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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T193000
DTSTAMP:20260908T195425Z
CREATED:20260908T195425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T195425Z
UID:10005624-1789495200-1789500600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:FirstCheck 101: Investor Foundations (Online)
DESCRIPTION: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. ​Participants gain clarity on: \n​How early-stage investing functions ​\nThe 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 ​ \nYou’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.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/firstcheck-101-investor-foundations-online/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Course-Banner.png?ver=1788374366
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T190000
DTSTAMP:20260818T234205Z
CREATED:20260818T234205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T234205Z
UID:10005578-1789491600-1789498800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Activate: Meet the Cohort 2026
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://luma.com/pw41fw82 \nJoin us to celebrate the launch of Activate Houston’s 2026 Cohort and discover the breakthrough technologies they’re building to solve some of the world’s biggest challenges. \n\n\n​Anning Corporation: Pioneering geologic hydrogen through advanced geoscience and stimulation technologies\, creating a scalable low-cost\, clean energy \n\n\n​Brint Tech: Building optical sensing systems that quantify hydrogen\, giving infrastructure operators the data to scale safely and credibly \n\n\n​Simora Core: Building rare-earth free\, contact-free electric motors with wireless rotors for everything from small appliances to vehicles and heavy industry \n\n\n​Nivera: Developing natural composite coatings and packaging materials that reduce food waste and sustainably extends the shelf life of fresh food \n\n\n​Orbital Arc: Creating electric propulsion on a microtrip to power movement in space at an unmatched scale\, speed\, and cost \n\n\n​Renesin: Developing advanced materials that enable faster\, more efficient AI hardware \n\n\n​Selerra Separations: Engineering high-performance membranes that cut the cost and energy consumption of water treatment without compromising durability or water quality \n\n\n​SwieNitro Recovery: Transforming nitrogen-rich waste streams into valuable fertilizer through a low-energy ammonia recovery platform \n\n\n​Also\, learn more about our C25 cohort: \n\n\n​Biosimo: Enabling the chemical industry’s net-zero transition by replacing fossil-based essential chemicals with identical quality ones made from bio-ethanol \n\n\n​Brightlight Photonics: Replacing tabletop laser systems with chip-scale titanium:sapphire lasers—bringing lab-grade performance to quantum technologies\, diagnostics\, and advanced manufacturing in a package that’s 100x smaller and cheaper \n\n\n​Deep Anchor Solutions: Compact anchor making offshore energy viable in new and remote markets worldwide by enabling faster\, cheaper deployment of floating renewables \n\n\n​FlowCellutions: Chemistry-agnostic diagnostics for grid-scale batteries \n\n\n​KIRA: Reimagining desalination expanding access to clean water and decarbonizing industries from oil and gas to agriculture \n\n\n​Lift Biolabs: Replacing costly purification tools with buoyant protein reagents making therapeutic manufacturing more affordable while also enabling biotech to scale \n\n\n​Semion: Transforming pest control by restoring crops’ natural defenses with plant-based compounds\, reducing chemical use and environmental impact\, and offering farmers more sustainable and resilient ways to protect their crops \n\n\n​Activate’s Meet the Cohort is a proud anchor event for Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week\, and sponsored by Goodwin Law and Berkner Group. \n​ \n\n\n\n​
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/activate-meet-the-cohort-2026/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Activate-Meet-the-cohort.png?ver=1787091551
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T151500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260915T170000
DTSTAMP:20260908T232923Z
CREATED:20260901T170230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T232923Z
UID:10005621-1789485300-1789491600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Energy Solutions in a New Era Hosted by JERA & Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://luma.com/u9ycnl37?lm_source=embed \nThe energy world is entering a period of profound change — and Houston sits at the very heart of it. Join JERA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for an evening of candid conversation on how established energy leaders and bold startups can shape what comes next. \n​What we ask of energy is changing. Electrification\, industrial decarbonization\, and a new class of large loads — led by AI and data centers — are driving power demand at a pace never seen before. The question is no longer only how do we add clean generation?\, but how do we serve rising demand on a grid with limited headroom? One answer builds new supply; the other shifts demand intelligently — and where the two meet\, the next-era power system comes into view. \n​As part of Houston Energy + Climate Startup Week\, this session brings JERA and MHI leadership together with leading energy and climate innovators for an open dialogue on collaboration and open innovation. Whether you’re a founder\, investor\, corporate\, researcher\, academic\, or policymaker\, come connect with the people building the future of energy. \n​What to expect \n\n​Short introductions to JERA’s and MHI’s open innovation activities and U.S. strategy\n​A ~45-minute panel discussion with industry leaders and pioneering startups on how corporates and startups build trust and scale together\n​A ~30-minute networking reception to connect with key players across the energy & climate ecosystem\n\n​Event Details \n\n​📅 Tuesday\, September 15\, 2026\n​🕞 3:15 PM – 5:00 PM (CT)\n​📍 The Ion\, “Forum Stairs” — Houston\, TX\n​🎟️ Free & open to all — investors\, startups\, corporates\, academia\, and government are welcome\nCome for the ideas\, stay for the connections. We look forward to seeing you there.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/energy-solutions-in-a-new-era-hosted-by-jera-mitsubishi-heavy-industries/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/jera-x-mitsubishi.avif?ver=1788282010
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T200000
DTSTAMP:20260805T195543Z
CREATED:20260804T200202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T195543Z
UID:10005294-1789403400-1789416000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:2026 Houston Energy & Climate Startup Week Kickoff
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/vz6fndi8 \nKick off Houston Energy & Climate Startup Week in the Ion District! \n​Join founders\, investors\, corporate leaders\, researchers\, and innovators from across Houston and beyond as we officially launch a week dedicated to advancing the future of energy and climate innovation. \n​The evening begins with a keynote program featuring leaders from Houston’s energy and climate ecosystem who are helping shape what’s next for the industry. Following the program\, explore the Ion during a building-wide Open House featuring startup showcases\, corporate partners\, technology demonstrations\, and opportunities to connect with the organizations driving innovation across the region. \n​Then head outside for our signature Block Party on the plaza with live music\, drinks\, bites from Ion District restaurants\, and networking with the people building Houston’s innovation ecosystem. \n​Whether you’re attending Houston Energy & Climate Startup Week for the first time or returning for another year\, this is the perfect way to connect\, discover\, and kick off an exciting week of programming.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/2026-houston-energy-climate-startup-week-kickoff-open-house-and-ion-block-party/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Clean Energy,ClimateTech,Community Event,General Community,Houston Energy and Climate Startup Week,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/HECSW-Kickoff-Graphic.jpeg?ver=1785873701
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T110000
DTSTAMP:20260908T194908Z
CREATED:20260908T194847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T194908Z
UID:10005631-1789376400-1789383600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:BUILD LIVE @ THE ION
DESCRIPTION:Have an idea for an app\, startup\, or digital product? Bring your laptop and let’s build it. \nBuild Live is a free\, twice-weekly community build session where founders\, entrepreneurs\, creators\, students\, developers\, and first-time builders aka vibe coders come together to turn ideas into working technology using AI. \nThis isn’t a lecture\, class\, or panel. Everyone builds. \nCome with a brand-new idea\, an existing startup\, or a project you’re already working on. You’ll build alongside other members of Houston’s startup community\, share ideas\, solve problems together\, and make real progress on what you’re creating. \nNo coding experience is required. AI has made it possible for more people than ever to build software\, and Build Live is a place to learn by actually doing it. \nThe sessions are powered by Enterface.io\, an AI application-building workspace created to help vibe coders and experienced builders organize their projects and build across today’s leading AI tools in one place. This first-of-its-kind tech startup is focused on helping the millions who have never coded before but now can with AI. Everyone has a great idea inside of them\, Enterface makes it easier and more fun to bring it to life. \nWhat to bring: \n* A laptop\n* An idea — new or already in progress\n* An account with an AI platform such as Claude\, ChatGPT\, OpenCode\, Cursor\, or another AI coding/building tool\n* Free Enterface account to Mac users\n* Happy vibes (we are vibe coding!) \nWi-Fi is provided. \nWhether you’ve never built software before or you’re already building your next startup\, you’re welcome. \nCome with an idea. Leave with something built. \nFree and open to the public. It’s time to build!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/build-live-the-ion/2026-09-14/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs + Plaza\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/6140D697-2811-4754-B17B-31859579EADD.png?ver=1788729781
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T150000
DTSTAMP:20260908T194957Z
CREATED:20260908T194957Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T194957Z
UID:10005629-1789135200-1789138800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Delegate to AI: Build Your First AI Agent
DESCRIPTION:AI is changing how work gets done. But the biggest opportunity isn’t just using ChatGPT to answer questions—it’s learning how to delegate real work to AI agents. \nI believe AI agents are a new productivity primitive\, much like spreadsheets and word processors were in the 1980s. They give ordinary people the ability to automate\, delegate\, and rethink parts of their work that previously required their own time and attention. \nThis is a hands-on workshop for growth-oriented professionals\, entrepreneurs\, and builders who want to learn how to put AI to work—not just learn about it. \nBring your laptop. During the session\, you’ll build your own working AI agent using Tasklet\, connect it to the tools you already use\, and give it real work to do. Along the way\, I’ll teach the broader principles behind designing\, instructing\, and working effectively with AI agents—principles you can apply to other agent platforms as well. \nYou don’t need to be technical or know how to code. You do need to be curious\, willing to experiment\, and interested in finding better ways to work.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/delegate-to-ai-build-your-first-ai-agent/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-04-at-3.24.19-PM.png?ver=1788553688
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T113000
DTSTAMP:20260824T154738Z
CREATED:20260824T154738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T154738Z
UID:10005598-1789122600-1789126200@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-20/
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:20260911T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T120000
DTSTAMP:20260804T012022Z
CREATED:20260804T011642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260804T012022Z
UID:10005290-1789120800-1789128000@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-21/
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:20260911T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T113000
DTSTAMP:20260824T185506Z
CREATED:20260824T185506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T185506Z
UID:10005608-1789120800-1789126200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:SCORE Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:About SCORE Office Hours \nSCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteer\, expert business mentors. Since 1964\, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start\, grow\, or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10\,000 volunteers provide free\, expert mentoring\, resources\, and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. \nOffice Hours with SCORE take place each Friday morning. Additional partners will be on-site the second Friday of each month (excluding holidays)
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/score-office-hours-51/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/6H1A1559-HDR-Edit-scaled.jpg?ver=1715034396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T230000
DTSTAMP:20260824T154953Z
CREATED:20260824T154953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T154953Z
UID:10005603-1789119000-1789167600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:AI Circle Houston
DESCRIPTION:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/18970005/ \nAI Circle Houston is a weekly Friday morning gathering for people building\, implementing\, or exploring AI. \nWe bring together builders\, engineers\, product leaders\, founders\, operators\, researchers\, students\, and anyone interested in putting AI into practice. Each week includes networking followed by a focused session on a practical AI topic\, with discussions spanning AI agents\, AI-native products\, models\, development tools\, reliability\, interfaces\, computer vision\, and emerging approaches to building with AI. \nThe format is community-driven\, with an emphasis on learning from people actively working with AI and sharing what is working\, what isn’t\, and what we’re learning along the way.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ai-circle-houston-4/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260911T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004080-1789115400-1789122600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Networking with Cup of Joey
DESCRIPTION: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. \nSo\, 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! \nAt 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. \nThe future is only a cup away. \nRegister Here: https://www.cupofjoey.org/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-networking-with-cup-of-joey-34/2026-09-11/
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/2024/07/CoJ1.jpg?ver=1721850637
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T203000
DTSTAMP:20260826T180402Z
CREATED:20260826T180402Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T180402Z
UID:10005612-1789066800-1789072200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Out in Tech Houston Monthly Mixer
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/out-in-tech-houston-monthly-mixer-tickets-1979625431957?aff=odcleoeventsincollection \nOut in Tech Houston is the local chapter for Out in Tech\, the world’s largest non-profit community of LGBTQ+ tech leaders. Out in Tech creates opportunities for our 50\,000 members to advance their careers\, grow their networks\, and leverage tech for social change. \nAs with the other 30+ chapters around the world\, Out in Tech Houston provides an inclusive space for LGBTQ+ people and allies working in the technology industry to engage\, network\, and learn. \nAbout this Event \nJoin our relaxed\, social-mixer event\, hosted on the second Thursday of every month. We’re looking forward to meeting you! \nThis is the first time we are hosting our monthly mixer at The Ion\, and we hope to have many more. RSVP and save the date in your calendars for an evening you cannot miss! \nFor more information\, contact houston@outintech.com.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/out-in-tech-houston-monthly-mixer-4/
LOCATION:Second Draught\, 4201 Main St. Suite 130\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:CleanTech,Community Event,FinTech,FoodTech,MedTech/HealthTech,SportsTech
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_783203189_1296979837623_1_original.jpg?ver=1717610118
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T200000
DTSTAMP:20260511T185713Z
CREATED:20260511T185649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T185713Z
UID:10004981-1789061400-1789070400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Upstream: Digital Tech Meetup at Second Draught
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/timbergrove \nUpstream: Digital Tech Meetup – Monthly Social 🍻 \nNo stage. No slides. No panels. \nJust upstream operators\, engineers\, founders\, and digital leaders getting together over beer and pizza. \nThis is the informal side of the Upstream Digital Tech community. A casual\, vendor-light happy hour for people navigating digital change in oil and gas and wanting real conversations. \nIt’s not a presentation. It’s not a pitch night.\nIt’s a room full of people who are actually doing the work. \nA place to: \n• Meet others working at the intersection of upstream and technology\n• Trade field stories\, lessons learned\, and hard truths\n• Talk AI\, IoT\, data\, automation\, and deployment realities\n• Build real relationships without a formal agenda \nWhether you’re deploying technology\, evaluating it\, building it\, or leading teams through it\, you’ll fit right in. \nCome as you are.\nBring a friend.\nStay as long as you like. \n📍 Second Draught @ The Ion District\, Midtown Houston\n🗓️ Second Thursday of every month | ⏰ 5:30 PM \n👉 Reserve your spot. Space is limited.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/upstream-digital-tech-meetup-at-second-draught-3/2026-09-10/
LOCATION:Second Draught\, 4201 Main St. Suite 130\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Upstream-FB-Event-v002-1.jpg?ver=1771824296
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260910T190000
DTSTAMP:20260908T194917Z
CREATED:20260908T194831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T194917Z
UID:10005630-1789061400-1789066800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Tech Transfer Thursdays
DESCRIPTION:Universities 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. \nJoin us on September 10th at The Ion to hear directly from Halliburton Labs and see live pitches from startups commercializing energy and cleantech IP out of Rice University\, University of Houston\, and Texas A&M University! \nHouston is the energy capital of the world\, and the next generation of energy and cleantech breakthroughs is taking shape right now inside our region’s top research labs. \nThe challenge for energy founders and university spinouts is rarely the science. It is taking that technology out of the lab and scaling it in the real world without dying in the “valley of death.” \nThat is why our next Tech Transfer Thursday is focused squarely on Energy & Cleantech. \nWe are bringing together corporate venture leaders\, ecosystem resource partners\, and emerging university spinouts to give founders the exact playbook for scaling clean energy and hardware technologies. \nHere is what you can expect on September 10th: \n🕠 5:30 PM | Open Networking\nConnect with founders\, investors\, researchers\, and energy corporate leaders across the Houston ecosystem. \n🕕 6:00 PM | Partnering with Corporate VCs\nHear directly from Halliburton Labs on how their corporate innovation program helps startups transition technology from lab scale to field deployment. \n🕡 6:30 PM | Spinout Pitches\n5 minute spotlight pitches from emerging university spinouts commercializing energy and cleantech innovations out of Rice University Office of Technology Transfer\, Texas A&M Innovation\, and the UH Innovation. Including: \nAlec Ajnsztajn\, PhD (Coflux Purification)\nVivek Dhas (Direct H2)\nMingchu Zou (RETTAB Technology)\nJunho Lee\, PhD (Deep Anchor Solutions) \nWhether you are a founder\, investor\, corporate innovator\, or university researcher\, join us as we accelerate the commercialization of energy and cleantech technologies in Houston. \n📍 Location: The Ion District (4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX 77002)\n📅 Date: Thursday\, September 10\n🕠 Time: Doors open at 5:30 PM\n👉 RSVP: https://mailchi.mp/rice/692as8uyb2
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/tech-transfer-thursdays-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TTThursdaysSep10.png?ver=1788556014
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260909T183000
DTSTAMP:20260902T161522Z
CREATED:20260812T203027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260902T161522Z
UID:10005308-1788973200-1788978600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:How to Start a Startup
DESCRIPTION:You have an idea…now what?  \nBefore you start looking for funding\, it’s important to ensure that your idea is both viable and valuable — if it doesn’t have a sound model and a market willing to pay for it\, investors won’t be interested anyway. \nJoin us after the session\, hosted by Heath Butler\, for a networking happy hour! \nTarget Audience: \n\nStartups and Entrepreneurs: early-stage entrepreneurs\, entrepreneurs testing ideas for a pivot\nCommunity Members: people with an idea for a startup but unsure what to do next\, small business owners\nCorporate Innovators: intrapreneurs\, decision-makers tasked with creating and leading sustainable change\nAcademic Partners: students or faculty with an idea for a startup\n\nAbout the Speakers:\nHeath Butler\, Mercury Fund \nHeath focuses on B2B SaaS and B2B2C Marketplace investments in future-of-work and fin-tech themes. Heath also manages the organization’s venture studio and network platform\, including corporate\, service provider\, and startup community relationships. \nPrior to joining Mercury\, Heath co-founded Gestalt Theory Venture Partners\, a venture studio and angel investing group. Prior to Gestalt\, Heath held leadership roles as a seasoned go-to-market and corporate development executive at Insperity (NYSE: NSP)\, the nation’s leading HR outsourcing services provider. Prior to Insperity\, Heath led business development for EnergyWorkspace.com\, founded a fin-tech startup\, and developed his foundational management skills at UPS. \nOutside of Mercury\, Heath is an active angel investor and advocates for democratizing access to private equity opportunities for all investors. He is an active startup in the Houston innovation community\, a mentor\, and a regular speaker/mentor within The Ion. Heath enjoys traveling with family and likes to read\, golf\, cycle\, and is an avid poker player. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/how-to-start-a-startup-10/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_1515-scaled.jpeg?ver=1786566611
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T190000
DTSTAMP:20260901T164607Z
CREATED:20260817T184328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T164607Z
UID:10005303-1788886800-1788894000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Design Your Business Backwards
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/f3o1spx1 \nStart designing freedom from day one. Most entrepreneurs build first and hope freedom shows up down the road. But working around the clock isn’t growth\, it’s a trap. Hustle\, funnels\, and social media won’t save a business that was built on the wrong foundation. \n​Blue People presents: Tech and Tequila Talk – Business by Design! Join us for an exclusive\, high-impact session on the power of intentional business design. \n​We’re hosting Taylor Golden to show you how to reverse the entrepreneurial order and build your business around your life\, not the other way around. Learn how to turn your greatest personal assets into a business model that makes money while giving you back your time. \n​What you’ll learn: \n​+The Power of Backward Design: Reverse the traditional path by prioritizing your life and freedom before building your business. \n​+Fixing the Foundation: A look at why marketing funnels won’t save a poorly designed business\, and how to focus on what to build first. \n​+Identity as an Asset: How aligning your business model with your core strengths simplifies pricing\, marketing\, and client acquisition. \n​+Profitability vs. Freedom: A practical framework to generate sustainable revenue while getting back your time\, your family\, and yourself. \n​No empty hustle culture. Just strategic blueprints\, high-level networking\, and the best tequila. \n​📅 September 1st | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM 📍 The Ion Houston \n​The tequila is on us. Hosted by Blue People. \n​Questions or more info here! https://www.linkedin.com/company/tech-tequila-talk/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/design-your-business-backwards/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/TECH-TEQUILA-POSTPONED.png?ver=1788281150
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260908T130000
DTSTAMP:20260824T162341Z
CREATED:20260824T162341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T162341Z
UID:10005583-1788868800-1788872400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:The Technology Leadership Advantage Series - For CEOs\, VCs and PE Firms
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-technology-leadership-advantage-series-tickets-1997195321971?aff=oddtdtcreator \nAI success depends less on technology and more on leadership\, strategy\, accountability\, and executive decision-making. AI isn’t your biggest challenge. Leadership Is. Why most AI strategies fail before the technology does. \nAI has never been more accessible. \nPowerful models\, enterprise AI platforms\, automation tools\, and AI-enabled software are available to companies of almost every size. Yet access to AI and the ability to create business value from AI are two very different things. \nThe difference is increasingly leadership. \nAs AI moves from experimentation into the business\, the questions become less about what the technology can do and more about what the organization should do with it. \n\nWhere should we invest?\nWho should own AI?\nWhich opportunities actually matter?\nHow much risk should we accept?\nHow do we move successful pilots into production?\nWho is accountable for the business outcome?\n\nThese are not simply technology decisions. They are executive decisions about strategy\, capital\, operations\, customers\, risk\, governance\, talent\, and competitive position. \nJoin Ram Prasad\, CEO of Delence\, for an executive conversation about why AI readiness starts with leadership readiness and what separates organizations experimenting with AI from those positioned to turn it into measurable business value. \nThis isn’t a technical presentation about models\, prompts\, or the latest AI tools. It’s a conversation about leadership\, accountability\, AI\, and the executive decisions required to move from experimentation to business impact. \nWhat We’ll Discuss: \n\nAI readiness versus simply having access to AI tools\nWhy AI pilots can succeed while the broader AI strategy fails\nWho should own AI at the executive level\nWhen an organization does and does not need a Chief AI Officer\nHow executive accountability changes as AI moves into the business\nHow to approach AI governance without stopping innovation\nWhy AI initiatives struggle to move from pilot to production and adoption\nCommon AI leadership mistakes that create fragmented investment and unclear ownership\nHow leaders connect AI investment to measurable business outcomes\nWhat CEOs and boards should be asking about AI now\n\nWho Should Attend: \nThis session is specifically designed for CEOs\, seeded startup founders\, presidents\, investors\, private equity leaders\, operating partners\, and board members of growth-stage B2B technology and technology-enabled companies. \nIt will be particularly relevant if your organization is evaluating AI investments\, running multiple AI pilots\, determining who should own AI\, considering whether a CAIO is needed\, developing AI governance\, or struggling to translate AI experimentation into measurable business results. \nIf AI decisions are increasingly becoming CEO\, board\, investment\, risk\, or growth decisions\, this conversation is for you. \nOne Question to Consider Before You Arrive –  Does your company have an AI strategy\, or a collection of AI projects? \nAbout Ram Prasad: \nRam Prasad is CEO of Delence and an executive technology leader focused on the intersection of technology\, product\, AI\, and business growth. \nThroughout his corporate career\, Ram has worked with executive teams navigating the decisions that emerge as organizations grow when technology becomes more complex\, product priorities compete\, AI creates new possibilities\, and decisions that were once technical begin affecting growth\, risk\, and enterprise value. \nHis perspective is built around a simple idea: \nGrowth has a leadership problem. \nRam speaks and advises on executive technology leadership\, AI strategy\, product strategy\, scaling\, and the leadership decisions that turn technology into business advantage. \nAbout Delence: \nDelence provides executive technology leadership to growth-stage B2B technology and technology-enabled companies. \nThrough Fractional CAIO\, CTO and CPO leadership\, Delence works alongside CEOs and executive teams when the business needs senior technology\, product\, or AI leadership\, but a permanent executive hire may not yet be the right answer. \nDelence connects business strategy\, technology\, product\, AI\, and execution\, bringing executive ownership to the decisions that become more consequential as companies grow. \nThis isn’t staffing or recruiting. \nIt is executive leadership for the stage the business is entering.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/the-technology-leadership-advantage-series-for-ceos-vcs-and-pe-firms/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/ram_eventbrite-scaled.png?ver=1787172474
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T113000
DTSTAMP:20260824T154658Z
CREATED:20260824T154658Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T154658Z
UID:10005597-1788517800-1788521400@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-19/
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:20260904T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T113000
DTSTAMP:20260826T194318Z
CREATED:20260826T194318Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T194318Z
UID:10005616-1788516000-1788521400@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-6/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T113000
DTSTAMP:20260824T185444Z
CREATED:20260824T185444Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T185444Z
UID:10005607-1788516000-1788521400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:SCORE Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:About SCORE Office Hours \nSCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteer\, expert business mentors. Since 1964\, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start\, grow\, or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10\,000 volunteers provide free\, expert mentoring\, resources\, and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. \nOffice Hours with SCORE take place each Friday morning. Additional partners will be on-site the second Friday of each month (excluding holidays)
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/score-office-hours-50/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/6H1A1559-HDR-Edit-scaled.jpg?ver=1715034396
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T110000
DTSTAMP:20260824T152547Z
CREATED:20260824T152547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T152547Z
UID:10005587-1788516000-1788519600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Welcome to the Ion: An Introduction and Tour
DESCRIPTION:Join the Ion’s Mentor in Residence\, Wade Pinder\, for an engaging tour and introduction to the Ion\, Houston’s dynamic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship\, powered by Rice University. This event is designed for entrepreneurs\, students\, professionals\, investors\, community leaders\, and anyone curious about what the Ion has to offer. For those new to Houston and eager to connect with the local innovation ecosystem\, this event provides the perfect opportunity to get started.\n\nThe tour will begin in the lobby at 10:00 AM and conclude at 11:00 AM. During this time\, participants will learn about the Ion’s resources\, events\, and facilities. Highlights of the tour include the technology showcases\, coworking spaces\, public areas\, and the on-site restaurants and bars.\nAbout Wade Pinder\nWade Pinder is a dedicated advocate for Houston’s innovation community\, serving as the Ion’s Mentor in Residence. With a wealth of experience in product management\, community building\, and fostering entrepreneurial growth\, Wade offers invaluable insights into how the Ion serves as a launchpad for ideas and innovation.\nThe Vision of the Ion\nPowered by Rice University\, the Ion is the epicenter of the 16-acre innovation district in the heart of Houston’s midtown. Committed to being the home for Houston’s innovation community\, the Ion District propels the transformative culture of people\, places\, ideas\, and experiences that build a better quality of life for all of Houston.\n\nThe Ion is a beautifully restored building at 4201 Main Street. It connects Houston’s talent\, academic\, corporate\, and entrepreneurial communities in a collaborative environment designed to inspire and grow ideas. The Ion serves as a space where serendipitous collisions lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.\nWhat to Expect\n\nCoworking Spaces: Explore flexible work areas tailored for collaboration and creativity.\nPublic Spaces: Discover spaces designed for networking\, inspiration\, and community events.\nRestaurants and Bars: Experience the on-site dining options that make the Ion a lively hub.\n\nThrough its programs and partnerships\, the Ion empowers individuals and organizations to build\, solve\, and innovate. From prototyping to pitching\, accelerating to sustaining\, the Ion is Houston’s headquarters for turning ideas into reality.\n\nWhether you have a promising product\, an intriguing technology\, a budding business idea\, or are simply curious about the Ion and its offerings\, this tour will provide valuable insights into how the Ion can help connect your “What-ifs” with “What now.” Don’t miss this opportunity to explore and be inspired by Houston’s innovation ecosystem.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/welcome-to-the-ion-an-introduction-and-tour-18/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Welcome-to-the-Ion-Website-01-scaled.jpg?ver=1750698359
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T215611Z
CREATED:20260824T154937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T215611Z
UID:10005602-1788514200-1788519600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:AI Circle Houston
DESCRIPTION:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/18970005/ \nAI Circle Houston is a weekly Friday morning gathering for people building\, implementing\, or exploring AI. \nWe bring together builders\, engineers\, product leaders\, founders\, operators\, researchers\, students\, and anyone interested in putting AI into practice. Each week includes networking followed by a focused session on a practical AI topic\, with discussions spanning AI agents\, AI-native products\, models\, development tools\, reliability\, interfaces\, computer vision\, and emerging approaches to building with AI. \nThe format is community-driven\, with an emphasis on learning from people actively working with AI and sharing what is working\, what isn’t\, and what we’re learning along the way.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ai-circle-houston-3/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260904T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004079-1788510600-1788517800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Ion Networking with Cup of Joey
DESCRIPTION: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. \nSo\, 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! \nAt 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. \nThe future is only a cup away. \nRegister Here: https://www.cupofjoey.org/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ion-networking-with-cup-of-joey-34/2026-09-04/
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/2024/07/CoJ1.jpg?ver=1721850637
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260903T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260903T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T141652Z
CREATED:20260818T141652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T141652Z
UID:10005577-1788456600-1788465600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:AI Operator Spotlight: Houston's Top AI Leaders Open Their Playbooks
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://www.meetup.com/houston-ai-club/events/316056350/ \nThe inaugural AI Operator Spotlight puts two operators on stage who have deployed AI at very different scales\, and asks them for the unfiltered version: what worked\, what broke\, and what they would do differently. \nCHUCK YATES\, Co-Founder\, Collide \nTwo decades running energy private equity\, then co-founded Collide\, the first GenAI platform built for energy. Backed by Mercury Fund\, with 6\,000+ users in 122 countries. Host of the “Chuck Yates Got a Job” podcast. \nCHARLES JESSUP\, Sr. Manager of AI Fluency\, Raytheon \nRolled AI out to roughly 100\,000 employees\, one of the largest enterprise AI deployments you will hear about firsthand\, including the assumption that turned out wrong. \nWHAT YOU WILL TAKE AWAY \n– How a purpose-built AI product went from zero to 6\,000+ users across 122 countries\n– What actually breaks between an AI pilot and an enterprise-wide rollout\n– The adoption assumptions that cost the most time to unlearn\n– Where AI is creating real value in Houston right now \nFORMAT \n5:30 to 8:00 PM. Panel and live Q&A\, followed by 45 minutes of open networking with the founders\, executives\, and investors putting AI to work across the city. \nWHO IT IS FOR \nAI-curious business leaders\, founders\, operators\, and investors across energy\, aerospace\, health\, manufacturing\, and services. Come curious\, no technical background needed. \nDETAILS \nFree to attend. Free parking in the Red Lot at 4203 Fannin Street. Seating on the Forum Stairs is limited\, so please register in advance. \nPresented by Leon Coe (Founder\, Houston AI Club) and Ali Mamujee (Founder\, Allenix).
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ai-operator-spotlight-houstons-top-ai-leaders-open-their-playbooks/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,AI,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking,Panel Dicussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AI-Operator-Spotlight-Sept-3rd-The-Ion.png?ver=1787061157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260903T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260903T113000
DTSTAMP:20260901T152642Z
CREATED:20260805T193956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T152642Z
UID:10005298-1788429600-1788435000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Roundtable with OPEN
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://form.jotform.com/253065225589059 \nThis event will be a facilitated discussion bringing together founders\, builders\, and innovators to explore what it takes to create\, scale\, and sustain meaningful ventures. Every roundtable will have different topics of discussion as well. Here is the following criteria for individuals to join: \n1. Emerging Founders \n– Actively developing a startup\, product\, or business concept\n– May be pre-revenue or early revenue (<$500K ARR)\nCommitted to launching or validating their idea within the next 12 months \n2. Established Entrepreneurs \n– Have founded or co-founded a company (past or present)\n– Are seeking to scale\, pivot\, or build their “next best thing”\n– Have raised funding\, bootstrapped\, or achieved meaningful revenue milestones \n3. Intrapreneurs & Innovators \n– Corporate or technical professionals building new initiatives\, divisions\, or technologies within their organizations\n– Interested in transitioning to entrepreneurship or investing in early-stage ventures \nThose who are selected will be sent a link to purchase their optional lunch ticket for $20. The cost is to cover the food. If you opt out of lunch\, the event is free.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/entrepreneurship-roundtable-with-open-4/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Entrepreneurship_Roundtable_Promo-1.png?ver=1785886191
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260902T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260902T190000
DTSTAMP:20260120T222712Z
CREATED:20260120T222530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T222712Z
UID:10004466-1788370200-1788375600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Buying and Selling Businesses
DESCRIPTION:Join Lenny Saizan\, owner of Murphy Business & Financial – Southwest Houston\, Managing Director of Urban Capital Network\, and creator of the Legacy Maximizer exit strategy\, for a practical\, real-world discussion on selling and buying businesses. \nSelling or acquiring a business is one of the most significant financial decisions most entrepreneurs will ever make\, yet many owners and buyers go through the process for the first time without a clear roadmap. This session breaks down the transaction process from both sides of the table and highlights how thoughtful planning\, proper valuation\, and coordinated advice can materially impact outcomes. \nFor business owners\, the discussion centers on how to maximize enterprise value\, prepare for a future exit\, and align business decisions with personal wealth\, tax\, and legacy goals. For buyers\, the session explores entrepreneurship through acquisition\, including how buying an existing business can reduce risk\, generate immediate cash flow\, and serve as a growth strategy for current operators. \nDrawing on his experience as a business broker\, investment advisor\, and financial professional\, Lenny connects the technical aspects of M&A with broader exit planning and wealth strategy considerations\, helping attendees understand not just how transactions work\, but how they fit into a bigger financial picture. \nTopics include: \n\nCurrent market conditions and buyer demand\nWhen to prepare to sell or buy\nKey drivers of business value\nHow businesses are valued in the real world\nRecasting and normalizing financial statements\nOverview of the sales and acquisition process\nThe role of advisors and the deal team\nTax\, insurance\, and planning considerations before and after a transaction\n\nThis session is ideal for business owners considering a sale now or in the future\, prospective buyers exploring acquisition\, and professionals who support small business owners through growth and transition. \nPresenter\n \nLenny Saizan is the owner and lead broker of Murphy Business & Financial – Southwest Houston\, where he advises business owners on exit planning\, value maximization\, and business sales\, and supports buyers pursuing acquisitions and franchises. He is also the co-founder and Managing Director of Urban Capital Network\, an investment firm focused on expanding access to private investment opportunities. \nEarlier in his career\, Lenny spent two decades in engineering\, automation\, and oil and gas\, leading teams across operational controls\, financial controls\, and audit. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Louisiana State University and an MBA from Tulane University. His credentials include Certified Mergers & Acquisition Professional\, Six Sigma Green Belt\, and Project Management Professional. In 2025\, he was recognized as Deal Maker of The Year at Houston Dealmakers conference. \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/buying-and-selling-businesses-9/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 029 – 030\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0501-scaled.jpg?ver=1765821496
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T113000
DTSTAMP:20260821T200842Z
CREATED:20260721T155358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260821T200842Z
UID:10005204-1787913000-1787916600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Canceled - 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-15/
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:20260828T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T120000
DTSTAMP:20260803T174301Z
CREATED:20260803T174301Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T174301Z
UID:10005287-1787911200-1787918400@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-20/
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:20260828T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T113000
DTSTAMP:20260824T185426Z
CREATED:20260824T185426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T185426Z
UID:10005606-1787911200-1787916600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:SCORE Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:About SCORE Office Hours \nSCORE is the nation’s largest network of volunteer\, expert business mentors. Since 1964\, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start\, grow\, or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10\,000 volunteers provide free\, expert mentoring\, resources\, and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. \nOffice Hours with SCORE take place each Friday morning. Additional partners will be on-site the second Friday of each month (excluding holidays)
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/score-office-hours-49/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/6H1A1559-HDR-Edit-scaled.jpg?ver=1715034396
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260828T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T224528Z
CREATED:20260824T154918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T224528Z
UID:10005601-1787909400-1787914800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:AI Circle Houston
DESCRIPTION:https://www.linkedin.com/groups/18970005/ \nAI Circle Houston is a weekly Friday morning gathering for people building\, implementing\, or exploring AI. \nWe bring together builders\, engineers\, product leaders\, founders\, operators\, researchers\, students\, and anyone interested in putting AI into practice. Each week includes networking followed by a focused session on a practical AI topic\, with discussions spanning AI agents\, AI-native products\, models\, development tools\, reliability\, interfaces\, computer vision\, and emerging approaches to building with AI. \nThe format is community-driven\, with an emphasis on learning from people actively working with AI and sharing what is working\, what isn’t\, and what we’re learning along the way.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/ai-circle-houston-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
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