10 Successful Entrepreneurs in Houston You Need to Know
Houston may be most well-known for its energy industry, but it’s also a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. With a thriving startup scene and a supportive business community, it’s no wonder that many successful entrepreneurs call Houston home. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 10 of the most successful entrepreneurs in Houston that you need to know.
1. Tilman Fertitta
Tilman Fertitta is the owner of Landry’s Inc., a multi-billion dollar company that owns and operates over 600 restaurants, hotels, and casinos around the world. Fertitta started his career in the restaurant industry and quickly grew his empire by acquiring struggling businesses and turning them into profitable ventures. He is also the owner of the Houston Rockets.
2. Janice Jucker
Janice Jucker is the co-owner of Three Brothers Bakery, a Houston institution that has been operating for over 70 years. Jucker took over the business with her husband after his sudden death and has since expanded the bakery’s offerings to include catering and wholesale. Three Brothers Bakery has won numerous awards and is a favorite among Houstonians.
3. Lina Hidalgo
Lina Hidalgo was elected as the Harris County Judge in 2018, becoming the first woman and first Latina to hold the position. Hidalgo is a Harvard-educated immigrant from Colombia who has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of all Harris County residents. As judge, she has implemented progressive policies related to criminal justice reform, flood control, and COVID-19 response.
4. Christopher Nguyen
Christopher Nguyen is the founder and CEO of Arundo Analytics, a Houston-based company that provides data analytics solutions for the industrial sector. Nguyen started the company in 2013 and has since raised over $32 million in funding. Arundo Analytics has worked with some of the largest energy companies in the world and has been recognized as a leader in the digital transformation of the industry.
5. Rachel H. Loya
Rachel H. Loya is the founder and CEO of Galangal Group, a Houston-based company that specializes in web design, digital marketing, and branding. Loya started the company in 2012 and has grown it into a full-service agency with clients around the world. Galangal Group has won numerous awards for its work and is known for its innovative and creative approach to marketing.
6. David Tran
David Tran is the founder and CEO of DMT Development, a Houston-based company that specializes in real estate development, construction, and property management. Tran started the company in 2009 and has since developed over 4 million square feet of commercial and residential space. DMT Development is known for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
7. Katrina Barlow
Katrina Barlow is the founder and CEO of Fund for Teachers, a Houston-based nonprofit organization that provides professional development opportunities for teachers. Barlow started the organization in 2001 and has since awarded over $50 million in grants to over 8,500 teachers. Fund for Teachers is known for its innovative approach to teacher development and has been recognized by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
8. Gus Rojas
Gus Rojas is the founder and CEO of Rojas Construction, a Houston-based company that provides construction services for commercial and residential projects. Rojas started the company in 1987 and has since built a reputation for quality and professionalism. Rojas Construction has worked on some of the most iconic buildings in Houston, including the Nau Center for Texas Cultural Heritage.
9. Gaby Rowe
Gaby Rowe is the CEO of Banza, a Houston-based company that specializes in making pasta from chickpeas. Rowe joined Banza in 2015 and has since grown the company into a multimillion-dollar business with products available in over 14,000 stores nationwide. Banza is known for its commitment to health and sustainability and has been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes and Food & Wine.
10. Anthony Shipp
Anthony Shipp is the founder and CEO of Heritage Construction, a Houston-based company that specializes in restoration and renovation of historic properties. Shipp started the company in 2006 and has since worked on some of the most iconic buildings in Houston, including the Astrodome. Heritage Construction is known for its commitment to preserving Houston’s architectural heritage and has won numerous awards for its work.
Conclusion
Houston is a city known for its entrepreneurial spirit and these 10 successful entrepreneurs are a testament to that. From Tilman Fertitta’s restaurant empire to Lina Hidalgo’s progressive policies, Houston continues to be a hub of innovation and creativity. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or simply interested in the Houston business scene, these 10 entrepreneurs are definitely worth keeping an eye on.
