Vision | Ion

Vision

The Ion inspires people to accelerate innovative and tech-forward solutions for the challenges facing the world.

We will accomplish our vision by convening an inclusive, interdisciplinary and collaborative community that positively impacts lives through technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Our Values:

We believe in an inclusive culture that is accessible to everyone and encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse background of our entire community.
We value doing good for people and our planet with integrity and commitment.
We are dedicated to the people and priorities of our community and aim to drive toward a shared vision for the future.
We are committed to generating long-term value through economically sustainable business decisions that positively impact our community and significantly improve our future.

At the time of its opening in 1939, the Sears building was Houston’s largest department store with state-of-the-art features including air conditioning and the city’s first escalator. The building, with its stylish art deco exterior, quickly became a landmark in the city.

As The Ion, this historic building will reclaim its place as a thriving center of activity bringing Houston’s entrepreneurial, corporate and academic innovators together and creating new opportunities for everyone in the community.

Programs

Community Building

Prototyping Lab

Academic Programs

Coworking Spaces

Start-Up Support

Event Programming

Talent Pipeline

Knowledge Transfer

The Ion is just the beginning. This historic building will anchor the 16+ acre South Main Innovation District. The district will offer a mix of uses to create a thriving innovation ecosystem, accompanied by a diverse and inclusive public realm. A view of the Central Plaza from Fannin Street looking east.

Timeline

1939

1960

2019

2021

2023

2030

The Ion north facade looking west

Houston Innovation Economy

Houston is home to some of the world’s most impactful innovations in the fields of energy, space, medicine and more.

Yet investment in Houston’s innovation economy has lagged not only behind cities of similar size and stature, but also behind smaller cities.

The Ion, South Main Innovation District and the city of Houston are going to change that.

Houston Innovation Economy

Emerging Tech Hub

Houston has invested in world-class innovation, institutions, and amenities that create an environment to attract top talent and capital.

These investments have supported Houston's emergence as a tech hub, as the city now competes with more established tech economies like Austin for venture capital dollars.

500+

Digital tech companies based in Houston

Houston’s status as best city for minority entrepreneurs

Distribution of Texas VC Dollar Volume in Q3 2018

Based on data aggregated by metro area for venture rounds of known size. Excludes PE rounds.