The ION

Twelve dynamic blocks in the center of our city that take Houston’s talent and sprawl and connect it all—catalyzing the development of better products and technologies, workforces and businesses, and ways of thinking and doing that build the world we want to see.

Houston Exponential

Houston Exponential serves as a connector and digital hub, for linking founders, innovators, development organizations and investors to unlock untapped potential.

TMC Innovation

TMC Innovation is shaping the future of health care by uniting promising innovators with the best minds in science and medicine at the member institutions of the Texas Medical Center.

Submissions for Accelerator Spotlights

FAQs

What is the difference between an Incubator and Accelerator?

Time commitment

Incubators are long-term programs that help startups build a foundation for sustained growth, while accelerators are short-term programs that help startups make significant progress in a limited time.

Stage of startup

Incubators are good for startups at all stages, from early to growth, while accelerators are best for startups with a minimum viable product (MVP) in the startup stage.

Funding

Incubators may provide funding through grants, loans, or non-dilutive financing, while accelerators typically offer seed investment in exchange for equity in the startup.

Structure

Incubators offer more flexibility in duration and structure, while accelerators have a fixed timeline and a more structured, cohort-based approach.

Resources

Incubators provide office space, mentorship, education, training, and informal learning opportunities. Accelerators may offer financial support and potential exposure to investors.

Program length

Incubators typically last between one to five years, while accelerator programs are usually two to six months long.

Application process

Many accelerators have competitive application processes.

What is Venture Capital?

a type of private equity financing that provides financial support and expertise to startups and early-stage companies with high growth potential. In exchange for their investment, venture capitalists (VCs) receive an ownership stake in the company.

• Target companies

  VCs typically invest in young companies that are often pre-profit or pre-revenue. These companies are often in sectors such as I.T, life sciences, and FinTech. Creative Growth Club's vision is to create more entertainment spaces even though ENT is a high risk industry.

• Investment structure

  VCs usually take a minority stake in the company, typically 50% or less. They may also receive a future claim on equity, such as convertible debt.

• Investment strategy

  VCs take a long-term view, hoping to see large returns if the company is acquired or goes public. They may also provide strategic advice to help the company grow and introduce its products to the market.

• Investment cycle

  VC funds often invest in cycles of five to seven years, expecting the company to grow significantly during that time.

• Investment sources

  VCs raise money from limited partners (LPs) to invest in startups or larger venture funds.