Work With Us

From Idea to Impact: Fueling Innovation at Rice.

Apply Here

Rice Nexus Incubator is a program designed to provide resources and mentorship needed to convert an idea to a minimum viable product that can potentially be funded by investors

The Incubator will equip innovators with office space, mentorship, networking opportunities, and other resources to help entrepreneurs develop and launch their products. The program lasts for 12 months and involves regular check-ins, workshops, and presentations to potential investors.

The Incubator is expected to help many entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses. Some of the future success stories are expected to include startups in the healthcare, energy, and space sectors.

Rice Nexus Annex

Lead Engineer: Grant Belton

Office Hours: Tues/Thurs: 12-5pm

Services Offered

  • CAD design

  • 3D printing tutorial

  • Carbon printing tutorial

  • Prototype design

Current Nexus Companies in the Prototyping Lab

  • TAMOS

  • Healthseers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Startup Requirements:

    Rice-affiliated: Spin-off with Rice-licensed technology, or alumni-founded or alumni-led.

    AND

    • Software startups: Raised less than $1 million.

    • Hardware startups: Raised less than $2 million.

    AND

    • Incorporated in the last 18 months prior to application 

  • Nexus Residents: Designed for founders who want a deeper, more consistent presence in the space. Residents are assigned dedicated desks and are typically in the office several days a week. This is ideal for those looking to build momentum, form strong peer connections, and immerse themselves in the daily energy of the Nexus.

    Nexus Community Members: Perfect for founders and innovators who want flexible access to the Nexus ecosystem. Community Members can drop in as needed, attend events, and participate in programming while maintaining a lighter footprint.

    Apply here.

  • Eligible startups can apply for coworking space using the Google form available here.

  • The Rice Nexus will receive all coworking applications and bring them to an internal committee. The internal committee convenes weekly to meet the demand of interest at the Rice Nexus. Due to high demand for desk space, applications may sit on the waitlist for an extended period.

  • Companies are required to have an in-office presence during business hours at least 3x a week. Companies failing to meet this requirement may be at risk for being removed from the Rice Nexus.

  • The Rice Nexus Incubator offers coworking space at no cost for the first 12 months for eligible Rice-affiliated startups. The office also has conference rooms available upon request, phone booths, and coffee/snacks. The Rice Nexus also coordinates events and mentorship programs throughout the year.