AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--STATION TEXAS, a newly launched nonprofit dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship and innovation across the state, announces Riffat Manasia as its founding Executive Director. Powered by Capital Factory, the organization aims to strengthen Texas's innovation landscape by fostering collaboration among startups, researchers, investors, universities, and public institutions, focusing on defense, biotech, space, energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, and beyond.
"Riffat is exactly the kind of leader we were hoping to attract when we launched STATION TEXAS. She knows how to connect the dots between ideas, institutions, and innovators," said Joshua Baer, Founder and CEO of Capital Factory.
"A rising tide lifts all boats—and that's exactly what STATION TEXAS is here to do," said Bryan Chambers, Co-Founder and President of Capital Factory.
"Texas has the talent, vision, and momentum to lead the future of innovation—not just in the U.S., but globally," said Riffat Manasia, Founding Executive Director of STATION TEXAS. Ms. Manasia brings over 20 years of experience at the intersection of innovation, strategy, and global impact. She founded a consulting organization and led high-level research across post-9/11 Afghanistan, advised four-star generals and global diplomats, and helped launch accelerators and innovation hubs across Africa.
Initial programming launches in spring and summer 2025, focusing on federal innovation investment, founder training, and cross-sector partnerships.
About STATION TEXAS
STATION TEXAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit accelerating entrepreneurship and innovation statewide. The organization unifies innovation infrastructure by connecting founders, funders, universities, and government by providing education, training, and support.
About Capital Factory
Capital Factory is the center of gravity for entrepreneurs outside of Silicon Valley. Operating in Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Washington, DC, Capital Factory connects entrepreneurs to investors, employees, mentors, and customers.
Contacts
Riffat Manasia, Executive Director
riffatmanasia@capitalfactory.com
director@stationtexas.org