Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HTXelerator?
The HTXelerator is a nonprofit corporation that has applied for 501(c)(3) status whose vision for Houston is an inclusive community that provides opportunity for all its citizens. Formed in 2021, the HTXelerator's mission is to identify and prepare future-focused leaders for public service and educate the community about solutions that will improve Houstonians’ quality of life for generations to come.
What need will the HTXelerator address?
The HTXelerator is a way to engage future-focused leaders from all parts of the community to advocate for big ideas, serve on boards and commissions, or run for city council.
How will the HTXelerator grow future-focused leaders?
The HTXelerator was formed to serve as an early engagement organization that trains future-focused leaders to advocate for big ideas, serve on boards and commissions, or run for city council. The program uses an “accelerator” model to recruit and train potential city-council candidates, board and commission members, and community leaders who are equipped to focus on solutions that position Houston for future success, long-term sustainability, and excellent quality of life.
How will the HTXelerator work?
Successful applicants (25 per class) complete rigorous training and benefit from mentorship with experienced elected officials and community leaders during opening and closing weekend retreats and nine weekly evening sessions. Class members then participate in a pitch-style competition before an expert panel of judges, followed by the HTXL Games where nine finalists participate in a public event culminating in three winners (gold, silver, and bronze medalists).
What is the timeline for the HTXelerator?
The application process is open until August 3, 2021. The competitive application process produces 25 class members who will be announced publicly on August 10, 2021. The opening weekend retreat is scheduled for September 11-12, 2021 with the program-closing HTXL Games scheduled for December 15, 2021.
Why use an accelerator approach to train future candidates?
In the tech startup world, the accelerator model gathers a cohort for a fixed period of time to gain community, training, mentorship and incentives to accelerate their development. The model culminates in a public pitch event which can result in investment by judges or other investors. We believe the HTXelerator’s training, mentorship, and competition helps class members synthesize the information they have learned and articulate it in a concise and compelling manner. It is particularly helpful if a class member chooses to serve on a board or commission or run for office.
Who is behind the HTXelerator?
The Executive Director is Randy Romman, a lifelong Houston resident, Founder of Walking Houston, and former energy professional. The HTXelerator is also served by its Board Members, Jose Beceiro of the Greater Houston Partnership, and Durg Kumar of Knightsgate Ventures.
Aren't there existing groups doing the same work?
There are organizations that share some of the values of the HTXelerator. However, the HTXelerator is meant to nurture future-focused leaders with bold ideas, that are focused on running for boards, commissions, or in some cases, Houston City Council. The program is compact and cost effective to ensure members from all parts of the community that want training for civil service have a chance to get involved.
What are the HTXelerator’s core values?
The HTXelerator has identified four core issue areas:
1. Good Government
2. Leadership
3. Responsible Growth
4. Smart Cities
How can I invest in the HTXelerator?
The HTXelerator is a nonprofit corporation that has applied for 501(c)(3) status. It is actively seeking donations to carry out its mission of promoting future-focused policy. Please visit www.htxelerator.org/donate.