Ion District

Cup of Joey
2023-09-08 08:30 - 10:30, 2023-09-01 08:30 - 10:30, 2023-08-25 08:30 - 10:30, 2023-08-18 08:30 - 10:30 (America/Chicago) | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
What is the purpose of Cup of Joey? It is to create a connected culture of coffee shop-open networking across our region. Every Friday morning, you’ll have the opportunity to meet new and expand your current networks, talk about tech, inspire innovation, and create community.
So, what is the difference between a cup of joe and a Cup of Joe-Y? It is the WHY. It’s not what you do. It is why you do it!
At the Ion, these are questions that we want to explore with the tech and innovation community. So, show up, be friendly, and make new connections. Know your why, and we will get to the future together.
The future is only a cup away.

IPL Presents: 3D Printing Essentials
2023-09-07 17:30 - 20:30 | Ion Prototyping Lab, 4201 Main St., Suite 170, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Unlocking the Potential of 3D Printing: An Introductory Workshop
Discover the transformative capabilities of 3D printing as a powerful tool for rapid fabrication and prototyping. Join us for an enlightening workshop where participants will gain comprehensive knowledge about 3D printing technologies and the operation of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers.
Fundamentals of FDM 3D Printing: Explore the essential aspects of FDM 3D printing, including the loading and unloading of filament.
Slicing Techniques: Dive into the intricacies of slicing, covering topics such as infill, resolution, bridging, and shells to optimize your 3D prints.
Design for 3D Printing: Learn the art of preparing and designing files for 3D printing, ensuring the highest quality output.
Hands-On Experience: By the conclusion of this immersive workshop, participants will have not only prepared and loaded their own designs for 3D printing but will also have acquired the skills to operate a variety of 3D printers effectively.
Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of 3D printing and expand your capabilities in the world of rapid fabrication and prototyping. Reserve your spot today!
Notes: Registration includes all necessary materials and resources. While 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) knowledge is beneficial, it is not mandatory for participation.

Ion Block Party
2023-09-07 17:00 - 20:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us this month for Ion Block Party from 5 – 8 PM on the plaza for live music from FM Radio and local brews provided by Second Draught. Make sure to register and check-in at the event for a complimentary beer or cider on us from Second Draught!

Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
2023-09-05 13:00 - 17:00, 2023-09-01 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-08-25 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-08-18 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-08-15 13:00 - 17:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
What is the Ion Prototyping Lab (IPL)?
The Ion Prototyping Lab is where your ideas meet the designers, engineers, and fabricators that can make them a reality. Located at The Ion, the intersection of Houston’s culture, creativity, and innovation. Our 6500 sq. ft. site offers access to equipment, engineers, and technical training–a must for every inventor, innovator, and creator.
The Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours offer entrepreneurs a chance to engage an expert one-on-one and explore options for building or producing their devices. Everyone from seasoned entrepreneurs to educators or “just a person with an idea” is welcome. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis.
The initial discussion is at no cost, but subsequent meetings may require a consultation fee.
For more information about IPL – be sure to check out their website and sign up for their newsletter to stay connected! IPL offers various classes/workshops throughout the month – be sure to check out their calendar to register.
Interested in signing up for a membership? Click here

Ion Office Hours
2023-09-01 10:00 - 11:30, 2023-08-25 10:00 - 11:30, 2023-08-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
How can our Office Hours at the Ion help you?
Office Hours at the Ion aims to support people coming to the Ion who are seeking their next step in taking their idea to an enterprise by creating pathways to the next steps toward success for entrepreneurs and small business owners. For example, maybe you have a draft business plan and need a mentor. Perhaps you are a small business and need funding. Or, maybe you are considering starting a business and need initial marketing support to develop a brand. That is where we can help!
Office Hours at the Ion exist to introduce people to the Ion and our events, resources, and programs that support the entrepreneurial journey.
This event is in collaboration with SCORE and SBA, who will be available to help entrepreneurs and small business owners execute their business idea. The Small Business Administration will be on-site the second Friday of the month. SCORE will have a table on-site each Friday.
Our office hours will occur immediately after our Cup of Joey networking event in the Lobby.

Nanotech Raise a Glass to Another Round
2023-08-31 17:00 - 19:00 | Second Draught, 4201 Main St. Suite 130, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us at Second Draught in celebrating Nanotech in the third iteration of Raise a Glass to Another Round!
About Nanotech
A Houston startup that has developed an innovative coating material that can reduce energy consumption has raised fresh funding for its cross-country expansion.
NanoTech Inc. announced its latest funding news — an oversubscribed funding round that brings on board a handful of new investors. The round details were not disclosed, but NanoTech did release that the round included participation from three institutional investors, two corporate-strategic investors, and seven family offices. These entities join the initial investor, Austin-based Ecliptic Capital.
NanoTech’s flagship product is a waterproof thermal coating called the Nano Shield Cool Roof Coat, which began rolling out nationwide this year. Not only does the product reduce energy costs for the building owner, but it reduces emissions as well.
One drink ticket that can be redeemed at Second Draught will be given to those who register.

Ion Bike Club
2023-08-30 18:30 - 19:30 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
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.
Following the ride, participants are eligible for a 10% discount on beverages at Second Draught!

Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours
2023-08-29 13:00 - 17:00, 2023-08-22 13:00 - 17:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
What is the Ion Prototyping Lab (IPL)?
The Ion Prototyping Lab is where your ideas meet the designers, engineers, and fabricators that can make them a reality. Located at The Ion, the intersection of Houston’s culture, creativity, and innovation. Our 6500 sq. ft. site offers access to equipment, engineers, and technical training–a must for every inventor, innovator, and creator.
The Ion Prototyping Lab Office Hours allow entrepreneurs to engage an expert one-on-one and explore options for building or producing their devices. Everyone from seasoned entrepreneurs to educators or “just a person with an idea” is welcome. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis.
The initial discussion is free, but subsequent meetings may require a consultation fee.
For more information about IPL – be sure to check out their website and sign up for their newsletter to stay connected! IPL offers various classes/workshops throughout the month – be sure to check out their calendar to register.
Interested in signing up for a membership? Click here

Houston Methodist Tech Hub @ Ion Kickoff Event
2023-08-28 09:30 - 15:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join Houston Methodist and the Ion to officially open the doors to the new HM Tech Hub!

Houston Robotics Group at Ion Prototyping Lab
2023-08-26 14:00 - 17:00 | Ion Prototyping Lab, 4201 Main St., Suite 170, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Innovate, Collaborate, and Learn: Weekly Meetings at Ion Prototyping Lab!
Join the Houston Robotics Group for an exciting exploration of a diverse range of projects! Whether you’re interested in software development, AI/Deep Learning, electronics, mechanics, drones, or automation, our group offers a welcoming and supportive community to pursue your passions.
Should you require assistance with your projects, fear not! The Houston Robotics Group is composed of highly skilled experts in various domains, including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, motor controls, 3D printing & design, coding, electronics, board assembly, and debugging.
Additionally, we’re well-versed in Jetson Nano, Deep Learning, and various cutting-edge technologies. Our passion for robotics and related fields drives us to continuously push boundaries and explore new possibilities together.
Join the Houston Robotics Group today and immerse yourself in a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to the world of robotics and beyond!

Aramco Ventures Office Hours at the Ion
2023-08-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Representatives from Aramco North America’s corporate venturing arm, Aramco Ventures, will be onsite at the Ion every other Friday right after “Cup of Joey” from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM to meet with startups and and entrepreneurs interested in discussing their company or technology with Aramco’s investment team.
Aramco is a world-leading integrated energy and chemicals company. The mission of their strategic venturing program is to invest globally into start-up and high-growth companies with technologies of strategic importance to Aramco, and to accelerate their development and deployment across Aramco’s operations.
Prior to registering, you are encouraged to read more about Aramco Ventures’ investment philosophy and portfolio companies here: https://aramcoventures.com/
Please note that space is limited, and meetings are allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Should you have any questions, please email Ragen Doyle, Corporate Engagement Officer, at rdoyle@ionhouston.com.

Sewing 101 at Ion Prototyping Lab
2023-08-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Ion Prototyping Lab, 4201 Main St., Suite 170, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab for Sewing 101, where you’ll learn the basics of sewing in an interactive workshop.
Ion Prototyping Lab has partnered with the HTX Sewn Goods team to bring you a 3-hour workshop where you’ll be introduced to the world of home sewing using a Singer sewing machine. This interactive session will cover essential topics such as threading, bobbin maintenance, and mastering the art of sewing straight and curved lines.
By the end of the Sewing 101 workshop, not only will you have gained hands-on experience, but you’ll also have your very own handcrafted tote bag to take home. Get ready to be inspired and unlock your creativity as you discover the joy of sewing, paving the way for countless future soft goods projects.
Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to learn a new skill and meet other sewing enthusiasts in your community. Register now to reserve your spot!

NASA Tech Talks
2023-08-24 18:00 - 19:30 | Ion – Forum Stairs, 4201 Main St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
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 on the fourth Thursday 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 August 24th presentation, Mark C. Tolton “Chris”, Chief Executive Officer at Orbital Mining Corporation (OMC), and Ken Liang, Chief Technology Officer at OMC, will present.
Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!
Past NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies and Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry. Future NASA Tech Talks will include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of:

Avionics / Communication / Sensors
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors
Power Storage and Distribution
Autonomous & Robotics Systems
Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems
Virtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution
Human Health & Performance / Human Systems Research

About the Speakers
Mark C. Tolton “Chris” (CEO) and Ken Liang (CTO) will discuss their startup, Orbital Mining Corporation (OMC), its mission to mine the moon; participation in NASA’s Watts on the Moon Competition (WotM), and development of their prototype lunar transmission and storage system. Founded by Colorado School of Mines graduate students in 2022, OMC is currently a finalist in NASA’s WotM and providing a prototype for the competition in early 2024. OMC’s design approach leverages mostly COTS DC converters, cryogenic capable power cables, and off-the-shelf lithium-ion 18650 cells for energy storage and is being tested in a vacuum at the Mines Space Resources Lab. OMC considers its initial technical challenges to be: ensuring power conversion (e.g. DC converters) survives the lunar night and integrating multiple sources of power and energy storage into a future lunar DC microgrid. Chris and Ken will also provide feedback on their experience establishing a startup under a NASA Centennial Challenge.
Chris Tolton is co-founder & CEO of Orbital Mining Corporation (OMC), where he is responsible for strategic vision, operations, personnel, & partnerships. He is a former Naval Intelligence Officer with a background in remote sensing. Prior to his retirement, he was previously the US Naval Attaché to the United Arab Emirates and Director of the Fleet Imagery Support Team at the Office of Naval Intelligence in Suitland Maryland. He is currently a graduate student in Space Resources at the Colorado School of Mines. He also holds an MBA from Oxford University and a BA in Economics from UNC Chapel Hill.

Ken Liang is co-founder & CTO of OMC, where he is responsible for proposals, system architecture, assembly, & testing of the Watts on the Moon project & others. Ken holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering specializing in geotechnical & construction operations, with minors in economics & computer science from Georgia Tech. Prior to joining the space community, he was a software product manager in the construction & utilities industries, where he worked for five years.
Montgomery B. Goforth serves as the Assistant Director, Strategic Pursuits & Partnerships – Engineering Directorate, NASA JSC.
Mr. 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 the ISS and the Space Shuttle. In 2002 he moved to the ISS Avionics and Software Office as Manager of the Flight Software Development Office and later served as Chief Engineer. In 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 nationwide 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. In 2011, he joined the Avionic Systems Division to support their Strategic Planning and Partnership efforts. In 2015, he moved on to Engineering Directorate Staff to support Strategic Pursuits and Partnerships. In this role, he put together a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts toward 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. Mr. 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.

Greentown Labs' Investor Speaker Series - Celebrating Identity In Angel Investing
2023-08-23 16:30 - 19:30 | Greentown Labs, 4200 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
At Greentown Labs’ next Investor Speaker Series event, we’re celebrating efforts to create an equitable fundraising landscape. Representatives from several angel networks and other investing groups that prioritize and celebrate founders’ unique identities will join us for this special event to share their insights and perspectives.
Speakers:

Sunil Garg, TiE Houston Board Member, TiE Angels
Lenny Saizan, Co-Founder, Urban Capital Network
Pilar Johnson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Debut Capital
Moderated by Juliana Garaizar, Chief Development and Investment Officer, Greentown Labs and Lead Investor, Portfolia

Agenda:
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Doors Open & Check-In
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Panel Discussion
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM – Happy Hour & Networking

Venue Information:
Greentown Labs Houston
4200 San Jacinto St.
Houston, TX 77004
Register Here

Houston Robotics Group at Ion Prototyping Lab
2023-08-19 14:00 - 17:00, 2023-08-12 14:00 - 17:00 | Ion Prototyping Lab, 4201 Main St., Suite 170, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Innovate, Collaborate, and Learn: Weekly Meetings at Ion Prototyping Lab!
Join the Houston Robotics Group for an exciting exploration of a diverse range of projects! Whether you’re interested in software development, AI/Deep Learning, electronics, mechanics, drones, or automation, our group offers a welcoming and supportive community to pursue your passions.
Should you require assistance with your projects, fear not! The Houston Robotics Group is composed of highly skilled experts in various domains, including Arduino, Raspberry Pi, motor controls, 3D printing & design, coding, electronics, board assembly, and debugging.
Additionally, we’re well-versed in Jetson Nano, Deep Learning, and various cutting-edge technologies. Our passion for robotics and related fields drives us to continuously push boundaries and explore new possibilities together.
Join the Houston Robotics Group today and immerse yourself in a community of like-minded individuals, dedicated to the world of robotics and beyond!

Eye on Art Preview Party
2023-08-16 17:30 - 19:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us at Second Draught in celebrating the third iteration of the Eye On Art Program, two new site-specific installations in the display windows of the Ion!

“Creation, Current, Solution” by Kill Joy
“The SpLaVCe Program” by Christopher Blay

About the Eye on Art Program:
The Eye On Art Program installations are an adaptive reuse of the beloved Sears building on which The Ion was built. The display windows are a unique opportunity to reimagine Sears’ store windows and build on the collective memory of the space’s past, present, and future. Strategically placed as the entry points and eyes of the building, the two highly visible display windows facing Fannin and Main Streets serve as beacons to draw the community in.

Lite bites will be provided by The Lymbar, and drinks to be provided by Second Draught.

Perfecting Your Pitch
2023-08-16 17:30 - 18:30 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
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.
About the Speakers
Dr. Doug Franklin
“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.
Derrell Noris
With 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.
Nicholas Mbaezue-Daniel Jr.
Nick 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.

Houston VR Meetup at Ion Prototyping Lab
2023-08-14 19:30 - 21:30 | Ion Prototyping Lab, 4201 Main St., Suite 170, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Are you captivated by the endless possibilities of Virtual Reality?
Join us at the Ion Prototyping Lab for a monthly Houston VR meetup. Join a diverse community for an engaging session of hardware trials, captivating demos, and engaging discussions, all revolving around the latest trends and advancements in Virtual and Augmented Reality.
All are welcome to attend, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned VR enthusiast, a budding developer, or simply curious about the realm of Virtual Reality.
Our keynote speaker includes Adam Olds of Varjo Technologies. Through an engaging presentation, Adam offers profound insights on the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the world of Virtual Reality. Attendees will also be granted exclusive access to test out Varjo’s latest Head Mounted Displays, unlocking new frontiers of virtual immersion.
Mark your calendars and become part of the virtual revolution. We look forward to seeing you at the next Houston VR meetup!

Ion Open Accelerator: Ideate, Build, and Launch Real Apps
2023-08-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Ion, 4201 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Have you ever had an IDEA FOR AN APP – but – NO IDEA where to start? Learn how to ideate, build, and launch REAL APPS without writing a single line of code.
In this workshop, we’ll build a social media app from scratch and learn other foundational concepts you’ll be able to use on other projects.
No prior knowledge is required – just bring positive energy and a willingness to learn.
About the Presenter: Damiano Redemagni
