Texas Innovation Super Connectors & Communities
Texas Venture Gala & Forum 2026’s “Texas Innovation Super Connectors & Communities”; Moderated by Founder Institute Head of Public Affairs; Startup Ecosystems: Understanding Why Startups Thrive & Ecosystems Fail Author, Paul O’Brien
The panel featured F.I.E.S.T.A. (Founders, Investors, Entrepreneurs, Startups, Techies, Austin Newcomers) Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer, Cherie Werner; TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) Global Former Board of Trustees; TiE Austin President; U.S.-India Chamber of Commerce Austin; Avasant President, Anupam Govil; and Geek Ventures Investment Team; Austin Under 40 Finalist; Texas Venture Gala & Forum Chief of Staff, Sarah Romanko.
Panelists discussed the role of relationships, mentorship, and collaboration in helping Texas startups grow. “Collaboration over competition” was a central theme, as speakers encouraged entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem builders to close the gaps that keep founders from finding the right resources, connections, and support. The discussion emphasized that raw talent alone is not enough for startup success—founders also need access to investors, buyers, mentors, and a strong support network.
Ballistic Ventures Founder and Partner Roger Thornton and Tiger21 Austin Chapter Lead Gabriel Baldinucci
Organizations including F.I.E.S.T.A., TiE Austin, the U.S.-India Chamber of Commerce Austin, and Geek Ventures were highlighted as examples of groups helping founders become more visible, connected, and supported across the Texas startup ecosystem.
Comments from O’Brien: “Love supporting that Texas is hosting the Venture Forum at the Capitol; a serious push to work on the impact of policy and state legislation on entrepreneurship. Feels good being back in here. There is nothing I love more than being in a room full of people who believe that what they're building matters…CS Freeland a standing ovation on a well-done Texas Venture Gala!” Read more here.
The energy in these rooms reminded me why I do the work I do. To the entrepreneurs and investors who showed up, spoke up, and celebrated, you are the reason ecosystems grow. And to everyone who came to celebrate them, thank you for proving that community is not just a word; it's what makes it work and worthwhile. More from his post here.
Comments from Werner: “Show me an ecosystem where the key players come together for the greater good, and I will show you a place where real impact and economic growth can happen. A strong startup ecosystem requires all the key players supporting one another: government, universities, corporations, venture capitalists, economic development leaders, founders, and community builders. That is exactly what I experienced this week at the Texas Venture Gala & Forum.
The rooms were filled with friends, CEOs, economic development leaders, venture capitalists, founders, and ecosystem builders, giving me a broader view of what is happening across Central Texas and the larger Texas startup and innovation scene. A huge shoutout to CS Freeland for bringing together such an incredible group of people who care deeply about seeing the Texas tech ecosystem grow stronger and better. And right by her side was Sarah Romanko, who is truly a cheerleader for all and brings such generous energy into every room she enters.”
This Texas Venture Gala & Forum panel recap was made possible by our Editorial Partner, Texas State University. Their McCoy College of Business Center for Student Entrepreneurship program exists to prepare the next generation of founders to build ventures that matter. Learn more about their innovation and commercialization here. Check out the entire Texas Venture Gala & Forum 2026 recap here.
