BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Ion District - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Ion District
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:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261106T130000
DTSTAMP:20261020T153836Z
CREATED:20261020T153836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261020T153836Z
UID:10006214-1793964600-1793970000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:AfroTech TechWalk | Houston
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/techwalk-co9k \nWe’re building a different sort of networking event for members of the Tech and SaaS communities to get outside\, meet new people\, and enjoy some fresh air\, while practicing mindful movement. \n​Every week\, we’ll gather at an easy-to-find meeting spot and then take a leisurely stroll through the park\, appreciating the scenery and forging new connections in a friendly and inclusive setting. \n​This is a chance to network\, share ideas\, and build relationships in a healthy and refreshing alternative to the average happy hour.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/afrotech-techwalk-houston/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/AfroTech-Walk.avif?ver=1792510697
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T100000
DTSTAMP:20261029T190135Z
CREATED:20261029T190135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T190135Z
UID:10006233-1794211200-1794218400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Cup of Capital
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://luma.com/d2rqt6h1 \n​Join us for Capital Factory’s most popular public coffee networking event series co-hosted by Capital Factory\, Rice Alliance\, and Lilie Lab. \n​New to Texas? New to Startups? New to Tech? \n\n\n​Get introduced to other entrepreneurs and investors who are new to Houston or new to tech. \n\n\n​Meet members of the Capital Factory and Rice University community. \n\n\n​Drink some great coffee \n\n\n​You never know who you might meet! Bring your energy\, your asks\, your ideas…let’s share what we’re working on and help each other out. We’ll see you there!
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-cup-of-capital/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Cup-of-capital.avif?ver=1793300463
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T140000
DTSTAMP:20261029T191116Z
CREATED:20261029T191116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T191116Z
UID:10006234-1794297600-1794319200@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Hello Alice: Main Street Rising Tour Houston
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://www.helloalice.com/events/main-street-rising-houston \nAbout this event\n\nHouston is one of the fastest-growing\, most diverse cities in the country\, and that shows up in its small businesses too! On November 10\, Hello Alice is bringing Main Street Rising to The Ion\, the city’s own home base for builders\, to put a straight question in front of the room: what can AI actually do for your business this quarter? \nNot a keynote. Not a slide deck. A room full of Houston owners running every kind of business you can think of\, working through the same question from different angles\, and a handful of them pitching live for a share of $1\,000. \nHello Alice has spent years matching small business owners to the resources that actually move their business\, grants\, guidance\, and now AI support built on what 1.6 million owners have already taught the platform. November 10 is that same idea\, in person\, at The Ion. Free to attend. Own your adventure\, and own the room. \nWhat you’ll walk away with \n\nAI moves you can use Monday\, not someday. Concrete\, practical answers for a business your size\, not an enterprise pitch.\nA city’s worth of perspective in one room. Houston’s range means the founder next to you is probably solving a problem you haven’t hit yet\, or already solved one you’re stuck on.\nDirect access\, not a webinar. You’re in the room at The Ion\, asking the question\, not watching it from a feed.\nA live look at what’s possible. Watch a Houston founder pitch for $1\,000 and leave with a reason to build your own case for next time.\n\nRegistration closes on Monday\, November 9\, 2026. \nInterested in applying for the pitch competition too? Click here to apply (Must register as well) \n*Must attend in person to participate in the pitch competition and to receive the takeaways listed above. \nFAQ\n\nIs this event free? Yes\, registration is free.\nDo I need to apply to attend\, or just to pitch? Registration is open to everyone. Applying to pitch is a separate\, optional step for founders who want to take the stage.\nWhen does registration close? Registration closes Thursday\, November 5.\nWhen does the pitch application close? The pitch application closes Wednesday\, October 28.\nWho can apply to pitch? See Eligibility criteria in the Terms & Conditions.\nWhat do I get if I win? $1\,000. Full details in the Terms & Conditions.\nWhat should I bring? Business cards\, questions and an open calendar! Full details be emailed to registrants closer to the event.\n\n\n\n\nWhat you’ll learn\n\nPut AI to work now\, not someday.Leave knowing how to apply AI to your business this quarter\, with practical moves you can make the same week.\nLearn from operators who have actually done it.Hear how leaders who built and scaled through every kind of market are using AI in the real world.\nGrow your Houston network.Connect with hundreds of local founders solving the same challenges you are.\nSee what it takes to win the room.Watch Houston entrepreneurs pitch live and get inspired to tell your own story on stage.\n\n\n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/hello-alice-main-street-rising-tour-houston/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/hello-alice.jpg?ver=1793300985
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T183000
DTSTAMP:20261029T191214Z
CREATED:20260126T192020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T191214Z
UID:10004776-1794331800-1794335400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:FirstCheck: Investor Foundations
DESCRIPTION:In a world where only the very wealthy\, well connected\, and major institutions have access to premium investment opportunities\, which have created massive wealth for a small portion of the population\, the Innovation Center for Urban Entrepreneurship team believes the key to closing income and wealth gaps globally is to democratize access to opportunities across the investment ecosystem. \nJoin the Innovation Center for Urban Entrepreneurship team for an evening of learning\, discussion and possibilities as we explore the basics of angel investing and the role it plays in bringing new products and services to market and the impact it has on wealth and job creation.. At this event\, you’ll learn the key components to successfully navigate the critical-path of investing in private\, early-stage companies. \nThis session is ideal for the following investment related stakeholders: \n\nProspective Angel Investors who want to learn more about the world of Angel Investing\nInvestment Advisors (RIA/FA) who are looking for alternative investments for their clients\nEntrepreneurs who want to learn more about what Angels are looking for in their deals\nEntrepreneurs who want to meet/network with Angel Investors\n\nIon District Investor Activation Program: \nThe Houston Ion District Investor Activation Program along with Urban Capital Network is helping build an equitable climatetech industry capable of rapid deployment by addressing a fundamental challenge: the region’s lack of funding for early-stage climatetech startups\, and especially for those led by underrepresented founders. \nThis program from Greentown Labs and the Ion brings early-stage investors from Greater Houston—a region playing a pivotal role in the energy transition—into the fold\, offering education on climatetech investing\, channeling a pool of capital to young startups\, and catalyzing a thriving climatetech investment ecosystem that prioritizes diversity\, equity\, and inclusion. \nIf you would like to join the program\, please fill out this form\, and if you have additional questions\, please contact Juliana Bernal Martinez at jbernal@greentownlabs.com.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/angel-investing-101-12/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 029 – 030\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0268-scaled.jpg?ver=1765821642
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261111T183000
DTSTAMP:20261021T194215Z
CREATED:20261021T194215Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T194215Z
UID:10006218-1794418200-1794421800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:First Principles: Inside the Texas A&M Space Institute
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/4gxizyq2 \nHouston is about to have something no other city has: football field sized lunar and Martian surface simulations\, built indoors next to Johnson Space Center. \nThe Texas A&M Space Institute is the first tenant of NASA’s Exploration Park. It’s a 400\,000 square foot facility built to let companies and researchers test hardware against the Moon and Mars without leaving Texas. Dr. Rob Ambrose\, the Institute’s Associate Director\, will walk through what’s being built\, how it will operate\, and where startups and industry fit in. \nFew people are better placed to explain it. Rob spent three decades at NASA Johnson Space Center\, where he led development of Robonaut and lunar rover prototypes and retired as Division Chief for Software\, Robotics and Simulation. Today he also directs space programs for the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station. \nFirst Principles is a Houston series on space\, semiconductors\, and robotics\, with technical talks and real Q&A for founders\, engineers\, operators\, and investors. Come with questions. \nWednesday\, November 11 · 5:30–6:30 PM · The Ion\, Midtown Houston. Space is limited; RSVP required.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/first-principles-inside-the-texas-am-space-institute/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/first_principles_rob_ambrose_luma.png?ver=1792609543
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T200000
DTSTAMP:20260511T185713Z
CREATED:20260511T185649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T185713Z
UID:10004983-1794504600-1794513600@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-3/2026-11-12/
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:20261112T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261112T203000
DTSTAMP:20260826T180718Z
CREATED:20260826T180718Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T180718Z
UID:10005614-1794510000-1794515400@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-6/
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:20261113T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004089-1794558600-1794565800@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-34/2026-11-13/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CoJ1.jpg?ver=1721850637
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T103000
DTSTAMP:20261029T200438Z
CREATED:20261029T200438Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T200438Z
UID:10006235-1794558600-1794565800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:PR and Social Media Strategies to Get Found and Build Trust
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://houston.impacthub.net/calendar/pr-and-social-media-strategies-to-get-found-and-build-trust/ \nWhen someone searches for your business online or asks AI for a recommendation\, will they find you\, and will they trust what they find? \nYour website and social media accounts tell your story\, but what others say about your business also shapes your reputation. As people increasingly use AI-powered search tools to find companies\, services\, and experts\, earned media and credible third-party coverage can play a valuable role in helping people discover you. \nAt November’s Social Media Breakfast Houston\, Felicia Perez\, APR\, founder and president of FAR Public Relations\, will share how to develop a practical PR strategy that supports your business goals and strengthens your online presence. \nDrawing on her experience as a former television news producer and PR strategist\, Felicia will explain how to identify stories worth telling\, earn media attention\, coordinate PR with social media\, and measure the results of your communications efforts. \nWe’ll also discuss how to handle negative coverage\, criticism\, and online harassment when your reputation is at risk. \nWhether you work in marketing\, communications\, a nonprofit\, or run your own business\, you’ll leave with ideas you can apply to improve how people find and perceive your organization. \nWhat you will learn: \n\nHow to build a PR plan with clear goals\, target audiences\, key messages\, and measurable objectives.\nWhy earned media and third-party credibility matter for online visibility\, including how AI search tools discover and cite information.\nHow to coordinate media relations and social media to strengthen your message and reach more people.\nPractical ways to extend the life of media coverage and thought leadership through social content.\nHow to evaluate results beyond vanity metrics and approach negative press or online criticism.\n\nREGISTRATION \nSpace is limited. Please reserve your spot in advance so we can plan for breakfast and seating. \nSPEAKER \nFelicia Perez\, APR\, Founder and President\, FAR Public Relations \nFelicia Perez\, APR\, is the founder and president of FAR Public Relations\, a Houston-based public relations agency that helps organizations build visibility\, strengthen their reputations\, and connect with the audiences who matter most. \nA former television news producer turned PR strategist\, she brings a unique perspective to storytelling\, media relations\, and brand communications. She is a past president of PRSA Houston\, an adjunct instructor at the University of Houston’s Valenti School of Communication\, and a nationally recognized PR professional whose work has earned industry honors\, including a PRSA Silver Anvil Award of Excellence and recognition as one of PRSA’s 2026 Women of Impact. \nWebsite \nLinkedIn \nDETAILS \n📅 Date & Time: Friday\, November 13\, 2026\, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM (9:00 AM online) \n📍 Location: The Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX 77002 \n🚗 Parking: Red Lot– Enter 4203 Fannin Street for direct access. Complimentary up to 3 hours. Ion District Parking Garage– Enter 4111 Fannin Street. Complimentary up to 2 hours. \n🥐 Breakfast: Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and coffee. \nLIVESTREAM LINKS \nYouTube \nLinkedin \nFacebook \nTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS \nA special thank you to our sponsors: Walmart\, Impact HUB Houston\, The Ion\, Zoetica Media\, Mighty Strategic Consulting\, and SmartSocialMastery. \nSMBHOU NEEDS YOU \nThe Social Media Breakfast of Houston connects a community of over 1\,600 PR\, Marketing\, and Small Business professionals who meet monthly to learn\, connect\, and collaborate. We’re looking for breakfast sponsors to help fuel the conversation for just $100 per month. Want to be an exclusive sponsor in your category? 📧 kami@zoeticamedia.com
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/pr-and-social-media-strategies-to-get-found-and-build-trust/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/SMB.png?ver=1793304231
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261113T113000
DTSTAMP:20261029T200527Z
CREATED:20261029T200527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T200527Z
UID:10006236-1794564000-1794569400@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-60/
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:20261116T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261116T130000
DTSTAMP:20261028T172809Z
CREATED:20261028T172809Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261028T172809Z
UID:10006228-1794826800-1794834000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship Roundtable with OPEN
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://luma.com/uah9mtju \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: \n​1. 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 \n​2. 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 \n​3. 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 \n​Those 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-5/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Entrepreneurship_Roundtable_Promo-1.png?ver=1793136493
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T130000
DTSTAMP:20261029T201551Z
CREATED:20261029T201528Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T201551Z
UID:10006237-1794916800-1794920400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:What CEOs\, CCOs\, and CXOs Should Know Before Hiring Another BD Team
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-ceos-ccos-and-cxos-should-know-before-hiring-another-bd-team-tickets-2003936345554?aff=ebdsoporgprofile \nOverview\nBefore you hire another BD person\, find out whether the real problem is your team\, your strategy\, or the commercial system behind both.\n\n\n\nWhat CEOs\, CCOs\, and CXOs Should Know Before Hiring Another BD TeamYour pipeline is not where it needs to be. \nRevenue growth is inconsistent. \nThe team is busy\, but you are not seeing enough new opportunities move. \nSo somebody says: \n“We need more business development people.” \nMaybe. \nBut before you hire another BD person\, build another sales team\, or add another layer of headcount\, there is a much harder question leadership needs to answer: \nIs the problem really the people? \nBecause adding more people to a commercial system that is not working does not fix the system. \nIt usually makes the problem more expensive. \nThat is what we are going to talk about at the next Industrial Growth Series session at The Ion: \nWhat CEOs\, CCOs\, and CXOs Should Know Before Hiring Another BD Team\nThis conversation is specifically for the executives making decisions about growth. \nThe CEO wondering why the pipeline is inconsistent. \nThe CCO trying to create more predictable revenue. \nThe CRO being asked why activity is not converting. \nThe founder who is still personally carrying too many relationships. \nThe leadership team considering another BD hire because they know something needs to change. \nBefore you write the job description\, we need to talk. \nBecause we see industrial and oil and gas companies hire talented business development professionals and put them into situations where they were never set up to win. \nThey are told: \n“Go find business.” \nBut who exactly are they supposed to target? \nWhich accounts matter most? \nWhat problems are those customers trying to solve? \nHow is the company positioned? \nWhat makes the company different? \nWhich relationships already exist? \nWho owns those relationships? \nWhat happens after the first conversation? \nWho is responsible for follow-up? \nWhat qualifies as a real opportunity? \nWhat needs to happen to move that opportunity forward? \nAnd what does leadership actually expect BD to accomplish? \nIf those answers are unclear\, another hire may simply create more activity. \nMore networking. \nMore meetings. \nMore names in the CRM. \nMore conference attendance. \nMore LinkedIn connections. \nMore pipeline that looks busy. \nBut not necessarily more revenue. \nThat is the part executives need to understand. \nBusiness development is not just a people problem. \nIt is a commercial infrastructure problem. \nAnd if the infrastructure underneath the team is weak\, adding more people can actually make it harder to see where things are breaking. \nMaybe the issue is positioning. \nMaybe you are trying to sell too many things to too many people. \nMaybe your team is talking to the wrong accounts. \nMaybe relationships exist\, but they are concentrated with one person. \nMaybe outreach is happening without enough strategy behind it. \nMaybe opportunities are being created\, but the follow-up is inconsistent. \nMaybe deals are sitting in the pipeline without a real next step. \nMaybe everyone is working hard\, but nobody has clear ownership of moving the opportunity. \nThose are very different problems. \nAnd they require very different solutions. \nHiring another BD person should not be the default answer every time growth stalls. \nSometimes you need people. \nSometimes you need better leadership. \nSometimes you need clearer positioning. \nSometimes you need stronger account strategy. \nSometimes you need a real follow-up process. \nSometimes you need to fix the pipeline you already have before putting more names into the top of it. \nAnd sometimes you need to stop expecting one BD person to magically solve a commercial problem the entire organization helped create. \nThat is the conversation. \nDuring this session\, we are going to look at what CEOs\, CCOs\, CROs\, founders\, and other senior leaders should evaluate before adding another business development hire. \nWe will talk about: \n• Why good BD professionals still fail inside established companies \n• How to tell whether you actually have a people problem or a system problem \n• What needs to exist before a BD hire walks through the door \n• Why “go network and bring us opportunities” is not a business development strategy \n• Where opportunities commonly stall between first conversation and revenue \n• Why adding more leads can make a broken pipeline worse \n• How leadership expectations can unintentionally create BD failure \n• Why existing customer relationships are often underutilized \n• What executives should be looking for in pipeline reviews \n• How to determine whether your company needs more headcount\, better structure\, or both \nThis is not an anti-hiring conversation. \nThere are absolutely companies that need to expand their BD teams. \nBut if you are going to make that investment\, the goal should be to put the right people into an environment where they can actually produce. \nNot hire someone\, hand them a CRM login and a list of conferences\, and hope revenue appears. \nIf your company is planning to hire BD in 2027… \nIf you already have a BD team and cannot figure out why the results are inconsistent… \nIf your founder or CEO is still carrying too much of the sales process… \nOr if you are spending more money on commercial growth without seeing enough movement… \nGet in the room for this one.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/what-ceos-ccos-and-cxos-should-know-before-hiring-another-bd-team/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screenshot-2026-10-29-at-3.12.38-PM.png?ver=1793304798
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261117T193000
DTSTAMP:20261021T202050Z
CREATED:20261021T202050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T202050Z
UID:10006216-1794938400-1794943800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Pitch Nights at The Ion: What Goes Into Your Pitch Deck
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://luma.com/fwo5t7zm​ \nHello friends! \n​Join us for our 3rd meetup\, where we’ll explore the key “ingredients” of a successful pitch deck\, including the all-important “secret sauce.” \n​You will learn the essential slide structure every startup needs for investor presentations and discover how to effectively showcase your unique problem\, solution\, and market opportunity. \n​You’ll collaborate with fellow founders at The Ion to refine your core messaging and get actionable feedback to create a compelling\, investment-ready slide deck.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-pitch-nights-at-the-ion-what-goes-into-your-pitch-deck/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/HPN-11-17.jpg?ver=1792598468
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T060000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T200000
DTSTAMP:20261029T202626Z
CREATED:20261029T202626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T202626Z
UID:10006239-1794981600-1795032000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Open Source Society Meetup
DESCRIPTION:Register Here: https://houstonopensourcesociety.com/meetings/wednesday/third/ \nThe Houston Open Source Society (HOSS) is a society dedicated to promoting open source software education\, development\, and support. We profess collaborative coding practices\, user-ownership of data and software\, and digital civic engagement in the Houston metropolitan area. \nOur society is always flat\, and free. We’re a voluntary community organization that functions as a democratic egalitarian collective. Money never exchanges hands. We’re not a profit-corporation nor a 501(c)(3) non-profit\, we’re just a bunch of Houstonians from all walks of life. \nWe meet every Wednesday at different locations around Houston. Each meeting features talks and discussions about open source projects\, and technologies. We also host collaborative coding sessions\, and classes\, and opportunities to contribute to important civic technology initiatives. \nHacker\, programmer\, student or tech enthusiast? Check us out! \nWhat we do:  \nJoin us every Wednesday for classes\, talks\, discussions\, coding sessions\, and community building \n\n\nTalks: Share knowledge through lightning talks about technology you’re interested in.\nClasses: Learn software development at all levels\, from scripting to kernel design.\nOpen Source Development: Collaborate on projects and learn how to own your software and data.\nCivic Technology: Contribute to OpenStreetMap\, Wikidata\, Wikipedia\, and Wikimedia Commons.\nCommunity Building; Foster connections between developers\, designers\, and technology enthusiasts
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-open-source-society-meetup-2/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T190000
DTSTAMP:20260114T172310Z
CREATED:20260113T213748Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T172310Z
UID:10004451-1795021200-1795028400@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-9/
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:20261118T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261118T183000
DTSTAMP:20261029T202405Z
CREATED:20261029T202405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T202405Z
UID:10006238-1795023000-1795026600@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Perfecting Your Pitch
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur\, a visionary startup owner\, or a tech aficionado\, this event is tailor-made for you. Join us and discover the indispensable value of a compelling pitch deck. \nAbout the Speakers \nDr. Doug Franklin \n“Dr. Doug” is the CEO and Co-Founder of DeckLaunch and the COO of Fresh Tech Solutionz. He has fifteen years of management\, marketing\, and operations experience\, including opportunities with iconic firms such as Coca-Cola\, ExxonMobil\, and RJ Reynolds. Dr. Franklin is also a leading scholar that has presented at more than a dozen conferences and has published in peer-reviewed journals such as The Leadership Quarterly and The Journal of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators. Dr. Franklin graduated with a Doctoral Degree in Ethical Leadership from the University of St. Thomas Houston and currently teaches Quantitative and Mixed Research Methods at UST. \nDerrell Noris \nWith more than ten years dedicated to developing business operations and software development\, Noris is currently the Co-Founder and CTO of Deck Launch and the CEO of Fresh Tech Solutionz. Both successful startups provide services to growing businesses looking to mobilize their outreach further. \nNicholas Mbaezue-Daniel Jr. \nNick is the founder of Egis Project Management LLC\, a project management firm dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses for projects in the industries of Construction\, Technology\, and Business Enterprise. He also serves as Director of Project Management for Fresh Tech Solutionz and as Chief Operations Officer at DeckLaunch LLC. Nicholas considers himself a servant of entrepreneurship because he sees entrepreneurship as a major vehicle to uplift the community.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/perfecting-your-pitch-37/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 028\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC_8090-scaled.jpg?ver=1747613455
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T190000
DTSTAMP:20260824T153141Z
CREATED:20260824T153141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T153141Z
UID:10005592-1795078800-1795114800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Startup Speedrun
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wades-houston-startup-speedrun-at-the-ion-tickets-1988360089553?aff=erelexpmlt \nThe Houston Startup Speedrun is an intensive and fast-paced program designed to provide both early-stage founders and aspiring entrepreneurs with a comprehensive understanding of the Startup Founder’s Journey and the Houston startup ecosystem through a carefully curated curriculum consisting of 10 consecutive 50-minute sessions. Wade Pinder\, your host and facilitator\, is an experienced and trusted ecosystem guide for many Houston-based stakeholders. With a focus on efficiency and accommodating the schedules of full-time working professionals\, this program aims to quickly give you a “lay of the land” while preparing you for your entrepreneurial journey.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-startup-speedrun-10/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Wade-Houston-Startup-Speedrun.avif?ver=1741041257
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261119T200000
DTSTAMP:20260811T183413Z
CREATED:20260811T183413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260811T183413Z
UID:10005305-1795111200-1795118400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Houston Linux User Group
DESCRIPTION:Are you interested or already invested in the Linux Operating System? \nJoin us at the Houston Linux User Group\, one of the oldest user groups involved with the Linux Operating System. We discuss new trends in operating system usage\, software development\, and current technological trends\, as well as provide one-on-one training or class-based instruction. Learn about how to get more out of your computer or how to leverage any of the Linux-based computational platforms. \nAll are welcome to attend\, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned Linux professional intent on networking or a new Linux user struggling with installation or the command line.\nThis monthly meeting includes all of the standard Houston Linux User Group meeting activities\, which include meet-and-greet\, presentations of personal projects\, multi-meeting classes\, as well as organizational and coordinating announcements. \nVisit our website at: https://www.houstonlinux.org/\nVisit our calendar and the agenda of each week’s meeting at: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/embed?src=houstonlinuxusergroup@gmail.com \nJoin us on social media.\nDiscord: https://discord.gg/d6XT77qeJZ\nReddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/houstonlinuxusergroup/
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/houston-linux-user-group-9/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 029 – 030\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/HLUG_Crest.png?ver=1786318475
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T100000
DTSTAMP:20260713T215011Z
CREATED:20260713T215011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260713T215011Z
UID:10005184-1795163400-1795168800@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:ENRG HTX - November 2026
DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/enrg-htx-november-2026-tickets-1992151890933?aff=oddtdtcreator \nENRG (Entrepreneurial Networking Resource Group) is a community for entrepreneurs with 10-250 employees running on EOS or EOS Curious. \n\n\n\nENRG (pronounced energy) is here to stay in Houston! \nErick Garcia\, Lesa A Skipper and Craig Ceccanti are teaming up to build the Houston ENRG Chapter and we could not be more excited to invite entrepreneurs running on EOS or EOS Curious to this collaborative room! Join us on November 20th at 8:30am at the Ion District (Downstairs 028) for the first meeting! \nWhat is ENRG?\nThe vision is to establish an ENRG (Entrepreneurial Networking Resource Group) in Houston for entrepreneurs with 10-250 employees. This is a free EOS Worldwide aligned community for entrepreneurs led by one EOS Implementer and one Integrator. \nEach monthly meeting includes:\n– Practical training on an EOS tools\n– Peer-to-peer issue solving\n– Valuable networking\n– Content that helps move the needle on your business\n– Exposure to Subject Matter Experts\nNo sales pitches here though\, we’re here to help all tides rise! \nThis is WHERE entrepreneurs find the WHOs and the HOWs to move their business forward.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/enrg-htx-november-2026/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 028\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ENRG-General.jpeg?ver=1783979101
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004090-1795163400-1795170600@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-34/2026-11-20/
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/2024/07/CoJ1.jpg?ver=1721850637
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T110000
DTSTAMP:20260824T153357Z
CREATED:20260824T153357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T153357Z
UID:10005595-1795168800-1795172400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Mapping Houston's Innovation Ecosystem
DESCRIPTION:Facilitated by Wade Pinder\, Ion’s Mentor in Residence \nHouston’s startup and innovation ecosystem is as vast and dynamic as the city itself\, full of opportunities\, resources\, and talent. Yet\, navigating it can be challenging—especially for those unfamiliar with its many parts. Whether you’re an entrepreneur\, investor\, educator\, student\, community leader or curious professional\, this session will offer valuable insights into how Houston’s innovation ecosystem works and how you can find your place within it. \nDiscover the Houston Ecosystem’s Flow\nFacilitated by Wade Pinder\, the Ion’s Mentor in Residence\, this session will help participants map out the journey needed to take an idea from concept to a mature company. Wade brings years of experience in product management\, community building\, and mentoring entrepreneurs to the table\, offering a thoughtful and informed perspective to guide this exploration. \nThe heart of the session lies in exploring a dynamic mind map that Wade has created and continues to refine—an ever-evolving\, community-driven tool that grows alongside Houston’s innovation ecosystem. Attendees will not only learn about the ecosystem’s flow but also have the opportunity to contribute to it by identifying gaps\, sharing knowledge\, and adding their insights. \nThis session will center on the stages of a company’s growth journey\, exploring the essential elements that drive it forward. Participants will examine the role of financial capital\, from early fundraising efforts to securing the resources needed for scaling\, and how these milestones align with a company’s progression. The discussion will also delve into the human element of growing a business\, highlighting the evolving talent and expertise required to navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Additionally\, we’ll explore the importance of “social capital”—the networks\, support systems\, and relationships that play a critical role in moving ideas to market and sustaining long-term growth. \nIon’s Vision\nHelping the community better understand the local ecosystem reflects the Ion’s commitment “to being the home for Houston’s innovation community.” By fostering connections\, creating opportunities\, and sharing perspectives\, the Ion is building a transformative culture that strengthens Houston’s economic resiliency and celebrates the entrepreneurial journey. \nFrom forming an initial entrepreneurial idea to the prototyping phase to scaling a business\, this Houston Ecosystem Mapping session aligns with the Ion’s goals to support innovation\, attract talent\, and build a vibrant ecosystem. \nWho Should Attend?\nThis session is ideal for: \n\nEntrepreneurs looking to understand greater Houston’s resources.\nInvestors curious about the local startup landscape.\nProfessionals and students wanting to connect with the innovation community.\nAnyone passionate about Houston’s growth as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.\nInnovators who have recently moved to greater Houston and are looking to get “plugged in” to the local scene.\nCommunity leaders and service providers that support (or want to support) the innovation ecosystem.\n\nRegister today for this chance to explore Houston’s ecosystem\, uncover its flow\, and help shape its future.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mapping-houstons-innovation-ecosystem-9/
LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 027\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,General Community,Networking,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mapping-Houston-Website-scaled.jpg?ver=1739378156
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261120T113000
DTSTAMP:20261029T204253Z
CREATED:20261029T204253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261029T204253Z
UID:10006240-1795168800-1795174200@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-61/
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:20261127T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261127T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004091-1795768200-1795775400@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-34/2026-11-27/
LOCATION:Ion – Lobby\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,Academic Network,Community Event,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Networking,Office Hours,Start Here
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CoJ1.jpg?ver=1721850637
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T190000
DTSTAMP:20261026T012715Z
CREATED:20261026T011707Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261026T012715Z
UID:10006223-1796225400-1796238000@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Mercury Fund Day at the Ion: Middle America and the Vertical Era of AI
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to “Mercury Fund Day at the Ion” – a program series hosted by the Ion and Mercury\, where software founders can connect with mentorship at Houston’s HQ for innovation. \nThis month\, join us for a Fireside chat with Jack Selby\, managing director\, Thiel Capital; managing partner\, Copper Sky Capital. \nOne of the original\, “PayPal Mafia\,” Jack Selby is now the managing director of Thiel Capital\, the family office of Peter Thiel. He is also the founder and managing partner of Copper Sky Capital\, an Arizona-based VC firm focused on funding the next wave of great entrepreneurs in Middle America. Moderated by Blair Garrou\, co-founder and Managing Partner of Mercury Fund\, the first institutional VC to carve out Middle America as a region unto itself. This fireside chat will explore Jack and Peter’s vision for entrepreneurs outside the coasts and how Copper Sky Capital is seeking to meet them on their own terms\, not Silicon Valley’s terms. \nWhat is it: Mercury Fund Day\, previously known as Software Day\, is a monthly series driving the support\, inspiration\, and connections needed to help startups on their path to rapid\, sustainable growth. Each month\, Mercury Fund Day will include office hours (by application)\, a keynote session\, and networking. \nEach month will include a new speaker and topic covering the latest trends and breakthroughs in software technology and practical advice for founders. From AI to blockchain and guidance on fundraising\, explore topics that are relevant for your company’s journey.\n \nAfterward\, join us for a networking happy hour at Second Draught\, brought to you by Gunderson Dettmer\, where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs\, investors\, and industry professionals\, forging connections that could shape the future of your venture. \n Apply for Office Hours: \nPrior to the fireside chat\, a select group of early-stage software startups will participate in office hours. Over the course of 2-hours\, first-time entrepreneurs looking for guidance or seasoned founders needing help tackling tough challenges will have access to a group of curated mentors from the Mercury network and gain insights and guidance tailored to their needs. Startups are invited to apply to participate here.\n\n“Mercury Fund Day at the Ion” isn’t just an event – it’s a catalyst for growth and collaboration. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Houston’s thriving tech ecosystem. Join us as we bring together leading mentors\, promising startups\, and like-minded Houstonians focused on transformative software innovations. \n  \n \n 
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/mercury-fund-day-at-the-ion-middle-america-and-the-vertical-era-of-ai/
LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Keynote,Mentorship,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/260105-Generic-Website.jpg?ver=1767641140
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T190000
DTSTAMP:20260105T200955Z
CREATED:20251106T214534Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T200955Z
UID:10004217-1796313600-1796324400@iondistrict.com
SUMMARY:Holiday Block Party in the Ion District
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate the season of innovation and community at the Ion District Holiday Block Party! Join us for an evening filled with holiday cheer\, local bites\, drinks\, music and meaningful connection across Houston’s innovation ecosystem. Enjoy an evening of fun\, food and festive surprises as we toast to another incredible year. \nFree and open to the public. RSVP required.
URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/holiday-block-party-at-the-ion/
LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/DSC_0178-1-scaled.jpg?ver=1767643756
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004092-1796373000-1796380200@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-34/2026-12-04/
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:20261204T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T110000
DTSTAMP:20260824T152904Z
CREATED:20260824T152904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T152904Z
UID:10005589-1796378400-1796382000@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-20/
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:20261210T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T200000
DTSTAMP:20260511T185713Z
CREATED:20260511T185649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T185713Z
UID:10004984-1796923800-1796932800@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-3/2026-12-10/
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:20261210T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261210T203000
DTSTAMP:20260826T180827Z
CREATED:20260826T180827Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T180827Z
UID:10005615-1796929200-1796934600@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-7/
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:20261211T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261211T103000
DTSTAMP:20250825T225437Z
CREATED:20250729T190850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z
UID:10004093-1796977800-1796985000@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-34/2026-12-11/
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
END:VCALENDAR