Powering Innovation Through University, Startup & Industry Collaboration
A fishbowl discussion bringing together voices from academia, emerging ventures, and established industry
Universities are doing groundbreaking research. Startups are moving fast with innovative solutions. Corporates have resources and market reach. Yet too often, these worlds operate in parallel rather than partnership.
What would change if we could better connect the dots between academic discovery, entrepreneurial energy, and corporate capability?
Join us for an interactive conversation where we'll dig into the real challenges and opportunities of cross-sector collaboration. We'll explore questions like:
What makes partnerships actually work? Beyond the press releases, what does successful collaboration look like day-to-day?
Where do we get stuck? What are the cultural, structural, and practical barriers that kill good intentions?
How do we bridge different timelines and priorities? Academic research cycles vs. startup speed vs. corporate planning horizons
What roles can the broader community play? How do accelerators, government, investors, and others fit into the ecosystem?
What to expect:
A fishbowl-style discussion that lets you engage when you're moved to speak
Diverse perspectives from researchers, entrepreneurs, corporate innovators, and community builders
Honest conversations about barriers, opportunities, and what actually works
A chance to connect with people working at different intersections of innovation
Whether you're a graduate student, startup founder, corporate strategist, or just curious about cross-sector collaboration, we want your voice in the conversation.
Format: Interactive fishbowl discussion (~90 minutes) Who should come: Anyone working in or curious about university-industry partnerships
Come ready to listen, share, and leave with new connections and ideas.
By registering for this event, you agree to share your registration information with Houston Energy and Climate Week organizers