The Ion

Our Vision

The Ion. Accelerating Innovation, Connecting Communities.

Our Mission

The Ion anchors, activates, and accelerates the innovation ecosystem through partnerships, pathways, and programs that create opportunities to advance and sustain resilient economic growth in Houston.

Innovation in Houston

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, The District, and the city of Houston are going to change that.

Nov 16, 1939

Historic Sears Building Opens

1960

Modernized exterior added in the 60s largely covers the original Art Deco exterior

July 19, 2019

Groundbreaking on The Ion

2021

The Ion and part of Ion Plaza, a view of the north-east corner looking south-west.

2023

Anticipated Phase One Innovation District Opening. A view of the Central Plaza from Fannin Street looking east.

2030