Genuine Connect
Turning inclusion into action
A two-day forum bringing together students, business leaders, educators, advocates, policymakers, and families to advance inclusion and expand pathways to employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism.
Dates: Saturday, July 25 & Sunday, July 26
Venue: Rice University • Houston, TX
Format: Panels • Workshops • Research Showcase • Volunteer Experience
Hosted by: The Genuine Foundation
Beyond Awareness
Hosted by the Genuine Foundation, Genuine Connect is the ideas and action platform alongside Genuine Cup.
While the tournament creates global visibility through sport, Genuine Connect focuses on what comes next, bringing together the people shaping education, hiring, policy, and advocacy to discuss real solutions around inclusion and employability.
Through panels, workshops, research presentations, and collaborative sessions participants share proven models, challenge assumptions, and build connections that extend beyond the event itself.
The Program
Industry & Policy Panels
Speakers from University of Texas, Rice University, Best Buddies, Bank of America, HP, and Special Olympics and more, share real stories and real strategies.
Student Research Showcase
Selected students present research and ideas related to IDD, neurodiversity, workforce inclusion, and accessibility
Film Screening
Special premiere of the Genuine documentary.
Genuine Cup Volunteer
Participants have the opportunity to support Genuine Cup through volunteering, connecting discussion with real-world action
Who Should Attend
- Students
- Employers
- HR and talent professionals
- Policymakers
- Educators
- Advocates
- Researchers
- Families
- Anyone working to build more inclusive pathways to opportunity