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Aramco Americas has joined Houston's newly opened innovation hub, The Ion, as a founding partner to help advance local start-ups and Houston's tech economy.
As part of its three-year partnership with The Ion, Aramco has appointed Jim Sledzik, Managing Director, Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures, North America to The Ion's Leadership Advisory Roundtable.
Aramco brings its culture of innovation, knowledge from its global research and development network, and experience with early-stage, high-growth technology companies through its corporate venture capital arm to further support The Ion's mission as a global technology hub.
“Aramco's involvement not only enables us to continue expanding our support toward inclusive and sustainable economic growth, but expand our reach globally, amplifying Houston as a high-growth technology ecosystem for energy, health, manufacturing, space, and transportation,” said Jan E. Odegard, Executive Director, The Ion.
Aramco will participate in The Ion Prototyping Lab and The Ion Investor Studio to interact with entrepreneurs, corporate innovators, and venture capitalists to drive innovation and empower local entrepreneurs.
“The addition of Aramco as a Founding Partner of The Ion is another step forward in the realization of our vision of The Ion as a globally connected innovation hub that brings new possibilities to the people of Houston,” said David Leebron, Rice University President.
Rice University Provost Reginald DesRoches added, “Innovation hubs such as The Ion are critical for creating more diverse and equitable economies. Partnering with Aramco Americas ensures The Ion and Rice can better deliver on this promise for the good of all Houstonians and we're excited to come together and demonstrate our vested interest in evolving Houston's economy.”
The Ion is the anchor of the 16-acre the innovation district being created by Rice University.
“Aramco's commitment to innovation is reflected throughout our business operations,” said Nabeel I. AlAfaleg, President & Chief Executive Officer, Aramco Americas. “Partnerships like The Ion accelerate innovation, champion new ideas, and build a culture to address global energy challenges.”