about us

OpenHouston / About Us

Our Mission

To cultivate a thriving, globally connected community of entrepreneurs and leaders that drives innovation, collaboration, and inclusive prosperity- honoring our cultural roots while shaping OPEN’s future as a hub for economic and social impact

Mission & Vision Section

HOW WE DO IT

Thought leadership events & panel discussions
Entrepreneurship roundtables & startup showcases
Women’s and Emerging Leaders series
Professional development & mentorship programs
Socials, family gatherings, and community celebrations
Access to a global OPEN network across 7+ chapters

WHO WE SERVE

Charter Members — Senior leaders, founders, and innovators who anchor our community with deep expertise and active engagement
Rising Professionals — Emerging leaders, creatives, and change agents seeking growth and opportunity
Entrepreneurs & Operators — Startup founders, business owners, and problem-solvers building the next generation of ventures
Strategic Partners — Universities and their students, accelerators, corporations, and investors committed to inclusive innovation

Our Programs

All our Programs for Connecting Houston’s Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Leaders

Roundtable

Now in its 7th year, the Roundtable is a quarterly meet-up for current and aspiring entrepreneurs, hosted by investor, founder, and CEO Kemal Farid (founding partner L37 Ventures, and was previously founder/CEO of Merrick).

Access

Access is a series of interviews with leading creators, thinkers, and entrepreneurs. Join us for access to cutting edge insights and opportunities from innovators that are shaping the future.

Women’s Leadership

A forum for accomplished and aspiring women leaders to discuss their career and entrepreneurial journeys.

Emerging Leaders

Connecting students and young professionals with founders, executives, and leaders from a variety of industries and professions.