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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T173000
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UID:10006232-1794504600-1794510000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Technology Transfer Thursdays
DESCRIPTION:​Houston’s top research institutions are driving the next wave of foundational computing breakthroughs. Join us at The Ion District for the third installment of Tech Transfer Thursday\, focused squarely on Computing: Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technologies. \n​Whether you are an aspiring founder looking for proven IP to launch your venture\, an active entrepreneur seeking an unfair technical advantage\, or an investor tracking deep tech spinouts\, this event bridges the gap between lab discovery and market scale. \n​What to Expect \n​Demystifying Tech Transfer: Rice University Office of Technology Transfer will walk through how founders and companies can identify\, evaluate\, and license patented inventions\, algorithms\, and software from university portfolios. \n​Early-Stage IP & Startup Strategy: Keynote discussion led by Womble Bond Dickinson covering critical legal considerations for deep tech founders\, including company formation\, IP protection\, and avoiding costly early equity mistakes. \n​CounselConnect Launch: Official announcement of Rice OTT’s CounselConnect and the Startup Counsel Award. \n​Regional Faculty Innovation Showcase: Rapid-fire 5 to 7 minute spotlights from leading researchers presenting commercializable AI and Quantum projects out of Rice University \n​Agenda \n​5:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Networking Reception \n​Check in and connect with founders\, investors\, researchers\, and ecosystem leaders. \n​6:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Tech Transfer & Legal Strategy \n​Overview: How to License University IP (Rice OTT) \n​Keynote: Startup Formation & IP Strategy (Womble Bond Dickinson) \n​Launch Announcement: CounselConnect & Startup Counsel Award \n​6:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Faculty Technology Showcase \n​Short-form spotlights on emerging AI & Quantum Computing IP across Texas research institutions. \n​7:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Community Happy Hour \n​Open networking and strategic connections. \n​Location & Time \n​Date: Thursday\, November 12\, 2026 \n​Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST \n​Location: The Ion District | Room 032 | 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX 77002 \n​Parking: Free 3 hour parking
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/technology-transfer-thursdays/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/nov12tech-transfer-thursday-general-flyer.png?ver=1793223121
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T183000
DTSTAMP:20261021T194215Z
CREATED:20261021T194215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T194215Z
UID:10006218-1794418200-1794421800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:First Principles: Inside the Texas A&M Space Institute
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/4gxizyq2 \nHouston is about to have something no other city has: football field sized lunar and Martian surface simulations\, built indoors next to Johnson Space Center. \nThe Texas A&M Space Institute is the first tenant of NASA’s Exploration Park. It’s a 400\,000 square foot facility built to let companies and researchers test hardware against the Moon and Mars without leaving Texas. Dr. Rob Ambrose\, the Institute’s Associate Director\, will walk through what’s being built\, how it will operate\, and where startups and industry fit in. \nFew people are better placed to explain it. Rob spent three decades at NASA Johnson Space Center\, where he led development of Robonaut and lunar rover prototypes and retired as Division Chief for Software\, Robotics and Simulation. Today he also directs space programs for the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station. \nFirst Principles is a Houston series on space\, semiconductors\, and robotics\, with technical talks and real Q&A for founders\, engineers\, operators\, and investors. Come with questions. \nWednesday\, November 11 · 5:30–6:30 PM · The Ion\, Midtown Houston. Space is limited; RSVP required.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/first-principles-inside-the-texas-am-space-institute/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/first_principles_rob_ambrose_luma.png?ver=1792609543
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T183000
DTSTAMP:20261029T191214Z
CREATED:20260126T192020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T191214Z
UID:10004776-1794331800-1794335400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:FirstCheck: Investor Foundations
DESCRIPTION:In a world where only the very wealthy\, well connected\, and major institutions have access to premium investment opportunities\, which have created massive wealth for a small portion of the population\, the Innovation Center for Urban Entrepreneurship team believes the key to closing income and wealth gaps globally is to democratize access to opportunities across the investment ecosystem. \nJoin the Innovation Center for Urban Entrepreneurship team for an evening of learning\, discussion and possibilities as we explore the basics of angel investing and the role it plays in bringing new products and services to market and the impact it has on wealth and job creation.. At this event\, you’ll learn the key components to successfully navigate the critical-path of investing in private\, early-stage companies. \nThis session is ideal for the following investment related stakeholders: \n\nProspective Angel Investors who want to learn more about the world of Angel Investing\nInvestment Advisors (RIA/FA) who are looking for alternative investments for their clients\nEntrepreneurs who want to learn more about what Angels are looking for in their deals\nEntrepreneurs who want to meet/network with Angel Investors\n\nIon District Investor Activation Program: \nThe Houston Ion District Investor Activation Program along with Urban Capital Network is helping build an equitable climatetech industry capable of rapid deployment by addressing a fundamental challenge: the region’s lack of funding for early-stage climatetech startups\, and especially for those led by underrepresented founders. \nThis program from Greentown Labs and the Ion brings early-stage investors from Greater Houston—a region playing a pivotal role in the energy transition—into the fold\, offering education on climatetech investing\, channeling a pool of capital to young startups\, and catalyzing a thriving climatetech investment ecosystem that prioritizes diversity\, equity\, and inclusion. \nIf you would like to join the program\, please fill out this form\, and if you have additional questions\, please contact Juliana Bernal Martinez at jbernal@greentownlabs.com.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/angel-investing-101-12/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 029 – 030\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0268-scaled.jpg?ver=1765821642
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T100000
DTSTAMP:20261104T032422Z
CREATED:20261029T190135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261104T032422Z
UID:10006233-1794211200-1794218400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Cup of Capital
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://luma.com/d2rqt6h1 \n​Join us for Capital Factory’s most popular public coffee networking event series co-hosted by Capital Factory\, Rice Alliance\, and Lilie Lab. \n​New to Texas? New to Startups? New to Tech? \n– Get introduced to other entrepreneurs and investors who are new to Houston or new to tech. \n– ​Meet members of the Capital Factory and Rice University community. \n– Drink some great coffee \n​You never know who you might meet! Bring your energy\, your asks\, your ideas…let’s share what we’re working on and help each other out. We’ll see you there!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-cup-of-capital/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Cup-of-capital.avif?ver=1793300463
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T113000
DTSTAMP:20261026T191103Z
CREATED:20261026T191103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261026T191103Z
UID:10006226-1793959200-1793964600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Rice Tech Transfer Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Have an idea\, startup\, or company looking for innovative technology? Meet with the Rice University Office of Technology Transfer during office hours at The Ion to explore how university research can power your next breakthrough. \nOur team works with startups\, entrepreneurs\, and established companies to help commercialize cutting-edge technologies developed at Rice. During these office hours\, you can: \nDiscover Available Technologies – Learn about Rice innovations available for licensing across fields like health\, energy\, engineering\, and computing.\nUnderstand the Licensing Process – Get a clear walkthrough of how to license university technology and what is required to move forward.\nExplore Collaboration Opportunities – Discuss potential partnerships with Rice researchers and ways to turn research into real-world products. \nWhether you’re building a startup\, scouting new technology\, or exploring research partnerships\, stop by and connect with our team. \nCome with a question\, leave with a path to commercialization. \nStay connected and hear about new technologies available for licensing: https://mailchi.mp/rice/new-email-signup-page
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/rice-tech-transfer-office-hours-10/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T113000
DTSTAMP:20261008T204048Z
CREATED:20261008T201230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T204048Z
UID:10006211-1793959200-1793964600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:NASA is bringing its expertise to Houston’s innovation hub! Every other Friday\, join us for NASA’s office hours\, designed to bridge the gap between Houston’s innovators\, entrepreneurs\, and startups with NASA’s elite experts\, capabilities\, and technology.  \n\nLicense the Future: Discover how to utilize NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property for your own projects.\nPartner for Growth: Explore how to grow your own goals and NASA’s mission together by leveraging unique human spaceflight capabilities and expertise from NASA Johnson Space Center.\nBuild the Sector: Help us grow Houston’s commercial space ecosystem.\n\nCome with a vision\, leave with a partnership. \nJust come walk up and say hello\, or sign up in advance here.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-office-hours-25/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/32-Image-Placeholder.png?ver=1777486289
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T120000
DTSTAMP:20261022T181722Z
CREATED:20261022T181722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261022T181722Z
UID:10006220-1793782800-1793793600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Heat Simulation
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/bg6isp5z \nThe Startup Simulation is an in-person startup simulation that brings founders\, investors\, mentors and ecosystem partners together to navigate real decisions\, tradeoffs and uncertainty\, before the stakes are real. \n​Players allocate limited resources\, build a team\, choose where to focus and respond to uncertainty. Decisions compound over time\, surfacing patterns and blind spots through safe failure and reflection. \n​All of the participants encounter fundraising\, team building\, resource allocation and go-to-market decisions in a shared experience that can make later workshops\, mentoring and ecosystem relationships more valuable.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-heat-simulation/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Angel-Investor-Accelerator-2-1.jpg?ver=1792686823
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T161636Z
CREATED:20260929T161636Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T161636Z
UID:10006185-1793356200-1793359800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Circle Houston 💫
DESCRIPTION:Startup Circle Houston 💫 brings together founders\, teammates\, experts and newbies of startups in Greater Houston! Past topics include: \nTraction + Funding Stage Identification – What stage are you really at?\nICP – Seeking your beachhead market\nProblem Identification – Love the problem\, not the solution\nBootstrapping – Knowing your runway and not putting money on fire. 🔥\nFounder capacity\, 10xing and recruiting for your weaknesses. 🚀\n\nLinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16537030/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-circle-houston-%f0%9f%92%ab-27/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Startup-Circle-Houston.jpeg?ver=1769451396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261030T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T162759Z
CREATED:20260929T162759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T162759Z
UID:10006191-1793354400-1793359800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Rice Tech Transfer Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Have an idea\, startup\, or company looking for innovative technology? Meet with the Rice University Office of Technology Transfer during office hours at The Ion to explore how university research can power your next breakthrough. \nOur team works with startups\, entrepreneurs\, and established companies to help commercialize cutting-edge technologies developed at Rice. During these office hours\, you can: \nDiscover Available Technologies – Learn about Rice innovations available for licensing across fields like health\, energy\, engineering\, and computing.\nUnderstand the Licensing Process – Get a clear walkthrough of how to license university technology and what is required to move forward.\nExplore Collaboration Opportunities – Discuss potential partnerships with Rice researchers and ways to turn research into real-world products. \nWhether you’re building a startup\, scouting new technology\, or exploring research partnerships\, stop by and connect with our team. \nCome with a question\, leave with a path to commercialization. \nStay connected and hear about new technologies available for licensing: https://mailchi.mp/rice/new-email-signup-page
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/rice-tech-transfer-office-hours-9/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261029T183000
DTSTAMP:20260923T165205Z
CREATED:20260923T165205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T165205Z
UID:10006169-1793196000-1793298600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:TiEcon Texas 2026
DESCRIPTION:Register: https://www.tiecontexas.org/tickets \nTiE Houston\, TiE Dallas\, and TiE Austin are hosting TiEcon Texas 2026 on October 28–29 at the Ion. The day-and-a-half conference\, themed “The Future Runs on Automation\,” brings together founders\, investors\, corporate leaders\, researchers\, educators\, and policymakers. They will look at how automation and AI are reshaping energy\, manufacturing\, healthcare\, aerospace\, logistics\, defense\, and technology across Texas. \nOctober 28: Founder Program\nThe conference opens with a half-day program for startups building in the automation economy. It includes startup showcases\, investor meetings\, curated networking\, and the TiE Hatch Pitch Competition\, presented with Hatch Pitch. About 10 automation-focused startups will get four weeks of mentoring and pitch coaching before presenting on stage. The winners will then present to the full TiEcon audience. \nOctober 29: Keynotes and Panels\nA full day of keynotes\, fireside chats\, and panel discussions on AI governance\, intelligent healthcare\, education\, space innovation\, workforce transformation\, and international approaches to public policy. It also covers how founders are building and deploying AI solutions. One featured session covers raising children in the age of AI. \nSpeakers include Steve Kean\, Greater Houston Partnership; Woody Rickerson\, ERCOT; Montgomery Goforth\, NASA Johnson Space Center; Dr. Jakub Tolar\, Baylor College of Medicine; and Prof. David Alexander\, Rice Space Institute. \nWho should attend: corporate executives\, founders\, investors\, academics\, educators\, policymakers\, researchers\, ecosystem builders\, and parents who want to help their children benefit from AI while building resilience to its risks. \nEarly bird registration is open for members and non-members. TiE Charter Members attend free.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/tiecon-texas-2026/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TiEcon-Texas-2026.jpg?ver=1790147273
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T161604Z
CREATED:20260929T161604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T161604Z
UID:10006184-1792751400-1792755000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Circle Houston 💫
DESCRIPTION:Startup Circle Houston 💫 brings together founders\, teammates\, experts and newbies of startups in Greater Houston! Past topics include: \nTraction + Funding Stage Identification – What stage are you really at?\nICP – Seeking your beachhead market\nProblem Identification – Love the problem\, not the solution\nBootstrapping – Knowing your runway and not putting money on fire. 🔥\nFounder capacity\, 10xing and recruiting for your weaknesses. 🚀\n\nLinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16537030/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-circle-houston-%f0%9f%92%ab-26/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Startup-Circle-Houston.jpeg?ver=1769451396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T113000
DTSTAMP:20261008T204105Z
CREATED:20260929T163016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T204105Z
UID:10006193-1792749600-1792755000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:NASA is bringing its expertise to Houston’s innovation hub! Every other Friday\, join us for NASA’s office hours\, designed to bridge the gap between Houston’s innovators\, entrepreneurs\, and startups with NASA’s elite experts\, capabilities\, and technology.  \n\nLicense the Future: Discover how to utilize NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property for your own projects.\nPartner for Growth: Explore how to grow your own goals and NASA’s mission together by leveraging unique human spaceflight capabilities and expertise from NASA Johnson Space Center.\nBuild the Sector: Help us grow Houston’s commercial space ecosystem.\n\nCome with a vision\, leave with a partnership. \nJust come walk up and say hello\, or sign up in advance here.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-office-hours-24/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/32-Image-Placeholder.png?ver=1777486289
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T190000
DTSTAMP:20261015T200419Z
CREATED:20251215T174927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T200419Z
UID:10004386-1792692000-1792695600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: NASA Technology Prizes and Challenges
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nFor our last NASA Tech Talk of 2026\, we’re going to delve into how we do prizes and challenges at NASA\, and provide an example of an exciting upcoming challenge. \nThrough NASA’s Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation and Centennial Challenges\, NASA has brought problems\, big and small\, to the public to advance NASA’s mission for 20 years. With these two programs now combined\, NASA continues to provide open innovation as a service to NASA personnel and much of the US federal government\, with opportunity for you to help solve NASA’s pressing needs. \nA new challenge is coming to NASA’s Moon and Mars exploration efforts. The NASA Deep Space Autonomous Robotics Challenge (NASA DSpARC) will challenge participants to create groundbreaking autonomous robotics software designed to advance NASA’s exploration capabilities. There will be RFIs coming out with partnerships opportunities to the community\, in addition to competing. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nAbout the Speakers \nRyon Stewart serves as the Program Manager for NASA’s Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation (CoECI)\, working to increase the use of open innovation tools at NASA and enhance the utilization of crowdsourcing by NASA and much of the federal government. \nRyon has an Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering degree from the University of Washington and has worked at NASA’s Johnson Space Center since 2008. He spent the first two years as a Co-op for mission operations facilities\, engineering GN&C\, and engineering robotics. For eight years\, he worked full time in ISS Flight Operations as an Attitude Determination and Control Officer (ADCO) flight controller and instructor. In this role\, he supported more than 2\,200 hours of real time execution supporting activities including visiting vehicle dockings\, undockings\, reboosts\, and more. He also worked as an instructor teaching flight controllers\, instructors\, and astronauts about the ISS motion control system and soft skills required for the job. \nEmma Zemler is the project manager of Dexterous Robotics in the Robotics System Technology Branch (ER4) at NASA Johnson Space Center. In her ten years at NASA\, Emma has lead several robotics software projects within the Software\, Robotics and Simulation Division (ER) ranging from autonomous task planning for in-space robotics to space habitat supervised autonomy robotic maintenance. Her current roles include leading the Deep Space Autonomous Robotics Challenge and is a subject matter expert for moon Base. Emma serves as the chief architect of the iMETRO facility\, a NASA JSC robotics facility for terrestrial robotic technology adaption to space exploration use cases\, including logistics maintenance and science utilization. \nMontgomery B. Goforth   has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his previous role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. Mr. Goforth is now serving as Acting Director of the Business Development & Technology Integration Office at JSC\, and as the JSC Chief Technologist.  In these capacities he will be helping to expand the Houston Aerospace Community through the identification of opportunities to develop space/terrestrial technologies of interest to JSC and Human Space Exploration.  Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nAbout NASA Tech Talks \nIn these presentations\, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month\, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges\, and the associated opportunities\, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community. We will continue to identify potential space/terrestrial technologies of interest to Human Spaceflight.  Past NASA Tech Talks have included topics such as: \n\nFrom Space to Startup: Leveraging NASA Technology and Innovation to Propel Your Growing Enterprise\nDisruptive Filter Technology for Spacecraft Water Treatment:  The New Promise of Graphene\nLunar dust capture using novel multiplexed inertial filter\nLunar Passive Fuel Cell Technologies:\nMicrobes in Space
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-23/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0352-scaled.jpg?ver=1765820213
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T183000
DTSTAMP:20261019T222003Z
CREATED:20261019T222003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261019T222003Z
UID:10006213-1792603800-1792607400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Perfecting Your Pitch
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur\, a visionary startup owner\, or a tech aficionado\, this event is tailor-made for you. Join us and discover the indispensable value of a compelling pitch deck. \nAbout the Speakers \nDr. Doug Franklin \n“Dr. Doug” is the CEO and Co-Founder of DeckLaunch and the COO of Fresh Tech Solutionz. He has fifteen years of management\, marketing\, and operations experience\, including opportunities with iconic firms such as Coca-Cola\, ExxonMobil\, and RJ Reynolds. Dr. Franklin is also a leading scholar that has presented at more than a dozen conferences and has published in peer-reviewed journals such as The Leadership Quarterly and The Journal of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators. Dr. Franklin graduated with a Doctoral Degree in Ethical Leadership from the University of St. Thomas Houston and currently teaches Quantitative and Mixed Research Methods at UST. \nDerrell Noris \nWith more than ten years dedicated to developing business operations and software development\, Noris is currently the Co-Founder and CTO of Deck Launch and the CEO of Fresh Tech Solutionz. Both successful startups provide services to growing businesses looking to mobilize their outreach further. \nNicholas Mbaezue-Daniel Jr. \nNick is the founder of Egis Project Management LLC\, a project management firm dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses for projects in the industries of Construction\, Technology\, and Business Enterprise. He also serves as Director of Project Management for Fresh Tech Solutionz and as Chief Operations Officer at DeckLaunch LLC. Nicholas considers himself a servant of entrepreneurship because he sees entrepreneurship as a major vehicle to uplift the community.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/perfecting-your-pitch-36/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 028\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_8090-scaled.jpg?ver=1747613455
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T183000
DTSTAMP:20260615T184344Z
CREATED:20260126T192001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260615T184344Z
UID:10004775-1792517400-1792521000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Angel Investing 101
DESCRIPTION:In a world where only the very wealthy\, well connected\, and major institutions have access to premium investment opportunities\, which have created massive wealth for a small portion of the population\, the Innovation Center for Urban Entrepreneurship team believes the key to closing income and wealth gaps globally is to democratize access to opportunities across the investment ecosystem. \nJoin the Innovation Center for Urban Entrepreneurship team for an evening of learning\, discussion and possibilities as we explore the basics of angel investing and the role it plays in bringing new products and services to market and the impact it has on wealth and job creation.. At this event\, you’ll learn the key components to successfully navigate the critical-path of investing in private\, early-stage companies. \nThis session is ideal for the following investment related stakeholders: \n\nProspective Angel Investors who want to learn more about the world of Angel Investing\nInvestment Advisors (RIA/FA) who are looking for alternative investments for their clients\nEntrepreneurs who want to learn more about what Angels are looking for in their deals\nEntrepreneurs who want to meet/network with Angel Investors\n\nIon District Investor Activation Program: \nThe Houston Ion District Investor Activation Program along with Urban Capital Network is helping build an equitable climatetech industry capable of rapid deployment by addressing a fundamental challenge: the region’s lack of funding for early-stage climatetech startups\, and especially for those led by underrepresented founders. \nThis program from Greentown Labs and the Ion brings early-stage investors from Greater Houston—a region playing a pivotal role in the energy transition—into the fold\, offering education on climatetech investing\, channeling a pool of capital to young startups\, and catalyzing a thriving climatetech investment ecosystem that prioritizes diversity\, equity\, and inclusion. \nIf you would like to join the program\, please fill out this form\, and if you have additional questions\, please contact Juliana Bernal Martinez at jbernal@greentownlabs.com.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/angel-investing-101-11/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 029 – 030\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0268-scaled.jpg?ver=1765821642
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261020T130000
DTSTAMP:20260916T174821Z
CREATED:20260916T174821Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T174821Z
UID:10006159-1792497600-1792501200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:The Technology Leadership Advantage Series - For CEOs\, VCs and PE Firms
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-technology-leadership-advantage-series-for-ceos-vcs-and-pe-firms-tickets-1997508541820?aff=erelpanelorg \nAI isn’t your biggest challenge. Leadership Is. Why most AI strategies fail before the technology does. \nOverview \nAI success depends less on technology and more on leadership\, strategy\, accountability\, and executive decision-making. \nAI isn’t your biggest challenge. Leadership Is. Why most AI strategies fail before the technology does. \nAI has never been more accessible. \nPowerful models\, enterprise AI platforms\, automation tools\, and AI-enabled software are available to companies of almost every size. \nYet access to AI and the ability to create business value from AI are two very different things. \nThe difference is increasingly leadership. \nAs AI moves from experimentation into the business\, the questions become less about what the technology can do and more about what the organization should do with it. \nWhere should we invest? \nWho should own AI? \nWhich opportunities actually matter? \nHow much risk should we accept? \nHow do we move successful pilots into production? And who is accountable for the business outcome? \nThese are not simply technology decisions. \nThey are executive decisions about strategy\, capital\, operations\, customers\, risk\, governance\, talent\, and competitive position. \nJoin Ram Prasad\, CEO of Delence\, for an executive conversation about why AI readiness starts with leadership readiness and what separates organizations experimenting with AI from those positioned to turn it into measurable business value. \nThis isn’t a technical presentation about models\, prompts\, or the latest AI tools. \nIt’s a conversation about leadership\, accountability\, AI\, and the executive decisions required to move from experimentation to business impact. \nWhat We’ll Discuss\nAI readiness versus simply having access to AI tools\nWhy AI pilots can succeed while the broader AI strategy fails\nWho should own AI at the executive level\nWhen an organization does and does not need a Chief AI Officer\nHow executive accountability changes as AI moves into the business\nHow to approach AI governance without stopping innovation\nWhy AI initiatives struggle to move from pilot to production and adoption\nCommon AI leadership mistakes that create fragmented investment and unclear ownership\nHow leaders connect AI investment to measurable business outcomes\nWhat CEOs and boards should be asking about AI now\nWho Should Attend\nThis session is specifically designed for CEOs\, seeded startup founders\, presidents\, investors\, private equity leaders\, operating partners\, and board members of growth-stage B2B technology and technology-enabled companies. \nIt will be particularly relevant if your organization is evaluating AI investments\, running multiple AI pilots\, determining who should own AI\, considering whether a CAIO is needed\, developing AI governance\, or struggling to translate AI experimentation into measurable business results. \nIf AI decisions are increasingly becoming CEO\, board\, investment\, risk\, or growth decisions\, this conversation is for you. \nOne Question to Consider Before You Arrive\nDoes your company have an AI strategy\, or a collection of AI projects? \nAbout Ram Prasad\nRam Prasad is CEO of Delence and an executive technology leader focused on the intersection of technology\, product\, AI\, and business growth. \nThroughout his corporate career\, Ram has worked with executive teams navigating the decisions that emerge as organizations grow when technology becomes more complex\, product priorities compete\, AI creates new possibilities\, and decisions that were once technical begin affecting growth\, risk\, and enterprise value. \nHis perspective is built around a simple idea: \nGrowth has a leadership problem. \nRam speaks and advises on executive technology leadership\, AI strategy\, product strategy\, scaling\, and the leadership decisions that turn technology into business advantage. \nAbout Delence\nDelence provides executive technology leadership to growth-stage B2B technology and technology-enabled companies. \nThrough Fractional CAIO\, CTO and CPO leadership\, Delence works alongside CEOs and executive teams when the business needs senior technology\, product\, or AI leadership\, but a permanent executive hire may not yet be the right answer. \nDelence connects business strategy\, technology\, product\, AI\, and execution\, bringing executive ownership to the decisions that become more consequential as companies grow. \nThis isn’t staffing or recruiting. \nIt is executive leadership for the stage the business is entering.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/the-technology-leadership-advantage-series-for-ceos-vcs-and-pe-firms-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ram_oct20-1-scaled.png?ver=1789578589
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T161525Z
CREATED:20260929T161525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T161525Z
UID:10006183-1792146600-1792150200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Circle Houston 💫
DESCRIPTION:Startup Circle Houston 💫 brings together founders\, teammates\, experts and newbies of startups in Greater Houston! Past topics include: \nTraction + Funding Stage Identification – What stage are you really at?\nICP – Seeking your beachhead market\nProblem Identification – Love the problem\, not the solution\nBootstrapping – Knowing your runway and not putting money on fire. 🔥\nFounder capacity\, 10xing and recruiting for your weaknesses. 🚀\n\nLinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16537030/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-circle-houston-%f0%9f%92%ab-25/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Startup-Circle-Houston.jpeg?ver=1769451396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T162739Z
CREATED:20260929T162739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T162739Z
UID:10006190-1792144800-1792150200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Rice Tech Transfer Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Have an idea\, startup\, or company looking for innovative technology? Meet with the Rice University Office of Technology Transfer during office hours at The Ion to explore how university research can power your next breakthrough. \nOur team works with startups\, entrepreneurs\, and established companies to help commercialize cutting-edge technologies developed at Rice. During these office hours\, you can: \nDiscover Available Technologies – Learn about Rice innovations available for licensing across fields like health\, energy\, engineering\, and computing.\nUnderstand the Licensing Process – Get a clear walkthrough of how to license university technology and what is required to move forward.\nExplore Collaboration Opportunities – Discuss potential partnerships with Rice researchers and ways to turn research into real-world products. \nWhether you’re building a startup\, scouting new technology\, or exploring research partnerships\, stop by and connect with our team. \nCome with a question\, leave with a path to commercialization. \nStay connected and hear about new technologies available for licensing: https://mailchi.mp/rice/new-email-signup-page
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/rice-tech-transfer-office-hours-8/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261016T110000
DTSTAMP:20260824T153337Z
CREATED:20260824T153337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T153337Z
UID:10005594-1792144800-1792148400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Mapping Houston's Innovation Ecosystem
DESCRIPTION:Facilitated by Wade Pinder\, Ion’s Mentor in Residence \nHouston’s startup and innovation ecosystem is as vast and dynamic as the city itself\, full of opportunities\, resources\, and talent. Yet\, navigating it can be challenging—especially for those unfamiliar with its many parts. Whether you’re an entrepreneur\, investor\, educator\, student\, community leader or curious professional\, this session will offer valuable insights into how Houston’s innovation ecosystem works and how you can find your place within it. \nDiscover the Houston Ecosystem’s Flow\nFacilitated by Wade Pinder\, the Ion’s Mentor in Residence\, this session will help participants map out the journey needed to take an idea from concept to a mature company. Wade brings years of experience in product management\, community building\, and mentoring entrepreneurs to the table\, offering a thoughtful and informed perspective to guide this exploration. \nThe heart of the session lies in exploring a dynamic mind map that Wade has created and continues to refine—an ever-evolving\, community-driven tool that grows alongside Houston’s innovation ecosystem. Attendees will not only learn about the ecosystem’s flow but also have the opportunity to contribute to it by identifying gaps\, sharing knowledge\, and adding their insights. \nThis session will center on the stages of a company’s growth journey\, exploring the essential elements that drive it forward. Participants will examine the role of financial capital\, from early fundraising efforts to securing the resources needed for scaling\, and how these milestones align with a company’s progression. The discussion will also delve into the human element of growing a business\, highlighting the evolving talent and expertise required to navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Additionally\, we’ll explore the importance of “social capital”—the networks\, support systems\, and relationships that play a critical role in moving ideas to market and sustaining long-term growth. \nIon’s Vision\nHelping the community better understand the local ecosystem reflects the Ion’s commitment “to being the home for Houston’s innovation community.” By fostering connections\, creating opportunities\, and sharing perspectives\, the Ion is building a transformative culture that strengthens Houston’s economic resiliency and celebrates the entrepreneurial journey. \nFrom forming an initial entrepreneurial idea to the prototyping phase to scaling a business\, this Houston Ecosystem Mapping session aligns with the Ion’s goals to support innovation\, attract talent\, and build a vibrant ecosystem. \nWho Should Attend?\nThis session is ideal for: \n\nEntrepreneurs looking to understand greater Houston’s resources.\nInvestors curious about the local startup landscape.\nProfessionals and students wanting to connect with the innovation community.\nAnyone passionate about Houston’s growth as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.\nInnovators who have recently moved to greater Houston and are looking to get “plugged in” to the local scene.\nCommunity leaders and service providers that support (or want to support) the innovation ecosystem.\n\nRegister today for this chance to explore Houston’s ecosystem\, uncover its flow\, and help shape its future.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mapping-houstons-innovation-ecosystem-8/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 027\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mapping-Houston-Website-scaled.jpg?ver=1739378156
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261015T190000
DTSTAMP:20260824T153116Z
CREATED:20260824T153116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T153116Z
UID:10005591-1792054800-1792090800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Startup Speedrun
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wades-houston-startup-speedrun-at-the-ion-tickets-1988360089553?aff=erelexpmlt \nThe Houston Startup Speedrun is an intensive and fast-paced program designed to provide both early-stage founders and aspiring entrepreneurs with a comprehensive understanding of the Startup Founder’s Journey and the Houston startup ecosystem through a carefully curated curriculum consisting of 10 consecutive 50-minute sessions. Wade Pinder\, your host and facilitator\, is an experienced and trusted ecosystem guide for many Houston-based stakeholders. With a focus on efficiency and accommodating the schedules of full-time working professionals\, this program aims to quickly give you a “lay of the land” while preparing you for your entrepreneurial journey.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-startup-speedrun-9/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Wade-Houston-Startup-Speedrun.avif?ver=1741041257
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T161509Z
CREATED:20260929T161509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T161509Z
UID:10006182-1791541800-1791545400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Circle Houston 💫
DESCRIPTION:Startup Circle Houston 💫 brings together founders\, teammates\, experts and newbies of startups in Greater Houston! Past topics include: \nTraction + Funding Stage Identification – What stage are you really at?\nICP – Seeking your beachhead market\nProblem Identification – Love the problem\, not the solution\nBootstrapping – Knowing your runway and not putting money on fire. 🔥\nFounder capacity\, 10xing and recruiting for your weaknesses. 🚀\n\nLinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16537030/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-circle-houston-%f0%9f%92%ab-24/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Startup-Circle-Houston.jpeg?ver=1769451396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T113000
DTSTAMP:20261008T204431Z
CREATED:20261008T204431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261008T204431Z
UID:10006212-1791540000-1791545400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:NASA is bringing its expertise to Houston’s innovation hub! Every other Friday\, join us for NASA’s office hours\, designed to bridge the gap between Houston’s innovators\, entrepreneurs\, and startups with NASA’s elite experts\, capabilities\, and technology.  \n\nLicense the Future: Discover how to utilize NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property for your own projects.\nPartner for Growth: Explore how to grow your own goals and NASA’s mission together by leveraging unique human spaceflight capabilities and expertise from NASA Johnson Space Center.\nBuild the Sector: Help us grow Houston’s commercial space ecosystem.\n\nCome with a vision\, leave with a partnership. \nJust come walk up and say hello\, or sign up in advance here.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-office-hours-26/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/32-Image-Placeholder.png?ver=1777486289
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T103000
DTSTAMP:20261005T223628Z
CREATED:20261005T223628Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261005T223628Z
UID:10006202-1791534600-1791541800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Social Media Breakfast: How to Tell Better Stories That Inspire Action
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://houston.impacthub.net/calendar/how-to-tell-better-stories-that-inspire-action/ \nThe stories we tell influence what people notice\, how they interpret what they see\, and what they choose to do next. \nAt the October Social Media Breakfast Houston\, Grace Rodriguez will explore how framing\, perspective\, and repetition affect the way audiences respond to messages. We will examine the stories we tell ourselves\, the assumptions we make about others\, and how social media algorithms and AI can reinforce the perspectives that we and our audiences already give our attention. \nThis conversation is designed to help marketers\, communicators\, creators\, business owners\, nonprofit leaders\, and community builders become more intentional about the stories they tell and the responses those stories invite. \nBy the end of the session\, attendees will be able to: \n\nSee how algorithms push audiences into narrower content bubbles and how stronger stories can reach across them.\nRecognize how the same message can land differently with different audiences.\nWork with the algorithm without losing your brand voice or integrity.\nUse framing and perspective to shape what your audience thinks\, feels\, shares\, or does next.\nAsk better questions before creating\, posting\, sharing\, or reacting to content.\nAttendees will also work through a short exercise to identify an idea they care about\, where they have influence\, and one story they could tell differently.\n\nREGISTRATION \nSpace is limited. Please reserve your spot in advance so we can plan for breakfast and seating. \nSPEAKER \nGrace Rodriguez\, Executive Director\, Impact HUB Houston \nGrace Rodriguez helps do-gooders do greater. Whether through helping people tackle problems and get support\, to helping startups and organizations connect and grow more effectively\, to helping community and ecosystem builders align efforts and strengthen local+global relationships\, Grace has built a life around helping people transform their ideas-worth-spreading into real world impact for the greater good. \nWebsite \nLinkedin \nFacebook \nInstagram \nDETAILS \n📅 Date & Time: Friday\, October 9\, 2026\, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM (9:00 AM online) \n📍 Location: The Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX 77002 \n🚗 Parking: Red Lot– Enter 4203 Fannin Street for direct access. Complimentary up to 3 hours. Ion District Parking Garage– Enter 4111 Fannin Street. Complimentary up to 2 hours. \n🥐 Breakfast: Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and coffee. \nTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS \nA special thank you to our sponsors: Walmart\, Impact HUB Houston\, The Ion\, Zoetica Media\, Mighty Strategic Consulting\, and SmartSocialMastery. \nSMBHOU NEEDS YOU \nThe Social Media Breakfast of Houston connects a community of over 1\,600 PR\, Marketing\, and Small Business professionals who meet monthly to learn\, connect\, and collaborate. We’re looking for breakfast sponsors to help fuel the conversation for just $100 per month. Want to be an exclusive sponsor in your category? 📧 kami@zoeticamedia.com
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/social-media-breakfast-how-to-tell-better-stories-that-inspire-action/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 031\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/impact-hub.png?ver=1791228722
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261002T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261002T113000
DTSTAMP:20260922T213047Z
CREATED:20260922T213047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T213047Z
UID:10006166-1790937000-1790940600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Circle Houston 💫
DESCRIPTION:Startup Circle Houston 💫 brings together founders\, teammates\, experts and newbies of startups in Greater Houston! Past topics include: \nTraction + Funding Stage Identification – What stage are you really at?\nICP – Seeking your beachhead market\nProblem Identification – Love the problem\, not the solution\nBootstrapping – Knowing your runway and not putting money on fire. 🔥\nFounder capacity\, 10xing and recruiting for your weaknesses. 🚀\n\nLinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16537030/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-circle-houston-%f0%9f%92%ab-23/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Startup-Circle-Houston.jpeg?ver=1769451396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261002T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261002T120000
DTSTAMP:20260929T162949Z
CREATED:20260929T162949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T162949Z
UID:10006192-1790935200-1790942400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:NASA is bringing its expertise to Houston’s innovation hub! Every other Friday\, join us for NASA’s office hours\, designed to bridge the gap between Houston’s innovators\, entrepreneurs\, and startups with NASA’s elite experts\, capabilities\, and technology.  \n\nLicense the Future: Discover how to utilize NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property for your own projects.\nPartner for Growth: Explore how to grow your own goals and NASA’s mission together by leveraging unique human spaceflight capabilities and expertise from NASA Johnson Space Center.\nBuild the Sector: Help us grow Houston’s commercial space ecosystem.\n\nCome with a vision\, leave with a partnership. \nJust come walk up and say hello\, or sign up in advance here.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-office-hours-23/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/32-Image-Placeholder.png?ver=1777486289
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261002T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261002T113000
DTSTAMP:20260922T213151Z
CREATED:20260922T213151Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T213151Z
UID:10006168-1790935200-1790940600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Rice Tech Transfer Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Have an idea\, startup\, or company looking for innovative technology? Meet with the Rice University Office of Technology Transfer during office hours at The Ion to explore how university research can power your next breakthrough. \nOur team works with startups\, entrepreneurs\, and established companies to help commercialize cutting-edge technologies developed at Rice. During these office hours\, you can: \nDiscover Available Technologies – Learn about Rice innovations available for licensing across fields like health\, energy\, engineering\, and computing.\nUnderstand the Licensing Process – Get a clear walkthrough of how to license university technology and what is required to move forward.\nExplore Collaboration Opportunities – Discuss potential partnerships with Rice researchers and ways to turn research into real-world products. \nWhether you’re building a startup\, scouting new technology\, or exploring research partnerships\, stop by and connect with our team. \nCome with a question\, leave with a path to commercialization. \nStay connected and hear about new technologies available for licensing: https://mailchi.mp/rice/new-email-signup-page
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/rice-tech-transfer-office-hours-7/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T190000
DTSTAMP:20260908T195344Z
CREATED:20260908T195058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T195344Z
UID:10005622-1790335800-1790362800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Hackathon 2026
DESCRIPTION:The Houston Hackathon is an opportunity for people from all backgrounds and skillsets to come together and collaborate on projects to improve life in the Greater Houston area. In addition to RSVPing for the kickoff here\, please register as a participant at \nhttps://houstonhackathon2026.devpost.com \n​Impact Hub Houston aims to empower people with the inspiration\, connection\, and resources they need to launch and grow solutions with scalable impact\, for a more just and sustainable world. You are invited to take part in this annual opportunity to develop potentially transformative solutions for your own community\, and receive support that could enable your solution to work for ALL of Houston. \n​Why Join the Hackathon? \n​To make a difference in your community \n​To challenge yourself and learn new skills through working on real problems \n​To meet other interesting people who care about the greater good \n​To collaborate with local government\, nonprofits\, and startups \n​To turn ideas into action in just a week \n​… And for many people\, it’s just fun! Like summer camp for thinkers and doers. ✧｡٩(ˊᗜˋ )و✧*｡ \n​Anyone who wants to make a positive impact in our region is welcome to join us at the Houston Hackathon — no specific tech or design skills are needed to get started. You will learn more about the challenges and start forming teams during the kick-off. \n​NOTE: This is a “civic” hackathon\, focused on ideating\, designing\, and developing practical solutions to tackle some of Greater Houston’s even greater challenges. Project stakeholders will be there from the city\, county\, local organizations\, and Houston’s impact community — get ready to get engaged! \n​Houston Hackathon Schedule // Sept 25th In Person Kickoff \n​8:30AM Early Risers Networking at Cup of Joey (RSVP here) \n​11:30AM Houston Hackathon Check-in\, Coffee + Networking \n​12:00PM Welcome Remarks\, House Rules\, and Hackathon Overview \n​12:05PM Houston Hackathon Challenge Presentations – Hear from City of Houston officials\, and then\, other participants will be able to share your ideas with the group\, opening the floor for others to join your team. New projects may be presented at this time\, too! \n​12:30PM Team Formation \n​1:00PM Teams Formed\, Lunch + Hacking Begins! \n​1:00PM Ongoing Coaching & Feedback \n​4:00PM Next Steps for Self Organizing: You can continue working in the public spaces at the Ion until 7:00 PM. \n​Friday\, Sept 25: The Kick-Off will be in person from 11:30AM-5:00PM. Hackers can continue collaborating at the Ion until 7PM. Teams will meet on their own the rest of the weekend (Sat\, working online and/or offsite. Solution Submissions will be due by 11:45PM on Sunday!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-hackathon-2026/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Copy-of-Houston-Hackathon-2026-SQ.png?ver=1788295994
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T113000
DTSTAMP:20260824T154829Z
CREATED:20260824T154829Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T154829Z
UID:10005600-1790332200-1790335800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Startup Circle Houston 💫
DESCRIPTION:Startup Circle Houston 💫 brings together founders\, teammates\, experts and newbies of startups in Greater Houston! Past topics include: \nTraction + Funding Stage Identification – What stage are you really at?\nICP – Seeking your beachhead market\nProblem Identification – Love the problem\, not the solution\nBootstrapping – Knowing your runway and not putting money on fire. 🔥\nFounder capacity\, 10xing and recruiting for your weaknesses. 🚀\n\nLinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16537030/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/startup-circle-houston-%f0%9f%92%ab-22/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Startup-Circle-Houston.jpeg?ver=1769451396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T120000
DTSTAMP:20260804T011911Z
CREATED:20260804T011911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260804T011911Z
UID:10005291-1790330400-1790337600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:NASA is bringing its expertise to Houston’s innovation hub! Every other Friday\, join us for NASA’s office hours\, designed to bridge the gap between Houston’s innovators\, entrepreneurs\, and startups with NASA’s elite experts\, capabilities\, and technology.  \n\nLicense the Future: Discover how to utilize NASA-developed technologies and intellectual property for your own projects.\nPartner for Growth: Explore how to grow your own goals and NASA’s mission together by leveraging unique human spaceflight capabilities and expertise from NASA Johnson Space Center.\nBuild the Sector: Help us grow Houston’s commercial space ecosystem.\n\nCome with a vision\, leave with a partnership. \nJust come walk up and say hello\, or sign up in advance here.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-office-hours-22/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260925T110000
DTSTAMP:20260824T153308Z
CREATED:20260804T203114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T153308Z
UID:10005296-1790330400-1790334000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Mapping Houston's Innovation Ecosystem
DESCRIPTION:Facilitated by Wade Pinder\, Ion’s Mentor in Residence \nHouston’s startup and innovation ecosystem is as vast and dynamic as the city itself\, full of opportunities\, resources\, and talent. Yet\, navigating it can be challenging—especially for those unfamiliar with its many parts. Whether you’re an entrepreneur\, investor\, educator\, student\, community leader or curious professional\, this session will offer valuable insights into how Houston’s innovation ecosystem works and how you can find your place within it. \nDiscover the Houston Ecosystem’s Flow\nFacilitated by Wade Pinder\, the Ion’s Mentor in Residence\, this session will help participants map out the journey needed to take an idea from concept to a mature company. Wade brings years of experience in product management\, community building\, and mentoring entrepreneurs to the table\, offering a thoughtful and informed perspective to guide this exploration. \nThe heart of the session lies in exploring a dynamic mind map that Wade has created and continues to refine—an ever-evolving\, community-driven tool that grows alongside Houston’s innovation ecosystem. Attendees will not only learn about the ecosystem’s flow but also have the opportunity to contribute to it by identifying gaps\, sharing knowledge\, and adding their insights. \nThis session will center on the stages of a company’s growth journey\, exploring the essential elements that drive it forward. Participants will examine the role of financial capital\, from early fundraising efforts to securing the resources needed for scaling\, and how these milestones align with a company’s progression. The discussion will also delve into the human element of growing a business\, highlighting the evolving talent and expertise required to navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Additionally\, we’ll explore the importance of “social capital”—the networks\, support systems\, and relationships that play a critical role in moving ideas to market and sustaining long-term growth. \nIon’s Vision\nHelping the community better understand the local ecosystem reflects the Ion’s commitment “to being the home for Houston’s innovation community.” By fostering connections\, creating opportunities\, and sharing perspectives\, the Ion is building a transformative culture that strengthens Houston’s economic resiliency and celebrates the entrepreneurial journey. \nFrom forming an initial entrepreneurial idea to the prototyping phase to scaling a business\, this Houston Ecosystem Mapping session aligns with the Ion’s goals to support innovation\, attract talent\, and build a vibrant ecosystem. \nWho Should Attend?\nThis session is ideal for: \n\nEntrepreneurs looking to understand greater Houston’s resources.\nInvestors curious about the local startup landscape.\nProfessionals and students wanting to connect with the innovation community.\nAnyone passionate about Houston’s growth as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.\nInnovators who have recently moved to greater Houston and are looking to get “plugged in” to the local scene.\nCommunity leaders and service providers that support (or want to support) the innovation ecosystem.\n\nRegister today for this chance to explore Houston’s ecosystem\, uncover its flow\, and help shape its future.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mapping-houstons-innovation-ecosystem-7/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 027\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
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