BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Ion District - ECPv6.15.16//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://iondistrict.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ion District
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20220313T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20221106T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20230312T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20231105T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20240310T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20241103T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230518T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230518T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T202032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T215349Z
UID:10000536-1684407600-1684411200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship as a Business Style by Hap Klopp\, Founder of The North Face
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a thought-provoking keynote speech with Founder and former CEO of The North Face\, Hap Klopp\, on why he believes entrepreneurship is less of a stage of a business and more of a style of business and a mindset that can and should be employed by all businesses to ensure their vitality. It is a mindset that can be applied to any business at any time. \nEntrepreneurship involves innovation\, risk-taking\, urgency\, passion\, and a desire to create something new. It is what drives businesses to think outside the box and come up with new and novel solutions. When it is utilized as part of an organization’s business strategy\, it stimulates innovation and drives economic growth. As history has shown\, entrepreneurial thinking and tactics are what sets successful businesses apart. \nIn this presentation\, Hap Klopp will draw on his experience and research to explore the following topics: \n\nWhat got us here won’t get us there! – innovation is essential\nEstablished businesses or startups – who will be the winner?\nSilicon Valley innovation lesson – what translated and must be
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/northface-business-style/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,Human Performance,Investors & Capital,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/forum-stairs-slide.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230518T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230518T150000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T210250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T164139Z
UID:10000552-1684418400-1684422000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Back to the Future of Innovation
DESCRIPTION:We are at a great turning point in the modern research university. At the center of this disruption is a drive to combine interdisciplinary\, use-inspired research with an entrepreneurial focus in an effort to accelerate the invention and commercialization of breakthrough technologies that solve the world’s most pressing problems. \nJoin us for a discussion on how the Office of Innovation at Rice University is creating game-changing tech startups at speed and scale through public-private partnerships between industry\, government\, and the broader academic community. \nThe short presentation will be followed by a panel to discuss Innovation in Institutions of Higher Education from points of view including academia\, startups\, and industry. \nIntroductory Remarks: \nRice Office of Innovation – Paul Cherukuri\, Vice President for Innovation\, Adjunct Professor\, Management and Entrepreneurship \nPanelists: \n\nPaul Cherukuri\, Vice President for Innovation\, Adjunct Professor\, Management and Entrepreneurship (moderator)\nMichelle Stansbury\, Vice President\, Innovation and IT Applications\, Houston Methodist\nMatthew Wettergreen\, Director of Global Medical Innovation\, Associate Teaching Professor in Bioengineering\nVesna Mirkovic\, Intellectual Property Advisor\, Chevron Technology Ventures
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/back-to-the-future-innovation/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/forum-stairs-slide.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230518T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230518T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T185052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T164702Z
UID:10000537-1684429200-1684436400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Innovation on Tap: EntrepreNeuro
DESCRIPTION:In partnership with Ion and part of the InterfaceRice 2023 conference\, EntrepreNeuro is a one-hour TEDx-style presentation that hosts three presenters who have careers spanning both academia and industry.  \nThese presenters will discuss their personal experiences with a focus on what they have learned during periods of transition. Faculty are increasingly managing university labs while also wearing the hat of CEO/CSO for both startup and established companies in the neurotech and biomedical industry. Conversely\, some industry professionals are moving to work more closely in the investment of academic research and forging stronger ties with universities as co-partners in various ventures. What can we learn from those engaging with this dynamic\, and what do they see the future holding for academic/industry relationships? \nPresenters include Jacob Robinson\, who will discuss his transitions between academic labs and founding the startup Motif Neurotech; Paul Cherukuri\, who will discuss his vision for Rice University in translational research as the newly appointed VP of Innovation at Rice University; Erika Ross Ellison\, who has worked at Mayo Clinic\, Cali Health\, Abbott Neuromodulation\, and was recently hired at Vice President of Research and Development at ONWARD; and Chet Moritz\, Ph.D.\, Associate professor in the Division of Physical Therapy\, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine\, University of Washington. He also serves as the co-director for the Center for Neurotechnology\, an interdisciplinary group of engineers\, neuroscientists\, and clinicians developing next-generation neural technologies to treat disorders of the nervous system. \n  \nJoin the speakers and attendees for networking and light bites at 5 PM\, with lectures beginning at 6 PM. 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/entrepreneuro/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Human Performance,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Forum-Stairs-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T103000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T164132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T164903Z
UID:10000538-1684485000-1684492200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Cup of Joey: Ion District Edition
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a 2nd Anniversary celebration of Cup of Joey that’s so big\, we needed TWO locations! Co-hosted by Capital Factory (at the Ion) and Greentown Labs (at Greentown Labs!) \nOver the past two years\, we have connected all across the Houston region. Join us from 8:30 – 10:30 am\, Friday\, May 19\, for open networking amongst the entire Ion District. In addition\, we will showcase our newest partners of the Ion during Cup of Joey\, giving them an opportunity to share their purpose and commitment to the future of Ion District and the Ion community. \nStarting at 9:30 am\, we will take our family photo\, and Joey will host a conversation with Global Customer Commerce\, United Airlines\, and Woodside Energy. \nShow up\, be friendly\, and make new connections. Know your why\, and we will get to the future together. \nThe future is only a cup away.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/cup-of-joey-ion-district/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Human Performance,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Forum-Stairs-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T153000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230503T154841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230518T142325Z
UID:10000560-1684485000-1684510200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Greentown Labs + Ion Activation Festival 2023
DESCRIPTION:Join Greentown Labs on Friday\, May 19 for a day of Cup of Joey networking\, food trucks at lunchtime\, and a panel of thought-provoking speakers and a showcase of their members in the afternoon. \n8:30 – 10:30 AM: Cup of Joey at Greentown Labs \n12:00 – 1:30 PM: Food Trucks \n\nThe Fry Guy\nPit King BBQ\n\n1:30 – 3:30 PM: Houston Innovation District Panel \nLeaders from across Houston’s Innovation District will come together to celebrate the milestones of the ecosystem over the past two years\, the future of energy transition in Houston\, and what startups need from industry stakeholders to keep the momentum going.\n \n\nGreentown Labs (Moderator)\nOlivia Espy Huntington\, Wootz\nZimri Hinshaw\, Bucha Bio\nKeith Cole\, Water Lens \n\n1:30 – 3:30 PM: Greentown Labs Showcase  \nMeet with Greentown’s entrepreneurs\, learn about their climate solutions\, and make valuable connections! This startup showcase will highlight Greentown Houston member companies innovating across the key carbon-emitting sectors—electricity\, agriculture\, buildings\, manufacturing\, and transportation—and on resiliency\, adaptation\, and platform solutions.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/greentown-labs-ion-af-2023/
LOCATION:Greentown Labs\, 4200 San Jacinto St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Clean Energy,CleanTech,Consumer,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Ion Activation Festival,MedTech/HealthTech,Smart Cities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Copy-of-DSC03855-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230502T211840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184710Z
UID:10000558-1684486800-1684515600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Prototyping Lab + Nexus: Space Day
DESCRIPTION:Join the Ion Prototyping Lab and Rice’s Nexus Lab for a day of space-related displays\, discussions\, and lab tours! The full schedule of events is listed below. \nSpeaker: \n\nAxiom Space\n\nPanelists: \n\nBart Womack\, CEO\, Eden Grow Systems (NASA Spinoff)\n\n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-prototyping-lab-nexus-space-day/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Ion Activation Festival,Ion Prototyping Lab
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Untitled-design-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T123000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T184652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T165223Z
UID:10000539-1684495800-1684499400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:The Future of Space Tech by Montgomery Goforth
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever wondered what the future of space tech is or what opportunities are ahead in lower earth orbit for startups and students?  \nEver thought one day we might grow vegetables on Mars?  \nThe sky\, or galaxy\, in this case\, is the limit. With the Artemis generation\, we are putting the first woman and person of color on the moon\, kicking off a groundbreaking and exciting era in space exploration. Come to the Ion to hear Montgomery Goforth\, Assistant Director\, Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships at NASA’s Johnson Space Center\, speak on these topics\, and more\, during a fireside chat hosted by Alicia Llewellyn\, Lead\, Strategy and Formulation\, Business Development & Technology Integration Office\, NASA JSC.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/future-of-space/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Forum-Stairs-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T143000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T183943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T165318Z
UID:10000540-1684503000-1684506600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:SME Office Hours + Mingle Lounges
DESCRIPTION:Need advice on your next innovative idea or want to join a tech-related community?  \nStop by on Friday\, May 19 from 1:30 – 2:30 pm in the Ion’s Academic Flex Space to meet SCORE Houston representatives and SMEs in marketing\, storytelling\, pitch deck preparation\, and more!  \nAt the same time\, check out the Ion’s Mingle Lounges to build community and network with other entrepreneurs\, SMEs\, researchers\, corporates\, and investors. \nMingle Lounge topics include: \n\nMusic\, Film\, Media Tech\nFood Tech\nAerospace\nMed & Health Tech\nFinTech\nFunded Founder\nFemale Founder / Female Investors\nClean Energy and Transportation\nWeb3
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mingle-lounges/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Forum-Stairs-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230519T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230501T143442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T165428Z
UID:10000554-1684515600-1684526400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Block Party: Innovation on DisPLAY
DESCRIPTION:Activation Festival 2023 culminates for the second year in a row with a community-wide block party on the Ion Plaza. A special iteration of the Ion’s ongoing monthly event series\, Ion Block Party: Innovation on DisPLAY will feature a number of local entrepreneurial businesses displaying their products and technologies with hands-on opportunities for guests. \nThe community is invited to this free event\, which will include food trucks and a special “battle of the bands” competition between popular acts The Slags and The Outsiders. The bands will alternate genres and musical styles\, and the crowd will ultimately decide which band shone the brightest. Guests will want to stick around for the reveal of the winning band\, which will feature a spectacular visual component.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-block-party-innovation-on-display/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Ion Activation Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/MG_2602-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230523T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230523T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T151604Z
UID:10000436-1684846800-1684861200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours to discuss how to build your ideas!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-prototyping-lab-office-hours-14/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ion Prototyping Lab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230523T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230523T180000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T151857Z
UID:10000355-1684857600-1684864800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Investor Studio Series: B2B SaaS Founders & Their Capital Raising Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Join us to learn about how B2B SaaS founders should be thinking about their capital raising strategy\n\n\nDuring this event\, Golden Section\, a venture capital fund and founders studio obsessed with B2B SaaS product development\, will discuss sensible and practical growth\, venture investing\, and their perspective on VC investing in B2B SaaS. The presentation will cover: \n\nWhat they look for when considering investing in a new portfolio company\nHow B2B SaaS founders should be thinking about their capital raising strategy\n\nIf you are a VC fund\, investor\, or founder\, this event is for you! \nAbout the host: Golden Section is a Houston-based VC that invests in early-stage B2B SaaS companies. We invest in founders who have domain expertise in the industry they are looking to build a solution.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/investor-studio-series-b2b-saas-founders-their-capital-raising-strategy/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Investors & Capital
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230524T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230524T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T151951Z
UID:10000400-1684922400-1684929600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Poptarts & Pitches
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Wednesdays at 10 AM on the Lower Level to learn about the art of pitching and get valuable feedback on your deck!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/poptarts-pitches-5/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230524T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230524T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230428T180419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T144849Z
UID:10000553-1684951200-1684956600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Startup Showcase
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Houston Startup Showcase\, a half-year-long series of monthly pitch competitions. Founders will pitch live at the Ion and compete for the grand prize package. Watch the startups pitch their company and see who the judges will name the champion of the Houston Startup Showcase 2023. \nWhether you’re a serial entrepreneur or just looking to get more involved in the startup community\, this event is for you. \nPresenting Companies: \n\nTrainr\nRekfix\nCriterion Energy Partners\nAbloom\n\nJudges: TBD \nAgenda: \n\n5:30 | Networking at the Ion\n6:00 | Welcome & Introductions\n6:15 | Pitches\n7:15 | Judge Deliberation\n7:30 | Closing Remarks\n\nPitch Format: \n\n5 Minute Pitch and Slide Presentation\nJudge Feedback\n\n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-startup-showcase-524/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/f9f34ed278c2f5d2964bbe6841ef8080.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230525T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230525T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T205156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T145628Z
UID:10000542-1685037600-1685043000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks
DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In 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.During the Thursday May 25th presentation\, Chris Gerty will present. Chris began his career as a NASA intern in the 1990s\, dedicating himself to human-centered technology and open collaboration. From training crews and serving as a flight controller for the International Space Station’s Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU)\, to participating in NASA’s NEEMO-13 mission living underwater for two weeks\, Chris has always prioritized how technology can serve people in extreme environments. \nA strong advocate for open source principles\, Chris champions the collective strength of shared data\, software\, and hardware for problem-solving. His entrepreneurial spirit\, combined with a commitment to open collaboration\, continually drives his innovative approach to space exploration. \nMost recently\, as the Informatics Subsystem Lead for NASA’s next-generation spacesuit\, the xEMU\, Chris has focused on adapting Earth-based advancements—such as advanced lighting\, heads-up displays\, and high-speed data—for space exploration. His vision is a future where space-based technology is not only high-performing but also intuitive and human-centered\, mirroring the technological conveniences we enjoy every day on Earth. \nA Clarkson University alumnus\, Chris enjoys nature through camping and hiking\, coaches and plays ice hockey\, and actively engages with the 3D printing community. \nJoin us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught! \nPast NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nNick Skytland is the Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office where he is helping NASA return to the Moon by partnering with industry and academia to advance the future of human spaceflight and propel the space economy. Throughout his career\, he has trained astronauts for spacewalks\, conducted research in human physiology\, led ground-breaking open innovation programs\, established the agency’s social media presence on platforms such as Twitter\, launched the largest hackathon in history\, authored the Future of Work strategy\, instituted the agency’s first data science office\, and led numerous transformation and modernization initiatives. He is currently focused on ushering in NASA’s next chapter in human space exploration and his work spans strategic partnerships\, technology development\, open innovation and technology transfer. \nHe is an avid adventurer\, experienced diver\, and a dedicated triathlete who has completed 23 Ironman races. \nMontgomery B. Goforth serves as the Assistant Director\, Strategic Pursuits & Partnerships – Engineering Directorate\, NASA JSC. \nMr. Goforth has more than 30 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts. He joined NASA in 1990 as part of the Mission Operations Directorate\, working on planning systems and automated procedure execution tools for the International Space Station (ISS). He became Deputy Project Manager for the Portable Computer System\, the laptop used for command and control of the ISS\, in 1996\, and ultimately became Chief of the Branch responsible for all laptops onboard ISS and the Space Shuttle. \nIn 2002 he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. During 2005 he spent several months at NASA Headquarters working in the Robotics Lunar Exploration Program. In 2006 he joined the Constellation Program as Chief of Avionics and Software Test and Verification and became Chief of the Software and Avionics Integration Office in 2007. In this role he was responsible for leading a large nation-wide Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) organization which provided program-level coordination\, oversight\, integration and management of the system-of-systems avionics and software\, including the coordination of integrated modeling and simulation and test activities across the Constellation program and the technical integration of Constellation’s Command\, Control\, Communications\, and Information (C3I) architecture. \nIn 2011\, he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015\, he moved onto Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role\, he put together a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. This framework guides Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. \nMr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). Prior to coming to Johnson Space Center\, he was employed by a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks0525/
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/2023/04/nasa.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T103000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T152552Z
UID:10000302-1685089800-1685097000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Cup of Joey
DESCRIPTION:Cup of Joey is a coffee Happy Hour for Innovative Ideas. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/cup-of-joey-8/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,All Communities,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T162957Z
UID:10000480-1685095200-1685100600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our Office Hours at the Ion\, where we will talk to you about how the Ion is here to help you as an entrepreneur. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-office-hours-43/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:All Communities,Founders & Startups,General Community
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T152723Z
UID:10000437-1685095200-1685109600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours to discuss how to build your ideas!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-prototyping-lab-office-hours-15/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ion Prototyping Lab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230526T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230417T193106Z
UID:10000520-1685098800-1685106000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Sewn Goods Office Hours at Ion Prototyping Lab
DESCRIPTION:Do you have a new product idea you want to bring to life but don’t know where to start? IPL+HTX Sewn Goods Office Hours are here to help!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/sewn-goods-office-hours-at-ion-prototyping-lab-5/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/10d5951ab905180af002605aa93f7f7b.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230530T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230530T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T161908Z
UID:10000438-1685451600-1685466000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours to discuss how to build your ideas!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-prototyping-lab-office-hours-16/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230531T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230531T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T162159Z
UID:10000401-1685527200-1685534400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Poptarts & Pitches
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Wednesdays at 10 AM on the Lower Level to learn about the art of pitching and get valuable feedback on your deck!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/poptarts-pitches-6/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:All Communities,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230531T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230531T193000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230421T143451Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230531T214353Z
UID:10000548-1685557800-1685561400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Bike Club
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a 45-minute guided cruise led by Bike Houston around the expanding Ion District and Midtown neighborhoods. We’ll meet up on the Ion Plaza just outside of Second Draught. The ride is suitable for all ages; Limited BCycle bikes are available onsite for rental. \nFollowing the ride\, participants are eligible for a 10% discount on beverages at Second Draught!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-bike-club/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:General Community
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/ion-bike-club.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230601T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230601T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230525T213514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230530T193258Z
UID:10000567-1685635200-1685638800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Innovation on Tap: Jacob Robinson\, Rice University
DESCRIPTION:Featured Speaker: Jacob T. Robinson\, Associate Professor\, Electrical and Computer Engineering and Associate Professor\, Bioengineering\, Rice University. Co-founder and CEO\, Motif Neurotech \nMy research group explores how nanotechnology can enhance our ability to interact with the brain. Our goal is to advance basic neuroscience and neurological disorders’ treatment. \nJacob Robinson received a B.S. in Physics from UCLA in 2003 and a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Cornell University in 2008 under advisor Dr. Michal Lipson. After completing his Ph.D.studying silicon nanophotonics he began postdoctoral research in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Harvard University. While at Harvard\, Jacob developed silicon nanowire devices to probe the electrical and chemical activity of living cells. In the summer of 2012\, he joined the ECE and BioE departments at Rice. He is currently interested in developing nanofabricated devices to study the structural and functional dynamics of living neural circuits. \nWe invite attendees to join the featured speaker and event attendees for networking at Second Draught after the talk. \nAbout Innovation on Tap: Disruptive Technology Talks with Houston’s Leading Researchers \nIndustrial innovation is in the DNA of Houston (energy\, health\, space\, and transportation)\, and the Ion is at the forefront of moving the city to become a technology destination\, a central place where we support bold moves that embrace the innovation economy at an industrial scale. The Ion is a place where we accelerate disruption by connecting people and ideas to create a future that will not only change Houston but change the world. \nIon Innovation on Tap lecture series is focused on bridging world-leading academic research to the broader innovation ecosystem\, creating connections and partnerships that will not only accelerate translation and commercialization but form relationships that will drive future fundamental advances needed to address fundamental problems like decarbonization\, personalized health care\, and create resilient and sustainable livable communities. \nExamples of disruptive technology include but are not limited to AI and machine learning\, robotics\, synthetic biology\, neuro-engineering\, nano-materials\, cyber security\, imaging\, blockchain\, and quantum computing. \nThe lecture series will feature leading researchers spanning engineering\, science\, and design\, showcasing advanced technology and innovation from academic research labs and programs. Largely inaccessible and buried in journals and conference proceedings\, technology will be presented in an accessible TED-style lecture format with ample networking opportunities. The disruptive technology lecture series will serve as a magnifying glass connecting fundamental technology to people and organizations that can benefit and help activate technology through commercialization. More than that\, the lecture series will serve as a front door for collaboration between researchers and industry partners and/or the formation of new technology startups that will help establish Ion and Houston as a global hub for innovation.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/innovation-on-tap-jacob-robinson-rice-university/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Hardware,Human Performance,Investors & Capital,MedTech/HealthTech
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230601T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230601T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230523T180632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T162508Z
UID:10000563-1685635200-1685646000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Block Party
DESCRIPTION:Join us every first Thursday of the month from 4 – 7 PM on the plaza for live music and local brews provided by Second Draught. This month\, enjoy live music by Adrian Michael Band\, and make sure to register and check in at the event for a complimentary beer or cider on us from Second Draught! \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-block-party-6-1/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,All Communities,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/IonHouston_BlockParty_Taco_076-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T103000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T162747Z
UID:10000303-1685694600-1685701800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Cup of Joey
DESCRIPTION:Cup of Joey is a coffee Happy Hour for Innovative Ideas. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/cup-of-joey-9/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:All Communities,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230417T193103Z
UID:10000481-1685700000-1685705400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our Office Hours at the Ion\, where we will talk to you about how the Ion is here to help you as an entrepreneur.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-office-hours-44/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T162917Z
UID:10000439-1685700000-1685714400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours to discuss how to build your ideas! \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-prototyping-lab-office-hours-17/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ion Prototyping Lab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230602T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230525T163118Z
UID:10000412-1685701800-1685707200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Aramco Ventures Office Hours at the Ion
DESCRIPTION:Aramco Energy Ventures Office Hours are available every other Friday at the Ion!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/aramco-ventures-office-hours-at-the-ion-4/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:All Communities,Corporate Innovators,Investors & Capital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/f5fedec0f1ab01723ebf04923effc425.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230605T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230605T190000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230602T191829Z
UID:10000515-1685988000-1685991600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Mingle Mondays: FinTech
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the first Monday of the month as we build Houston’s FinTech community at the Ion! \nFintech describes various financial activities\, including money transfers\, depositing a check with your smartphone\, bypassing a bank branch to apply for credit\, raising money for a business startup\, personal finance\, and more! \nThis community is for all who are interested in FinTech\, including FinTech entrepreneurs\, thought leaders interested in FinTech innovation\, vendors and funders seeking to work with financial services and technology sector startups\, FinTech investors\, compliance and legal professionals wanting to share their FinTech knowledge\, and more! \nTo join the Ion’s Funded Founder Community\, apply HERE. To pitch at Poptarts and Pitches\, upload your pitch deck HERE. \nAbout the Speakers \nJune Speaker: Mahesh Sashital is the co-founder and CTO of Lucrisma\, a cutting-edge Web3 company that offers financial data privacy and portability solutions to users. \nMahesh’s passion for the blockchain industry led him to found the Houston Blockchain Alliance in 2018. He has advocated for and spoken about blockchain with organizations in Houston\, including the City\, University of Houston\, Rice University\, startups\, and Fortune 500 companies. \nMahesh has over 20 years of experience in software engineering\, enterprise architecture\, and product management. He has held various positions at companies like J.P. Morgan\, Ford\, and Chrysler. He has also co-founded multiple startups and served as the CTO for each of them. \nMahesh is originally from Mumbai\, India\, but has been a Houstonian for 17 years. He earned his Bachelor’s in Engineering from India and his MBA from the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas – Austin. \nMay 2023 Speaker: Robert M Franklin III\, Venture Partner at the Sybilla Mastersfund and Lecturer at Rice University Jones School of Business  \nApril 2023 Speakers: Manolo Sánchez\, Director\, Fannie Mae\, Adjunct Professor\, Jones Graduate School of Business; Vincent Bradley Castellanos\, CEO of Claimkey and Eddie Arroyo\, CFO of Claimkey \nMarch 2023 Speaker: Bobby Bryant\, Founder/CEO DOSS \nFebruary 2023 Speakers: Isaiah Studivent\, CEO/Head of Growth\, Evron; Chalique Seabron\, COO\, Evron \nAbout the hosts \nNorman Pappous has degrees in Economics (BS) and Financial Markets & Trading (MSc.). He has worked in the UK and USA for various financial services firms\, including ABN Amro\, UBS\, Close Bros. Merchant Bank\, Rydex Series Trust\, and Merrill Lynch. He has also consulted hedge funds and corporate treasury operations. In 2022 Norman authored the book Wall Street’s Grand Deception. Norman is Quora.com’s “Most viewed writer” for asset management\, financial advisors\, and passive/index investing. The Structured Products Association of America gave Norman the “Leading Edge Advisor” award for his work in derivatives pricing. He’s been featured in The New York Post\, Forbes\, Investment News\, Registered Rep\, TheStreet.com\, and Frontline on PBS. Norman also founded a FinTech start-up that raised seed and angel funding close to $1 million. \nKiley Summers is the Founder of Spendebt. Shortly after college graduation\, Kiley and TyLisha found themselves in over $100\,000 of consumer debt. Growing up\, finances weren’t discussed in their households. No one told them that only making minimum payments on their debt would likely have them in debt for the rest of their lives. The couple decided to hire a financial advisor to help them improve their financial situation. After becoming debt free\, they began sharing their story with family and friends\, realizing there were so many people caught in the never-ending debt spiral without a plan to get out\, and SpenDebt was born. \nPhillip Yates is the co-founder of Equiliberty\, a technology company designed to help build diversity in property ownership and support minority businesses and neighborhoods by linking people to information\, capital\, and markets\, with a mission to transition the wealth of talent and genius in underserved communities into a treasure of communal wealth\, anchored by communal ownership.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mingle-mondays-fintech-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:All Communities,FinTech,Founders & Startups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/230118-FinTech-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230606T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230606T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230606T185243Z
UID:10000440-1686056400-1686070800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours to discuss how to build your ideas!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-prototyping-lab-office-hours-18/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Ion Prototyping Lab
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230607T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20230607T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T000132
CREATED:20230417T193058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230606T185349Z
UID:10000402-1686132000-1686139200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Poptarts & Pitches
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Wednesdays at 10 AM on the Lower Level to learn about the art of pitching and get valuable feedback on your deck!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/poptarts-pitches-7/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:All Communities,Founders & Startups
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR