TiE Houston Hosts Next Generation Entrepreneurs: Students Attend TiECon and the TiE U Pitch Competition

May 15th, 2024- (Houston, TX) – TiE Houston proudly announces its participation at the annual TiECon and TiE U events, showcasing the collective efforts to foster entrepreneurship among student innovators. Hosted by TiE Silicon Valley, the conference convened representatives from TiE chapters worldwide to engage in dialogue, networking, and entrepreneurial education.

TiE Houston’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent was demonstrated through the mentorship and sponsorship of nine high-performing student entrepreneurs from the University of Houston (UH) and Houston Community College (HCC). 

These aspiring innovators were given the opportunity to compete in the TiE U pitch competition where they showcased their innovative ideas and business ventures to a panel of esteemed judges. Team Liquidium from University of Houston finished in 4th. Team Arctic Flow from Houston Community College finished in the top 16 out of 1400+ global applicants. 

The journey began on April 29th as the student entrepreneurs embarked on an enriching experience— starting with a tour of the renowned Google headquarters. 

April 29th, 2024- Students pose during a tour of Google Headquarters

Students and mentors also received a personal tour of Stanford University by past TiE Atlanta student member, Dev Jashi. One student on the trip, Avwerosuoghene Etaghene later received an acceptance letter from Stanford for Fall 2024.

University of Houston student Pranjal Sheth, founder of Liquidium, shared “The TiE U Global Pitch Competition was one of the biggest competitions I’ve ever done, involving startups from across sectors and around the world. I highly recommend the TiE U program for aspiring entrepreneurs.”

May 2nd, 2024 – students with Navin Chaddha, Managing Partner, Mayfield Fund

TiE Houston’s President, Ram Shenoy, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative: “Our participation at TiECon and TiE U underscores TiE Houston’s commitment to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. By providing these students with access to invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we aim to empower them to realize their entrepreneurial aspirations.”

Corporate sponsors’ support has been instrumental in making this initiative a success. TiE Houston extends its heartfelt gratitude to Houston Community College, the University of Houston, the University of St. Thomas, and BMC Software for their unwavering support and commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs.

Wendy Rentschler, Global Head of Corporate Citizenship at BMC Software participated as a speaker at TiECon and Judge at the TiE U finals.  

Wendy had the following to say about her experience: “BMC Software is deeply committed to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship, not only in Houston but globally. Our sponsorship of TiE Houston’s Next Generation Entrepreneurs at TiECon and TiE U Competition is a testament to our dedication. By investing in the promising, technology-driven talents from the University of Houston and Houston Community College, we not only fuel the dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem but also catalyze progress that enriches society at large. Our support for such initiatives is a cornerstone of BMC Software’s mission to forge a more inclusive and technologically advanced future, paving the way for continuous innovation and community growth.” 

Through initiatives like TiECon and TiE U, TiE Houston continues to uphold its mission of fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth within the Houston community. For more information about TiE Houston and its initiatives, please visit www.houston.tie.org

About TiE Houston:

TiE Houston is the local chapter of TiE Global, a global network of chapters dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship through mentoring, networking, and education. TiE Houston provides a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and grow their businesses while contributing to the economic development of the Houston region.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Hannah Lightner

Director, Digital Media

TiE Houston

[email protected]