Elemental Impact, established in 2009 and located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an impact investment firm dedicated to fostering positive change through strategic investments. The firm focuses on supporting companies in the energy, mobility, agriculture, circular economy, and water sectors. Elemental Impact aims to improve systems that significantly affect people's lives and has actively invested in numerous startups to facilitate this mission. By providing financial backing and resources, Elemental Impact contributes to the growth of innovative solutions that address critical global challenges.

Ulupono Initiative is an impact investment firm based in Honolulu, Hawaii, founded in 2009. The firm is dedicated to addressing the needs of the local community through sustainable solutions that promote economic progress alongside environmental stewardship. Ulupono Initiative focuses its investments on key sectors, including food, clean transportation, renewable energy, and water and waste management. By prioritizing innovative and transformative approaches, the firm aims to significantly enhance the lives of individuals and the broader community in Hawaii, ensuring a prosperous future for the islands.

Blue Startups is a prominent accelerator investment firm based in Honolulu, Hawaii, established in 2012 by Maya and Henk Rogers of the Tetris Company and Chenoa Farnsworth of Hawaii Angels. Recognized as a Top 20 Accelerator in the U.S., it focuses on scalable technology companies, particularly in the software, travel tech, gaming, and sustainable solutions sectors. The firm aims to help startups compete on a global scale, with an emphasis on companies serving both the Asia and North America markets. Blue Startups boasts a robust network of global mentors and is a member of the Global Accelerator Network, providing startups access to valuable resources, including over $1 million in free services, investor introductions, and soft landing spaces worldwide.

The National Science Foundation (NSF), established in 1950 and located in Alexandria, Virginia, is an independent federal agency dedicated to advancing fundamental research and education across all scientific and engineering disciplines. With an annual budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF operates America's Seed Fund, which allocates nearly $200 million each year to support startups and small businesses through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This initiative provides non-dilutive funding of up to $1.5 million to assist in research and development efforts, thereby facilitating the transformation of scientific discoveries into commercially viable products and services. By helping to de-risk technology, the NSF plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges through scientific advancements.

Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 1992 and based in New Orleans, Louisiana, with additional offices across the United States. The firm specializes in growth equity, lending, and mezzanine debt capital investments, primarily targeting small businesses at various stages of development, from early to later stages, excluding seed investments. Advantage Capital focuses on investing in low-income communities, both urban and rural, and supports state and local economic development initiatives. It seeks opportunities in sectors such as communication, information technology, telecommunications, business services, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, life sciences, and energy, while also considering investments in rural agricultural businesses. The firm typically makes initial investments ranging from $0.5 million to $10 million in companies with sales of less than $5 million, with potential for larger investments based on milestones. Advantage Capital also provides various forms of debt capital and prefers co-investing with other firms. The firm is committed to addressing the financing needs of underserved areas and fostering economic growth in communities lacking traditional sources of risk capital.

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.

Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc. is a leading electric utility provider in Hawaii, generating and delivering electricity to residents and businesses across the islands of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Lanai, and Molokai. Founded in 1891 and headquartered in Honolulu, the company operates as a subsidiary of Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. Its primary activities include producing, purchasing, distributing, and selling electricity, serving a diverse customer base that encompasses suburban communities, resorts, U.S. Armed Forces installations, and agricultural operations. The company is committed to enhancing the economic well-being of the state and promoting environmental sustainability, integrating these goals into its core business strategies to ensure a prosperous and clean future for Hawaii and its communities.

Enerdigm Ventures, LLC is a venture capital firm established in 2007 and based in Palo Alto, California. The firm specializes in late seed and early stage investments, primarily focusing on technology sectors such as energy technologies, infrastructure software, cloud data, and the Internet of Things. Enerdigm typically invests between $0.5 million and $1 million, with a preference for companies that have a market value exceeding $50 million at the time of investment. The firm engages in project finance, providing debt and equity financing for infrastructure projects across the United States, including energy conservation measures and clean energy initiatives. Enerdigm aims to partner with national and regional Energy Services Companies and technology manufacturers, often acting as a lead investor while collaborating with other investors. The firm seeks to invest in projects sized between $1 million and $10 million and values community benefit aspects in its investments. Enerdigm generally exits its investments within five years.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) is a self-governing agency based in Hilo, Hawaii, established in 1978. Its primary mission is to improve the well-being of native Hawaiians through economic development and community collaboration. OHA works with various organizations to enhance resources and support for the Hawaiian community. The agency's assets are overseen by its executive management, ensuring that they are effectively utilized to fulfill its objectives and promote the welfare of native Hawaiians.

Kamehameha Schools, founded in 1887 and based in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a non-profit educational institution that provides comprehensive educational programs from elementary through high school. The organization manages an endowment fund aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and improving the well-being of individuals of Hawaiian ancestry. The endowment's investment portfolio includes a diverse range of assets, such as equities, hedge funds, and real assets, all overseen by an executive management team. Through its financial resources, Kamehameha Schools supports its mission to empower and educate the Hawaiian community.

Startup Capital Ventures, L.P. is a venture capital firm established in 2005 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with additional offices in Honolulu, Hawaii, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, and Shenzhen, China. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth capital investments, primarily targeting B2B technology companies in sectors such as security, fintech, travel, wireless, cloud, SaaS, healthcare information technology, and the internet of things. Startup Capital Ventures typically makes initial investments ranging from $0.25 million to $1 million, while reserving funds for future financing rounds. The firm collaborates with other leading funds during Series Seed and Series A rounds and focuses on companies that demonstrate capital efficiency and have the potential for near-term profitability. By emphasizing strong management teams and fostering supportive relationships based on flexibility and integrity, Startup Capital Ventures aims to facilitate the growth and success of its portfolio companies, primarily within Silicon Valley, Hawaii, Texas, and Oklahoma.

Reef Capital Ventures is a Hawaii-based venture capital firm established in 2014, focusing on seed-stage and early-stage investments in technology companies across the United States. With its roots in the welcoming culture and natural beauty of Maui, the firm aims to foster innovative ideas in an environment conducive to growth. By providing essential capital, along with strategic support and industry expertise, Reef Capital Ventures assists emerging companies in navigating their developmental milestones and achieving long-term success.

Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers is a real estate firm dedicated to facilitating property transactions across Hawaii. The company specializes in the buying, selling, and management of various types of real estate, including homes, land, and hotels. With a focus on effective marketing strategies and strong representation, Hawaii Life ensures that clients receive tailored services that respond to market trends and buyer preferences. Utilizing a blend of technology and innovative marketing techniques, the firm aims to help clients achieve optimal results in their real estate endeavors.

King's Hawaiian is a bakery products manufacturer that originated in Hilo, Hawaii, in 1950. The company is known for its commitment to quality and the Aloha Spirit. Its product line features a variety of breads, including Original Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls, Honey Wheat Dinner Rolls, and Savory Butter Dinner Rolls, which are suitable for family meals and celebrations. Additionally, King's Hawaiian offers a range of other baked goods, such as sliders, hamburger buns, hot dog buns, mini sub rolls, and sliced bread, catering to diverse culinary needs and preferences.

Mahi Pono is a farming company based in Maui, Hawaii, established in 2018. The company focuses on transforming former sugarcane land into a diversified agricultural hub, committed to sustainable farming practices. Mahi Pono cultivates a variety of crops, including citrus, macadamia nuts, coffee, and onions, while also engaging in livestock farming. The company’s mission is to promote the well-being of local families in Hawai'i through responsible agricultural practices, providing fresh products for consumption and contributing to the region's food security.

The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation, established in 1967 by philanthropist Clarence T.C. Ching, is an independent non-profit organization based in Honolulu, Hawaii. As a charitable 501(c)(3) entity, the Foundation is dedicated to fulfilling Mr. Ching's vision of assisting those in need. It annually provides financial support to both public and private educational institutions, as well as health and social service organizations. The Foundation's assets are managed and governed by a board of trustees, ensuring that its philanthropic efforts align with its mission to make a positive impact in the community.

Cyanotech Corporation specializes in cultivating, producing, and selling natural products derived from microalgae, primarily for the health and nutrition markets. The company's flagship products include BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin, a powerful dietary antioxidant that supports the body's inflammatory response and promotes skin, eye, and joint health, and Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica, a nutrient-rich dietary supplement known for its energy-boosting properties and immune system support. Both products are marketed as functional nutrients, with BioAstin recognized for its superior antioxidant activity. Cyanotech sells its offerings through various channels, including retail distributors, online platforms, and direct-to-consumer sales, as well as in bulk to manufacturers and formulators. Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, Cyanotech has established a reputation for quality in the nutritional supplements sector, primarily generating revenue from packaged products in the United States.

Sultan Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Honolulu, Hawaii, established in 2010. It acts as a startup catalyst by offering essential resources and expertise to both entrepreneurs and investors. The firm works closely with innovative startups, providing the necessary guidance and access to capital to facilitate growth. It also assists investors by conducting due diligence to support informed investment decisions. Since its inception, Sultan Ventures has helped numerous startups secure millions in funding, offering strategic direction and business development support. The firm focuses on a variety of sectors, including healthcare, biotech, crowdfunding, entertainment, information technology, aviation, energy, and food and beverage. With a commitment to delivering value, Sultan Ventures employs a combination of experience and analytical solutions to collaborate with organizations across public, private, government, and non-profit domains.

Switchfly, LLC is a technology company that provides a travel eCommerce platform and booking software designed for airlines, hotels, and financial services. Established in 2003 and headquartered in San Francisco, with additional offices in Honolulu and Denver, Switchfly offers a range of services including Switchfly Packaging, which enables airlines to increase revenue by bundling flights with ancillary products such as hotels and car rentals. Their Switchfly Loyalty product enhances customer engagement by allowing loyalty program members to earn and redeem points flexibly while receiving personalized rewards. Additionally, Switchfly Air serves as an optimized online booking engine that helps airlines boost revenue and foster direct customer loyalty. The company works with notable clients, including major airlines and credit card loyalty programs, leveraging a scalable architecture to provide comprehensive travel solutions.

Equity Commonwealth is a real estate investment trust focused on the ownership and operation of office buildings across the United States. The company primarily manages a diverse portfolio of office properties, which are strategically located in urban markets such as Washington, Austin, and Denver. The majority of its income is generated through rental revenue from tenants occupying these office spaces. In addition to its extensive office portfolio, Equity Commonwealth also has interests in industrial properties, including leased industrial and commercial lands in Oahu, Hawaii, and properties in Australia. The firm is committed to maintaining a robust and dynamic real estate presence in major metropolitan areas.

Evergreen Pacific Partners is a Seattle-based private equity firm founded in 2003, managing two funds totaling $700 million. The firm focuses on investing in traditional, middle-market companies located in the thirteen Western U.S. states and two Western Canadian provinces. Evergreen Pacific Partners specializes in traditional buyouts, management-led buyouts, and growth capital opportunities, typically targeting companies with revenues exceeding $50 million and requiring a minimum equity investment of $15 million. The firm's investment sectors include manufacturing and distribution, specialty packaging, consumer products, and technology. With a diverse team possessing significant operational and industry experience, Evergreen Pacific Partners employs a disciplined approach to investment origination, transaction execution, and portfolio management.

Kaiser Permanente is a nonprofit healthcare organization that provides a comprehensive range of services, including preventive care, emergency care, hospital and medical services, as well as pharmacy services. Founded in 1945 and headquartered in Oakland, California, Kaiser Permanente has a strong presence in several states, including California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Ohio, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia. The organization operates through a model that emphasizes integrated care, focusing on the overall health and well-being of its members. Additionally, Kaiser Permanente Ventures, established in 1997, serves as the venture capital arm of the organization, investing in innovative healthcare companies. The firm primarily targets investments in healthcare services, medical devices, diagnostics, health information technology, and biotechnology, focusing on companies based in the United States with substantial market potential. Through these initiatives, Kaiser Permanente aims to influence the future of healthcare delivery while supporting advancements within the industry.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America is a nonprofit organization based in New York City that has been providing essential reproductive healthcare, sex education, and information since its founding in 1916. It operates nearly 800 affiliate health centers across the United States, ensuring access to vital services for women, men, and young people. The organization offers a range of services, including STI testing and treatment, contraception options, cancer screening and prevention, pregnancy-related services, and abortion care. In addition to healthcare services, Planned Parenthood is committed to education and advocacy, promoting understanding of reproductive health issues and their societal implications. Through its efforts, Planned Parenthood aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary for informed health choices.

Fundamental Capital, LLC is a private equity firm based in San Francisco, California, specializing in investments in small to mid-sized growth companies. Founded in 2003, the firm focuses on sectors including consumer goods, packaged products, food and beverage, health and wellness, and services related to packaging, marketing, and logistics. It typically invests between $2 million and $15 million in companies with revenues ranging from $5 million to $50 million and an EBITDA of at least $2 million. Fundamental Capital aims to take controlling stakes in its portfolio companies and often seeks board membership to provide strategic and operational guidance. The firm is committed to long-term investments, primarily in the Western United States and Hawaii, and structures its investments in preferred and common stock, with the potential for debt financing. Through its experienced team, Fundamental Capital not only provides capital but also the necessary resources to support management teams in achieving their growth objectives.

HCAP Partners is a private equity firm based in San Diego, California, specializing in growth capital investments primarily in lower middle market companies across California and the Western United States. Founded in 2000, the firm focuses on sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, services, and technology. HCAP Partners typically invests between $2 million and $25 million in companies with revenues ranging from $10 million to $100 million and enterprise values between $10 million and $60 million. The firm does not engage in start-up investments and prefers to acquire active board positions in its portfolio companies. It employs a range of investment strategies, including equity, debt, and combinations thereof, often providing mezzanine debt investments for minority equity participations. HCAP Partners aims to generate above-market returns while contributing to the economic well-being of the communities it serves, seeking to exit its investments within five years.

Moss & Associates is a construction management firm based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with additional offices in Hawai’i, California, Texas, and various locations across Florida. The company specializes in general construction and preconstruction consulting services, catering to commercial, institutional, and residential projects. Moss is known for its transparent and integrity-driven approach, which has earned it a reputation as one of the most respected firms in the construction industry. The firm emphasizes strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and the community, focusing on customer satisfaction and intelligent solutions that exceed expectations. Their commitment to innovative and sustainable building practices has led to the creation of award-winning structures across the United States.

The Bernard Osher Foundation, established in 1977 and based in San Francisco, is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to improving quality of life through support for higher education and the arts. The foundation provides post-secondary scholarships to colleges and universities nationwide, with a particular focus on reentry students. It oversees a national network of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes, which cater to seasoned adults and operate on the campuses of 124 higher education institutions across the United States. Additionally, the foundation supports integrative medicine programs in the U.S. and Sweden, collaborating with prestigious institutions such as the University of California, San Francisco, and Harvard Medical School. The foundation also awards grants to various performing arts organizations, museums, and educational initiatives, particularly in Northern California and Maine. Governance is provided by a nine-member Board of Directors, chaired by Barbro Osher, who serves as Honorary Consul General of Sweden in California.

Bank of Hawaii, established in 1897 and headquartered in Honolulu, is a commercial bank that serves customers in Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, and other Pacific Islands. The bank offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, lines of credit, mortgages, and retirement accounts. In addition to retail banking, it provides wealth management, investment services, business banking solutions, and leasing services. Bank of Hawaii also engages in trade and international banking, catering to both individual and corporate clients. Its subsidiaries, including Bank of Hawaii Leasing and Bankoh Investment Services, further expand its service offerings, encompassing equipment leasing, securities brokerage, and credit insurance. The bank operates through multiple segments, ensuring a diverse portfolio that meets the needs of its varied clientele.

Sunstone Hotel Investors is a real estate investment trust that focuses on acquiring, owning, managing, and renovating full-service and select-service hotels across the United States. The company has a diverse portfolio of 29 hotels, totaling 13,740 rooms, primarily situated in the upper-upscale segment and operated under well-known brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Fairmont. Sunstone's properties are strategically located in key markets, including California, Florida, and Hawaii, with California generating the majority of its revenue. The firm's business strategy emphasizes proactive portfolio management, aiming to enhance the quality and growth potential of its holdings while gradually reducing debt. Sunstone's income is solely derived from hotel revenue, underscoring its commitment to the hospitality sector.

Central Pacific Bank is a commercial bank headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii, and serves as the primary subsidiary of Central Pacific Financial. With approximately $5.4 billion in assets, the bank offers a comprehensive range of banking products and services. Its operations encompass construction and real estate development lending, commercial lending, residential mortgage lending, and consumer lending. Additionally, Central Pacific Bank provides trust services and various deposit and loan products to meet the needs of its customers. The bank also manages an investment securities portfolio and engages in wholesale funding activities through its treasury segment. Furthermore, it offers wealth management products and services, including annuities and insurance, to help clients manage their financial futures.

Virgin America is a California-based airline that aims to enhance the flying experience by providing modern aircraft, competitive fares, and exceptional service. Since its inception in August 2007, the airline has distinguished itself in the industry with a range of innovative amenities, including fleetwide in-flight internet, mood-lit cabins, custom-designed leather seating, and individual touch-screen entertainment systems. Virgin America has garnered numerous awards for its service quality, being recognized as “Best Domestic Airline” by both Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure for multiple consecutive years. The airline operates flights to various destinations across the continental United States, as well as to Hawaii and Mexico, offering routes from major cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York.

RLG Capital is a private equity firm established in 2013 and located in Park City, Utah. The firm specializes in investing in private companies, aiming to acquire significant control to enhance their growth and capital potential. RLG Capital focuses on various sectors, including business services, education, energy, health and wellness, and technology. Through its investments, the firm seeks to drive value and support the development of the companies in which it invests.

REC Solar Commercial Corp. specializes in the design, construction, management, and financing of commercial solar projects across the United States. Founded in 1997 and based in San Luis Obispo, California, with additional offices in Petaluma and Honolulu, the company provides a range of services including energy and rate analysis, solar financing, design and engineering, procurement and construction, and operations and maintenance. REC Solar has established a reputation as an expert in agricultural and cold storage solar solutions, catering to the unique needs of farmers and food processors by navigating land permitting, tax credits, and energy rate structures. The company also focuses on utility-scale solar photovoltaic installations, enabling various sectors, including government and commercial enterprises, to adopt renewable energy technologies that reduce environmental impact. As of 2015, REC Solar operates as a subsidiary of Duke Energy Corporation.

KCB Private Equity is a Pasadena, California-based investment firm founded in 1986, specializing in long-term investments in small to medium-sized businesses across the United States and Canada. The firm distinguishes itself from traditional private equity firms by committing significant personal capital and focusing on long-term growth rather than short-term exits. KCB Private Equity invests in a diverse range of sectors, including retail, consumer products and services, business services, technology, healthcare services, education, light manufacturing, and distribution. By providing sellers with immediate liquidity while ensuring business continuity, KCB fosters strong relationships with management, allowing for the nurturing of its growing portfolio companies.

California Water Service Group is a water utility holding company based in San Jose, California, operating through subsidiaries in California, Washington, New Mexico, and Hawaii. The company is engaged in the production, treatment, storage, distribution, and sale of water for domestic, industrial, public, and irrigation purposes, serving approximately 489,600 customer connections in California, alongside additional connections in Hawaii, Washington, and New Mexico. Its regulated subsidiaries primarily focus on these essential water services, while its unregulated divisions offer services such as operating municipal water systems, providing meter reading and billing services, and leasing communication sites. Founded in 1926, California Water Service Group has established itself as a significant provider of water-related services, generating most of its revenue from residential customers.

First Hawaiian Bank, headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a financial institution that offers a comprehensive range of banking services for both consumer and commercial customers. Founded in 1858, the bank provides various deposit products, including checking and savings accounts, as well as time deposits. It offers a variety of loans, such as residential and commercial mortgages, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, and small business financing. Additionally, First Hawaiian Bank delivers wealth management services, including financial planning, trust and estate services, and private banking. The bank also supports online and mobile banking, insurance products, and investment services. With a network of branches across Hawaii and in Guam and Saipan, First Hawaiian Bank has a long-standing presence in the region and operates as a subsidiary of First Hawaiian, Inc.

Servco Pacific Capital, LLC is the private equity arm of Servco Pacific Inc., one of the longest-standing privately held businesses in Hawaii, established in 1919. Based in San Francisco, California, Servco Pacific Capital focuses on a variety of investment strategies, including venture capital, growth capital, and private equity through methods such as add-ons, buyouts, and recapitalizations. The firm seeks opportunities primarily in sectors such as B2B, commercial products, services, commercial transportation, fintech, and micro-mobility. In addition to its investment activities, Servco Pacific Capital plays a key role in corporate development and strategic efforts for Servco's diverse operations, which include automotive distribution, retail dealerships, and appliance distribution, as well as a joint venture in Fender Musical Instruments, a leading manufacturer of electric guitars and amplifiers.

Kirby Corporation is a leading tank barge operator in the United States, specializing in the transportation of bulk liquid products across various waterways, including the Mississippi River System, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and all three U.S. coasts, as well as in Alaska and Hawaii. The company primarily transports petrochemicals, black oil, refined petroleum products, and agricultural chemicals via its tank barges. Kirby operates in two main segments: the Marine transportation segment, which focuses on marine transportation services using tank barges and towing vessels, and the Distribution and services segment, which offers aftermarket services and genuine replacement parts for engines, transmissions, reduction gears, and power generation equipment, primarily for the oil and gas sector. Additionally, Kirby owns and operates eight ocean-going barge and tug units that transport dry-bulk commodities in U.S. coastwise trade.

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. is a prominent timeshare company based in Orlando, Florida, specializing in the development, marketing, and management of vacation ownership resorts primarily under the Hilton Grand Vacations brand. The company operates in two main segments: Real Estate Sales and Financing, and Resort Operations and Club Management. It sells vacation ownership intervals, manages resorts, and runs a points-based vacation club, financing loans for consumers purchasing timeshares. Hilton Grand Vacations also oversees the Hilton Grand Vacations Club and Hilton Club exchange programs, which offer leisure travel and reservation services to approximately 326,000 members. As of 2019, the company managed 59 resorts with 9,540 units located in various locations including Hawaii, New York City, Orlando, South Carolina, Washington D.C., Las Vegas, and Europe. Founded in 1992, Hilton Grand Vacations has established itself as a leader in the vacation ownership industry.

Aqua-Spark is an investment fund based in Utrecht, Netherlands, established in 2013. It focuses on sustainable aquaculture businesses worldwide, targeting small to medium-sized enterprises involved in the production of safe and accessible aquatic life, including fish, shellfish, and plants. The fund prioritizes investments that generate financial returns while promoting positive environmental and social outcomes, adhering to a triple impact philosophy. Aqua-Spark emphasizes a long-term investment approach, seeking entrepreneurs who are committed to building and scaling their businesses to address significant environmental and food security challenges. Sustainability is a core requirement for each investee, reflecting Aqua-Spark's dedication to fostering responsible practices within the aquaculture sector.

Winklevoss Capital Management LLC is a venture capital firm founded in February 2012, with offices in New York and Wilmington, Delaware. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in disruptive startups, focusing primarily on technology sectors such as cloud computing and financial technology. Winklevoss Capital collaborates closely with a select number of companies, providing not only capital but also a comprehensive approach to foster growth. Its investment strategy extends to various sectors, including software, retail, and commercial services, positioning the firm as a key player in supporting innovative enterprises.

Government for Montgomery County, Maryland

The Stephens Group, LLC is a private equity and venture capital firm founded in 1933 and headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, with additional offices in Frankfurt, London, and New York. The firm specializes in mid venture investments, leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations, and growth capital across a diverse range of industries, including agriculture, energy, software, healthcare, consumer products, and telecommunications. It targets both private and public companies, focusing primarily on those with strong management teams and growth potential. The Stephens Group typically invests between $10 million and $125 million, seeking to take either majority control or significant minority stakes while often securing a seat on the board of directors. The firm emphasizes investments in companies located primarily in the United States and Canada, particularly in the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions. Through its investment strategy, the firm aims to achieve high returns on invested capital by partnering with exceptional management teams in growing industries.

Partners Group is a global investment management firm headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private real estate, private infrastructure, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm has developed a diverse portfolio, managing CHF 19.2 billion in private equity assets and employing over 1,500 professionals across multiple offices worldwide. With a focus on delivering customized investment solutions for an international clientele of institutional investors, Partners Group actively engages in various sectors, including business services, consumer products, financial services, healthcare, and technology. The firm has established a significant presence in the private markets, boasting over 300 partnership investments and collaborating with more than 200 general partners. Its strategic approach and strong Swiss roots position Partners Group as one of the largest private equity asset managers globally.

BOKA Group Holdings I LP is a strategic holding company.

IronGate Capital Advisors is a venture capital investment firm established in 2017 and located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The firm engages in both fund-of-funds investments and direct investments, focusing on sectors such as robotics, artificial intelligence, data infrastructure, cybersecurity, space technology, data analytics, and cloud-based information processing. Through its investment strategies, IronGate aims to support innovative companies and technologies within these dynamic industries.

Lux Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2000, with offices in New York City and Silicon Valley. The firm specializes in founding, seed, early-stage, and growth investments, primarily in the physical and life sciences, as well as sectors such as biochemistry, material science, aerospace, and advanced technologies like machine learning and synthetic biology. Lux Capital actively supports entrepreneurs in developing successful businesses, leveraging its extensive expertise to enhance the connectivity and competitive edge of its portfolio companies. With assets under management totaling approximately $4 billion, the firm has played a significant role in founding over 20 companies, focusing on high-growth opportunities and innovative solutions across diverse industries.

Starburst Ventures is an innovation catalyst in the aerospace sector, recognized as the first global accelerator dedicated to aviation, space, and defense. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in California, it specializes in facilitating connections between established corporations and startups while offering strategic growth mentoring and consulting services. With a presence in major cities including Los Angeles, Paris, Montreal, Munich, San Francisco, and Singapore, Starburst has cultivated an extensive ecosystem that encompasses over 4,000 startups related to aerospace. The organization also hosts numerous international and national events, highlighting innovation in the industry, particularly at prominent air shows. Starburst Ventures focuses on series A and series B-stage investments, emphasizing the growth and development of aerospace companies worldwide.

Seraphim Space is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2006, focused on investing in the space technology sector. It manages multiple funds, including the Seraphim Space Fund and the Seraphim Global Space Stars Fund, targeting a wide range of industries such as communications, agriculture, healthcare, and energy. The firm aims to provide financial support to early and growth-stage companies, typically investing between $0.25 million and $25 million. Through the Seraphim Space Accelerator, it also supports startups in the space ecosystem, leveraging a network of global corporate partners and governmental agencies to create significant value. With over 100 years of collective experience, Seraphim Space has a strong track record of fostering innovation and driving growth in the space sector.

S2G Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, established in 2014, that focuses on investing in the food and agriculture sectors. The firm aims to support entrepreneurs whose products and services address the growing consumer demand for healthy, sustainable, and locally sourced food. S2G Ventures identifies key areas within the food system that are poised for innovation and change, creating a diverse portfolio that includes seed, venture, and growth-stage investments. Its investment interests span various domains, including agriculture, ingredients, infrastructure and logistics, food safety and technology, retail and restaurants, and consumer brands.