The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a leading biomedical research facility in the United States, operating under the Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1887 and based in Bethesda, Maryland, NIH is the primary agency responsible for biomedical and health-related research in the country. It comprises 27 separate institutes and centers, each focusing on different disciplines within biomedical science. NIH conducts its own scientific research through the Intramural Research Program and provides significant funding for research at external institutions via the Extramural Research Program. With a workforce that includes 1,200 principal investigators and over 4,000 postdoctoral fellows, NIH has been instrumental in major medical breakthroughs, such as the development of vaccines for hepatitis and human papillomavirus, as well as the discovery of treatments for various health conditions. As the world's largest source of medical research funding, NIH continues to advance scientific knowledge and contribute to public health improvements.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.

The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) is a federal Cabinet department established by Congress on October 15, 1966, and commenced operations on April 1, 1967. It is overseen by the Secretary of Transportation and is dedicated to addressing the nation's transportation needs. The Department's mission is to ensure a transportation system that is fast, safe, efficient, accessible, and convenient, aligning with the vital national interests of the United States. USDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for American citizens by fostering a robust transportation infrastructure that meets current and future demands.

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission, established in 1995 and based in Little Rock, Arkansas, focuses on enhancing the state's economic landscape. The organization plays a pivotal role in creating economic opportunities by providing debt facilities that attract higher-paying jobs and promote the expansion and diversification of local economies. Additionally, the Commission aims to increase incomes and investments, fostering overall positive growth throughout Arkansas. By supporting various initiatives, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission is dedicated to improving the economic well-being of communities across the state.

The Stephens Group, LLC is a private, family-owned investment firm founded in 1933 and headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, with additional offices in Frankfurt, London, and New York. The firm specializes in private equity and venture capital, focusing on mid-venture investments, leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations, growth capital, and mature investments across a diverse range of sectors. Its investment portfolio spans agriculture, energy, industrials, software, consumer products, financial services, healthcare, and technology, among others. The Stephens Group typically invests between $10 million and $125 million in companies with enterprise values ranging from $50 million to $400 million and seeks both minority and control positions in its investments. The firm aims to partner with management teams, often pursuing a board seat in its portfolio companies to foster long-term growth and success.

Arvest Bank, established in 1961 and headquartered in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a regional bank operating over 250 branches across Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas. It offers a wide range of banking services, including loans, deposits, treasury management, credit cards, mortgage loans, and mortgage servicing. Arvest also provides investment and wealth management services through its subsidiary, Arvest Investments, Inc. The company is known for its local management structure, with each of its 16 markets having its own local board and management team, serving customers in over 120 communities. Arvest is recognized as an Equal Housing Lender and is a member of the FDIC.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) leads initiatives in food, agriculture, natural resources, and rural development. It aims to expand markets for agricultural products globally, foster alternative markets domestically, improve rural infrastructure, enhance food safety, promote nutrition education, and manage public lands collaboratively.

RZC Investments is a private equity firm founded in 2017 and based in Bentonville, Arkansas. Established by Steuart Walton and Tom Walton, members of the Walmart founding family, the firm specializes in investment management across various sectors, including consumer goods, outdoor and recreation, business-to-business services, healthcare, industrial, and financial technologies. Additionally, RZC Investments has a particular focus on vehicle and sports investments, reflecting its commitment to diverse and dynamic market opportunities.

Advantage Capital Partners is a venture capital firm that provides growth equity, lending, and mezzanine debt to United States companies at various stages, with a focus on small businesses and underserved communities. It pursues investments in companies that develop or apply proprietary technologies across information technology, telecommunications, business services, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, energy, and related sectors, and considers opportunities in rural agriculture supply chains. The firm offers a mixed debt and equity toolkit, including senior and subordinated debt, mezzanine financing, and government-guaranteed lending, sometimes providing equity to real estate projects; it often co-invests with other investors to support bank lending. Its geographic focus spans multiple states, reflecting a commitment to economic development by backing ventures that create jobs and strengthen local economies. Founded in 1992, the firm is headquartered in New Orleans with additional offices across the United States and has supported thousands of small businesses and development projects.

Established in 2018, Cadron Capital Partners is a venture capital firm headquartered in Conway, Arkansas with an additional office in Fayetteville. The company specializes in investing in early-stage technology and cash-flowing companies based primarily in Arkansas, typically committing between $250,000 to $2 million per investment.

Regions Bank is a financial institution that offers a wide range of personal, small business, commercial banking, and wealth management services. Its personal banking services encompass checking and savings accounts, cash solutions, protection services, and various financial products such as money market accounts and IRAs. For small businesses, Regions provides checking accounts, cash management, merchant processing, and payroll services. In the commercial banking sector, it offers asset-based lending, equipment financing, and government financing solutions. The bank also specializes in wealth management, including private wealth management, estate planning, and trust services. Regions Bank operates branches across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, and Texas, and was founded in 1928 in Birmingham, Alabama. Originally known as First Alabama Bank, it adopted the name Regions Bank in 1996 and operates as a subsidiary of Regions Financial Corporation.

The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is a U.S. government initiative aimed at promoting economic growth and development in underserved communities. It provides financial assistance and support to Community Development Financial Institutions, which offer affordable loans, investments, and financial services to low-income individuals and communities. The CDFI Fund focuses on fostering access to capital, encouraging community revitalization, and empowering local economies. By investing in various sectors, including housing, small businesses, and community facilities, the CDFI Fund plays a crucial role in enhancing the economic opportunities available to marginalized populations, thereby contributing to the overall stability and growth of disadvantaged areas.

The U.S. Department of Energy is a government agency established in 1977, located in Washington, D.C. Its primary mission is to ensure the security and prosperity of the nation by tackling energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges. The Department focuses on promoting transformative scientific and technological solutions to address these issues, thereby supporting the country's energy needs and environmental sustainability.

Southern Bancorp, Inc. is a community development bank dedicated to providing banking and lending services to underserved communities in Arkansas and Mississippi. Founded in 1986 and formerly known as Southern Development Bancorporation, the company has originated over $2 billion in development loans, primarily targeting individuals and organizations in economically disadvantaged areas. As a certified community development financial institution, Southern Bancorp aims to enhance financial access and investment, fostering economic growth in rural regions. The organization focuses on comprehensive community engagement, recognizing that access to capital alone is insufficient for meaningful change. Its efforts extend beyond traditional banking to include credit counseling and public policy advocacy, all aimed at empowering families and communities to achieve financial stability and growth.

Walton Family Foundation is an independent nonprofit foundation based in Bentonville, Arkansas. Established in 1987, it awards grants to support children's development, elementary and secondary education, and environmental and natural resources initiatives, and it collaborates with grantees and philanthropic partners to improve opportunities and outcomes for individuals and communities, guided by Walton family values and a commitment to strengthening communities.

PotlatchDeltic is a timber manufacturing company that specializes in producing high-quality lumber and plywood. The company operates primarily through three segments: timberlands, wood products, and real estate. Its timberlands segment is responsible for the planting and harvesting of trees, along with the construction and maintenance of access roads. The wood products segment focuses on the manufacturing and distribution of various wood products, including lumber and plywood. The real estate segment involves generating sales from company-owned timberlands and managing commercial and residential properties. The timberlands and wood products segments together account for the majority of PotlatchDeltic's revenue, reflecting the company's integral role in the forestry and wood manufacturing industries across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Minnesota, and Mississippi.

Founded in 2012, NewRoad Capital Partners is an Arkansas-based investment firm focusing on growth equity investments. It primarily invests in demand-driven businesses across Retail and CPG, Business Services, Supply Chain and Logistics, Consumer Goods, Outdoor Goods, Healthcare Technology, Media, and Retail Technology sectors.

Inuvo specializes in digital marketing solutions, connecting advertisers with targeted audiences across various online platforms such as video, mobile, display, social media, and native. Its key products include ValidClick for data-driven marketing services and IntentKey for reaching in-market consumers. Inuvo operates a network of websites like alot.com and earnspendlive.com, covering categories like health, finance, travel, and education. The company generates revenue through digital advertising placements across devices, websites, and applications.

Tencarva Machinery is a prominent distributor of process equipment and services, catering to industrial and municipal clients across the Southeast United States since 1978. The company specializes in providing a wide range of pumping systems, fluid handling systems, air handling equipment, and liquid process equipment tailored for various industries, including chemical, citrus, paper, textile, and power. In addition to its diverse product offerings, Tencarva also operates repair centers and field service teams capable of servicing most types of rotating process equipment. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive reliable and cost-effective solutions that meet their specific application needs.

Founded in 1933, Stephens is a privately held financial services firm based in Little Rock, Arkansas. It offers comprehensive investment banking services across various sectors.

SupplyPike is a technology company founded in 2018 and based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, that specializes in supply chain management solutions. The company offers a cloud-based platform that utilizes machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance retail analytics and sales forecasting. Its software enables suppliers to efficiently manage relationships with retailers by automating processes such as filing disputes, reviewing purchase orders, invoices, and deductions. By monitoring supply chain statuses, SupplyPike helps organizations reduce costs and waste while facilitating data-driven decision-making, ultimately streamlining operations and saving valuable time for its clients.

Murphy Oil Corporation is an independent exploration and production company with a portfolio of global offshore and onshore assets supporting oil-weighted growth. It produces oil and natural gas in the United States, Canada, and Malaysia and conducts exploration activities worldwide. The company is headquartered in El Dorado, Arkansas, and employs over 1,500 people globally.

CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is a public utility holding company based in Houston, Texas, engaged in the delivery of energy services across various segments. The company provides electric transmission and distribution services, primarily serving over 2.5 million customers in the Houston area and southern Indiana. Its Natural Gas Distribution segment supplies regulated intrastate natural gas and transportation services to approximately 4 million customers, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Additionally, CenterPoint Energy's Energy Services division offers natural gas supplies and management services, while its Infrastructure Services segment focuses on underground pipeline construction and repair. The company also participates in midstream operations, providing natural gas and crude oil gathering and processing services, as well as pipeline transportation and storage. Founded in 1866, CenterPoint Energy plays a vital role in the energy sector, operating across multiple states including Arkansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Union Pacific is the largest railroad company in North America, operating over 32,000 route miles across 23 states west of Chicago. It specializes in transporting a wide range of goods including coal, industrial products, intermodal containers, agriculture goods, chemicals, fertilizers, and automotive goods. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, Union Pacific employs approximately 45,000 people.

Dos Rios Partners is a private equity firm founded in 2013, headquartered in Austin, Texas with an additional office in Dallas. The firm specializes in investing in proven, growing niche businesses across various sectors, focusing on companies based between the Rio Grande and Mississippi rivers. Dos Rios prefers investments of $5 million to $15 million in companies with EBITDA between $3 million and $12 million.

Founded in 2009, Circumference Group is an investment firm specializing in equity strategies across various sectors including technology-enabled services, marketing tech, fintech, payments, and telecommunications infrastructure. It manages investments through its hedge fund and provides venture funding via CG Ventures.

Southwestern Energy Company is an independent energy firm focused on the exploration, development, and production of natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids in the United States. The company operates primarily in two segments: Exploration and Production, which is its main revenue driver, and Marketing. Southwestern Energy emphasizes the development of unconventional natural gas reservoirs, particularly in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, holding significant acreage in Northeast and Southwest Appalachia. As of the end of 2019, the company reported substantial proved reserves, including over 12,721 billion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent and 929 billion cubic feet of proved undeveloped reserves. Additionally, it engages in marketing natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids, catering to energy companies, utilities, and industrial buyers. Founded in 1929, Southwestern Energy is headquartered in Spring, Texas.

CardioWise is a Fayetteville, Arkansas-based developer of non-invasive cardiac CT imaging software that provides quantitative analysis of heart structure and function. The company offers a cloud-based Software as a Service platform that generates interpretable 3D color maps of heart function for cardiologists and patients, enabling objective assessment from standard imaging. Its AI-powered tools are designed to accelerate diagnosis, improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance the standard of care, and help reduce healthcare costs by supporting timely, data-driven clinical decisions. The company was founded in 2010.

Founded in 1969, Acxiom specializes in data-driven marketing solutions. It offers a range of services including data enablement platforms, consumer insights packages, and identity resolution solutions to help businesses enhance customer experiences and improve ROI.

A-Street is a private equity firm founded in 2021 and based in Bentonville, Arkansas. The company focuses on investing in innovative ventures that aim to transform the future of PreK-12 learning. A-Street primarily targets early, growth, and late-stage companies that develop digital-first instructional materials and new assessment methods for students. Additionally, A-Street offers modern wallpaper designs through its subsidiary, A-Street Prints. The firm is dedicated to seeding and scaling solutions that enhance student learning and achievement for families and schools.

ArcBest is a logistics company offering comprehensive shipping solutions. It operates through three segments: Asset-Based (less-than-truckload services), ArcBest (expedite freight transportation, premium logistics, and international freight services), and FleetNet (roadside assistance for commercial vehicles). Headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the company serves businesses of all sizes, providing tailored solutions to meet complex transportation needs.

mmhmm develops a virtual camera application that integrates with video conferencing platforms to provide dynamic backdrops, collaboration tools, and presentation features across web, desktop, mobile, and cloud services. The app includes an online broadcast editor to control presentations during conferences and helps teams collaborate to make virtual meetings more engaging and informative.

Equity Bancshares, Inc. serves as the bank holding company for Equity Bank, a commercial bank based in Wichita, Kansas. Founded in 2002, the bank offers a comprehensive range of financial services primarily targeting businesses, business owners, and individuals. It accepts various deposits, including demand, savings, money market, and time deposits. The bank's loan offerings encompass commercial loans, real estate-backed financing, working capital loans, and various consumer loans, catering to a diverse clientele that includes national and regional companies, restaurant franchisees, hoteliers, and agribusinesses. Additionally, Equity Bank provides a suite of online and mobile banking solutions, debit card services, and treasury management options. As of December 31, 2019, the bank operated 52 full-service branches across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, making it a significant player in the regional banking landscape.

Meritus Ventures is a venture capital firm based in London, Kentucky. It makes equity investments in expansion-stage private companies, with a focus on rural areas of central and southern Appalachia. The firm targets opportunities in information technology, industrials, and technology, media, and telecommunications sectors, and its activity spans across Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Appalachian counties in Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. It may provide operational support to portfolio companies.

Postmates Inc. is an on-demand food and grocery delivery platform based in San Francisco, California. Founded in 2011, the company connects customers with local couriers to facilitate the delivery of products from a wide range of stores and restaurants across the United States. With access to over 600,000 merchants, including exclusive offerings, Postmates enables users to discover, order, and track groceries, alcohol, and meals with ease. The platform is particularly prominent in Los Angeles and covers 80% of U.S. households, serving customers in all 50 states. Additionally, Postmates offers a subscription service, Postmates Unlimited, which provides free delivery from all participating merchants, enhancing the convenience of its service.

Alpaca Audiology, LLC, founded in 2011 and based in Russellville, Arkansas, is a provider of patient-centered hearing healthcare services. The company operates a network of audiology clinics across the United States, offering ear testing services and hearing aid machines. Alpaca Audiology also distributes audiology products to clinics and provides healthcare practice management services. As of July 24, 2019, it was acquired by Belsono Management Group, LLC.

Cloyes Gear & Products, Inc., established in 1921 and headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing automotive timing drive systems and components. The company's extensive product portfolio includes timing gears, belts, chains, tensioners, and kits, catering to both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the automotive aftermarket. Cloyes serves a diverse customer base, comprising wholesale distributors, retailers, re-packagers, and production engine rebuilders, ensuring mission-critical components for engine performance and function. With operations in Arkansas and Mexico, Cloyes is a leading global supplier in its sector.

Founded in 2018 and based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, AcreTrader operates a platform facilitating investment in agricultural real estate. It offers transparency, flexibility, and ease of use for investors seeking to acquire shares of farmland online, while managing all administrative aspects and promoting soil sustainability.

Standard Lithium is a lithium brine producer focused on rapidly developing large-scale US-based resources. It minimizes risks through strategic partnerships and advanced extraction technologies.

Westrock Coffee Company, LLC is a comprehensive provider of coffee and tea solutions based in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Founded in 2009, the company specializes in coffee sourcing, roasting, and distribution, catering to a wide range of sectors, including retail, foodservice, convenience stores, and hospitality. Its product offerings include various coffee blends, teas, brewing equipment, and accessories. Westrock Coffee also engages in sustainable sourcing practices and provides supply chain management and product development services. The company serves clients globally and offers online sales, ensuring a broad market reach. Formerly known as Coffee Legends, LLC, Westrock Coffee has established itself as a key player in the coffee industry, focusing on quality and sustainability.

Bank OZK, founded in 1903 in Jasper, Arkansas, has a rich history of over 115 years in the banking sector. With its headquarters in Little Rock, the bank operates more than 100 locations across the Southeast. It offers a wide range of financial services, including personal loans, savings accounts, money market accounts, time deposits, wealth management, individual retirement accounts, and real estate loans. Customers can also access personal checking accounts, credit and debit cards, as well as mobile and online banking services. Bank OZK prides itself on building strong relationships with its customers, believing that this personal commitment is essential for providing tailored financial solutions. This customer-centric approach has earned the bank a reputation as one of the top-performing banks in the United States, contributing to high levels of customer satisfaction.

Established in 1903, Simmons Bank is a commercial bank based in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. It offers a range of financing solutions including agricultural loans, construction loans, SBA loans, and warehouse lending, serving clients primarily from manufacturing, retail, healthcare services, consumer durables, software, agriculture, cybersecurity, health tech, and industrials sectors.

Founded in 1984, Landscape Workshop is a full-service grounds management company specializing in commercial properties across the Southeast. It offers landscaping construction, maintenance, design, irrigation services, facility services, and snow removal, serving industries such as healthcare, retail, office parks, multifamily facilities, and municipalities.

Founded in 1910, BOK Financial is a regional financial services company headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It offers a wide range of products and services to consumers and businesses through its subsidiaries, including banking, investment management, mortgage banking, cash management, brokerage, and trading services.

Revolution is a manufacturer based in Little Rock, Arkansas, specializing in closed-loop plastic bags and a range of other products for agricultural, consumer, and industrial markets. With over 25 years of experience, the company focuses on sustainable solutions by employing a unique circular approach to recycling and manufacturing. Revolution diverts more than 300 million pounds of plastic waste from landfills each year, processing this material into high-quality certified recycled resin. This resin is then utilized in the production of various sustainable products, including trash can liners, reusable carryout bags, and construction films. By incorporating post-consumer recycled materials, Revolution helps its clients reduce their carbon footprint while promoting environmental responsibility.

Brinker International, Inc. operates casual dining restaurants, primarily under the brands Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. Chili's is known for its bar and grill offerings, featuring a menu that includes signature items such as slow-smoked baby back ribs, craft burgers, fajitas, and tableside guacamole. Maggiano's specializes in Italian cuisine, offering a diverse menu that includes appetizers, chicken, seafood, veal, prime steaks, and desserts. As of June 2013, Brinker International's system included 1,591 restaurants across 50 states and Washington, D.C., as well as locations in various countries including Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, and Mexico. The company generates the majority of its revenue from the Chili's segment, reflecting its strong presence in the casual dining market.

Ingeborg Investments is a venture capital firm established in 2017 and based in Bentonville, Arkansas. The firm specializes in investing in women-led enterprises, targeting seed, early-stage, and series B startups. Ingeborg Investments seeks to support innovative ventures that enhance various aspects of life, including parenting, careers, financial security, and women's health. By focusing on these sectors, the firm aims to improve overall quality of life for women and their families.

Established in 2006, Bengal Capital is a venture capital firm specializing in investments within the cannabis industry since 2013. The company provides seed stage and growth capital alongside traditional advisory resources to its operators across various sectors of the cannabis industry.

Walmart is a multinational retail corporation operating supermarkets, discount stores, and e-commerce platforms worldwide. It focuses on providing affordable goods and convenient shopping experiences.

Founded in 2006, Lee Equity Partners is a New York-based private equity firm focusing on mid-market investments. They primarily target healthcare, financial services, business services, and consumer goods companies in the United States, aiming to partner with top-tier management teams to build high-growth potential businesses.