3 Houston innovators to know this week

Who's who

This week's Houston innovators to know includes Juliana Garaizar of Greentown Labs, Derek Armstrong of Armstrong Innovations, and Megan Siliainoff of Med Meg Creative Services. Courtesy photos

It's a new month and Houston's innovation ecosystem is continuing to grow amid the coronavirus pandemic. This week's Houston innovators to know roundup reflects that growth with a new-to-town incubator's newly names leader — plus an entrepreneur creating an virtual reality app to escape and a communications expert's advice on navigating COVID-19.

Juliana Garaizar, launch director of Greentown Houston

Juliana Garaizar is working to help set up Houston's Greentown Labs incubator with diversity and inclusion in mind. Courtesy photo

Juliana Garaizar has had to keep a huge secret for a while. The launch director of new-to-Houston Greentown Labs has known about the cleantech incubator's plan to expand to the Bayou City for a while, and now the news is out. Of course, launching amid a pandemic isn't ideal, but Garaizar says its allowed a strong relationship with the original group based in Boston to form.

"I think the silver lining of this COVID-19 experience is that we are much more integrated with the Boston team, and we're learning at a much faster rate," she says. "That's why we decided to also open Houston for virtual memberships before we open our building in Q1 of 2021."

Garaizar joined the Houston Innovators Podcast last week to share her experience with the organization and how she'll be setting up Houston operations with diversity and inclusion in mind. Read more and stream the episode.

Derek Armstrong, CEO and founder of Armstrong Innovations

Derek Armstrong, a Houston native, founded his design company, Armstrong Innovations. Photo courtesy of Oculus Go

Derek Armstrong had been working on a new virtual reality app for relaxation and meditation that users can enter into for an opportunity to escape reality for a bit — little did he know that was something more people than ever would want to do.

His company, a Houston-area industrial design startup, Armstrong Innovations, just launched two Oculus Go app games, aptly named 'Escape'. The VR app was designed with relaxation and meditation in mind but has doubled as a new way to relax and sightsee without leaving your home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The sights and sounds of our new app assist with mindfulness and meditation," says CEO and founder Derek Armstrong. "It's about focusing on the sights and sounds, especially with the virus growing. It's a quick getaway without having to physically go anywhere." Read more.

Megan Silianoff, founder and creative director of Mad Meg Creative Services

Megan Silianoff has been helping clients navigate communications during a pandemic. Courtesy photo

The worst part of contracting COVID-19 — aside from suffering from the disease itself — is diligently communicating the risk of exposure to people you've been around especially to coworkers, employees, clients, etc. In a guest article for InnovationMap, Megan Silianoff of Mad Meg Creative Services, sets the scene for you to be prepared should you find yourself in this situation,

"We understand as communication experts, informing a client, boss, or anyone that you've potentially exposed them is scary messaging to share," she writes. "Guilt is the number one emotion people report experiencing when they realize they've potentially exposed someone or a group of people, even though the respective exposure was inadvertent. Nevertheless it's crucial to communicate the exposure quickly and effectively as that's how Houston can hinder the spread of this disease through our city." Read more.

It's important to craft an informative and considerate message when sharing news of a COVID-19 exposure. Getty Images

4 COVID-19 messaging tips from Houston communications expert

guest column

Houston is undoubtedly hitting critical mass with COVID-19. The common sentiment has transitioned from "knowing someone who knows someone that has COVID-19" to more frequent first-hand, anecdotal experiences. When a potential exposure happens in the workplace it's vital that employees and companies alike quickly, professionally, and responsibly inform any parties that could have been indirectly exposed including vendors, clients, or meeting participants of any kind.

We understand as communication experts, informing a client, boss, or anyone that you've potentially exposed them is scary messaging to share. Guilt is the number one emotion people report experiencing when they realize they've potentially exposed someone or a group of people, even though the respective exposure was inadvertent. Nevertheless it's crucial to communicate the exposure quickly and effectively as that's how Houston can hinder the spread of this disease through our city.

So, how have we been counseling our clients as these potential exposures arise? Here are some notes and even an email template that Houstonians can use to help get them started.

Respond quickly

This is not a time to wait for certainty. Do not wait for tangible test results or any type of certitude (such as you experiencing symptoms first-hand) before notifying a person or company that you've potentially exposed them. Remember: you aren't telling someone you gave them COVID-19, you are simply telling them that you have been exposed and therefore inadvertently exposed them.

Be honest and forthcoming with information

This is not a time to offload or dwell on your feelings of guilt, albeit that's a natural emotion. A simple apology for the situation you collectively find yourself is appropriate but a deep into your own feelings and context for the situation is neither necessary nor helpful. Remember, during times of crisis, people don't remember what you said, but that you said something at all when it would have been easier not to and that you're someone of high morals and character.

Be detailed, but not too detailed

Again, you want to share concrete information versus your own personal emotions and feelings surrounding the incident. Pertinent information includes the following;

  • When and where you were exposed
  • When and where you exposed others
  • If you're currently experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms
  • Pertinent test results (if any) in regards to how you were exposed

Work from a template

Salutation:


It has come to my attention on date that I was exposed to COVID-19 through home, work, office, etc.

Because of this, it's a possibility that I unknowingly exposed you at date and place of interaction.

Though I am not currently not experiencing any symptoms and feel healthy, I wanted to let you know about this and err on the side of caution.*OR*I currently am experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 including X,Y, Z. I plan to get tested and can let you know the results when I receive them.

I apologize for this situation and am here to answer any further questions that might help you determine how to proceed accordingly.

Sincerely,
Name

------

Megan Silianoff is the founder and creative director of Mad Meg Creative Services, a Houston-based firm specializing in public relations, social media management, web design, and branding.

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

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Editor's note: The tech event scene is heating up in August. From insightful talks to a young professionals summit, here's what not to miss and how to register. Please note: this article may be updated to include additional event listings.

Aug. 5 – Tech and Tequila Talk

Hear from guest speaker David Cohen, founder & CEO of Dallas-based Superposition, at the latest installment of Tech and Tequila Talk. The event will focus on breaking down ambiguity in data and AI projects through collaborative workshops.

This event takes place Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 5-7 p.m. at the Ion. Click here to register.

Aug. 11-16 – Black is Tech Week

Black is Tech Week will bring events for tech professionals, entrepreneurs and students to Houston through summits, career fairs, networking events and more. The event will feature speakers from Amazon, Microsoft, Google and many other companies.

This event begins Monday, Aug. 1. Find more information here.

Aug. 12 – NASA Stories at the Ion

Head to the Ion for the new morning series spotlighting the human side of space exploration. Each session will feature personal and powerful stories from astronauts and key NASA personnel. Anthony Vareha, NASA Flight Director and Flight Operations Directorate, whose primary duty is the safe operation of the International Space Station will speak this month.

This event begins Tuesday, Aug. 12, from 8:30-10 a.m. Find more information here.

Aug. 14 – Pickle Lab’s One-Year Anniversary Celebration

Enjoy an afternoon of open-play pickleball, beats by a live DJ, raffle giveaways and free swag at the first anniversary celebration of Pickle Lab in the Ion District. WonderPops will provide complimentary pops while supplies last, and Second Draught will serve each guest a free beverage.

This event takes place Thursday, Aug. 14, from 4-7 p.m. RSVP here.

Aug 19 – Navigating the Economy: Insights from Darren King

Darren King, chief investment officer of Moody Bank, will share his expert insights on the state of the economy and its impact on Houston’s future. Gain a deeper understanding of market trends, economic shifts and what they mean for businesses and individuals in the city.

This event takes place Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 11:30-1 p.m. RSVP here.

Aug. 21 – Transition on Tap

Greentown Labs’ signature networking event returns in August to foster conversations and connections within Houston's climate and energy transition ecosystem. Entrepreneurs, investors, students, philanthropists and more are invited to attend, meet colleagues, discuss solutions and engage with the growing community.

This event takes place Thursday, Aug. 21, at 5:30 p.m. at Greentown Labs. Click here to register.

Aug. 22 – Determined to Lead Women Lunch: Investing Through Market Cycles with Ellen Wilkirson

EnergyTech Nexus hosts a monthly Determined to Lead Women’s Lunch as part of its ongoing efforts to create safe spaces for women leaders in the energy transition to connect, learn and lead. The August session features Ellen Wilkirson, principal at Rev Innovations. With deep experience across traditional and transition energy sectors, Wilkirson will share how she’s approached investing through multiple market and commodity cycles and what it means to be a clean energy investor in today’s evolving landscape.

This event takes place Friday, Aug. 22, at 1 p.m. Click here to register.

Aug. 26 – Software Day at the Ion: Positioning your Startup to Capitalize on Market Trends

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. This month’s panel discussion will feature Remington Tonar, co-founder of Cart.com, and Josh Teekell, founder of SmartAC.com.

This event takes place Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 3:30-7 p.m. Click here to register.

Aug. 27 – Future of Flight: Inside Venus Aerospace with Founder Sassie Duggleby

Join EO Houston for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes conversation with Sassie Duggleby, co-founder and CEO of Venus Aerospace, a Houston-based company pioneering breakthrough propulsion systems for hypersonic and space applications.

This event takes place Wednesday, Aug. 27, at 10 a.m. at Venus Aerospace. It is open to EO members and partners only. Click here to register.

Aug. 27 – The Future of American Science: A Conversation With US Rep. Brian Babin

U.S. Rep. Dr. Brian Babin and Paul Cherukuri, vice president of innovation at Rice University, will discuss how the United States remains at the forefront of space exploration, emerging technologies and scientific advancement, as well as what's next and what's at stake for the future of science policy.

This event takes place Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 3-4 p.m. at James A. Baker III Hall on Rice University's campus. Click here to register.

Aug. 28 – HYPE Summit

The third annual Houston Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (HYPE) Summit is a day-long conference featuring panel discussions with business and thought leaders, workshop-style breakout sessions and networking opportunities. This year's event—under the theme Step Into the Spotlight—will feature speakers from First Bight Ventures, Bot Auto, Regions Bank, Lopez Negrete Communications and Umbrage.

This event takes place Thursday, Aug. 28, from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Click here to register.

Houston's 13 best midsize companies and more innovation news to know

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Editor's note: The top innovation news from the second half of the month includes new leaders at innovative Houston organizations and a ranking of the best midsize businesses from Time. Here are the five most-read InnovationMap stories from July 15-31, 2025:

13 Houston businesses appear on Time's best midsize companies of 2025

13 Houston-area businesses ranked on Time magazine's best midsize companies list. Photo via Getty Images

Houston-based engineering firm KBR tops the list of Texas businesses that appear on Time magazine and Statista’s new ranking of the country’s best midsize companies. KBR holds down the No. 30 spot, earning a score of 91.53 out of 100. Twelve other Houston-based companies landed on the list. Continue reading.

Digital Health Institute's new exec director aims to lead innovation and commercialization efforts

Pothik Chatterjee was named executive director of Rice University's and Houston Methodist's Digital Health Institute, effective May 1. Photo courtesy Rice University.

Though our existences have become deeply entangled with technology, our health has been slower to catch up. The creation late last year of the Digital Health Institute was a major step into the future for both Rice University and Houston Methodist, for whom the institute is a joint venture. The latest news for the Digital Health Institute is the appointment of Pothik Chatterjee to the role of executive director. Continue reading.

Houston hardtech accelerator names 8 scientists to 2025 cohort

Activate Houston has named eight fellows to its 2025 cohort. Photo courtesy the Ion.

National hardtech-focused organization Activate has named its 2025 cohort of scientists, which includes new members to Activate Houston. The Houston hub was introduced last year, and joins others in Boston, New York, and Berkley, California, where Activate is headquartered. Collectively, the 2025 Activate Fellowship consists of 47 scientists and engineers from nine U.S. states. Continue reading.

Rice biotech accelerator appoints 2 leading researchers to team

The Rice Biotech Launch Pad has named two bioengineering professors to its leadership team. Photo courtesy Rice University.

The Rice Biotech Launch Pad, which is focused on expediting the translation of Rice University’s health and medical technology discoveries into cures, has named Amanda Nash and Kelsey L. Swingle to its leadership team. Both are assistant professors in Rice’s Department of Bioengineering and will bring “valuable perspective” to the Houston-based accelerator. Continue reading.

Innovation Labs @ TMC set to launch for early-stage life science startups

Innovation Labs @ TMC will open next year at the TMC Innovation Factory. Photo courtesy JLABS.

The Texas Medical Center will launch its new Innovation Labs @ TMC in January 2026 to better support life science startups working within the innovation hub. The 34,000-square-foot space, located in the TMC Innovation Factory will feature labs and life science offices and will be managed by TMC. Continue reading.

Intuitive Machines lands $9.8M to complete orbital transfer vehicle

space funding

Houston-based Intuitive Machines, which rang the NASDAQ opening bell July 31, has secured a $9.8 million Phase Two government contract for its orbital transfer vehicle.

The contract will push the project through its Critical Design Review phase, which is the final engineering milestone before manufacturing can begin, according to a news release from the company.

Intuitive Machine's orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) is designed to transfer payloads between Earth's orbit and the Moon and is built around the company's Nova-C lander, which has been a part of two successful lunar missions.

“Our OTV is a direct evolution of our lunar surface delivery missions—positioning us to expand into the rapidly growing market for in-space logistics,” Steve Altemus, Intuitive Machines CEO, said in the release. “We’re leveraging our flight-proven technology to operate a mission-ready service that delivers customer payloads across orbits—from Earth to the Moon and beyond.”

The company says the fast, flexible vehicle could be used for orbital servicing, logistics and communications in medium earth orbit, low lunar orbit and a variety of other destinations.

Intuitive Machines expects to begin manufacturing and flight integration as soon as 2026, once the design review is completed.

The non-NASA contract is for an undisclosed government customer, which Intuitive Machines says reinforces its "strategic move to diversify its customer base and deliver orbital capabilities that span commercial, civil, and national security space operations."

The company has received millions from NASA for its lunar rover, lunar lander, science and technology payloads, and communications and navigation services over the years. It also recently landed up to $10 million to help develop an Earth re-entry vehicle and in-space biomanufacturing lab from Texas's Space Exploration and Research Fund.

Earlier this month, the City of Houston agreed to add three acres of commercial space for Intuitive Machines at the Houston Spaceport at Ellington Airport. Read more here.

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