Houston Ranks Top 100 emerging ecosystems in the world

If you’re looking for proof that Houston’s startup scene is blossoming you need only look at an upcoming report from Startup Genome and the Global Entrepreneurship Network.

The current Global Startup Ecosystem Report which was released on September 22 it places Houston at the number. 19 of the most promising startup ecosystems. It also places Houston at the number. 4 in the most prominent regional challenges in North America. In the last report, it was reported that Houston included Houston along with other startups in the emerging ecosystems that fall within 31-to-40 in the 31-to-40 range.

Mumbai, India, appears at the top of the list. 1 in the world’s most promising startups this year as well as Miami ranks at the No. 1 in the most influential regional challenges across North America.

As per Houston Exponential, the city’s startup scene “is experiencing an increase in activity that isn’t showing any evidence of slowing.”

A case in point: Houston startups raised more than $1 billion during the beginning of the year 2021, a record that surpassed the totals of previous years. For 2020, Houston startup companies raked in a record-breaking amount of 753 million in venture capital.

“Venture capital that is invested by Houston startups has almost quadrupled in the last year,” according to a recent Houston Exponential report. “The continuous progress we’ve observed in the process of forming startups, as well as growth in the last four years, proves that Houston is well-equipped to create a vibrant, strong innovation economy that places the focus on equity.”

Collectively, the healthcare and information technology industries accounted for nearly 60 percent of Houston’s VC deals in the first quarter of 2021, as the report states.

Another indicator of the growing size of Houston’s startup community is the increasing number of incubators, workspaces, and accelerators that help startups.

“These important institutions are the ones that create the density of the market and cause collisions between entrepreneurs, investors, and another talent, significantly raising the pace of startup growth and formation,” according to the Greater Houston Partnership.

The institutions that are included comprise The Ion entrepreneurial hub, the Greentown Labs climate-tech incubator, and the DivInc startup accelerator. They are all new to the Houston startup scene.

“DivInc is all about expanding the startup ecosystem to make it more diverse, fair, and inclusive of marginalized entrepreneurs.” Preston James II the CEO of DivInc, said in April. “When we as a collective achieve this goal successfully and effectively, we maximize our opportunities to grow economic GDP, we can decrease the gender and racial inequality of wealth, as well as drive more creativity.”

In Texas, Austin ranks 20th among the top startup ecosystems according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Report, dropping from the number of. 19 in the previous year. Dallas continues to be ranked 31st. Silicon Valley tops the global list.

The report claims North America represents half of the top 30 ecosystems around the globe.

“Entrepreneurs, policymakers, as well as community leaders from North America, have been working to create an inclusive ecosystem of innovation that is the engine of jobs and growth for everyone,” JF Gauthier, the founder, and CEO of Startup Genome says in an announcement.

San Francisco, Startup Genome is a research and advisory firm that specializes in the startup ecosystem.

Houston’s Top Co-Working Spaces

The Cannon

The Cannon’s open staircase provides meeting and presentation space for members. It’s also often used for Shark Tank-style pitch sessions and building-wide events. The spacious new space will accommodate more than 20,000 square feet of office space. Members can choose from a variety of floor plans, including private offices. The Cannon is Houston’s top co-working space! You can choose a co-working space to fit your needs and your budget!

The Cannon’s amenities are unmatched. The spacious, modern space offers 131 private offices, as well as 300 hot desks. Private offices are available along the outer edge of the space, which can be reconfigured if needed. There’s even a movie theatre and shower facilities to keep you fresh and clean during your visit to Houston. A visit to the Cannon will give you a firsthand look at why it’s one of Houston’s top co-working spaces.

Greentown Labs

With the opening of the newest location, Greentown Labs is on its way to becoming Houston’s Top Co-working space. The space will feature an energy-efficient building with office space and prototyping labs for 50 early-stage companies. In addition to its new location, Greentown Labs will also be a catalyst for Houston’s energy-transition, with Mayor Sylvester Turner calling it “a great addition to our city’s innovation ecosystem.”

Located in the city’s Innovation District, Greentown Houston will be within walking distance of two major universities with strong energy and clean technology programs. The location is also less than two miles from downtown Houston, giving entrepreneurs quick access to investors and corporate leaders. A new protected bikeway will make it easy to get to the facility by car or public transit. It will also be accessible by MetroRail.

The 40,000-square-foot facility received its certificate of occupancy on Monday and moved in its first prototype the next day. The facility is currently accepting applications for additional partners, with a grand opening scheduled for spring 2021. Mayor Turner will host a virtual press conference on June 16 at 4:00pm CT/5:00pm ET. During the event, Mayor Turner will address the media and announce the opening of the new Greentown Houston.

The Ion

With a unique design, The Ion is intended to create a community of entrepreneurs, corporate innovators and academic partners. The building consists of various work areas, including coworking spaces and mid-sized offices. The Ion also has penthouse offices, which come fully outfitted and offer panoramic views of the city. While the Houston startup community is growing rapidly, The Ion aims to create a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

The Ion building consists of five floors, with more than 50,000 square feet dedicated to public space. There are maker and classroom spaces available for use. Several large companies have chosen to locate their offices at The Ion, including Microsoft, Chevron Technology Ventures, Schlumberger, Dow Chemicals and Liongard. The Ion building is oriented to facilitate easy access by bike, train and pedestrian.

The Ion is a redeveloped historic Sears building in the Midtown area of Houston. Common Desk will operate flexible office spaces on the second floor. Rice Management Company, a Rice University affiliated developer, is developing the space. The Ion is expected to open its doors next year. Aside from the co-working spaces, The Ion will also have a maker space, event spaces and classrooms. Once The Ion opens, Transwestern will handle its property management.

Impact Hub Houston

If you’re looking for a Houston co-working space, look no further than Impact Hub Houston. This globally connected nonprofit supports entrepreneurs working to solve some of the world’s biggest problems. Part of the Impact Hub global network, Impact Hub Houston is committed to accelerating entrepreneurial solutions and diversity. The Houston chapter deliberately designs an innovation ecosystem and platform for social entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and succeed. Its mission is to help Houston become a global city that transforms communities.

Houston is becoming increasingly popular with Tech Companies and small companies looking for flexible workspace. Houston is home to a number of coworking spaces, serving individual professionals, freelancers, and startups alike. Many entrepreneurs choose coworking spaces as an affordable way to grow their companies while making connections in the business community. This type of co-working environment provides flexible workspaces, helpful community networks, and a centralized location.

Rice Alliance

When you’re looking for a co-working space in Houston, you’ll want to look for the one that fits your needs. Rice Alliance has multiple options to fit any type of business’ needs. The space itself is designed with a Texan work ethic and southern hospitality in mind. Memberships include complimentary beer and coffee, fiber optic internet, and access to industry-level resources. The office spaces are flexible, and there are also many freebies like the internet and printers.

Bunker Labs

A reimagined Houston co-working space, combines affordable work space and amenities to help small businesses thrive. The co-working space features inspiring people and a diverse community. Other amenities include free parking, free internet, coffee and beer, staffing services, virtual office space, and event spaces. Houston residents can also sign up for free membership and receive mentorship and training.

The commercial real estate market in Houston was once at a record high, but this situation has changed significantly since co-working spaces were introduced. Currently, 22% of office space is vacant in Houston, a record high. This drop in office occupancy can be traced directly to the popularity of Houston co-working spaces. Thankfully, however, the Houston coworking scene is thriving. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, freelancer, or individual professional, Houston is a great place to start a business.

Located in the Theater District and the Scanlan building, Novel Coworking Houston is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs looking for affordable office space. Both locations offer a range of membership plans and pricing options. Dedicated desks cost $199 per month, while private office space costs $399 per month. At Novel, you’ll find a welcoming, friendly atmosphere and plenty of space for your growing business.

TMC Innovation

A thriving healthcare and tech sector has fueled the growth of TMC Innovation, the world’s largest co-working space. Its members include renowned world-class companies and startups, as well as emerging companies developing cutting-edge technologies. In the Houston area, TMC Innovation offers a unique co-working environment that fosters collaboration and encourages innovation. It also features a double-height space and a cafe for the convenience of its tenants.

At TMC Innovation, entrepreneurs can choose from shared or private workspace. For example, Hot Desk tenants have 24/7 access to the building, a private desk, and access to the shared work area. Private Office Suites offer separate entrances and have private conference rooms and lockable storage. There are also many amenities for both types of tenants, including an on-site kitchen and reception area. TMC Innovation has more than 2,000 square feet of flexible workspace, with several different floor plans available.

If you’re looking for a co-working space in Houston, the options are endless. Located in East Downtown, TMC Innovation provides a convenient location for professionals from various industries. Members have the option of purchasing a membership for the month or a year. Each office has its own resources and facilities, and perks vary depending on the size of the workspace. You can sign up online and reserve your spot.

Houston Startups and Tech Map