BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ion District - ECPv6.15.11//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH 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:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD 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;VALUE=DATE:20251225 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251226 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251217T171357Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T171357Z UID:10004393-1766620800-1766707199@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Building Closed DESCRIPTION: URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/building-closed/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260101 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260102 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251217T171409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T171409Z UID:10004394-1767225600-1767311999@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Building Closed DESCRIPTION: URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/building-closed-2/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260109T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260109T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004045-1767947400-1767954600@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-34/2026-01-09/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260109T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260109T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251219T185223Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T185223Z UID:10004396-1767947400-1767954600@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Social Media Breakfast DESCRIPTION:Join Impact Hub at the Social Media Breakfast and learn how to maximize the power of social media for your business! Expand your reach\, connect with your audience\, and boost your brand’s online presence. Don’t miss out! http://smbhou.com/ URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/social-media-breakfast-11/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,All Communities,General Community,Mentorship,Networking,Register on Eventbrite ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/SMBHOU-Breakfast.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260109T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260109T110000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251219T203341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T203341Z UID:10004397-1767952800-1767956400@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-11/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260116T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260116T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004046-1768552200-1768559400@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-34/2026-01-16/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260120T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260120T110000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T180827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T180827Z UID:10004389-1768896000-1768906800@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Greater Houston Business Procurement Breakfast DESCRIPTION:Join the B2G Victory Team and come by our table at the Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum (GHBP) January. \nBreakfast Served: 8:00AM- 9:00AM \nThe GHBP is excited to: \n\nProvide a venue that “Makes Business Happen” for Houston’s small and minority business community and the community at large.\nConnects key contacts that lead to contracts and financing\nFacilitate  management and technical assistance\nAssist in the growth and development of the Houston Community\nGenerates real business Success Stories\n\nFor more information about the Greater Houston Business Procurement (GHBP) Forum\, visit: https://ghbpf.org/contact/#calendar-fe92efaa-617b-4a09-bd7f-7e198bdab716-event-m681n7cz URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/greater-houston-business-procurement-breakfast-7/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Mentorship,Networking,Start Here ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/321A8335.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260121T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260121T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251211T214442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T230000Z UID:10004376-1768984200-1768991400@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Real-Time Monitoring & AI for Offshore Safety Operations DESCRIPTION:Join Upstream for a special edition of the Upstream: Digital Tech Meetup at the Ion\, a community gathering focused on practical digital innovation for drilling\, production\, and offshore operations. \n​This session will explore how AI and real-time monitoring are being applied in safety-critical offshore environments\, what’s working today\, where the biggest gaps remain going into 2026\, and how operators and service companies are approaching adoption. Coffee and a light breakfast will be provided. \n​Event Details \n​Topic: Real-Time Monitoring & AI for Offshore Safety Operations \n​Format: Moderated Panel + Table Discussions \n​Host: Upstream: Digital Tech Meetup \n​Venue Sponsor: The Ion \n​Event Sponsor: INTELIE \n​Brought to you by: Timbergrove and INTCOM \n​Date: January 21 Time: 8:30 – 10:30 AM Location: The Ion – Midtown Houston (4201 Main St.) \n​Agenda \n​8:00 – 8:30 AM Check-in \n​8:30 – 9:00 AM Networking with light breakfast \n​9:00 – 9:50 AM Moderated Panel (Introductions by Ian Uriarte) \n​9:50 – 10:00 AM Q&A \n​10:00 – 10:20 AM Table discussions \n​10:20 – 10:30 AM Closing comments \n​Speakers \n​Moderator: • Rob Tiffany — Director of Research\, IDC \n​Panelists: \n​• David Reid — CTO/CMO\, NOV \n​• Stéphane Lauzon — Global VP & Head of Oil\, Gas & Energy\, SAP \n​• Augusto Borella — Chief Product Officer\, INTELIE \n​• Alvaro Antunes — Founder & CEO\, INTCOM \n​Host: • Ian Uriarte — Founder & CEO\, Timbergrove / Upstream: Digital Tech Meetup URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/real-time-monitoring-ai-for-offshore-safety-operations/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Slide-2-B.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260121T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260121T183000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T180252Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T210517Z UID:10004388-1769016600-1769020200@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Angel Investing 101 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 team at Urban Capital Network believes the key to closing income and wealth gaps globally is to democratize access to opportunities across the investment ecosystem. \nJoin 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. \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-101-3/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T190000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T173700Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T210411Z UID:10004378-1769104800-1769108400@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In these presentations\, occurring 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.Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!Past NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-15/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0352-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260123T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260123T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004047-1769157000-1769164200@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-34/2026-01-23/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260128T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260128T183000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T175833Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T175951Z UID:10004387-1769621400-1769625000@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Buying and Selling Businesses DESCRIPTION:Join Lenny Saizan\, Business Broker and Managing Director of Urban Capital Network\, for an informative presentation on selling and buying businesses. \nThe process of selling and buying a business includes many steps and involves collaboration and coordination of professionals across various disciplines. Quite often\, sellers and buyers in the market are going through the process for the very first time. \nBusiness owners typically have most of their wealth tied to their business; therefore\, it is important that they maximize the value of the business and properly plan their exit strategy. For buyers\, entrepreneurship through business acquisition is a less risky path to business ownership that increases the probability of success and generates positive cash flow on day one. Business acquisition is also a good strategy for business owners to grow their existing business. Lenny Saizan will discuss the process of selling and buying a business\, highlight challenges and mistakes to avoid\, and present the benefits of working with an intermediary. If you are a business owner\, prospective buyer\, or small business service provider\, this event will be beneficial to you. \nDuring the session\, you can expect discussion on the following: \n\nMarket overview\,\nWhen to prepare to sell or buy\,\nWhat makes a company valuable\,\nHow companies are valued\,\nOverview on how to recast financial statements\,\nThe sales process\,\nThe deal team\,\nTaxes and insurance considerations.\n\nPresenter:\nLenny Saizan is the co-founder and Managing Director of Urban Capital Network (UCN)\, an investment firm dedicated to democratizing premium investment opportunities for a wider range of investors. In addition\, he owns and operates Murphy Business Brokerage – Southwest Houston\, where he assists business owners with exit planning\, value maximization\, and the sale of their businesses. He also supports buyers interested in business acquisitions or franchises. \nBefore establishing UCN and his business brokerage\, Lenny worked for 10 years as an Electrical Engineer\, specializing in automation\, controls\, and systems integration. He then transitioned to the oil and gas industry\, where he spent another decade leading teams in financial and operational controls\, as well as audit. \nLenny holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Louisiana State University and an MBA from Tulane University. He is a Certified Mergers & Acquisition Professional\, a Six Sigma Green Belt\, and a Project Management Professional. In 2023\, he was honored as an Outstanding Diversity Champion by the Houston Business Journal. URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/buying-and-selling-businesses-5/ LOCATION:Ion – Conference Room 029 – 030\, 4201 Main St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0501-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260130T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260130T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004048-1769761800-1769769000@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-34/2026-01-30/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260206T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260206T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004049-1770366600-1770373800@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-34/2026-02-06/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260211 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260213 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250721T204119Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T211455Z UID:10003393-1770768000-1770940799@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:In-Space Physical AI Workshop DESCRIPTION:RSVP here: https://lu.ma/ixae1s05 \n​Rice Nexus is excited to announce the InSpace Physical AI Workshop on February 11-12\, 2025. This event will bring together industry leaders\, government agencies\, and academia to explore the cutting edge of AI in space exploration. \n​The workshop will include sessions on: \n\n​AI-enabling mission to Mars\n​AI-magnified strategic economic presence in cis-lunar space\n​Defending the homeland\n​International collaboration\n​Short pitches and posters: Startups/commercial vendors\n\n​Presentations by leading space AI startups and government sponsors will highlight the latest advancements and future directions. \n  URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/in-space-physical-ai-workshop-2/ LOCATION:Ion – Forum Stairs\, 4201 Main St.\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Academic Network,Aerospace,AI,Corporate Innovators,Founders & Startups,General Community,Investors & Capital,Keynote,Mentorship,Networking,Panel Dicussion ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ai-houston.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260213T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260213T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004050-1770971400-1770978600@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-34/2026-02-13/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260220T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260220T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004051-1771576200-1771583400@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-34/2026-02-20/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T193000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251218T195040Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251218T195040Z UID:10004395-1772127000-1772134200@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Transition on Tap at Greentown Labs DESCRIPTION:Register here: https://greentownlabs.com/event/feb-2026-transition-on-tap/ \n​The Greentown Houston community is bigger than ever before—with dozens of new startups welcomed in Q3 and Q4 2025\, it’s time to meet these entrepreneurs! Working on innovations ranging from methane capture to emissions-free manufacturing processes to carbon management\, Greentown Houston startups are poised to transform industries and pave the way to a decarbonized future—and Transition on Tap is where the connections of the future are made. \nJoin them to meet these founders and connect with Houston’s broader climatetech ecosystem\, including partners like TotalEnergies\, as well as entrepreneurs\, investors\, corporate leaders\, students\, and other climate champions—who are all passionate about driving innovations in climatetech and advancing the energy transition. URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/transition-on-tap-at-greentown-labs/ LOCATION:Greentown Labs\, 4200 San Jacinto St\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,CleanTech,ClimateTech,Founders & Startups,Investors & Capital,Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Website-version-for-use-before-Total-version-is-approved-1536x864-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260226T190000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T174234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T210534Z UID:10004379-1772128800-1772132400@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In these presentations\, occurring 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.Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!Past NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-16/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0352-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260227T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260227T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004052-1772181000-1772188200@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-34/2026-02-27/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260306T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260306T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004053-1772785800-1772793000@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-34/2026-03-06/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260313T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004054-1773390600-1773397800@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-34/2026-03-13/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260320T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260320T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004055-1773995400-1774002600@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-34/2026-03-20/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260326T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260326T190000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T174338Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T210626Z UID:10004380-1774548000-1774551600@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In these presentations\, occurring 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.Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!Past NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-17/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0352-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260327T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260327T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004056-1774600200-1774607400@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-34/2026-03-27/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260403T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260403T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004057-1775205000-1775212200@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-34/2026-04-03/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260408 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260409 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251215T182651Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T225927Z UID:10004391-1775606400-1775692799@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:Veterans Business Battle DESCRIPTION:The Rice Veterans Business Battle (VBB) is the nation’s largest pitch competition for startups led by U.S. military veterans. Hosted by Rice University\, VBB connects veteran founders with mentorship\, investor exposure\, and the opportunity to compete for non-dilutive cash prizes. \nThe event is open to the entire community\, including veterans and civilians alike. Veteran founders may apply to participate through the VBB website\, and general event registration is available for those interested in attending. \nVBB takes place over two days: Day 1 at the Ion District and Day 2 at the Rice Business School. \nJoin us on April 8–9\, 2026\, to support veteran entrepreneurs and experience the country’s premier veteran-led startup competition. \nWebsite: https://business.rice.edu/vbb URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/veterans-business-battle/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:3rd Party Registration,All Communities ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/VBB-26-Winners-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260410T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260410T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004058-1775809800-1775817000@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-34/2026-04-10/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T103000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20250729T190850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T225437Z UID:10004059-1776414600-1776421800@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-34/2026-04-17/ 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T190000 DTSTAMP:20251222T050703 CREATED:20251219T211527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T211527Z UID:10004398-1776967200-1776970800@iondistrict.com SUMMARY:NASA Tech Talks DESCRIPTION:We want HOU! Join us to discover NASA’s toughest tech challenges–and apply your skills and expertise to solve them.In these presentations\, occurring 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.Join us after the talk for drinks and networking at Second Draught!Past NASA Tech Talks have included: Montgomery B. Goforth discussing NASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies; Jared Daum discussing Orion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation that are showstoppers for the spaceflight parachute industry; Kevin Kobylka discussing current Guidance\, Navigation\, and Control (GNC) capabilities and needs; and Nick Skytland\, Chief Technologist at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) and Director of the Business Development and Technology Integration Office. Future NASA Tech Talks will include: dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies in the areas of: \n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\n\nAbout the Speakers \nMontgomery B. Goforth has more than 40 years of experience as both Engineer and Manager in a variety of highly technical space and defense-related efforts.  After working for a small defense contractor specializing in anti-submarine warfare\, he joined NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1990.  He has held leadership positions in multiple JSC Directorates and Program Offices. In his current role as Assistant Director of the JSC Engineering Directorate\, he has established a framework to better focus Engineering’s efforts towards Human Spaceflight technology and systems development consistent with JSC and Agency goals for exploration. He has used this framework to guide Engineering’s internal investments and external partnerships supporting Lunar and Mars Exploration. Mr. Goforth was born in East Texas\, raised in Southern California and Arizona\, and graduated from Rice University (BSME 1982\, MSME 1987). \nNASA Tech Talks topics include dual-use (space/terrestrial) technologies and focus areas in:\n\n\n\nAvionics / Communication / Sensors\nRadio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors\nPower Storage and Distribution\nAutonomous & Robotics Systems\nExtra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) Systems\nVirtual/Augmented Reality in Human Spaceflight Training & Execution\nHuman Health & Performance / Human Systems Research\nNASA Intellectual Property suitable for commercialization by small/start-up companies\nOrion’s parachutes and risk identification and mitigation strategies\nLeveraging Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for ultra-long-lived wireless sensors URL:https://iondistrict.com/event/nasa-tech-talks-24/ LOCATION:Ion\, 4201 Main Street\, Houston\, TX\, 77002\, United States CATEGORIES:Aerospace,Founders & Startups,General Community ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://iondistrict.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/DSC_0352-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR