Austin, TX
NuFund Venture Launches New Austin, Texas-Based Cluster
NuFund Venture Group, one of the nation’s largest and most active early-stage investor networks, has announced the launch of its new Austin Cluster. This expansion into the Texas Market represents the next step in NuFund’s mission to build thriving startup ecosystems beyond its Southern California roots.
NuFund sees Austin as a central hub for innovation, offering many opportunities for startups and investors alike. And the Austin Cluster aims to create stronger ties between Southern California and the growing startup scene in Texas, further amplifying NuFund’s efforts to support emerging companies across various industries.
NuFund’s record of success includes over 55 exits since 2005, investments in over 100 companies, and a commitment to backing high-impact ventures that drive innovation and economic growth. The group has continuously evolved its model to effectively support founders and investors, using a systematic approach to deal flow, portfolio health, and support processes.
To start its entry into the Austin market, NuFund recently organized a founders & funders virtual showcase with Austin Next and other ecosystem builders’ participation. It subsequently co-hosted an event with global VC Antler, attracting over 50 investors, founders, and startup stakeholders. And the strong turnout reflected the excitement and potential within Austin’s entrepreneurial community, highlighting the city’s vibrant startup culture and laying the groundwork for future collaborations. NuFund is eager to contribute to and grow alongside this ecosystem.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are thrilled to be expanding into Austin, a city bursting with energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Our goal is to bridge the gap between Southern California and Austin’s vibrant startup scene, providing founders access to the strategic guidance, capital, and expansive network they need to succeed. By working closely with local investors and partners like Antler, we’re excited to make a lasting impact on the ATX startup community.”
-Serhat Pala, President of NuFund Venture Group
“NuFund’s decision to establish an Austin presence reflects our confidence in its rapidly growing innovation ecosystem. There is tremendous potential here in Austin and we’re committed to supporting founders and fostering relationships that drive growth, both for local startups and the broader community.”
-James Burkett, who is leading NuFund’s efforts on the ground
Austin, TX
Texas A&M holds off Texas, ends long drought in Austin
Rashaun Agee and Rylan Griffen scored 17 points each as Texas A&M outlasted Texas 74-70 on Saturday in a key Southeastern Conference dustup between the two rivals in Austin, Texas.
The contest was tied at 29 at halftime before the Aggies (14-4, 4-1 SEC) surged to the front by 10 points early in the second half. Texas pulled to within 68-62 when Jordan Pope converted a four-point play with 4:37 left.
Ali Dibba’s layup and a 3-pointer by Jacari Lane, the latter with 3:02 remaining, built the A&M lead to 11 points but the Longhorns made a final surge, drawing to 73-70 on Chendall Weaver’s putback layup with 7.9 seconds to play.
Lane then canned a free throw to close out the game and the Longhorns, as Texas A&M ended an 11-game road losing streak to the Longhorns.
Ruben Dominguez added 10 points and Agee grabbed 11 rebounds for the Aggies, who have won seven of their past eight games.
Pope and Dailyn Swain led Texas with 17 points apiece, with Matas Vokietaitis scoring 14 and Tramon Mark adding 13 points. The Longhorns (11-7, 2-3 SEC) had a two-game winning streak snapped.
Texas opened the game by scoring seven of the first nine points before the Aggies roared back with a 10-2 run, going up 12-9 on a putback dunk by Jamie Vinson at the 10:49 mark of the half. A&M pushed its lead to four points on a Pop Issacs’ layup with 8:37 to play but the Longhorns swung back, retaking the lead at 15-14 when Mark drove the lane for a short jumper 50 seconds later.
Texas expanded the margin to six points after Swain’s free throw with 3:36 to play until halftime but the Aggies answered with a 11-2 run punctuated by a pair of free throws by Lane with 17 seconds left in the half. That was just enough time for Mark to find the space to hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer that tied the game at 29 at the break.
Vokietaitis led all scorers with 11 points before halftime while Agee and Dominguez hit for seven each to pace Texas A&M.
A&M roared out of the gate over the first four-and-a-half minutes of the second half, building a 46-36 lead after Dibba’s layup with 15:25 to play.
–Field Level Media
Austin, TX
Top 5 Events In Austin Today – Saturday, 17th January, 2026

Updated: Saturday, January 17, 2026
This Saturday, January 17th, 2026, Austin is radiating with energy, offering a soulful blend of wellness, history, and world-class performance!
Below is my list of the Top 5 events in Austin today. For a complete round-up, check out my article on the best Events Happening in Austin this Weekend!
Today’s highlights offer something for every vibe, whether you’re seeking a fresh perspective at the Metaphysical Fair for Austin or honoring a powerful legacy at the MLK Kids Event in San Marcos. For those looking to move, the Mind, Body, Vacancy series at Vacancy Brewing kicks off your morning with community-focused wellness.
As evening falls, you can choose between the breathtaking choreography of the Mark Morris Dance Group at Bass Concert Hall or an intimate, string-quartet tribute to Coldplay under the glow of candlelight in Georgetown. Whether you’re exploring the arts, diving into spiritual wellness, or enjoying family-friendly history, these top picks capture the very best of the Greater Austin area this Saturday.
Read on to plan your day and make some unforgettable memories in Central Texas!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Top 5 Events in Austin Today – Saturday, 17th January, 2026
Metaphysical Fair for Austin

Image Credit: heartoftexasfairs.com
Experience a day of insight and transformation at the Metaphysical Fair for Austin. Visitors can connect with gifted psychics, healers, and intuitive readers while exploring a variety of metaphysical vendors.
The event also offers a unique opportunity to discover crystals and spiritual tools designed to provide guidance and refresh your energy for the year ahead.
Where: Wyndham Garden Austin, 3401 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX 78741
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026
How Much: Free
MLK Kids Event

Image Credit: dhasmtx.com
Join the Dunbar Heritage Association for a vibrant celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This family-friendly event invites children and teens (ages 3–18) to engage with history through new books, art, videos, and hands-on crafts.
Where: San Marcos Public Library, 625 E Hopkins St, San Marcos, TX 78666
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 10:30 am – 1 pm
How Much: Free
Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay on Strings
Experience the music of Coldplay reimagined for a string quartet at the Alma Thomas Fine Arts Center at Southwestern University.
The evening’s tentative program features orchestral arrangements of the band’s most iconic hits, including “Yellow,” “The Scientist,” “Fix You,” and “A Sky Full of Stars.” Secure your tickets to enjoy these contemporary anthems in an intimate, atmospheric environment.
Where: Alma Thomas Fine Arts Center at Southwestern University, 1001 E University Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 8:45 pm
How Much: Starts at $31
Mind, Body, Vacancy: Social Wellness Series at Vacancy Brewing

Image Credit: Vacancy Brewing FB Page
Join us at Vacancy Brewing for Mind, Body, Vacancy, a four-week social wellness series at Vacancy Brewing focused on movement, community, and good vibes. Each week brings a new local fitness partner and class style, all levels welcome.
Where: 415 E St Elmo Rd 1 d2, Austin, TX 78745
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 11 am
How Much: Free
Mark Morris Dance Group: The Look of Love

Image Credit: texasperformingarts.org
This production celebrates Bacharach’s sophisticated musical style, which blends jazz, rock, and Brazilian influences with the evocative, bittersweet lyrics of Hal David. The production is anchored by a live ensemble of piano, trumpet, bass, and drums, led by the powerhouse vocals of Broadway star Marcy Harriell.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Not stated
Austin, TX
Central Texas ICE operations called ‘not American’ as concern of future raids grows
AUSTIN, Texas — The organization Mano Amiga and U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett have voiced strong opposition to recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Central Texas. Natasha Martin from Mano Amiga expressed concern over the impact of these operations, stating, “Fear is definitely the emotion that is at the forefront of the community.” Martin added that ICE’s actions are “eroding community trust, and it is putting vulnerable families at risk.”
Rep. Doggett criticized ICE agents after viewing footage of an arrest in Hays County, which reportedly resulted in a detainee being injured. “ICE is going out and deliberately causing violent situations,” Doggett said, emphasizing that such actions are “not American.”
Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, defended ICE officers, stating they are trained in “driving training, firearm training, de-escalation training.”
While Doggett supports the removal of undocumented immigrants causing trouble, he insists on demanding more information from ICE.
ALSO| ICE operations confirmed in Hays County, local officials respond
Most notably, transparency when it comes to notifying the appropriate officials, saying, “what we can do is continue to demand more information from them,” and that a lack of notification, “It’s unfair to them. It’s unfair to our neighbors to have these kinds of mask operations dragging people out of cars and homes.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s office did not directly respond to inquiries about whether they were notified ahead of the operations, but reiterated support for the Trump administration’s deportation efforts. Press Secretary Andrew Mahaleris stated the following:
Governor Abbott fully supports using every tool and strategy to aid in the Trump Administration’s deportation of illegal immigrants, and city and county officials across the state should fully cooperate in those efforts. Texas is a law-and-order state, and it works hand in glove with ICE every single day to uphold the laws of this country. Texas will continue to assist the Trump Administration in arresting, detaining, and deporting illegal immigrants.
Doggett announced he would not support an upcoming appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security, advocating instead for border security. Meanwhile, Austin city leaders plan to review local police policies regarding compliance with ICE.
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