US Department of Energy

Michigan State University, founded in 1855 and located in East Lansing, Michigan, is a comprehensive educational institution offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and research programs across various fields, including business, humanities, science and technology, and public affairs. Its academic structure comprises several colleges, including the Eli Broad College of Business and the Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, among others. In addition to its educational mission, Michigan State University manages an endowment fund with $200 million in assets, employing alternative investment strategies such as buyouts, hedge funds, and venture capital. The endowment aims for a net internal rate of return of 10%, with allocations of up to 11% of total assets dedicated to alternative investments. This fund has been operational since 1988, highlighting the university's commitment to financial stewardship in support of its educational objectives.

Niron Magnetics, Inc. is a manufacturer of advanced permanent iron nitride magnets, established in 2013 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company specializes in creating innovative magnetic materials that are designed to enhance performance and efficiency across various industrial applications, including motors and generators. Niron's iron nitride magnets offer significant advantages over traditional ferrite and NdFeB-based magnets, such as greater magnetization and higher magnetic flux density. This enables automotive and computer manufacturers to achieve reductions in size and weight for their motors without sacrificing power or torque. Additionally, Niron Magnetics collaborates with government entities and investors to support national security initiatives through its cutting-edge technology.

Michigan Potash Company, LLC, established in 2011 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, specializes in the production and supply of potash and salt within the United States. The company provides white muriate of potash, a vital plant nutrient used primarily in fertilizers, alongside various salt products, including food-grade kosher salt, water softening agents, and de-icing salts. Michigan Potash Company holds significant recoverable reserves, enabling it to support both agricultural and industrial sectors. Its offerings cater to diverse applications, including fertilizer production, industrial processes, and food manufacturing, thereby playing a crucial role in the supply chain for essential agricultural resources.

DTE Energy is a major provider of gas and electric utility services in Michigan, serving approximately 2.3 million customers through its DTE Electric division and 1.3 million customers via DTE Gas. The company operates two regulated utilities that account for a significant portion of its earnings. In addition to its utility services, DTE Energy is involved in nonutility ventures, including energy marketing and trading, renewable natural gas facilities, and on-site industrial energy projects. The company is committed to fostering community development and supports various initiatives through the DTE Energy Foundation, which focuses on arts, education, and environmental needs, among others.

StarPlus Energy is a manufacturer based in Kokomo, Indiana, specializing in the production of batteries for electric vehicles. The company focuses on revolutionizing the electric vehicle battery manufacturing process, aiming to enhance performance and efficiency in this rapidly growing sector. By leveraging innovative technologies and production techniques, StarPlus Energy seeks to contribute to the advancement of sustainable transportation solutions.

ArcelorMittal USA LLC, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a manufacturer and supplier of a wide range of steel products, including flat products like hot-rolled and cold-rolled sheets, steel plates, coated steel products, and tin sheets. The company also produces long products such as railroad rails and ingots, as well as welded products and various tubular products. In addition to steel, ArcelorMittal USA manufactures iron ore and metallurgical coal. Its diverse customer base spans several sectors, including automotive, energy, construction, packaging, transportation, and heavy machinery. Established in 2002, the company operates additional facilities in East Chicago, Indiana, and Richfield, Ohio. As of December 2010, it operates as a subsidiary of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

FirstEnergy Corporation, established in 1996 and headquartered in Akron, Ohio, is a diversified energy company that generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately six million customers across Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. The company operates through regulated distribution and transmission segments, owning and managing a vast network of power plants, transmission lines, and distribution systems. These include coal-fired, nuclear, hydroelectric, natural gas, wind, and solar facilities, as well as 24,486 circuit miles of transmission lines and 269,691 miles of distribution lines, with a total installed transformer capacity of approximately 156,115,196 kilovolt-amperes. In addition to its core operations, FirstEnergy also provides energy-related products and services to retail and wholesale customers, contributing to the strengthening of local communities through its foundation's support of nonprofit organizations.

Caterpillar Inc., established in 1925, is a leading American corporation that designs, manufactures, markets, and sells heavy machinery, engines, and financial products globally. The company operates through four segments: Construction Industries, Resource Industries, Energy & Transportation, and Cat Financial. Its extensive product portfolio includes construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, diesel-electric locomotives, and financial services. Caterpillar's global presence is supported by over 2,700 dealer branches across the world, ensuring widespread availability of its products. The company is committed to innovation, investing over $2 billion annually in research and development, and holds thousands of patents worldwide. Additionally, Caterpillar Ventures invests in early-round ventures to foster growth and sustainability, while the Caterpillar Foundation focuses on enhancing human, ecological, and basic services infrastructure.

The University of Akron Endowment, based in Akron, Ohio, is a non-profit organization that manages an endowment fund to support various initiatives within The University of Akron. These initiatives include scholarships, prominent teaching positions, continuing educational programs, and specific projects. The endowment is overseen by the university's executive management team, ensuring the responsible allocation of funds to foster academic, professional, and personal growth among its students.

Ohio University, located in Athens, Ohio, has been a hub for education and entrepreneurship since its founding. The Ohio University Innovation Center, established in 1983, supports entrepreneurs in transforming innovative ideas into successful businesses. By providing access to a network of industry experts and essential resources, the Innovation Center helps startups stabilize and grow. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including degrees in Biological Sciences, Creative Writing, Health Services Administration, and Psychology, catering to the educational needs of students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees. To ensure students succeed academically, Ohio University provides various support services, including tutoring and writing assistance through its academic advancement center. Additionally, the vibrant student life on campus features strong arts programs and cultural activities. Financial aid advisors are available to assist students in navigating funding options, ensuring that they can afford their education.

NanoGraf Corporation is a materials science company based in Chicago, Illinois, focused on the development and commercialization of advanced materials for the energy storage market. Founded in 2012, the company specializes in silicon-graphene electrode materials designed for lithium-ion batteries, which offer higher energy density and reduced charging times compared to traditional graphitic-based anodes. These innovative materials have potential applications across various sectors, including consumer electronics and electric vehicles. NanoGraf's technology aims to enhance battery capacity while enabling cost-effective production through a chemistry-based manufacturing process.

Gas Technology Institute is a research, development, and training organization addressing energy and environmental challenges to enable a secure, abundant, and affordable energy future. The company provides economic value to the natural gas industry and energy markets by developing technology-based solutions for industry, government, and consumers. Its research initiatives address issues impacting the natural gas and energy markets across the industry’s value chain—supply, delivery, and end use. GTI offers an integrated systems perspective to expand the supply of affordable energy, ensure a safe and reliable energy delivery infrastructure, and promote the efficient use of energy resources. GTI is based in Des Plaines, Illinois, founded in 1941 as a non-profit corporation.

NETenergy is a Chicago-based company specializing in thermal energy storage technology. It has developed an innovative thermal battery that stores cold energy during off-peak hours. This stored energy can then be utilized to cool buildings during peak hours, when energy costs are typically higher. By implementing this technology, building owners can significantly reduce their energy consumption, lower their energy bills, and decrease their carbon emissions. NETenergy's approach aims to enhance energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Purdue University, established in 1869, is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It is renowned for its programs in science, technology, engineering, and agriculture, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university's operations are funded through a combination of public and private sources, with a significant portion coming from its endowment. This endowment, managed by the board of trustees, is built from gifts by alumni and friends, with the investment income supporting scholarships, professorships, research, and other educational initiatives. Purdue's mission is to provide a high-quality education, conduct groundbreaking research, and engage in outreach activities that serve the state, nation, and world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a prominent research institution and land-grant university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It provides a comprehensive range of liberal arts studies and professional programs, catering to diverse academic interests. The university's expansive campus offers approximately 600 undergraduate and graduate majors, alongside more than 9,000 courses across various disciplines, including fields such as accounting and zoology. Additionally, UW-Madison fosters a vibrant student life with numerous activities and organizations, enhancing the educational experience for its students.

Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a private research university located in Cleveland's University Circle. Established in 1843, it comprises various schools including Medicine, Law, Engineering, Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Social Sciences, Dental Medicine, Management, and Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. CWRU is renowned for its biomedical discoveries, medical education, and top-ranked programs such as international law, health law, and intellectual property law. It offers practical experiences like real-client work and full-time practice experiences to students across various disciplines. The university is accredited by several professional associations and holds membership in the Association of American Universities.

Triton Systems, Inc. (Triton) is an advanced materials, coatings and systems engineering product development firm headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts. Triton selectively combines US Government funds with private equity investments to transition ideas to the marketplace. Founded in 1992, Triton, along with its affiliates, has two locations in Massachusetts, a R&D and manufacturing facility in Fargo, North Dakota, a life science group in Berkeley, California, and a manufacturing site in Domat-EMS, Switzerland.

Eden Park Illumination, Inc. is a lighting technology company based in Champaign, Illinois, established in 2007. The company specializes in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of advanced lighting systems, particularly focusing on ultraviolet (UV) lamps. Its product offerings include various ultraviolet lighting systems, such as the patented Far-UVC 222nm disinfection lamps, which are designed to safely disinfect air and surfaces, helping to mitigate health threats like Covid-19. Eden Park's lamps are recognized for their toxicity-free design, uniform soft glow, and consistent color and intensity, making them suitable for diverse applications including architectural projects, retail displays, and interior lighting. The company benefits from a strong technological foundation, supported by over fifty years of expertise through its affiliation with the Laboratory of Optical Physics and Engineering at the University of Illinois.

ALLETE, Inc. is an energy company based in Duluth, Minnesota, incorporated in 1906. It operates through two primary segments: Regulated Operations and ALLETE Clean Energy. The Regulated Operations segment includes Minnesota Power and Superior Water, Light and Power Company, which provide electric, natural gas, and water services to a significant number of customers in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. Additionally, this segment encompasses an investment in American Transmission Company, a utility that maintains electric transmission infrastructure across parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois. ALLETE Clean Energy focuses on the development, acquisition, and operation of clean and renewable energy projects, operating around 660 megawatts of wind energy generation. The company is also involved in coal mining operations in North Dakota and real estate investments in Florida, while owning and operating multiple substations with substantial capacity.

Generac Power Systems, Inc. is a manufacturer of backup power generators and engine-powered tools, specializing in various power generation solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial markets. The company's product portfolio includes home backup generators, portable generators, business standby generators, and a range of pressure washers and water pumps. Additionally, Generac offers automatic transfer switches and energy storage systems, enhancing its capabilities in home energy management. Its mobile products, such as light towers and generators, are tailored for diverse applications including government, military, construction, and disaster relief. Generac serves a wide array of industries, including healthcare, telecommunications, and hospitality, by distributing its products through retailers, service centers, and dealers both domestically and internationally. Founded in 1959 and headquartered in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Generac operates additional facilities across several locations in the U.S. and abroad, including Latin America and Europe. The company also engages in strategic partnerships to further expand its market presence.

Harley-Davidson, Inc., established in 1903, is a prominent global manufacturer of heavyweight motorcycles, specializing in custom, cruiser, and touring models. The company operates through two segments: Motorcycles and Related Products, and Financial Services. The Motorcycles segment designs, manufactures, and sells motorcycles, parts, accessories, and related services through a network of independent dealers and e-commerce channels worldwide. The Financial Services segment offers wholesale and retail financing, including motorcycle loans, insurance, and protection plans, primarily for Harley-Davidson products. The company's captive finance arm, Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc., supports dealers and customers with financing and insurance services. Harley-Davidson is renowned for its iconic brand and held a market share of approximately 38% in the domestic heavyweight motorcycle market in 2023.

TH Foods, Inc., established in 1984 and headquartered in Loves Park, Illinois, is a global snack food producer. It specializes in a wide array of products, including snack crisps, sesame sticks, corn sticks, baked wheat crackers, rice-based snacks, nuts, dried fruits, and confections. The company is renowned for its commitment to customer service and the quality of its products. As of 2020, TH Foods operates as a subsidiary of Kameda Seika Co., Ltd.

Valence Surface Technologies, LLC is an independent metal finishing company that specializes in serving the aviation, defense, and space industries. Established in 1957 and headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, the company operates multiple facilities across critical aerospace manufacturing hubs, including locations in California, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Georgia. Valence provides a comprehensive suite of services, including aerospace metal finishing, chemical processing (such as anodizing and chemical film coating), plating, painting and spray coating, shot peening, and non-destructive testing. The company is particularly focused on mission-critical components, ensuring stringent quality standards are met for flight-critical parts. Valence's extensive expertise and broad range of capabilities enable it to handle a variety of components, from large structural parts to intricate engine and electronic components, making it a key player in the aerospace and defense sectors.

Purdue University, established in 1869, is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It is renowned for its programs in science, technology, engineering, and agriculture, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university's operations are funded through a combination of public and private sources, with a significant portion coming from its endowment. This endowment, managed by the board of trustees, is built from gifts by alumni and friends, with the investment income supporting scholarships, professorships, research, and other educational initiatives. Purdue's mission is to provide a high-quality education, conduct groundbreaking research, and engage in outreach activities that serve the state, nation, and world.

Avium develops fuels and chemicals from CO2, water, and renewable energy. The company was founded in 2017 and is based in Lawrence, Kansas.

BRITE Energy Innovators, established in 2010 and located in Warren, Ohio, is the state's only energy incubator dedicated to nurturing startups in the energy technology sector. The organization offers a comprehensive range of resources, including advanced technology testing tools, well-equipped labs for energy storage and IoT solutions, and coworking spaces. BRITE's entrepreneur in residence program provides critical expertise and guidance to help startups navigate their development processes and achieve long-term success. Since its inception, BRITE has supported over 200 startups, assisting them in securing more than $60 million in funding. The incubator also serves as a collaborative hub, housing 19 physical tenants and offering event spaces to foster innovation and community engagement.

Iowa State University, founded in 1858 and located in Ames, Iowa, is recognized as a leading public research university with a strong focus on student engagement. It offers a diverse array of over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including fields such as accounting, agriculture, architecture, and business administration. With a vibrant campus life, Iowa State boasts more than 800 student organizations, fostering leadership and personal growth among its culturally diverse student body of over 31,000 individuals from all 50 states and over 110 countries. The university's commitment to academic excellence and a supportive environment empowers students to explore their passions and achieve their potential.

Founded in 1890 as the Armour Institute, the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is a private, independent, nonprofit research university located in Chicago. IIT offers a wide range of programs, including engineering, science, architecture, business, law, design, human sciences, and applied technology, granting degrees up to the Ph.D. level. The university's Chicago location enhances its global recruitment efforts and provides extensive opportunities that inform its educational and research initiatives. Through its innovative research and collaborations, IIT aims to contribute positively to the city of Chicago, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that supports both the institution's growth and the community's development.

Cleveland-Cliffs is a Cleveland, Ohio-based company specializing in the mining and processing of iron ore and coal, while also being a prominent producer of flat-rolled steel products in North America. The company operates through various segments, primarily focused on steelmaking, and is vertically integrated, managing the entire supply chain from raw materials to finished steel products. Its operations are organized by product type and geographic location, including U.S. Iron Ore, Eastern Canadian Iron Ore, Asia Pacific Iron Ore, and North American Coal. Cleveland-Cliffs serves a diverse range of markets with a comprehensive portfolio of offerings, operating primarily in the United States, Canada, and select international locations.

O-I Glass, Inc. is the world's largest manufacturer of glass containers, specializing in products for the food and beverage industry. Founded in 1903 and headquartered in Perrysburg, Ohio, the company produces a diverse range of glass packaging for alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits, as well as non-alcoholic drinks, food items, and pharmaceuticals. O-I Glass operates primarily in the Americas, Europe, and the Asia Pacific, with approximately 70% of its revenue generated from international markets. The company offers glass containers in various sizes, shapes, and colors, and markets its products directly to customers through long-term supply agreements and distributors. O-I Glass aims to maintain and expand its strong positions in key markets, including Europe, North America, and Brazil.

ArcelorMittal USA LLC, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a manufacturer and supplier of a wide range of steel products, including flat products like hot-rolled and cold-rolled sheets, steel plates, coated steel products, and tin sheets. The company also produces long products such as railroad rails and ingots, as well as welded products and various tubular products. In addition to steel, ArcelorMittal USA manufactures iron ore and metallurgical coal. Its diverse customer base spans several sectors, including automotive, energy, construction, packaging, transportation, and heavy machinery. Established in 2002, the company operates additional facilities in East Chicago, Indiana, and Richfield, Ohio. As of December 2010, it operates as a subsidiary of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.

Kansas State University is to encourage outstanding teaching, research, and service that creates highly educated and talented citizens vital to developing Kansas, the country, and the global community.

Iowa State University, founded in 1858 and located in Ames, Iowa, is recognized as a leading public research university with a strong focus on student engagement. It offers a diverse array of over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including fields such as accounting, agriculture, architecture, and business administration. With a vibrant campus life, Iowa State boasts more than 800 student organizations, fostering leadership and personal growth among its culturally diverse student body of over 31,000 individuals from all 50 states and over 110 countries. The university's commitment to academic excellence and a supportive environment empowers students to explore their passions and achieve their potential.

Gas Technology Institute is a research, development, and training organization addressing energy and environmental challenges to enable a secure, abundant, and affordable energy future. The company provides economic value to the natural gas industry and energy markets by developing technology-based solutions for industry, government, and consumers. Its research initiatives address issues impacting the natural gas and energy markets across the industry’s value chain—supply, delivery, and end use. GTI offers an integrated systems perspective to expand the supply of affordable energy, ensure a safe and reliable energy delivery infrastructure, and promote the efficient use of energy resources. GTI is based in Des Plaines, Illinois, founded in 1941 as a non-profit corporation.

Triton Systems, Inc. (Triton) is an advanced materials, coatings and systems engineering product development firm headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts. Triton selectively combines US Government funds with private equity investments to transition ideas to the marketplace. Founded in 1992, Triton, along with its affiliates, has two locations in Massachusetts, a R&D and manufacturing facility in Fargo, North Dakota, a life science group in Berkeley, California, and a manufacturing site in Domat-EMS, Switzerland.

VRC Metal Systems is a manufacturer based in Rapid City, South Dakota, specializing in advanced metalworking equipment and automation systems. Established in 2013, the company focuses on innovative technologies for metal deposition and repair. Its flagship product, the VRC Gen III, is a high-pressure cold spray system that utilizes supersonic speeds to apply metal powders, enabling high-strength coatings and additive manufacturing for parts repair and enhancement. In addition to the cold spray systems, VRC offers a range of products including automated additive and subtractive systems, portable dust collectors, and cold spray consumables. The company also provides integrated installations, on-site support, system calibration, and equipment leasing services, positioning itself as a comprehensive solution provider in the metalworking industry.

Formerly separate institutions, the University of Detroit and Mercy College of Detroit merged in 1990. The result of this consolidation was the University of Detroit Mercy, a comprehensive university with a diverse student body, personalized instruction, and extensive academics. The University of Detroit Mercy consists of these schools: * School of Architecture * College of Business Administration * School of Dentistry * College of Engineering and Science * College of Health Professions (including the McAuley School of Nursing) * School of Law * College of Liberal Arts & Education About 100 programs of study are available, including several top-tier graduate programs. Individualized instruction is a priority at the University of Detroit Mercy, and the school keeps its student-to-faculty ratio low with an average class size of 20. Several financial aid sources are available, including government programs like the Michigan Competitive Scholarship and federal work-study. The university also offers several renewable merit scholarships. Many of these are based on your academic achievements, and some take activities, interests and goals into consideration. All incoming freshmen are automatically considered for these awards.

LuxWall is a building materials company that pioneers the design and manufacture of vacuum-insulated glass. LuxWall produces glass that acts as transparent insulation, providing thermal insulation values comparable to fiberglass wall insulation. With widespread adoption, LuxWall's patented technology has the potential to reduce global carbon emissions by more than 0.5 gigatonnes per year. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Ypsilanti, Michigan, United States.

Evansville Energy Nucleus is a collaborative project between Evansville-based not-for-profit Circular Venture Lab and the University of Evansville’s Center for Innovation and Change that provides resources specifically for manufacturers of clean energy components and systems.

ALLETE, Inc. is an energy company based in Duluth, Minnesota, incorporated in 1906. It operates through two primary segments: Regulated Operations and ALLETE Clean Energy. The Regulated Operations segment includes Minnesota Power and Superior Water, Light and Power Company, which provide electric, natural gas, and water services to a significant number of customers in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. Additionally, this segment encompasses an investment in American Transmission Company, a utility that maintains electric transmission infrastructure across parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois. ALLETE Clean Energy focuses on the development, acquisition, and operation of clean and renewable energy projects, operating around 660 megawatts of wind energy generation. The company is also involved in coal mining operations in North Dakota and real estate investments in Florida, while owning and operating multiple substations with substantial capacity.

Minnesota Power is an energy distribution company.

Consumers Energy, established in 1886 and headquartered in Jackson, Michigan, is a major public utility serving approximately 6.7 million residents and businesses across Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It provides essential services, including electricity and natural gas, to nearly two-thirds of the state's population. The company, a subsidiary of CMS Energy Corporation, operates through three primary segments: Electric Utility, Gas Utility, and Enterprises. The Electric Utility segment generates, purchases, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity, while the Gas Utility segment manages the purchase, transmission, storage, distribution, and sale of natural gas. Consumers Energy is committed to investing in Michigan's future, with a strategic plan to invest over $6 billion in energy efficiency, renewable energy, environmental enhancements, and customer service improvements over the next five years.

Xcel Energy is an electric and natural gas utility company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1909. It serves approximately 3.8 million electric customers and 2.2 million natural gas customers across eight states. The company is involved in the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity, utilizing a diverse mix of energy sources including coal, nuclear, natural gas, hydro, solar, biomass, oil, and wind. Xcel Energy is recognized as one of the largest suppliers of renewable energy in the United States, with over half of its electricity sales derived from carbon-free sources. Its operations are organized into five segments: electricity, natural gas, renewable energy, transmission, and innovation, which also includes the development and leasing of natural gas pipelines and related facilities.

Oliver Winery is an employee-owned winery located in Bloomington, Indiana, known for producing a diverse range of wines. The winery offers a variety of options, including red, white, and fruit wines, as well as ciders and meads. With a focus on low alcohol by volume (ABV) wines, Oliver Winery aims to provide customers with accessible choices that range from classic varietals to refreshing apple ciders, all at an affordable price.

Argonne is a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center, where “dream teams” of world-class researchers work alongside experts from industry, academia and other government laboratories to address vital national challenges in clean energy, environment, technology and national security. Through collaborations with researchers here at Argonne and around the world, they strive to discover new ways to develop energy innovations through science, create novel materials molecule-by-molecule, and gain a deeper understanding of their planet, their climate and the cosmos. Surrounded by the highest concentration of top-tier research organizations in the world, Argonne leverages its Chicago-area location to lead discovery and to power innovation in a wide range of core scientific capabilities, from high-energy physics and materials science to structural biology and advanced computer science. Embracing the nation’s greatest challenges, Argonne’s world-renowned scientists and engineers conduct pioneering research that advances America’s scientific excellence and leadership and helps pave the way to a secure nation with a plentiful supply of safe, sustainable energy, a healthy environment, and a competitive economy. They pursue big, ambitious ideas that redefine what is possible. Their pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries pushes the boundaries of fundamental science, applied science and engineering to solve complex challenges and develop useful technologies that can transform the marketplace and change the world. A center for world-class discovery and scientific excellence, their diverse and dynamic research agenda spans 15 scientific divisions, 14 centers, and six national user facilities. This rich scientific environment provides their researchers – and those who visit us from all corners of the globe – with an extraordinary range of cutting-edge facilities and scientific tools that support in-depth research, drive technological breakthroughs, and improve their nation’s competitiveness and quality of life. Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC, for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science

Xcel Energy is an electric and natural gas utility company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1909. It serves approximately 3.8 million electric customers and 2.2 million natural gas customers across eight states. The company is involved in the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity, utilizing a diverse mix of energy sources including coal, nuclear, natural gas, hydro, solar, biomass, oil, and wind. Xcel Energy is recognized as one of the largest suppliers of renewable energy in the United States, with over half of its electricity sales derived from carbon-free sources. Its operations are organized into five segments: electricity, natural gas, renewable energy, transmission, and innovation, which also includes the development and leasing of natural gas pipelines and related facilities.

The University of North Dakota, located in Grand Forks, is a prominent doctoral research institution established in 1883. It offers a diverse array of more than 300 academic programs, including notable disciplines such as aerospace sciences, which trains highly skilled pilots. The university fosters a vibrant student life with over 200 clubs and organizations, catering to a wide range of interests. Students benefit from a dynamic campus environment featuring events like career fairs, international food festivals, and creative writing activities. Admissions require the submission of an application, official transcripts, and standardized test scores, with lower tuition rates for North Dakota residents. Financial aid options include federal grants, loans, and scholarships, emphasizing support for students through early FAFSA completion. The university's leadership is committed to maintaining academic excellence and integrity, guided by a strategic vision for its academic mission.

Purdue University, established in 1869, is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It is renowned for its programs in science, technology, engineering, and agriculture, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university's operations are funded through a combination of public and private sources, with a significant portion coming from its endowment. This endowment, managed by the board of trustees, is built from gifts by alumni and friends, with the investment income supporting scholarships, professorships, research, and other educational initiatives. Purdue's mission is to provide a high-quality education, conduct groundbreaking research, and engage in outreach activities that serve the state, nation, and world.

Iowa State University, founded in 1858 and located in Ames, Iowa, is recognized as a leading public research university with a strong focus on student engagement. It offers a diverse array of over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including fields such as accounting, agriculture, architecture, and business administration. With a vibrant campus life, Iowa State boasts more than 800 student organizations, fostering leadership and personal growth among its culturally diverse student body of over 31,000 individuals from all 50 states and over 110 countries. The university's commitment to academic excellence and a supportive environment empowers students to explore their passions and achieve their potential.

Michigan State University, founded in 1855 and located in East Lansing, Michigan, is a comprehensive educational institution offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and research programs across various fields, including business, humanities, science and technology, and public affairs. Its academic structure comprises several colleges, including the Eli Broad College of Business and the Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, among others. In addition to its educational mission, Michigan State University manages an endowment fund with $200 million in assets, employing alternative investment strategies such as buyouts, hedge funds, and venture capital. The endowment aims for a net internal rate of return of 10%, with allocations of up to 11% of total assets dedicated to alternative investments. This fund has been operational since 1988, highlighting the university's commitment to financial stewardship in support of its educational objectives.

Illinois Green Alliance is to advance communities and structures that provide people with greener, brighter, healthier places to live, work, and study.

Copeland is a manufacturer and distributor of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration products, catering to residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. The company specializes in producing compressors, condensing units, and refrigerants, including hydrofluorocarbons, which are utilized in various applications such as heat pumps, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems. By focusing on energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, Copeland aims to enhance comfort and sustainability for its customers. In addition to product manufacturing, the company offers services including system design, testing, education, training, energy management, and on-site monitoring. Headquartered in Sidney, Ohio, Copeland operates internationally with locations across Asia Pacific, Canada, Europe, the United States, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

The University of Michigan, one of the largest universities in the Midwest, offers a diverse array of academic programs that attract over 40,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Its renowned schools include the Stephen Ross School of Business, the College of Engineering, and prominent law and medical schools. The university also has a vibrant arts scene, highlighted by its Musical Theatre program and the annual Ann Arbor Film Festival, which draws filmmakers globally. In addition to its educational endeavors, the University of Michigan actively manages a significant endowment, investing in alternative assets such as private equity, real estate, and infrastructure to support its mission and enhance its resources. The institution consistently ranks highly in national assessments, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

Ford Motor Company is a prominent automobile manufacturer based in Dearborn, Michigan, founded by Henry Ford in 1903. The company produces a diverse range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, and tractors, and sells them through dealerships for both retail and fleet customers, including government and rental agencies. In addition to manufacturing, Ford offers various automotive financing products through its subsidiary, Ford Motor Credit Company. These financial services include retail installment sale contracts, direct financing leases for new vehicles, and wholesale loans to dealerships for inventory purchases and facility improvements. Ford also provides insurance products, including coverage for vehicles in transit and extended service contracts. The company is committed to environmental sustainability and has initiated efforts in alternative fuel technologies, including electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Automation Alley is a nonprofit technology and manufacturing business association based in Michigan, dedicated to fostering economic growth in Southeast Michigan. The organization connects industry, academia, and government to stimulate innovation and support entrepreneurship. It focuses on various sectors including technology, talent development, defense, and international business, providing essential resources and actionable intelligence to its members. Automation Alley offers networking opportunities, meeting spaces, and public relations tools to facilitate collaboration and growth. Through its initiatives, the organization aims to empower members to thrive in the digital age and contribute to the regional economy.

Avium develops fuels and chemicals from CO2, water, and renewable energy. The company was founded in 2017 and is based in Lawrence, Kansas.

Bluestem Biosciences, Inc. focuses on advancing synthetic biology to enhance industrial applications in the Midwest. The company has developed a digital biology platform aimed at creating biological solutions tailored for strategic opportunities in agriculture and infrastructure. This platform supports the discovery and development of biomanufacturing processes, emphasizing the sustainable production of chemicals and materials. By leveraging proprietary biology designed for anaerobic fermentation conditions, Bluestem enables clients to utilize programmable biology for the efficient manufacturing of commodity chemicals.

Tech4Imaging is a leading developer of non-invasive imaging technology aimed at commercial and industrial applications. The company specializes in creating advanced instrumentation that provides critical information for optimizing and automating processes in challenging conditions where traditional tools may fail. Central to their innovation is proprietary capacitance-based imaging technology, specifically Electrical Capacitance Volume Tomography (ECVT), developed in collaboration with researchers from The Ohio State University. This technology addresses complex multiphase flow challenges encountered in various industries. Tech4Imaging holds over 15 patents and has published more than 30 peer-reviewed journal articles, underscoring its commitment to research and development. The company offers a range of products, including acquisition hardware, sensors, and software, alongside consultation services, all designed to enhance industrial process visualization and efficiency. Through strong partnerships and a focus on core values, Tech4Imaging continues to advance its technological offerings and expand its impact in the industry.

Triton Systems, Inc. (Triton) is an advanced materials, coatings and systems engineering product development firm headquartered near Boston, Massachusetts. Triton selectively combines US Government funds with private equity investments to transition ideas to the marketplace. Founded in 1992, Triton, along with its affiliates, has two locations in Massachusetts, a R&D and manufacturing facility in Fargo, North Dakota, a life science group in Berkeley, California, and a manufacturing site in Domat-EMS, Switzerland.

Celadyne Technologies, founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the development of advanced nanocomposite membranes for use in electrolyzers and fuel cells. These membranes are designed to facilitate efficient heat and water management, offering several advantages over traditional ceramic separators, such as reduced hydrogen crossover. The technology allows for operation under low humidity and elevated temperature conditions, promoting better catalyst durability and contributing to a more cost-effective hydrogen economy. Celadyne Technologies aims to enhance the performance and efficiency of energy systems through its innovative membrane solutions.

A major research university in the heart of one of the world's greatest cities, UIC provides a world-class education for its students. We are committed to creating and disseminating new knowledge as a university of growing national and international stature. The largest university in the Chicago area, UIC has 27,580 students, 15 colleges-including the nation's largest medical school-and annual research expenditures exceeding $335 million. UIC operates the state's major public medical center and serves as the principal educator of Illinois' physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses and other health-care professionals. A truly global institution, more than a third of UIC students speak English as a second language. UIC's student body-approximately 61 percent undergraduate and 39 percent graduate and professional-is recognized as one of the nation's most diverse. We consider this one of our greatest strengths.

Toledo Solar, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Perrysburg, Ohio, specializing in cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin cell solar panels designed for a range of applications, including residential, commercial, and utility-scale power generation. Established in 2019, the company aims to enhance energy independence and resilience while promoting ethical practices in the solar industry. Toledo Solar supplies its products through regional partners across the United States, providing not only solar panels but also inverters, racking systems, energy storage solutions, and app-based client control systems. In addition to traditional solar panels, the company is developing innovative products such as semi-transparent solar windows, skylights, sunroofs, greenhouses, and farm canopies, all intended to help reduce carbon footprints and lower energy costs for users.

Sivananthan Laboratories is a high tech business incubator focused on promoting economic growth in Illinois and the United States through fostering cutting-edge, fundamental research and development. Sivananthan Laboratories’ corporate model is the famous Bell Laboratories, whose many fundamental research contributions helped drive our nation’s leadership in technology and manufacturing. Indeed, the demise of major industrial laboratories such as Bell Labs and others has left a large gap in domestic technology development and threatens future economic growth. We are trying to bridge this gap by creating and assisting small businesses in nurturing their ability to research new technologies, create jobs, and generate innovative products and services. We at Sivananthan Laboratories cherish an ecosystem of scientific collaboration among academia, industry, and government while working with external partners to commercialize successful research. We will leverage these collaborations in order to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

Lincolnway Energy, LLC is a producer of ethanol based in Nevada, Iowa, operating a dry mill ethanol plant since its founding in 2004. The company specializes in processing corn into fuel-grade ethanol and distiller's grains, which serve as animal feed for livestock such as swine, poultry, dairy, and beef. Additionally, Lincolnway Energy produces corn oil, which can be utilized in biodiesel operations, and carbon dioxide. By focusing on renewable energy production, the company aims to contribute to America's domestic energy needs while also supporting local agriculture. Lincolnway Energy is committed to maintaining a safe work environment and maximizing shareholder value.

Green Plains Inc. is a leading ethanol producer based in Omaha, Nebraska, with an annual production capacity of approximately 1.5 billion gallons from 17 strategically located plants across the United States. The company operates in four segments: Ethanol Production, Agribusiness and Energy Services, Food and Ingredients, and Partnership. The Ethanol Production segment focuses on producing and selling ethanol, distiller grains, and renewable corn oil. The Agribusiness and Energy Services segment manages grain procurement, handling, and storage, while also engaging in commodity marketing for both company-produced and third-party products. In the Food and Ingredients segment, the company produces and sells corn and soybean oil. Additionally, the Partnership segment provides fuel storage and transportation services, operating through 32 ethanol storage facilities and a fleet of approximately 2,630 leased railcars. Green Plains has also established a partnership with GE Current to produce hand sanitizer. Founded in 2004, the company was previously known as Green Plains Renewable Energy, Inc. and rebranded in May 2014.

Niron Magnetics, Inc. is a manufacturer of advanced permanent iron nitride magnets, established in 2013 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company specializes in creating innovative magnetic materials that are designed to enhance performance and efficiency across various industrial applications, including motors and generators. Niron's iron nitride magnets offer significant advantages over traditional ferrite and NdFeB-based magnets, such as greater magnetization and higher magnetic flux density. This enables automotive and computer manufacturers to achieve reductions in size and weight for their motors without sacrificing power or torque. Additionally, Niron Magnetics collaborates with government entities and investors to support national security initiatives through its cutting-edge technology.

Michigan Technological University, founded in 1885 and located in the northern part of Michigan, is a non-profit educational institution known for its strong emphasis on engineering and technology. While its primary focus lies in science, engineering, and computing, Michigan Tech also offers a diverse range of academic programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, environmental science, and forestry. The university provides ample financial aid options, participating in government programs and offering various scholarships, including the Department of Defense's SMART Scholarship, which covers tuition and expenses for exceptional science students. Michigan Tech has a vibrant student life, particularly noted for winter sports and the annual Winter Carnival, which showcases impressive snow sculptures and outdoor activities. Admissions require standardized test scores and high school transcripts, with some programs having additional criteria.

Fermilab is an American particle physics and accelerator laboratory dedicated to exploring high-energy physics. It leads the world in neutrino science with particle accelerators, leads the nation in the development of particle colliders and their use for scientific discovery, and advances particle physics through measurements of the cosmos. The laboratory’s 1,750 employees include scientists and engineers from all around the world. It collaborates with more than 20 countries on physics experiments based in the United States and elsewhere. Fermilab's 6,800-acre site is located in Batavia, Illinois, and is managed by the Fermi Research Alliance, a partnership of the University of Chicago and Universities Research Association, a consortium of 86 research universities, for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science. Fermilab builds and operates world-leading accelerator and detector facilities, performs pioneering research with national and global partners, and develops new technologies for science that support U.S. industrial competitiveness. Fermilab was founded in 1968.

Argonne is a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center, where “dream teams” of world-class researchers work alongside experts from industry, academia and other government laboratories to address vital national challenges in clean energy, environment, technology and national security. Through collaborations with researchers here at Argonne and around the world, they strive to discover new ways to develop energy innovations through science, create novel materials molecule-by-molecule, and gain a deeper understanding of their planet, their climate and the cosmos. Surrounded by the highest concentration of top-tier research organizations in the world, Argonne leverages its Chicago-area location to lead discovery and to power innovation in a wide range of core scientific capabilities, from high-energy physics and materials science to structural biology and advanced computer science. Embracing the nation’s greatest challenges, Argonne’s world-renowned scientists and engineers conduct pioneering research that advances America’s scientific excellence and leadership and helps pave the way to a secure nation with a plentiful supply of safe, sustainable energy, a healthy environment, and a competitive economy. They pursue big, ambitious ideas that redefine what is possible. Their pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries pushes the boundaries of fundamental science, applied science and engineering to solve complex challenges and develop useful technologies that can transform the marketplace and change the world. A center for world-class discovery and scientific excellence, their diverse and dynamic research agenda spans 15 scientific divisions, 14 centers, and six national user facilities. This rich scientific environment provides their researchers – and those who visit us from all corners of the globe – with an extraordinary range of cutting-edge facilities and scientific tools that support in-depth research, drive technological breakthroughs, and improve their nation’s competitiveness and quality of life. Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC, for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science

Purdue University, established in 1869, is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It is renowned for its programs in science, technology, engineering, and agriculture, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university's operations are funded through a combination of public and private sources, with a significant portion coming from its endowment. This endowment, managed by the board of trustees, is built from gifts by alumni and friends, with the investment income supporting scholarships, professorships, research, and other educational initiatives. Purdue's mission is to provide a high-quality education, conduct groundbreaking research, and engage in outreach activities that serve the state, nation, and world.

The University of Michigan, one of the largest universities in the Midwest, offers a diverse array of academic programs that attract over 40,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Its renowned schools include the Stephen Ross School of Business, the College of Engineering, and prominent law and medical schools. The university also has a vibrant arts scene, highlighted by its Musical Theatre program and the annual Ann Arbor Film Festival, which draws filmmakers globally. In addition to its educational endeavors, the University of Michigan actively manages a significant endowment, investing in alternative assets such as private equity, real estate, and infrastructure to support its mission and enhance its resources. The institution consistently ranks highly in national assessments, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

The Ames Laboratory is a government-owned, contractor-operated national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), operated by and located on the campus of Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. For over 65 years, the Ames Laboratory has successfully partnered with Iowa State University, and is unique among the DOE laboratories in that it is physically located on the campus of a major research university. Many of the scientists and administrators at the Laboratory also hold faculty positions at the University and the Laboratory has access to both undergraduate and graduate student talent. Approximately 745 people are involved with the Laboratory either as full- or part-time employees or as Laboratory associates. Key areas of expertise are materials design, synthesis and processing; analytical instrumentation design and development; materials characterization; catalysis; computational chemistry; condensed matter theory; and computational materials science and materials theory. The Ames Laboratory leads the Critical Materials Institute, a DOE Energy Innovation Hub funded at up to $120 million over five years. The Critical Materials Institute brings together leading researchers from other DOE national laboratories, academia and industry to develop solutions to domestic shortages of rare-earth materials and other materials critical to U.S. energy security. The Ames Laboratory broke ground in June 2014 for a new, state-of-the-art Sensitive Instrument Facility, which will house next generation electron microscopy equipment for characterization of materials at the atomic scale. The Ames Laboratory's Materials Preparation Center prepares, purifies, fabricates and characterizes materials in support of R&D programs throughout the world. The Ames Laboratory is the U.S. home to 2011 Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner Dan Shechtman and is intensely engaged with the international scientific community, including hosting a large number of international visitors each year.

Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a private research university located in Cleveland's University Circle. Established in 1843, it comprises various schools including Medicine, Law, Engineering, Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Social Sciences, Dental Medicine, Management, and Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. CWRU is renowned for its biomedical discoveries, medical education, and top-ranked programs such as international law, health law, and intellectual property law. It offers practical experiences like real-client work and full-time practice experiences to students across various disciplines. The university is accredited by several professional associations and holds membership in the Association of American Universities.

Purdue University, established in 1869, is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It is renowned for its programs in science, technology, engineering, and agriculture, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university's operations are funded through a combination of public and private sources, with a significant portion coming from its endowment. This endowment, managed by the board of trustees, is built from gifts by alumni and friends, with the investment income supporting scholarships, professorships, research, and other educational initiatives. Purdue's mission is to provide a high-quality education, conduct groundbreaking research, and engage in outreach activities that serve the state, nation, and world.

Iowa State University, founded in 1858 and located in Ames, Iowa, is recognized as a leading public research university with a strong focus on student engagement. It offers a diverse array of over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including fields such as accounting, agriculture, architecture, and business administration. With a vibrant campus life, Iowa State boasts more than 800 student organizations, fostering leadership and personal growth among its culturally diverse student body of over 31,000 individuals from all 50 states and over 110 countries. The university's commitment to academic excellence and a supportive environment empowers students to explore their passions and achieve their potential.

A major research university in the heart of one of the world's greatest cities, UIC provides a world-class education for its students. We are committed to creating and disseminating new knowledge as a university of growing national and international stature. The largest university in the Chicago area, UIC has 27,580 students, 15 colleges-including the nation's largest medical school-and annual research expenditures exceeding $335 million. UIC operates the state's major public medical center and serves as the principal educator of Illinois' physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses and other health-care professionals. A truly global institution, more than a third of UIC students speak English as a second language. UIC's student body-approximately 61 percent undergraduate and 39 percent graduate and professional-is recognized as one of the nation's most diverse. We consider this one of our greatest strengths.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, founded in 1867 and located in Champaign, Illinois, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and public engagement. With over 3,000 faculty members, the university fosters innovation and discovery, contributing significantly to the state's economy and garnering numerous prestigious awards. The campus offers outstanding academic programs and resources that attract high-achieving students who engage in various research initiatives, study abroad, and participate in numerous student organizations. With a network of more than 425,000 alumni, the university has cultivated leaders across diverse fields globally, reflecting its influence and legacy in higher education.

Scanalytics Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, specializes in software solutions that analyze customer behavior in physical locations such as retail stores, tradeshows, and medical facilities. The company employs proprietary smart floor sensors that passively gather data on individual movements, including walking patterns, stopping points, and duration of stay, without the use of cameras or RFID technology. This data is then processed to provide actionable insights, allowing businesses to enhance customer engagement, predict behavior patterns, and improve in-store conversion rates. Scanalytics also offers tools like Analysis Lab, which helps users refine their operations for increased profitability. By transforming physical spaces into intelligent environments, Scanalytics enables clients to optimize various aspects of their operations, including workforce scheduling and marketing strategies.

Gross-Wen Technologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Slater, Iowa, focused on developing solutions for wastewater treatment. The company specializes in a revolving algal biofilm (RAB) system that effectively recovers nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater while generating algae biomass, which can be utilized as a fertilizer or bioplastic. By providing municipalities and wastewater-producing industries with an economical and environmentally friendly method for treating water, Gross-Wen Technologies aims to enhance water quality and promote sustainability in wastewater management. Established in 2013, the company is dedicated to delivering effective and affordable solutions for the treatment of wastewater pollutants.

mHUB is an independent innovation center located in Chicago, Illinois, that specializes in hardtech and manufacturing. Incorporated in 2013, mHUB focuses on the development and manufacturing of physical products, including robotics, connected devices, sensors, energy technologies, medical devices, smart buildings, and unmanned vehicles. It serves as a collaborative space for startups and small businesses, fostering a community of over 428 active members, including product designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Since its launch in 2017, mHUB has facilitated the creation of more than 1,256 products, generated over $1.1 billion in revenue, and supported the hiring of more than 4,153 employees. The center provides essential resources such as funding, co-working space, and industry expertise, enabling innovators to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses and advance the manufacturing sector.

SAFI-Tech, Inc. is a startup company based in Ames, Iowa, that specializes in innovative soldering technology for the electronics manufacturing industry. Founded in 2014, SAFI-Tech develops no-heat solders that utilize supercooled liquid metal particles to solder electronic components without thermal damage. Their flagship product, Liquital® 62, features microparticles of liquid metal that remain in a metastable supercooled state until triggered to release the liquid metal, which then rapidly solidifies. This technology allows for the creation of interconnects and conductive traces in flexible electronics, enabling manufacturers to overcome challenges associated with high-temperature processes. SAFI-Tech's advancements support the miniaturization and high-density integration of electronic designs, facilitating the use of lighter and thinner materials. The company was recognized with the Technical Development Materials Award at the 2016 IDTechEx Show for its contributions to the field.

Jolt Energy Storage Technologies, LLC, founded in 2015 and based in West Michigan, specializes in developing innovative compounds for lithium-ion batteries. The company focuses on creating organic electrochemical additives that enhance battery performance by increasing capacity, preventing overcharging, and simplifying electronic control systems. These advancements allow battery manufacturers to improve the safety, functionality, and cost-effectiveness of their products. Additionally, Jolt is working on all-organic nonaqueous redox flow batteries (RFBs) designed for large-scale energy storage, offering a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional battery technologies. With a commitment to sustainability, Jolt Energy aims to revolutionize the energy storage sector.

Xylome offers solutions that enable first generation biofuel manufacturers to use second generation technology solutions in their manufacturing process. It offers them with advisory, implementation, and support services. Xylome develops a range of non-conventional yeasts and yeast technology solutions for experimental assessments. Xylome was founded by Thomas W Jeffries in 2007. It is based in Madison, Wisconsin.

mHUB is an independent innovation center located in Chicago, Illinois, that specializes in hardtech and manufacturing. Incorporated in 2013, mHUB focuses on the development and manufacturing of physical products, including robotics, connected devices, sensors, energy technologies, medical devices, smart buildings, and unmanned vehicles. It serves as a collaborative space for startups and small businesses, fostering a community of over 428 active members, including product designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Since its launch in 2017, mHUB has facilitated the creation of more than 1,256 products, generated over $1.1 billion in revenue, and supported the hiring of more than 4,153 employees. The center provides essential resources such as funding, co-working space, and industry expertise, enabling innovators to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses and advance the manufacturing sector.

Washington University in St. Louis, established in 1853 and located in Saint Louis, Missouri, is a prestigious institution dedicated to fostering an environment of exploration and discovery. The university emphasizes the importance of diversity, inclusion, and rigorous academic research, aiming to create a vibrant society enriched by varied perspectives. Its mission centers on supporting both individual and collective success within a nurturing and intellectually challenging community. By continuously adapting to the evolving needs of its students, faculty, and alumni, Washington University strives to enhance lives and address significant societal challenges. The university is committed to upholding high standards of excellence, thereby inspiring collaboration and innovation among its members.

Scanalytics Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, specializes in software solutions that analyze customer behavior in physical locations such as retail stores, tradeshows, and medical facilities. The company employs proprietary smart floor sensors that passively gather data on individual movements, including walking patterns, stopping points, and duration of stay, without the use of cameras or RFID technology. This data is then processed to provide actionable insights, allowing businesses to enhance customer engagement, predict behavior patterns, and improve in-store conversion rates. Scanalytics also offers tools like Analysis Lab, which helps users refine their operations for increased profitability. By transforming physical spaces into intelligent environments, Scanalytics enables clients to optimize various aspects of their operations, including workforce scheduling and marketing strategies.

Argonne is a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center, where “dream teams” of world-class researchers work alongside experts from industry, academia and other government laboratories to address vital national challenges in clean energy, environment, technology and national security. Through collaborations with researchers here at Argonne and around the world, they strive to discover new ways to develop energy innovations through science, create novel materials molecule-by-molecule, and gain a deeper understanding of their planet, their climate and the cosmos. Surrounded by the highest concentration of top-tier research organizations in the world, Argonne leverages its Chicago-area location to lead discovery and to power innovation in a wide range of core scientific capabilities, from high-energy physics and materials science to structural biology and advanced computer science. Embracing the nation’s greatest challenges, Argonne’s world-renowned scientists and engineers conduct pioneering research that advances America’s scientific excellence and leadership and helps pave the way to a secure nation with a plentiful supply of safe, sustainable energy, a healthy environment, and a competitive economy. They pursue big, ambitious ideas that redefine what is possible. Their pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries pushes the boundaries of fundamental science, applied science and engineering to solve complex challenges and develop useful technologies that can transform the marketplace and change the world. A center for world-class discovery and scientific excellence, their diverse and dynamic research agenda spans 15 scientific divisions, 14 centers, and six national user facilities. This rich scientific environment provides their researchers – and those who visit us from all corners of the globe – with an extraordinary range of cutting-edge facilities and scientific tools that support in-depth research, drive technological breakthroughs, and improve their nation’s competitiveness and quality of life. Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC, for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science

Danforth Technology Company (DTC) is a venture builder based in St. Louis, Missouri, and operates as a subsidiary of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Its primary role is to facilitate the early-stage development of startup companies that leverage technologies developed by the Center's scientists. DTC focuses on moving scientific discoveries into the marketplace more efficiently by providing intellectual property development, licensing, and entrepreneurship support. The company also offers seed funding and early management assistance to promising startups, enhancing the potential for innovation in plant science and contributing to broader societal goals such as improving human health and environmental sustainability.

Echogen Power Systems, LLC specializes in developing heat-to-power generation systems that capture and convert waste heat into usable electricity. Founded in 2007 and based in Akron, Ohio, the company offers a range of heat recovery solutions suitable for applications such as gas turbines, industrial waste heat recovery, solar thermal, and geothermal energy, as well as hybrid alternatives to traditional internal combustion engines. Echogen's technology employs a carbon dioxide heat pump cycle to efficiently generate clean, renewable electricity, allowing businesses to monetize otherwise wasted heat and improve their overall energy investment returns. The company serves various industries that produce heat as a byproduct of their operations, helping to create reliable and emission-free energy options.

Accio Energy, Inc. is a company that specializes in alternative energy generation technology, specifically focusing on innovative wind energy systems. Established in 2007 and located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Accio Energy develops Aerovoltaic energy systems that convert wind energy into electricity without the use of traditional moving parts or large wind turbines. This approach combines the cost-effectiveness of large-scale wind energy with the modularity and flexibility typically associated with solar energy systems. Additionally, Accio Energy offers electrohydrodynamic wind energy systems aimed at offshore markets, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions. The company is also involved in providing information and updates on projects that enhance sustainability in the energy sector.

Ecovia Renewables Inc., founded in 2014 as a spin-out from the University of Michigan and based in Ann Arbor, specializes in developing bio-based ingredients and materials through a proprietary fermentation process utilizing renewable biomass. The company offers a variety of products, including the EcoSynth platform for biochemical and biofuel production, a suite of biopolymers designed as biodegradable alternatives to traditional polymers, and cellulosic biofuels derived from lignocellulosic biomass. Ecovia's biopolymers are versatile, finding applications in agriculture, such as soil additives for water retention, and in personal care products, serving as thickeners and super-absorbent materials. The company is committed to sustainable practices, aiming to provide high-performing, cost-effective biobased solutions for various industries.

SolarBridge Technologies, originally founded as SmartSpark Energy Systems in 2004, specializes in microinverter and monitoring solutions for residential and small commercial solar power installations. The company pivoted to focus exclusively on the solar industry in 2009, leveraging power electronics technologies developed at the University of Illinois. With significant research and development facilities in Champaign, Illinois, and a corporate headquarters in Austin, Texas, SolarBridge aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar energy systems. Their offerings include an energy management system that integrates a microinverter directly with photovoltaic modules, providing alternating current power to the grid. Additionally, SolarBridge provides a solar information module that gathers performance data from each microinverter, allowing system owners to analyze and monitor their solar installations remotely via the Internet. Through these innovations, SolarBridge Technologies seeks to lower the Levelized Cost of Energy for solar installations while improving overall energy production and simplifying installation processes.

SolarBridge Technologies, originally founded as SmartSpark Energy Systems in 2004, specializes in microinverter and monitoring solutions for residential and small commercial solar power installations. The company pivoted to focus exclusively on the solar industry in 2009, leveraging power electronics technologies developed at the University of Illinois. With significant research and development facilities in Champaign, Illinois, and a corporate headquarters in Austin, Texas, SolarBridge aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of solar energy systems. Their offerings include an energy management system that integrates a microinverter directly with photovoltaic modules, providing alternating current power to the grid. Additionally, SolarBridge provides a solar information module that gathers performance data from each microinverter, allowing system owners to analyze and monitor their solar installations remotely via the Internet. Through these innovations, SolarBridge Technologies seeks to lower the Levelized Cost of Energy for solar installations while improving overall energy production and simplifying installation processes.

Elevance Renewable Sciences, Inc. specializes in producing and distributing specialty chemicals derived from natural plant oils through a process known as oil metathesis. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Woodridge, Illinois, the company develops a diverse range of products, including cleaning ingredients, coating materials, personal care components, and chemical intermediates for various industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. Elevance's offerings cater to applications in detergents, coatings, and engineered polymers, among others. In addition to its product lines, the company provides manufacturing consulting, engineering, and technical consulting services focused on bio-based feedstocks and intermediates. By transforming renewable oils into high-performance specialty products, Elevance is positioned to address consumer demand in a growing market.

Whirlpool Corporation is a leading manufacturer and marketer of home appliances, established in 1911 and headquartered in Benton Harbor, Michigan. The company operates through four geographical segments: North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Its primary product offerings include refrigerators, freezers, laundry appliances, cooking appliances, dishwashers, and various small domestic appliances, as well as hermetic compressors for refrigeration systems. Whirlpool markets its products under a diverse range of brand names, including Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, and Amana, among others. The company distributes its products to retailers, distributors, builders, and directly to consumers, ensuring a broad reach in the home appliance market across multiple regions.