OwlSpark (Rice University)

Vision

A family of like-minded thinkers and doers, and a network that enables entrepreneurs to do cool things that make a difference.

Strategic Direction

OwlSpark runs a 12-week, cohort-based summer accelerator for Rice-affiliated startups and small businesses, operated in partnership with the University of Houston's RED Labs at the Ion. Founders get connections with mentors and industry leaders, immersion in the Houston ecosystem, rigorous training, and hands-on guidance. The program is flexible, bringing in speakers and content matched to each cohort's businesses and stages, and it culminates in the Bayou Startup Showcase demo day.

Mission

To ignite a passion for entrepreneurship within the Rice community and give founders hands-on entrepreneurship experience and a roadmap from innovation to commercialization.

Who They Are

OwlSpark is Rice University's startup and small business accelerator, founded in 2012. They serve early-stage ventures across a wide range of industries, led by Rice students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Since 2013 they have supported 229 founders and launched 104 ventures, which have collectively raised more than $116M. Their 13th cohort (2025) included 11 companies.