Ion — from the Greek ienai, “go” — is the ever-forward motion of discovery, the spark of a truly original idea. The Ion is Houston’s nucleus for innovation, fostering a community and culture where entrepreneurs and corporations come together to solve some of the world’s greatest problems.

The long-awaited renovation of the historic Sears building on Houston’s Main Street will begin in May 2019, launching the project that will transform a local landmark into the centerpiece of a thriving innovation district.

The renovated building will be rechristened as The Ion, a 270,000-square foot structure designed to bring the area’s entrepreneurial, corporate and academic communities together into collaborative spaces and programs. The former Sears Building will support businesses at all stages of the innovation lifecycle and provide resources for Houstonians seeking to participate in the innovation economy. Academic and corporate partners will be integrated into a robust environment of educational events, demonstrations, hack-a-thons and programming. A mix of restaurant and entertainment amenities will make the building a continuous hive of collaboration and activity.