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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260827T083000
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CREATED:20260723T062808Z
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UID:10005211-1787819400-1787853600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Illuminate: The Official Launch Experience
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/LaunchExperience \n​Illuminate is the official public launch experience for Lumino. Join founders\, merchants\, creators\, investors\, and community leaders for a full day of keynotes\, industry breakout sessions\, and networking as we unveil the Lumino ecosystem and the future of Local Conscious Commerce. \n​The day moves through three keynote acts — Past\, Present\, and Future — tracing Lumino’s founding story\, what’s live today\, and where the platform is headed. From there\, guests choose an industry-specific breakout session\, hear from a lineup of champion speakers\, and close the day at a happy hour with our first-floor restaurant partners. \n​Agenda \n​8:30 AM Guest arrival \n​9:00–10:00 AM Past — Lumino State of the Union \n​10:00–11:00 AM Present — The Lumino Launch Keynote \n​11:00 AM–11:30 AM Future — The Future of Lumino & Global Conscious Commerce \n​11:30–12:30 PM Lunch\, served in Lower Lobby \n​12:30–1:30 PM Breakout sessions: Non-Profit\, Hospitality\, Online Coaching\, Startup\, Payment Processing \n​2:00–2:30 PM Eric Rock – Mission Project \n​2:30— 3:00 PM Champion Keynote (Coming Soon) \n​3:00–4:00 PM Micro keynotes (15 min each) \n​4:00–6:00 PM Happy hour — 1st floor restaurant partners
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/illuminate-the-official-launch-experience/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Ion-Website-Design_1080x830.png?ver=1785449581
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260825T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260825T193000
DTSTAMP:20260817T194115Z
CREATED:20260817T194115Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T194115Z
UID:10005148-1787677200-1787686200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Latino Founders Forum - Lymbar Hosted
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/xbl14rq2 \nLFF is a monthly gathering for Latino startup founders\, operators\, investors\, and ecosystem leaders building and scaling real companies.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/latino-founders-forum-lymbar-hosted-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LLF-Social.png?ver=1780339552
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260821T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260821T113000
DTSTAMP:20260723T061424Z
CREATED:20260721T155337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T061424Z
UID:10005203-1787308200-1787311800@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-14/
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:20260820T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T190000
DTSTAMP:20260723T062551Z
CREATED:20260723T062525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T062551Z
UID:10005208-1787247000-1787252400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Tech Transfer Thursdays
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://mailchi.mp/rice/aug-20th-ion-event-landing-page \nUniversities and research institutions produce some of the most valuable discoveries in the world\, yet navigating the path to commercialize them is not always clear or well known. Houston’s universities and research institutions are partnering to to simplify the commercialization process. \nMark your calendars for Thursday\, August 20th for the launch of Tech Transfer Thursdays at The Ion District! \nI’m thrilled that the Rice University Office of Technology Transfer is teaming up with the tech transfer offices at Baylor College of Medicine and Houston Methodist for our first event in this monthly series. Together\, we are partnering to spotlight the breakthrough innovations and technologies developed across our respective institutions\, and show you exactly how to leverage this intellectual property (IP) to launch new ventures or create strategic growth opportunities for your business. \nEach month will feature a different domain focus\, and we are kicking off August with Digital Health! \nWho Should Attend?\n💡 Founders & Operators: Looking for breakthrough technology to serve as the foundation for your next venture or strengthen your IP moat. \n🏢 Corporate Innovators: Seeking external research to bridge technical gaps\, accelerate roadmaps\, or unlock new business models. \n📈 Investors & VCs: Searching for vetted\, high-barrier-to-entry university spinouts and deep-tech startups. \nEvent Snapshot:\n5:30 PM: Open Networking & TTO Booths\n6:00 PM: TTO Panel on the licensing & commercialization roadmap\n6:40 PM: University Startup Pitch Spotlight\n7:00 PM: Free Networking
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/tech-transfer-thursdays/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Tech-Transfer-Thursdays-Flyer-2.png?ver=1784747442
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T190000
DTSTAMP:20260812T203911Z
CREATED:20260812T203911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T203911Z
UID:10005309-1787216400-1787252400@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-7/
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:20260818T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260818T130000
DTSTAMP:20260728T202934Z
CREATED:20260728T192855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T202934Z
UID:10005275-1787054400-1787058000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:The Technology Leadership Advantage Series
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1995696286315?aff=oddtdtcreator \nTechnology Isn’t Your Competitive Advantage Anymore. Leadership Is. Why High-Growth Companies Win Long Before They Write Another Line of Code \nTechnology has never been more powerful or more accessible. \nCloud infrastructure\, enterprise software\, AI models\, development tools\, and specialized technical capabilities that once separated companies are now available to almost everyone. \nYet companies with access to remarkably similar technology continue to produce very different results. \nThe difference is increasingly leadership. \nAs companies grow\, technology decisions stop being purely technical decisions. They become decisions about growth\, capital\, customers\, product direction\, risk\, organizational design\, and competitive position. \nAnd the leadership model that helped a company reach one stage of growth may not be the leadership model it needs for the next. \nJoin Ram Prasad\, CEO of Delence\, for an executive conversation about where competitive advantage is moving and why high-growth companies need to build technology leadership before growth exposes the gap. \nThis isn’t a technical presentation about tools\, platforms\, or the latest AI trend. \nIt’s a conversation about leadership\, growth\, technology\, and the decisions that shape enterprise value. \nWhat We’ll Discuss \nWhy access to technology is becoming less differentiated \nWhy leadership and judgment become more valuable as technology becomes more accessible \nHow growth changes what companies need from technology leadership \nWhy organizations can add engineers\, platforms\, and tools without improving execution \nWhy companies sometimes outgrow the leadership model that got them here \nWhy AI creates an executive leadership challenge\, not simply a technology opportunity \nHow strong technology leadership connects business strategy\, product\, technology\, AI\, and execution \nHow to recognize leadership gaps before they become growth constraints \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 experiencing rapid growth\, increasing technology complexity\, product scaling challenges\, AI investment\, or questions about whether the current leadership structure is ready for the next stage. \nIf technology decisions are increasingly becoming CEO\, board\, investment\, or growth decisions\, this conversation is for you. \nOne Question to Consider Before You Arrive \nIs your leadership team built for the next three years and not the last three? \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. It is executive leadership for the stage the business is entering.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/the-technology-leadership-advantage-series/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/ram_eventbrite-scaled.png?ver=1785265677
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260814T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260814T113000
DTSTAMP:20260723T061127Z
CREATED:20260721T155322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T061127Z
UID:10005202-1786703400-1786707000@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-13/
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:20260814T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260814T120000
DTSTAMP:20260803T174414Z
CREATED:20260610T202506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T174414Z
UID:10005119-1786701600-1786708800@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-15/
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:20260811T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260811T190000
DTSTAMP:20260806T173801Z
CREATED:20260728T210546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260806T173801Z
UID:10005276-1786462200-1786474800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Mercury Fund Day at the Ion: AI Product Design and Distribution: Lessons from Building at Scale
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to “Mercury Fund Day at the Ion” – a program series hosted by the Ion and Mercury\, where software founders can connect with mentorship at Houston’s HQ for innovation.  \nWhat is it: Mercury Fund Day\, previously known as Software Day\, is a monthly series driving the support\, inspiration\, and connections needed to help startups on their path to rapid\, sustainable growth. Each month\, Mercury Fund Day will include office hours (by application)\, a keynote session\, and networking. \nEach month will include a new speaker and topic covering the latest trends and breakthroughs in software technology and practical advice for founders. From AI to blockchain and guidance on fundraising\, explore topics that are relevant for your company’s journey.\n \nAfterward\, join us for a networking happy hour at Second Draught\, brought to you by Gunderson Dettmer\, where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs\, investors\, and industry professionals\, forging connections that could shape the future of your venture. \nThis month’s topic: \nEvery enterprise software company says it’s going AI-first. Few have actually rebuilt the product\, the pricing model\, and the team around it. \nJoin us at Mercury Day at Ion Houston on August 11th for a working conversation with three people doing that rebuild from different seats: Mustafa Ali (Growth\, Twilio)\, Zafir Khan (Product\, Meta)\, and Salim Gheewalla (Founder\, Utilitise\, which replaced the IT help desk with AI that fixes problems before anyone notices). \nPanelists will get into what separates a great AI product experience from a clunky one\, when AI should run invisibly in the background versus prompt the user directly\, what consumption-based pricing does to a SaaS business model\, and how hiring changes when a team is building AI-native from day one. \nHosted by Heath Butler of Mercury Fund\, panelists include: \n\nMustafa Ali – Growth @ Twilio\nZafir Khan – Product @ Meta (former Mercury Intern)\nSalim Gheewalla – Founder @ Utilitise\n\nPrior to the fireside chat\, a select group of early-stage software startups will participate in office hours. Over the course of 2-hours\, first-time entrepreneurs looking for guidance or seasoned founders needing help tackling tough challenges will have access to a group of curated mentors from the Mercury network and gain insights and guidance tailored to their needs. Startups are invited to apply to participate here by Tuesday\, August 4.\n\n“Mercury Fund Day at the Ion” isn’t just an event – it’s a catalyst for growth and collaboration. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Houston’s thriving tech ecosystem. Join us as we bring together leading mentors\, promising startups\, and like-minded Houstonians focused on transformative software innovations. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mercury-fund-day-at-the-ion-how-legacy-software-giants-are-going-ai-first/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Keynote,Mentorship,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/26_ION_MercuryBuildDay_Aug11_Website@2x.jpg?ver=1785879716
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260807T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260807T113000
DTSTAMP:20260723T060740Z
CREATED:20260723T060708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T060740Z
UID:10005210-1786098600-1786102200@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-18/
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:20260805T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260805T183000
DTSTAMP:20260730T190432Z
CREATED:20260126T191924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T190432Z
UID:10004773-1785951000-1785954600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Angel Investing 101
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/wdpfdggu \nIn 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-101-9/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 032\, 4201 Main St\, Houston
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:20260805T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260805T180000
DTSTAMP:20260715T160758Z
CREATED:20260713T205415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260715T160758Z
UID:10005180-1785943800-1785952800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Summer Venture Studio Preview Day @ Ion District
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/6jbyeu9f \nCheck-in begins at 3:30 PM. Event begins at 4:00 PM. \nBe among the first to see what’s next 👀\n​Join us for the inaugural Summer Venture Studio Preview Day\, where this year’s cohort of ambitious student founders will pitch the ventures they’ve spent the summer building.\n​Hosted by the Ion District and in partnership with Rice Alliance\, SVS Preview Day is both a showcase and a celebration of Houston’s innovation community. \n​Meet founders\, connect with fellow entrepreneurs\, investors\, mentors\, and supporters\, and help us celebrate the next generation of student innovators at Rice. \n​Meet the 2026 SVS Cohort!\n​Actile Technologies\n​Founder: Barclay Jumet \n​Actile develops wearable smart fabrics that communicate critical information through the language of touch\, helping operators’ eyes and ears stay focused on their environment in national defense and other demanding settings. \n​DHI Tech\n​Founders: Dev Sanghvi\, Madhuvani Thatiparti\, Aneesh Thatiparti \n​DHI Tech is developing a plug-and-play edge AI layer for surveillance networks that makes every camera a smart device\, covering 25-plus safety\, compliance and security use cases out of the box. \n​Kairos Health\n​Founders: Adhira Tippur\, Sanjana Kavula\, Tanush Chintala\, Aditya Jain \n​Kairos have developed an AI-powered patient intake platform built specifically for independent dental practices. \n​Lucero Health\n​Founders: Halbert Kim\, Rohan Dharia \n​Lucero connect patients to supplemental resources\, turning non-medical needs into actionable care beyond the clinic via a digital platform. \n​MedIQ Health\n​Founders: Suran Somawardana\, Jacob Lei\, Patrick Bednarz \n​MedIQ is developing hardware and software solutions that help asthma patients and their doctors better manage their condition. \n​Codene\n​Founders: Adam Towner\, Saul Brauns \n​Codene are building the AI platform for go-to-market engineering. They Codene discovers ideal customers\, executes personalized outreach and accelerates the journey from launch to revenue. \n​Vantage\n​Founders: Gavin Firestone\, Nolan Connolly \n​Vantage have developed an AI motion coach that uses computer vision to deliver instant\, actionable feedback on exercise technique and programming. \n​Magma Health\n​Founder: Ramtin Shahzanian \n​Magma clones real companies into high-fidelity RL environments. \n​Coop\n​Founders Adithiya Balaguru\, Arnav Bhalla \n​Coop are building an early respiratory disease detection system for poultry farms using AI to analyze audio feeds collected from poultry houses. \n​Learn more \n​About Summer Venture Studio\n​Summer Venture Studio (SVS) provides an immersive three-month experience where Rice student entrepreneurs receive $15\,000 in non-dilutive funding\, individualized mentorship\, workspace and access to an extensive network of experienced founders\, investors\, and industry experts. \n​Since launching in 2023\, SVS has become one of Rice’s premier pathways for translating student innovation into high-growth companies. More than half of participating ventures have gone on to raise pre-seed or seed financing\, while alumni companies have earned acceptance into some of the world’s most competitive accelerators programs\, including Y Combinator and Tech Stars. \n​For more information\, visit Lilie Summer Venture Studio! \n​About Liu Idea Lab for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Lilie)\n​The Liu Idea Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Lilie) is the home for entrepreneurship and innovation at Rice University. As the center for entrepreneurship on campus\, Lilie runs courses and co-curricular programs to help develop students\, researchers\, faculty\, and alums into entrepreneurs for life.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/summer-venture-studio-preview-day-ion-district/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/SVS-2026.png?ver=1784063902
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260731T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260731T113000
DTSTAMP:20260723T061054Z
CREATED:20260721T155243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T061054Z
UID:10005200-1785493800-1785497400@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-11/
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:20260731T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260731T120000
DTSTAMP:20260721T181006Z
CREATED:20260721T181006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260721T181006Z
UID:10005206-1785492000-1785499200@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-18/
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:20260724T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260724T113000
DTSTAMP:20260723T060838Z
CREATED:20260723T060641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T060838Z
UID:10005209-1784889000-1784892600@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-17/
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:20260723T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260723T190000
DTSTAMP:20260717T184413Z
CREATED:20251215T174738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T184413Z
UID:10004383-1784829600-1784833200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: Optimizing Sensorimotor Performance During Space Exploration
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and expertise to solve them. \nLiving in an altered gravity environment\, such as microgravity or the lunar surface\, drives adaptative changes in how the brain utilizes sensory information to maintain spatial awareness and control of movement. Dr. Scott Wood will describe how these challenges may impact critical mission tasks astronauts are required to complete\, and some of the technology that has been developed to optimize their performance while mitigating these sensorimotor risks. The development of assessment and interventional tools has benefitted from clinical developments to support patient populations. The need for more autonomous operations during exploration missions will also motivate future opportunities for technology sharing with terrestrial medicine. \nPlease join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nAbout the Speakers \nScott Wood is a neuroscientist for NASA’s Human Health and Performance Directorate at the Johnson Space Center in Houston\, TX. He has been the Co-Lead for the Crew Health Countermeasures portfolio for the Mars Campaign Office charged with developing technologies and countermeasures for exploration missions. He is also the Sensorimotor Discipline Lead for the Health and Countermeasures Element with the Human Research Program (HRP). As part of the Neuroscience Laboratory\, he has participated in numerous flight studies and supports neurological functional tests used for medical assessments. Dr. Wood began his research career at NASA while completing his doctorate at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston\, TX. In addition to his spaceflight research\, he has also conducted research in clinical and military aerospace laboratories. \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-20/
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:20260721T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260721T190000
DTSTAMP:20260721T190138Z
CREATED:20260126T191906Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260721T190138Z
UID:10004772-1784655000-1784660400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Angel Investing 101
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/w1itcerp \nIn 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-101-8/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 032\, 4201 Main St\, Houston
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:20260717T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260717T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T202351Z
CREATED:20260514T164836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T202351Z
UID:10005009-1784282400-1784289600@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-13/
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:20260717T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260717T113000
DTSTAMP:20260529T191632Z
CREATED:20260529T191632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T191632Z
UID:10005093-1784282400-1784287800@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-5/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260717T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260717T110000
DTSTAMP:20260701T204157Z
CREATED:20260701T204157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T204157Z
UID:10005170-1784282400-1784286000@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\nEvent Details\n📅 Date:  Friday\, March 21\, 2025 \n⏰ Time:  10:00am\n📍 Location:  The Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX \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-6/
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:20260715T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T183000
DTSTAMP:20260701T203950Z
CREATED:20260701T203950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T203950Z
UID:10005168-1784136600-1784140200@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-35/
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:20260703T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260703T113000
DTSTAMP:20260629T153231Z
CREATED:20260629T153231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T153231Z
UID:10005166-1783074600-1783078200@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-3/
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:20260630T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260630T193000
DTSTAMP:20260625T212447Z
CREATED:20260625T211426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T212447Z
UID:10005163-1782838800-1782847800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Latino Founders Forum - Lymbar Hosted
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/Latino-Founders-Forum \nThe June edition of the Latino Founders Forum Houston is on June 30th ⚽🎉 \n​After a strong launch that brought out 50+ founders\, operators\, investors\, creatives\, and professionals\, the forum is keeping the momentum going with a special World Cup Celebration edition of our monthly gathering. \n​Yes\, it’s called Latino Founders Forum — but it’s not only for Latinos. Anyone is welcome to pull up\, grab a drink\, wear their favorite soccer jersey\, make meaningful connections\, and be part of the community. \n​This is a monthly event for people building real things in Houston. While the forum is rooted in supporting and elevating Latino founders\, the room is open to anyone who values entrepreneurship\, culture\, community\, and genuine relationships. \nThey’re back at The Lymbar inside the Ion for another high-quality happy hour designed to bring together founders\, funders\, advisors\, builders\, creatives\, and professionals who want to meet ambitious people in a room that actually feels worth being in. \n​This month\, they’re bringing a World Cup vibe to the night and inviting guests to wear their favorite soccer jersey as we celebrate culture\, connection\, and community in Houston. Expect a great atmosphere\, strong energy\, good drinks\, and the kind of conversations that make these events worth showing up for. \n​Come for the jerseys\, drinks\, and festive energy. Stay for the people\, the conversations\, and the chance to be part of Houston’s growing startup and business community. \n​If you came to one of the earlier events\, you already know the energy. If you haven’t yet\, this is a great one to start with. \n​Built by founders. Powered by community. Open to everyone.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/latino-founders-forum-lymbar-hosted/
LOCATION:The Lymbar
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LLF-Social.png?ver=1780339552
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260625T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260625T190000
DTSTAMP:20260617T225851Z
CREATED:20251215T174545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260617T225851Z
UID:10004382-1782406800-1782414000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks: NASA Education Highlights
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges—and apply your skills and ex-pertise to solve them.This month we’re going to focus on educational opportunities offered by NASA for high school\, undergraduate\, and graduate students\, plus partnership opportunities for colleges and universities!Information booths and activities for younger students will be available starting at 5pm\, so please join us to learn more about the Education opportunities offered by NASA and how you can get in-volved!Grownups – please join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nAbout the Speakers \nA Louisiana native\, Dr. Elicia “Dynae” Fullwood was the valedictorian of her senior high school class. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Houston main campus in Houston\, Texas and a Master of Education degree with specialties in Secondary Education and Education Administration from the University of St. Thomas in Houston\, Texas.  She earned an Education Specialist degree from Nova Southeastern University in Miami\, FL while studying Instructional Technology and Distance Education.  She earned a Doctoral degree in Education from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater\, Oklahoma.  She holds a Principal certificate for K-12 School Administration in the state of Texas\, an Online Teaching certificate\, and a Classroom Teacher certificate for Secondary Biology in Texas. \nDynae is currently working at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston\, TX where she is the Team Lead for the Office of STEM Engagement\, the organization responsible for STEM education and outreach in support of NASA’s missions. Prior to this\, Dr. Fullwood led national K12 STEM Education activities related to NASA’s Artemis program. Dr. Fullwood worked as an Education Specialist with NASA’s Teaching from Space Office. Her career also lends experience as an Aerospace Education Specialist at NASA Headquarters\, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and NASA Langley Research Center. Earlier on\, she taught high school science in the Houston Independent School District of Houston\, Texas at James Madison High School and the School for Meteorology and Space Science. \nDr. Fullwood completed the 2011 Shamrock Marathon and the 2006 Honolulu Marathon. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority\, Inc. Her personal hobbies include singing\, telling funny stories\, crocheting\, learning French and being the best at taking care of her school-aged son\, golden-aged parents\, and the cutest Yorkshire terrier on planet Earth. \nKeya T. Briscoe is the Director of JSC University Engagements within NASA’s University Partnerships & Collaboration Office. With over 20 years of professional experience\, Keya brings deep expertise in program management\, stakeholder engagement\, and strategic relationship building across academic\, government\, and technical communities.  Keya plays a pivotal role in strengthening academic partnerships and supporting initiatives that connect leading academic talent with NASA’s mission needs. Known for a collaborative\, people‑centered approach\, Keya is committed to creating pathways that expand opportunity\, elevate institutional partnerships\, and enhance NASA’s broader engagement strategy. Born and raised in Baltimore\, Maryland\, Keya earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Business from Loyola University Maryland and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Development from Towson University. \nJennifer Scott Williams is the Deputy Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office (BDTI) at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC)\, where she helps lead strategic planning\, workforce oversight\, and integration of technical\, mission support\, and communications activities across key areas including open innovation\, partnership formulation\, technology integration\, technology transfer\, and business integration. Born in Oklahoma and raised as an Air Force dependent\, Jennifer is a dual graduate of Spelman College and Georgia Tech with bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and electrical engineering.  She began her NASA career as a Space Shuttle INCO flight controller\, earning eight certifications and supporting 24 missions. She later completed a Master of Electrical Engineering at the University of Houston and went on to serve in a variety of leadership roles\, including managing MUREP programs in the JSC Office of Education\, leading communications operations for Boeing’s Commercial Crew Starliner\, and overseeing research portfolios and payload integration for the International Space Station (ISS) Program. Selected as Branch Chief of the Applications Client Support Office in 2020\, she led teams enabling technology demonstrations\, STEM initiatives\, commercial payloads\, and external payload operations aboard the ISS. Most recently\, she served a year-long detail as Technical Assistant for Integration supporting Center Director Vanessa Wyche. Today\, she continues advancing human exploration through capability development\, technology integration\, and collaborative innovation with both traditional and emerging space partners. \nGlenn Johnson has 22 years of experience at Johnson Space Center training astronauts for the Space Shuttle and the ISS and helping develop equipment for the space program.  Most of this training and equipment development has been in relation to habitability for the crew–sleep quarters\, food prep\, cleaning\, toilet. He is currently working in the HUNCH (High schools students United with NASA to Create Hardware) program for the Design and Prototype program where he gets high school students to design and build equipment for the space program as we move to returning to the moon and prepare for missions to Mars.  Before working for the space program he was a high school physics teacher and an engineer on a high-speed passenger project. \nAlli Westover is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering in 1996.   After graduation started working at NASA as an integration engineer for life science research on the Space Shuttle and for the astronauts aboard the MIR (Russian Space Station).  Performed biomedical flight readiness and training of many astronauts while working in the Cardiovascular Lab.  When my children\, who are now 27 and 24\, were little I left NASA for a little bit and wrote a children’s book\, called ‘My Daddy Works at NASA’.  I would go into the schools and do small science experiments with the students.  I then went and taught Engineering Design at a local high-school and started working on NASA HUNCH projects in my class.  After 5 years\, I joined the NASA team again and started working for the NASA HUNCH (High-school students United with NASA to Create Hardware) program.  I began the NASA HUNCH Culinary and Nutrition Science Program 11 years ago and this program has grown by leaps and bounds.  The NASA Program and the Astronauts are loving the unique foods that the students are making.   I have also been our certification engineer for all of our hardware that flies to the ISS.  In 2022 I started a new program for Health and Biomedical Engineering projects.  This program is taking real problems that our NASA flight surgeons and engineers are facing with our future endeavors to the moon and beyond.  I have been with the NASA HUNCH program now for 13 years.  \nDonald M. Bennett has more than 38 years of experience as an educator in Industrial Technology. Born in East Texas\, he graduated from Sam Houston State University in 1981 before building a career at the intersection of classroom instruction and real-world engineering. \nBeginning in 2004\, Mr. Bennett began participation in NASA’s HUNCH program which engages high school students in building\, designing\, and building hardware for the International Space Station with his students creating training UOP’s. \nHe joined the NASA HUNCH team as Flight Configuration Manager in 2019\, overseeing student-designed projects with CAD prototypes and the creation of drawings needed for the manufacture of hardware. This included on-orbit projects such as the Galley Table Systems\, Tape Dispenser\, EVA tools\, HUNCH Utility Bracket\, an ARISS Fan Cover\, and the Ball Clamp monopod. \nDonald now brings this blend of educational leadership and NASA HUNCH program experience to engineering design programs to teachers and students in the Flight Configuration program. \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\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-19/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260619T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260619T113000
DTSTAMP:20260529T191618Z
CREATED:20260529T191618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T191618Z
UID:10005092-1781863200-1781868600@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-4/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T183000
DTSTAMP:20260529T191443Z
CREATED:20260403T214052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T191443Z
UID:10004930-1781717400-1781721000@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-33/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 028\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T183000
DTSTAMP:20260603T200836Z
CREATED:20260126T191817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T200836Z
UID:10004771-1781631000-1781634600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Angel Investing 101: FirstCheck: Investor Foundations
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/hcuenf8m \n​Before you invest in anything\, you need to understand how smart angel investing actually works. Not the mythology\, the mechanics. This course gives you that foundation. \n​Participants gain clarity on: \n​- How early-stage investing functions \n​- The role investors play in innovation and wealth creation \n​- Whether this asset class aligns with their long-term goals \n​- The simple methodology that creates a more intentional entry point into investing \n​You’ll leave this class with a clear picture of how capital flows\, how returns are generated\, and whether this asset class belongs in your long-term strategy. \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-101-7/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 032\, 4201 Main St\, Houston
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260612T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260612T110000
DTSTAMP:20260605T205043Z
CREATED:20260605T205043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260605T205043Z
UID:10005111-1781258400-1781262000@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.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mapping-houstons-innovation-ecosystem-5/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 027\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260609T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260609T200000
DTSTAMP:20260515T181249Z
CREATED:20260422T165100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T181249Z
UID:10004954-1781026200-1781035200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Greentown Labs GoMake 2026 Kickoff: Catalyst x Energy Tech Innovations with Shell & Technip Energies
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/vztjrgma \n​Join us at The Ion to kick off Go Make 2026\, an open-innovation program with Shell Catalysts & Technologies (Shell) and Technip Energies focused on catalytic solutions for industrial decarbonization and the energy transition! \n​Why catalysis? Because these processes—the foundation of industrial chemistry—are largely fossil-based and energy-intensive\, making catalysts a critical lever for reducing emissions and enabling more efficient\, low-carbon production. \n​Catalyst x Energy Tech Innovations will feature leaders from Shell and Technip Energies\, pitches from the Go Make 2026 startup cohort (to be announced soon!)\, and networking with this select group of startups developing breakthrough catalytic technologies across the energy and chemical industries. \n​Following the speaking program\, please join us for networking\, drinks\, and food with Houston’s bright carbontech\, energytech\, and climatetech ecosystems.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/greentown-labs-gomake-2026-kickoff-catalyst-x-energy-tech-innovations-with-shell-technip-energies/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260605T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260605T120000
DTSTAMP:20260514T163226Z
CREATED:20260514T163226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T163226Z
UID:10004997-1780653600-1780660800@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-7/2026-06-05/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
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