The 2021 Houston Tech Rodeo, a festival that brings together technology, innovation and popular culture, kicks off May 17. Now in its second year, the weeklong event hosted by Houston Exponential will feature panel discussions, keynote speakers and other experiences virtually and in person. Topics range from diversity and space technology to eSports and blockchain.  

Here's what to look out for at Houston Tech Rodeo. 

Diversity in Houston Tech a Standout Theme

The festival kicks off with a fireside chat about diversity in tech and automotive industries with Percy (Master P) Miller. The hip-hop artist and entrepreneur recently started a $10 million fund to invest in founders of color, giving them the opportunity to receive funding for their projects and businesses. The event will be held Monday, May 18 at 8 p.m. Attendees can watch virtually via a livestream or attend in person at 8th Wonder Brewery. 

Houston Tech Rodeo will also feature events focused around specific diversity theme. That includes Born Global, the international track featuring storytelling, fireside chats and more to celebrate native and international Houstonians' tech innovation and cultural heritage. Organizers said the goal is to build a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive international innovation ecosystem in greater Houston. Attendees can find multiple sessions throughout the day on Thursday, May 20.

Featured speakers of the international track include:

• Diane Yoo, Managing Partner at Medingenii Capital
• Maria Maso, Founder and CEO at baMa (business angel Minority association)
• Sunny Zhang, Founding Partner at Z LAB
• Andrea Course, Venture Principal at Shell
• Jahan Jafarpour, Co-Director of Global Young Professionals, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston

Esports and Video Game Enthusiasts Won't Be Left Out

The festival will include several sessions dedicated to esports, including panel discussions around how esports is transforming the business of competitive entertainment and how Houston can build its own creative economy. Events are sprinkled throughout the week and will be capped off with a gaming tournament on Saturday, May 22.

Speakers include:

• Lori Burgess, COO, Beasley Esports/Houston Outlaws
• Shawn Quill, National Sports Industry Leader, KPMG
• Kyla Kennedy, Sr. Director, Client Services, Mainline
• Jessica Hammond, Chief Culture Officer, Evil Geniuses

Founders Will Compete for a $50,000 Investment 

Capital Factory is hosting its challenge on Friday, May 21 at 2 p.m. where a panel of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists will evaluate five technology startup finalists. The first prize winner will receive a $50,0000 investment. 

Learn more about the tremendous growth in Houston’s tech ecosystem in recent years.