

Oxy’s office design and construction are slated for completion by early 2025, creating a dynamic environment where industry leaders, technologists and entrepreneurs can come together to shape the future of energy and technology.

The Ion’s leasing momentum follows other notable additions, including Kongsberg Digital, Artemis Energy Partners, CES Renewables and Eleox, which have also contributed to the Ion’s vibrant community of forward-thinking companies.

“The partnerships we’ve forged are vital to shaping the Ion into a vibrant ecosystem for startups, where collaborative innovation is not only driving local economic growth but also positioning Houston as a global leader in the energy transition,” said Paul Cherukuri, chief innovation officer at Rice. “With our team leading the programming and activation across the Ion District, we are creating companies that harness cutting-edge technology for the benefit of society — advancing solutions that contribute to social good while addressing the most pressing challenges of our time. This powerful network is redefining Houston’s role in the future of energy, technology and social impact.”

Hub for innovation and collaboration

The Ion, designed to set a new standard for workplace innovation, boasts LEED Gold, Wired Score Platinum and WELL Silver certifications. The state-of-the-art facility offers flexible spaces designed to meet the needs of startups at every stage, while also providing access to community programming, networking events and unique amenities like dining options, a fitness center, coworking spaces and a prototyping lab.

Located at the heart of the 16-acre Ion District, the Ion serves as a catalyst for the commercialization of technologies developed at Rice and beyond. Its strategic partnerships with organizations like Chevron, Microsoft, Aramco, Baker Botts, ExxonMobil, Woodside Energy and others ensure that it remains a leading hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurship

The Ion building is the transformative centerpiece of Houston’s innovation corridor, powered by Rice. Designed to bring the city’s entrepreneurial, corporate and academic communities into collaborative spaces and programs, the sunlit structure of steel and glass is a home for advancing diverse knowledge, teams, technologies and products that propel our world forward.