Miami Startup Ecosystem Builder Joins Forces with Houston Exponential as the Dir. of Inclusive Innovation

Houston, November 8, 2021 — Houston Exponential, announced today the appointment of Ivery Boston III as the Director of Inclusive Innovation, effective today.

As the most diverse city in America, Houston must lead in creating a tech economy that works for all. The Director of Inclusive Innovation will lead this charge by prototyping and testing new inclusive ideas and ways of operating, galvanizing a community of ecosystem-builders, founders, and talent; and creating onramps and opportunities for underrepresented founders to succeed in Houston.

“Other cities, in their pursuits of being the next ‘Silicon Valley’ followed the coastal playbook and weren’t deliberate to support underserved entrepreneurs,” said Serafina Lalany, Executive Director of Houston Exponential. “There is still much work to be done to address subtle and persistent forms of bias in the ways underrepresented founders access the resources, capital, and talent needed to thrive here in Houston. This move, for Houston Exponential and for the City of Houston, is part of an intentional strategy to foster a more inclusive, accessible ecosystem.”

Prior to joining Houston Exponential, Ivery Boston III was leading research, strategy, recruitment of high-growth startups, and impact reporting for the Miami innovation ecosystem.

“I am excited to serve the Houston community as the Director of Inclusive Innovation at Houston Exponential,” shares Ivery Boston. “I’m a massive fan of HX’s work advocating for, connecting, and raising the profile of the Houston innovation ecosystem while linking local founders to funding. It is a privilege to join this exemplary team and provide additional attention to underrepresented and under-encouraged founders within the city.

I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and ensuring that all Houstonians can see a viable path to entrepreneurship. It’s time to leverage Houston’s diversity to bring in additional funding sources, create jobs, and use the profound local awareness of the world to launch businesses, services, and products that serve the global market.”