Houston’s new innovation hub, The Ion, will kick off programming next for the third cohort of one of its accelerator programs.

Launched in September 2019, the Smart and Resilient Cities Accelerator, which addresses the needs of Houston and cities across America by deploying technology into existing civic infrastructure, kicks off programming beginning March 29-April 2 for five selected startups tackling sustainability solutions, ranging from a compost selection service to a smart meter provider to waste emissions and a pollutants-reduction lab.

“We’re thrilled to kick-off Cohort 3,” said Dr. Christine Galib, senior director of programs at The Ion, in a news release. “The ISRCA remains a core asset in The Ion’s Programs portfolio, since it enables recurring collisions, connections, and collaborations among startups, stakeholders, and subject-matter experts.”

Throughout the 12-week program, the Cohort’s participants will have the chance to build relationships with mentors, corporate networks, municipality decision-makers, and stakeholder partners, and gain exposure in the Greater Houston region.

Once completed, the cohort will have a presence in The Ion’s new building, a 266,000-square-foot mixed-use structure slated to open later this year.