10+ can't-miss Houston business and innovation events for January

WHERE TO BE

Don't miss these January events — from meetups to scale ups. Photo via Getty Images

From networking meetups to tech talks, January is filled with opportunities for Houston innovators. Here's a roundup of events you won't want to miss out on so mark your calendars and register accordingly.

Note: This post might be updated to add more events.

January 3 — Cup of Joey Networking

Create a connected culture of coffee shop-open networking across our region. Every Friday morning, you’ll have the opportunity to meet new people and expand your current networks, talk about tech, inspire innovation, and create community.

This event is Friday, January 3, from 8:30 to 10:30 am at the Ion. Click here to register.

January 7 — Discover Your Creative Goldmine: The Millions are in your Micro-Niche

In this high-energy workshop, you’ll learn how identifying and embracing your unique micro-niche can simplify your business and fast-track your success. Through a dynamic mix of strategy and mindset mastery, you’ll leave equipped with actionable insights to transform your brand. Don’t miss this opportunity to align your business for growth and connect with like-minded creatives.

This event is Tuesday, January 7, from 12:30 to 1:30 pm at SheSpace. Click here to register.

January 15 — Angel Investing 101: Introduction to Angel Investing

Join the Urban Capital Network 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.

This event is Wednesday, January 15, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

January 15 — In the Age of the Humanoid Robot

Persona AI cofounder & seasoned roboticist Nicolaus Radford will discuss the promise of embodied AI and the adoption of humanoid robots—two advancements likely to impact every market sector. Humanoids coupled to artificial intelligence are poised to reshape the global work landscape; to learn more, check out the Q&A, and Second Draught happy hour.

This event is Wednesday, January 15, from 5 to 7 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

January 16 — NAWBO Houston Conference: The Power of Women in Business 2025

This event is your opportunity to connect with influential speakers, successful entrepreneurs, and industry experts who are shaping the future of business. From inspiring keynotes to thought-provoking panels, this conference is designed to provide attendees with actionable insights and strategies to elevate their careers.

This event is Thursday, January 16, from 9 am to 3 pm at Norris Conference Centers - Houston/CityCentre. Click here to register.

January 16 — Houston Methodist Innovation TechHub Event

Join the Houston chapter of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society for a discussion on the Houston Methodist TechHub, innovative ideas, and a tour of the Ion.

This event is Thursday, January 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

January 21 — 2025 Female Founders & Friends

This Sesh Coworking event brings together female founders, funders and allies looking for connections with other like-minded go-getters in the Houston community. Connect over coffee with like-minded individuals

This event is Tuesday, January 21, from 9 to 10:30 am at Sesh Coworking. Click here to register.

January 23 — NASA Tech Talks

Discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In these presentations, occurring the fourth Thursdays of the month, Mr. Montgomery Goforth and other aerospace subject matter experts will discuss the technology development challenges faced by NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the surrounding Aerospace community in our ongoing efforts as the hub of human spaceflight. Presentations will focus on the ways in which these challenges, and the associated opportunities, can be leveraged by Houston’s innovation community

This event is Thursday, January 23, from 6 to 7 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

January 28 — Texas Small Business Expo

Texas Small Business Expo is a premier trade show, educational business to business conference, exhibition, and networking event for entrepreneurs, startups and anyone that owns a business, or looking to start their own business. The focus of the conference is targeted on networking, building new business relationships and learning from Industry Experts on how to enhance your business.

This event is Tuesday, January 28, from 4 to 9 pm at the Bell Tower on 34th. Click here to register.

January 30 —TiE Houston's Investing in the Age of AI

For those involved in AI-driven innovation, building new companies, leading established businesses, or exploring investment opportunities in AI, this event is designed for you. Moderated by Sammy Haroon, founder and CEO of AlphaX Decision Sciences, speakers at this event include Major Tony Cucolo, CEO of PCSI, and Yashwanth Hemaraj, general partner at BGV.

This event is Thursday, January 30, from 6 to 9 pm at the Junior League of Houston. Click here to register.

January 31 — Greater Houston Partnership 2025 Meeting

This signature event brings together business and community leaders from across our region to celebrate achievements and set the course for an even brighter future. The Greater Houston Partnership will welcome incoming Board Chair Gretchen Watkins, President, Shell USA, Inc., and honor the contributions of outgoing chair Eric Mullins, as well as present several prestigious awards that highlight the exceptional leadership driving Houston forward.

This event is Friday, January 31, from 11 am to 1:30 pm at Hilton Americas Houston. Click here to register.


Don't miss these October events — from expos and conferences to panels and pitch days. Photo via Getty Images

10+ can't-miss Houston business and innovation events for October

WHERE TO BE

From networking meetups to pitch competitions, October is lined with opportunities for Houston innovators.

Here's a roundup of events you won't want to miss out on so mark your calendars and register accordingly.

Note: This post might be updated to add more events.

Additionally, mark your calendars for November 14 for the annual Houston Innovation Awards.

October 3 — Texas Venture Fest: Houston Edition

More than 10 cities simultaneously host this statewide phenomenon, as Texans rally to see innovation flourish. Hear from leaders in impact investing, climate tech startups, and sports tech entrepreneurs. This year's event registration asks for your favorite investor, startup, and community leader for the Texan's Choice Awards— the "People's Choice Awards" for statewide innovation.

This event is Thursday, October 3, from 8:30 am to 8 pm at the Niels Esperson Building. Click here to register.

October 4 — 15th Annual Yatsu Day Symposium

This year’s symposium, “Reviving Hope: AI Innovations and Emerging Technologies in Stroke Recovery,” will unpack life-changing research into emerging stroke recovery technology and methods. This comprehensive program will explore critical topics such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, cognitive recovery post-stroke, stroke rehabilitation and recovery, tele-health, pediatric stroke recovery, and more.

This event is Friday, October 4, from 8 am to 4 pm at the Cooley Center. Click here to register.

October 9 — Future of Global Energy Conference

This premier event convenes industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and academics to explore Houston's pivotal role in addressing the dual challenge of meeting growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. This conference delves into Houston's unique position to lead in this effort, driving innovation, collaboration, and investment towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.

This event is Wednesday, October 9, from 8:15 am to 5:30 pm at Hilton Americas. Click here to register.

October 9 — Houston Methodist & Ion Digital Innovation Reverse Pitch Info Session

Innovators, engineers, students, start-ups, developers, experts, and community members alike can take part in Houston Methodist and Ion's first reverse pitch event. During this session, attendees will hear from Houston Methodist leaders about the problem statement, goals & objectives, program guidelines and timeframe to develop a unique digital solution to help advance the healthcare industry into the future.

This event is Wednesday, October 9, from 4 to 6 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

October 10 — Fall 2024 TIEEP Energy Forum

The mission of the Texas Industrial Energy Efficiency Program (TIEEP) is to provide thought-leadership, sharing ideas, technologies, opportunities and timely information to Texas industries on ever-improving energy intensity, reduced environmental impact, resilience, and enhanced social and economic development. In this forum experts and attendees will discuss how the cost of decarbonization can be lowered, by examining both technical and financial strategies, as the industrial sector strives to meet increasingly aggressive goals.

This event is Thursday, October 10, from 4 to 6 pm at University of St. Thomas Center for Science and Health Professionals. Click here to register.

October 14-15 — IMPACT 2024: Cognite’s AI and Industrial Data Conference

This global data and AI conference will bring together digital-first innovators and leaders across energy, manufacturing, and power and renewables, from around the world and will showcase real-world success stories, case studies, and state-of-the-art digital transformation strategies. The focus will be on the latest industrial Data and AI trends, hands-on practitioner sessions, proven success sharing, and peer networking.

This event begins Sunday, October 13, from 6 to 10 pm at Norris Conference Center. Click here to register and for the full schedule of events.

October 16 — Houston Methodist Clinician Speaker Series - Dr. Jonathan Rogg

Head to the Houston Methodist Tech Hub at Ion for another clinician speaker series presentation by Dr. Jonathan Rogg.

Jonathan Rogg, MD, MBA is an Emergency Physician, Vice President and Incoming Chief Quality Officer at Houston Methodist Hospital. Dr. Rogg will speak about emergency room operations from a clinical and administrative lens and the innovations being implemented in this unique hospital setting.

This event is Wednesday, October 16, from 4:45 to 6 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

October 19 — Energy Day

Energy Day is Houston’s largest annual free family festival showcasing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Energy Day has nearly 70 interactive demonstrations and exhibits that teach students and their families about the various forms of energy through STEM fields, along with efficiency, conservation, and other related STEM industries.

This event is Saturday, October 19, from 11 am to 3 pm at Sam Houston Park. Click here to register.

October 22 — The Greentown Labs Climatetech Summit 2024

Greentown Labs invites you, your colleagues, and all the climate champions in your life to step into their incubators for a day of hands-on exploration with our 200+ startups and their climatetech solutions; keynotes and sessions featuring leaders across climatetech, finance, policy, and equity; and networking with key climate-action trailblazers.

This event is Tuesday, October 22, from 8 am to 7 pm at Greentown Labs. Click here to register.

October 23 — TiE Women Houston Showcase

TiE Global is a nonprofit venture devoted to entrepreneurs in all industries, at all stages, from incubation, throughout the entrepreneurial lifecycle. Meet this years TiE Women Houston finalists, program co-leads, and community partners. There will be panels, pitches, awards, and networking.

This event is Wednesday, October 23, from 4 to 6 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

October 28 — October Odyssey: Start Ups in Space

The final event in TMC's October Odyssey speaker series will feature innovative discussions at the intersection of space and healthcare. Hear from the visionary founders of TMC Innovation startups as they share how space has played a pivotal role in their entrepreneurial journeys. Moderated by Emily Reiser, Ph.D., Strategy and New Ventures at TMC, this engaging session will explore how these startups are revolutionizing healthcare on Earth and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space.

This event is Monday, October 28, from 9 to 10:30 am at TMC Helix Park. Click here to register.

Houston innovators — put these August events on your radar. Photo via Getty Images

10+ can't-miss Houston business and innovation events for August

WHERE TO BE

From networking meet-ups to expert startup showcases, August is filled with opportunities for Houston innovators.
Here's a roundup of events you won't want to miss out on so mark your calendars and register accordingly.

Note: This post may be updated to add more events.

August 1 — 7th Annual Summer Science Symposium

The 7th Annual MAPTA Summer Science Symposium will showcase work from research trainees, postdoctoral fellows, and medical residents. The symposium will feature all fields of translational, basic science and clinical research. This two-day in-person event will include both poster and oral presentations.

Keynote Speakers:

Brijesh S. “Billy” Gill, MD, FACS
Corina Rosales, PhD

This event is Thursday, August 1, from 9 am to 4 pm at Houston Methodist Research Institute. Click here to register.

August 1 — Bayou Startup Showcase

The Bayou Startup Showcase is a dynamic celebration of entrepreneurship, spotlighting the newest startups and small businesses from Rice University’s OwlSpark and the University of Houston’s RED Labs accelerators. Attendees can listen to pitches, discover ways to support and grow these businesses, and engage with founders during the showcase.

This event is Thursday, August 1, from 4 to 8 pm at The Ion. Click here to register.

August 8 — Out In Tech Mixer

Out in Tech Houston provides an inclusive networking space for LGBTQ+ people and allies working in tech. Check out this relaxed, social-mixer event, hosted on the second Thursday of every month.

This event is Thursday, August 8, from 7 to 8:30 pm at Second Draught. Click here to register.

August 13 — Software Day at The Ion: An Intro to Central Texas Seed Stage VCs

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, Software Day will include office hours (by application), a keynote session, and networking.

Speakers include:

  • Eric Engineer, S3 Ventures
  • Rajiv Bala, Clutch Ventures
  • Cat Dizon, Active Capital
  • Mike Marcantonio, LiveOak
  • Moderator: Aziz Gilani, Mercury
This event is Tuesday, August 13, from 3:30 to 7 pm at The Ion. Click here to register.

August 15 — TMC Lunch ‘n’ Launch: Phiogen

This monthly event series hosted by TMC Innovation highlights TMC community companies and provides them with a platform to share their journey, current progress, and future goals. This month the lunch features Phiogen, a specialized phage therapy corporation founded by by Baylor College of Medicine.

This event is Thursday, August 15, from 12 to 1 pm at at TMC Innovation Factory. Click here to register.

August 15 — SPRINT Workforce Forum

This two-day event brings together industry, universities, and government entities to discuss the workforce challenges that arise from the rapidly advancing AI and robotics technologies in the energy sector. It has a special emphasis on inspiring students to become advocates of AI and robotics, enabling them to help the energy industry’s digital transformation.

This event is Thursday, August 15, starting at 12 am at Student Center South and UH Hilton. Click here to register.

August 22 — Transition On Tap

Transition On Tap is Greentown Labs’ monthly networking event devoted to fostering conversations and connections among the climate and energy transition ecosystem in Houston and beyond. Entrepreneurs, investors, students, and friends of climatetech are invited to attend, meet colleagues, and discuss solutions.

This event is Thursday, August 22 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Greentown Houston. Click here to register.

August 23 — 2024 Cardiometabolic Syndrome Conference: A Population Health Crisis

The Cardiometabolic Syndrome Conference is designed to provide attendees with the most contemporary knowledge about the syndrome, including the epidemiology, treatment strategies, and knowledge gaps. There will be a specific focus on high-level discussions that dissect the current shortcomings in the overall management of CMS at the individual and community level and begin to consider new and innovative treatment strategies.

This event is Friday, August 23 from 7 am to 5 pm at The Texas Heart Institute. Click here to register.

August 28 — TMCi Cappuccino Connections

Network with the diverse TMC Innovation Community while enjoying a cup of joe.

This event is Wednesday, August 28, from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at TMC Innovation Factory Lobby. Click here to register.

August 28 — Bayou City Bio Pulse: Pearland

Hear from some of the region’s largest commercial life science manufacturers. This panel discussion will examine the obstacles and potential avenues for the growth of commercial life science firms. Tours of Lonza’s and Millar’s manufacturing facilities will follow the program.

This event is Wednesday, August 28, from 11 am to 2 pm at West Pearland Library. Click here to register.

August 29 — SaaStock Local: Scalability in the Age of AI, Building for Growth in SaaS

Attendees will explore innovative strategies and cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance scalability, ensuring that cloud computing environments remain robust, flexible, and capable of supporting dynamic and complex AI workloads. The session will cover best practices for optimizing resource allocation, managing data efficiently, and maintaining high performance as demand increases.

This event is Thursday, August 29, from 5:30 to 8 pm at The Ion. Click here to register.

Don't miss these July events — from meetups to hackathons. Photo via Getty Images

10+ can't miss Houston business and innovation events for July

WHERE TO BE

From networking meetups to expert speaker summits, July is filled with opportunities for Houston innovators.

Here's a roundup of events you won't want to miss out on so mark your calendars and register accordingly.

Note: This post may be updated to add more events.

July 4 — Houston Blockchain Alliance Monthly Meetup

Check out the Houston Blockchain Alliance Monthly Meetup at The Cannon, in partnership with Lucrisma, Event Horizon Capital, and CryptoEQ. This in-person event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow blockchain enthusiasts in the Houston area. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, come and engage in lively discussions, share insights, and network with like-minded individuals.

This event is Thursday, July 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at The Cannon. Click here to register.

July 9 — Software Day at the Ion: An Intro to Central Texas Seed Stage VCs

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. Speakers on the panel "An Intro to Central Texas Seed Stage VCs” include: Eric Engineer, S3 Ventures; Rajiv Bala, Clutch Ventures; Cat Dizon, Active Capital; Mike Marcantonio, LiveOak; and moderator Aziz Gilani, Mercury.

This event is Tuesday, July 9, from 3:30 to 7 pm at The Ion. Click here to register.

July 9 — Tech+Tequila Talk: The Future of Tokenization and Capital Raising

Guest speaker, Ed Nwokedi, the Founder and CEO of RedSwan CRE Marketplace will unpack the process of converting ownership rights in an asset into digital tokens on a blockchain, how tokenization allows for fractional ownership, and the impact these innovations can have on capital raising and asset management.

This event is Tuesday, July 9, from 8 to 8 pm at Esperson Building. Click here to register.

July 11 — Out in Tech Mixer

Out in Tech Houston provides an inclusive networking space for LGBTQ+ people and allies working in tech. Check out this relaxed, social-mixer event, hosted on the second Thursday of every month.

This event is Thursday, July 11, from 7 to 8:30 pm at Second Draught. Click here to register.

July 15 — 2024 Young Leaders Institute: Renewable Energy and Climate Solutions

Asia Society Texas' Young Leaders Institute (YLI) is a week-long summer program for high school students that promotes global competence, elevates leadership skills, and connects students from across diverse backgrounds and experiences. The Institute invites students to explore some of the most timely, relevant global issues for young leaders today.

This event starts Monday, July 15, from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Asia Society Texas Center. Click here to register.

July 17 — Open Project Night at Impact Hub Houston

A chance to work on solutions for some of Houston’s most pressing issues, the theme of this month's meeting will be gender equality. Network and workshop pitching materials with likeminded entrepreneurs.

This event is Wednesday, July 17, from 5:30 to 8 pm at 808 Travis St. Click here to register.

July 18 — First of a Kind (FOAK) Networking Lunch

Inspired by the recent FOAK Roundtable hosted by Deanna Zhang, the Energy Underground team of professionals are diving deep into the world of innovative initiatives. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just dipping your toes into the realm of groundbreaking projects, this lunch is for you. The Energy Underground is a group of professionals in the Greater Houston area that are accelerating the Energy Transition.

This event is Thursday, July 18, from 12 to 1 pm at The Cannon West Houston. Click here to register.

July 20 — FIONA: 5th Annual HACKATHON

Get ready for a day filled with coding challenges, teamwork, and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned coder or just starting out, this event is great for anyone passionate about technology and creativity. Go in person a day of brainstorming, coding, and presenting your projects to a panel of judges. Collaborate with fellow hackers, learn new skills, and showcase your talents.

This event is Saturday, July 20, from 11 am to 2 pm at 15500 Voss Rd. Click here to register.

July 24 — Houston Methodist Clinician Speaker Series

Dr. Desai, Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Medical Officer & Chief Quality Officer at Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital, will discuss the plans for Houston Methodist's ninth hospital which is scheduled to open in early 2025.

Agenda:

4:30pm - Arrival & Registration

5:00pm - Presentation by Dr. Desai

5:30pm - Audience discussion

6:00pm - Event concludes

This event is Wednesday, July 24, from 4:30 to 6 pm at The Ion. Click here to register.

July 25 — DivInc Demo Day: Sports Tech Spring 2024

The Spring 2024 Sports Tech Demo Day will be a celebration and showcase of the growth of founders using technology to enhance human performance, fan experience, fantasy sports & betting, future of media, NIL innovation (i.e. Name, Image, Likeness), and stadium & venue innovation.

This event is Thursday, July 25, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm at The Ion. Click here to register.

July 30 — Texas Small Business Expo

Texas Small Business Expo is a trade show, educational business to business conference, exhibition & networking event for entrepreneurs, start-ups and anyone who owns a business. Network, build new business relationships, and learn from industry experts on how to enhance your business.

This event is Tuesday, July 30, from 4 to 9 pm at Wakefield Crowbar. Click here to register.


Here are over 10 can't-miss events for Houston innovators in June. Photo courtesy of Rice University

10+ can't-miss Houston business and innovation events for June

WHERE TO BE

From networking meetups to expert speaker summits, June is filled with opportunities for Houston innovators.

Here's a roundup of events you won't want to miss out on so mark your calendars and register accordingly.

Note: This post may be updated to add more events.


June 6 — Ion Block Party and Chef Showcase

On the first Thursday of each month, Block Party brings together startups, tech enthusiasts, and business visionaries in a dynamic and festive environment.

June’s special edition of Block Party will be a Chef Showcase! The District’s robust food and drink offerings showcase hyper-local concepts that reflect Houston’s reputation for having a culturally diverse restaurant industry.

This event is Thursday, June 6, from 4 to 7 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

June 6 — Houston Blockchain Alliance Monthly Meetup

This in-person event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow blockchain enthusiasts in the Houston area. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, come and engage in lively discussions, share insights, and network with like-minded individuals. Discover the latest trends and advancements in blockchain technology while enjoying a friendly and casual atmosphere.

June's guest speaker, Alex Guerra of SYS Labs, will talk about DeFi today v. DeFi tomorrow. Alex is a business developer at SYS Labs and co-founder of Pachira Finance.

This event is Thursday, June 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at The Cannon. Click here to register.

June 8 — Celebration of Entrepreneurship

Head to IAG Technology for an exciting evening dedicated to all things entrepreneurship. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this event has networking, learning, and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit.

Come celebrate entrepreneurship and the launch of Earn On Purpose, a business mentoring and coaching company. At Earn on Purpose, entrepreneurship is simplified through solid fundamentals and practical strategies for success.

This event is Saturday, June 8, from 5 to 10 pm at IAG Technology. Click here to register.

June 10 — 2024 Energy Drone & Robotics Summit

Connect with 1500+ global energy & industrial robotics, drone & data leaders at a time of rapid growth in the robotics sector. Hear from expert speakers on the latest ideas, use cases, best practices, tech, and trends as innovators, regulators, the most energy asset owners & service firms and more break these topics down.

This event begins Monday, June 10, from 4 to 6:30 pm at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott. Click here to register.

June 11 — Software Day at the Ion: From Seed to Success

Software Day at the Ion is a program series hosted by the Ion and Mercury, where software founders can connect with mentorship at Houston’s HQ for innovation.

This monthly series provides support, inspiration, and connections needed to help startups on their path to rapid, sustainable growth. Each month, Software Day will include office hours (by application), a keynote session, and networking.

This event is Tuesday, June 11, from 3:30 to 7 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

June 13 — 2024 Speaker Series: Dynamic Innovations in Energy Efficiency

Co-hosted by the TEPRI, in partnership with the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice, this event will spotlight just and effective strategies to boost energy efficiency, ensuring equitable access to sustainable energy solutions for all Texans. Keynote addresses by Dr. Robert D. Bullard, renowned environmental justice advocate and recipient of the 2024 Time Magazine Earth Award, and Donnel Baird, founder of BlocPower and inaugural recipient of TIME’s 2022 “Dreamer of the Year.”

The event is Thursday, June 13, from 2 to 4 pm at Melcher Hall. Click here to register.

June 13 — Out In Tech Monthly Mixer

Out in Tech Houston is the local chapter for Out in Tech, the world’s largest non-profit community of LGBTQ+ tech leaders. Check out their relaxed social-mixer event, hosted on the second Thursday of every month.

This event is Thursday, June 13, from 7 to 8:30 pm at Second Draught. Click here to register.

June 18 — Juneteenth Journey: Bridging Past and Present Through Technology

This special presentation will offer insights into the historical significance of Juneteenth, and illuminate the evolution of technology from the 1860s through World War II to modern Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the technology of today. Experts from the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum and Emancipation Park Conservancy will illustrate how technology has evolved as well as the parallels between the innovative spirit of the Buffalo Soldiers and today’s technological advancements, emphasizing the role of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation.

This event is Tuesday, June 18, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm a the Ion. Click here to register.

June 20 — Visionary Voices: Leading Authentically with Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill

Celebrate Pride Month with a special edition of Ion’s “Visionary Voices” speaker series, featuring a powerful conversation between two leaders who’ve paved the way for LGBTQ+ representation in their respective fields – Woodside Energy CEO Meg O’Neill and former Houston Mayor Annise Parker. Attendees will gain insights into the unique experiences and milestones that have shaped both Meg and Annise’s careers, as well as the importance of visibility and representation in corporate leadership and public service.

This event is Thursday, June 20, from 3:30 to 6 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

June 25 — State of AI: Generating Real Business Value with AI

This comprehensive one-day free event organized by the Houston-based CODE Group is designed to equip decision-makers, C-level executives, and software developers with strategies to harness AI effectively. The event kicks off with a keynote from Markus Egger, Microsoft Regional Director, on “Harnessing AI for Tangible Business Outcomes,” setting the stage by demonstrating how AI can integrate seamlessly into business applications to enhance productivity and innovation.

This event is Tuesday, June 25, from 9 am to 5 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

June 28 — Young Professional Climate & Career Mixer

Climate Connect is a community resilience education and engagement program launching in Houston, Texas and powered by the Coalition of Community Organizations and Verizon. This meetup is for those interested in networking, learning, and exploring career opportunities in the field of climate change. The event will take place at 6500 Rookin Street, Houston, TX 77074 (Building E), where you can connect with like-minded individuals, meet industry professionals, and discover new, green career paths.

This event is Friday, June 28, from 5:30 to 7 pm at 6500 Rookin St. Click here to register.

These are Houston innovators' events not to be missed in March. Photo via Getty Images

10+ can't-miss Houston business and innovation events for March

WHERE TO BE

From networking meetups to speaker expert speaker summits, March is filled with opportunities for Houston innovators.

Here's a roundup of events you won't want to miss out on so mark your calendars and register accordingly.

Note: This post may be updated to add more events.

 March 6 — Women's History Month Mixer

Bag Talk and Jem are collaborating to produce a dynamic Rooftop Mixer, designed to bring together entrepreneurs, startups, founders, tech professionals, health experts, and investors.

In honor of Women's History Month, the speaker panel will feature trailblazing women entrepreneurs who have redefined success in their respective fields. Gain invaluable insights, strategies, and inspiration as they share their journeys in business, innovation, and leadership.

This event is Wednesday, March 6, from 6 to 9 pm at Reset. Click here to register.

 March 7 — Energy Workforce of the Future Career Fair & Summit

A variety of Gen-Z speakers will be unpacking the future of working in the energy industry. Take advantage of this unique occasion to showcase your skills, exchange ideas, and build valuable connections. Denise Hamilton will be the keynote speaker followed by a host of other energy innovators.

This event is Thursday, March 7, from 7:30 am to 4 pm at the Briar Club. Click here to register.

 March 7 — GB Spring Mixer 2024

Meet community members, network, and develop relationships with local businesses at this event for Pearland's small business community. This mixer is sponsored by Pearland Innovation Hub, a home for innovation, entrepreneurship and small business growth, custom built for Pearland's business community.

This event is March 7, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at The Cannon. Click here to register.

 March 14 — Pi Day With Portal Innovations

TMC Helix Park will host a Pi Day celebration at TMC3. All scientists, researchers, math experts, and innovators are invited to come and recognize the significant impact Pi (3.14) has had in shaping our world today and continuously in the future. Enjoy networking opportunities with Pi bites, games, and prizes.

This event is Thursday, March 14, from 12 to 1:30 pm at TMC Helix Park. Click here to register.

 March 14 — FanTechstic Mixer

This event is a mixer for tech professionals and tech enthusiasts. Connect with potential employers, collaborators, and mentors who can shape the trajectory of your career.

This event is Thursday, March 14, from 5:30 to 9:30 at Luxtrium Event Venue. Click here to register.

March 16 — Generative AI: Understanding and Fine Tuning LLM

This webinar dives deep into Generative AI, the game-changer that creates images from text, crafts personalized campaigns, and writes reports in seconds. Attendees will learn the innerworkings of Large Language Models (LLMs), the engines behind this revolution. Learn practical skills, explore real-world use cases, and future-proof your career.

This event is Saturday, March 16, from 10 am to 12 pm at Houston Translations. Click here to register.

March 18-22 — CERAWeek by S&P Global

For the 42nd time, CERAWeek is convening energy leaders from around the world for a conference, this year with its theme of "Multidimensional Energy Transition: Markets, climate, technology and geopolitics" that will zero in on the world's journey to zero-carbon.

The event is Monday, March 18, to Friday, March 22, in Downtown Houston. Click here to register.

March 21 — Global Energy: Qatar's LNG Expansion

At this event, expert panelists will delve into issues of investment partnerships, destination markets for gas supply, and the practicalities of expanding fossil fuel exports amid global decarbonization goals. Qatar is in the midst of expanding its LNG export capacity, increasing from 77 million tons per annum to 126 million by 2027.

This event is Thursday, March 21, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy. Click here to register.

March 21 — Energy Underground - Early Design Partnerships

Meet up with renewable energy product developers, service providers, energy transition thought leaders, and more at this networking event. Make industry contacts, secure financing, share deals, or recommend talent looking to enter the energy workforce. This month meeting is open to everyone, but focused on connecting energy software founders with VP's of Operations and Projects at energy companies.

This event is Thursday, March 21, from 11:30 am to 2 pm at The Cannon. Click here to register.

March 26 — Bots & Brews

This is the spring meetup of the Energy Drone / Robotics / Data crowd, with over 200 leaders attending. Enjoy beer, bites and bots. Check out the latest robotics and data / AI tech, while hearing new case studies and connecting with some of the biggest leaders in energy and autonomous systems.

This event is Tuesday, March 26, from 5:30 to 7:45 pm at the Ion. Click here to register.

March 27 — Energy Industry Young Professionals Gumbo Cook-Off & Technology Showcase

Explore cutting-edge products, network with industry professionals, and savor delicious creations in the Gumbo Cook-Off. Make it a night to remember with live music, a beverage garden, and fundraising efforts to support the energy industry and first responders.

This event is Wednesday, March 27, from 5 to 9 pm at Bad Astronaut Brewing Co. Click here to register.

March 27 — 2024 CultureMap Houston Tastemaker Awards

The CultureMap Tastemaker Awards is an annual celebration of Houston's top restaurant and bar talent, as selected by their peers. Check out this signature in-person tasting event and awards ceremony. Celebrate all of the nominees and the winners, while sampling bites and sipping specialty drinks along the way.

This event is Wednesday, March 27, from 7 to 10 pm at Silver Street Studios. Click here to register.



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Houston hospital names leading cancer scientist as new academic head

new hire

Houston Methodist Academic Institute has named cancer clinician and scientist Dr. Jenny Chang as its new executive vice president, president, CEO, and chief academic officer.

Chang was selected following a national search and will succeed Dr. H. Dirk Sostman, who will retire in February after 20 years of leadership. Chang is the director of the Houston Methodist Dr. Mary and Ron Neal Cancer Center and the Emily Herrmann Presidential Distinguished Chair in Cancer Research. She has been with Houston Methodist for 15 years.

Over the last five years, Chang has served as the institute’s chief clinical science officer and is credited with strengthening cancer clinical trials. Her work has focused on therapy-resistant cancer stem cells and their treatment, particularly relating to breast cancer.

Her work has generated more than $35 million in funding for Houston Methodist from organizations like the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute, according to the health care system. In 2021, Dr. Mary Neal and her husband Ron Neal, whom the cancer center is now named after, donated $25 million to support her and her team’s research on advanced cancer therapy.

In her new role, Chang will work to expand clinical and translational research and education across Houston Methodist in digital health, robotics and bioengineered therapeutics.

“Dr. Chang’s dedication to Houston Methodist is unparalleled,” Dr. Marc L. Boom, Houston Methodist president and CEO, said in a news release. “She is committed to our mission and to helping our patients, and her clinical expertise, research innovation and health care leadership make her the ideal choice for leading our academic mission into an exciting new chapter.”

Chang is a member of the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) Stand Up to Cancer Scientific Advisory Council. She earned her medical degree from Cambridge University in England and completed fellowship training in medical oncology at the Royal Marsden Hospital/Institute for Cancer Research. She earned her research doctorate from the University of London.

She is also a professor at Weill Cornell Medical School, which is affiliated with the Houston Methodist Academic Institute.

Texas A&M awarded $1.3M federal grant to develop clean energy tech from electronic waste

seeing green

Texas A&M University in College Station has received a nearly $1.3 million federal grant for development of clean energy technology.

The university will use the $1,280,553 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a cost-effective, sustainable method for extracting rare earth elements from electronic waste.

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a set of 17 metallic elements.

“REEs are essential components of more than 200 products, especially high-tech consumer products, such as cellular telephones, computer hard drives, electric and hybrid vehicles, and flat-screen monitors and televisions,” according to the Eos news website.

REEs also are found in defense equipment and technology such as electronic displays, guidance systems, lasers, and radar and sonar systems, says Eos.

The grant awarded to Texas A&M was among $17 million in DOE grants given to 14 projects that seek to accelerate innovation in the critical materials sector. The federal Energy Act of 2020 defines a critical material — such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, lithium, magnesium, nickel, and platinum — as a substance that faces a high risk of supply chain disruption and “serves an essential function” in the energy sector.

“DOE is helping reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign supply chains through innovative solutions that will tap domestic sources of the critical materials needed for next-generation technologies,” says U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm. “These investments — part of our industrial strategy — will keep America’s growing manufacturing industry competitive while delivering economic benefits to communities nationwide.”

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This article originally appeared on EnergyCapital.

Biosciences startup becomes Texas' first decacorn after latest funding

A Dallas-based biosciences startup whose backers include millionaire investors from Austin and Dallas has reached decacorn status — a valuation of at least $10 billion — after hauling in a series C funding round of $200 million, the company announced this month. Colossal Biosciences is reportedly the first Texas startup to rise to the decacorn level.

Colossal, which specializes in genetic engineering technology designed to bring back or protect various species, received the $200 million from TWG Global, an investment conglomerate led by billionaire investors Mark Walter and Thomas Tull. Walter is part owner of Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers, and Tull is part owner of the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Among the projects Colossal is tackling is the resurrection of three extinct animals — the dodo bird, Tasmanian tiger and woolly mammoth — through the use of DNA and genomics.

The latest round of funding values Colossal at $10.2 billion. Since launching in 2021, the startup has raised $435 million in venture capital.

In addition to Walter and Tull, Colossal’s investors include prominent video game developer Richard Garriott of Austin and private equity veteran Victor Vescov of Dallas. The two millionaires are known for their exploits as undersea explorers and tourist astronauts.

Aside from Colossal’s ties to Dallas and Austin, the startup has a Houston connection.

The company teamed up with Baylor College of Medicine researcher Paul Ling to develop a vaccine for elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), the deadliest disease among young elephants. In partnership with the Houston Zoo, Ling’s lab at the Baylor College of Medicine has set up a research program that focuses on diagnosing and treating EEHV, and on coming up with a vaccine to protect elephants against the disease. Ling and the BCMe are members of the North American EEHV Advisory Group.

Colossal operates research labs Dallas, Boston and Melbourne, Australia.

“Colossal is the leading company working at the intersection of AI, computational biology, and genetic engineering for both de-extinction and species preservation,” Walter, CEO of TWG Globa, said in a news release. “Colossal has assembled a world-class team that has already driven, in a short period of time, significant technology innovations and impact in advancing conservation, which is a core value of TWG Global.”

Well-known genetics researcher George Church, co-founder of Colossal, calls the startup “a revolutionary genetics company making science fiction into science fact.”

“We are creating the technology to build de-extinction science and scale conservation biology,” he added, “particularly for endangered and at-risk species.”

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