Next Level Ventures, LLC is a venture capital firm based in Des Moines, Iowa, established in December 2013. The firm specializes in seed, early-stage, and later-stage investments, primarily targeting sectors such as agriculture, technology, biosciences, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. Next Level Ventures typically invests between $0.5 million and $5 million for minority ownership positions in companies with annual sales of at least $1 million. The firm is particularly focused on identifying and supporting growing companies within Iowa, contributing to the state's economic development. In addition to providing capital, Next Level Ventures offers management expertise and actively seeks to take board positions in its portfolio companies. With a commitment to fostering innovation, the firm aims to help its investments reach their full potential over a two to five-year investment horizon.

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.

Bank of America is a prominent financial institution headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, that offers a comprehensive range of banking, investing, asset management, and risk management services. It serves approximately 51 million consumer and small business relationships through a network of around 5,300 retail banking offices and 16,350 ATMs, alongside robust online and mobile banking platforms. The bank supports approximately 3 million small business owners with innovative online products and services. It operates in over 40 countries, providing tailored wealth management, corporate banking, and trading solutions for corporations, governments, institutions, and individuals. Established in 1874, Bank of America has grown to become a leader in its field, known for its extensive support and diverse financial offerings.

Ag Startup Engine, founded in 2015 and located in Ames, Iowa, is a venture capital firm dedicated to supporting agricultural startups and entrepreneurs in the Midwest. The organization addresses key challenges in the sector by providing early seed stage investment and structured mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs. Ag Startup Engine manages a venture capital fund that targets investments in agriculture, ag tech, and food tech, focusing on amounts ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 across approximately 45 companies. The firm is particularly interested in innovative areas such as robotics and drones, software as a service, financial technology, precision agriculture, animal health, livestock automation, and clean technology. By fostering growth in these fields, Ag Startup Engine aims to enhance the success of agricultural ventures in Iowa and beyond.

ISA Ventures, established in 2019 and based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a venture capital firm that focuses on fostering growth in Iowa-based companies across various key industry sectors. The firm invests in early-stage, expansion, and later-stage businesses in areas such as biotechnology, healthcare, agriculture, education technologies, engineering, and transportation. With a balanced approach, ISA Ventures aims to support companies through multiple phases of growth by leveraging world-class mentors and industry-leading corporate partners. The firm typically invests between $0.25 million and $1 million, targeting sectors like agtech, edtech, health tech, and insurtech, among others.

Ag Ventures Alliance, founded in 1998 and based in Mason City, Iowa, is a venture capital firm focused on supporting seed-stage and early-stage companies in the agriculture and technology sectors across the United States. The firm provides investment and business support services to help these emerging companies grow and thrive in the competitive agricultural landscape. By concentrating on innovative solutions and advancements in agriculture, Ag Ventures Alliance aims to foster development within the industry while contributing to the overall growth of the agricultural economy.

Innova Memphis, established in 2007 by the Memphis Bioworks Foundation, is a venture capital firm located in Memphis, Tennessee. The firm specializes in pre-seed, seed, and early-stage investments in high-growth companies within the biosciences, technology, and agri-tech sectors. Innova aims to connect capital with innovative ideas to develop groundbreaking products and services. By investing in start-ups, the firm not only supports their growth but also facilitates partnerships with established corporations for licensing or further investment opportunities. With a team experienced in management and market expertise, Innova is equipped to transform concepts into viable business units ready to compete in the market. Their approach combines technical knowledge, proven staffing, and appropriate funding to maximize the potential for success in the competitive landscape.

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.

McGowan Capital Group is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, established in 2004. The firm specializes in growth capital investments, focusing on early to mid-stage companies across the United States. By targeting promising businesses, McGowan Capital Group aims to support their development and expansion, contributing to their long-term success.

Twelve19 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Des Moines, Iowa, established in 2014. The firm focuses on making angel, seed, and venture investments in early-stage and growth companies. It seeks to partner with strong, innovative entrepreneurs and management teams, providing the necessary support to help these businesses succeed.

ManchesterStory Group is a private equity and venture capital firm based in West Des Moines, Iowa, established in 2016. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in the financial services, technology, and healthcare sectors across the United States. With a particular emphasis on insurtech and fintech, ManchesterStory aims to support innovative companies that are poised for growth in these dynamic industries. As a Registered Investment Adviser, the firm is committed to fostering the development of its portfolio companies while navigating the complexities of the investment landscape.

Ames Seed Capital, LLC is a venture capital firm established in 1987 and based in Ames, Iowa. The firm focuses on investing in startups, early-stage companies, and expansions, primarily within Ames and the surrounding areas of Story City, Nevada, and Huxley. It operates as a collective of private investors dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in central Iowa. By supporting new enterprises and enhancing existing industries, Ames Seed Capital plays a significant role in the local economic landscape.

Midwest Growth Partners is a private equity firm established in 2013 and located in West Des Moines, Iowa. With a fund size of $41 million, it focuses on mid-market investments, primarily in the manufacturing, food, agriculture, and distribution and logistics sectors. The firm seeks investment opportunities in growth-oriented companies, particularly in upper Midwest communities. It aims to provide succession planning liquidity for retiring business owners as well as growth capital for established businesses looking to expand. Midwest Growth Partners typically invests between $500,000 and $20 million across 10 to 15 companies, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing the potential of its portfolio through strategic investment.

Principal Financial Group, established in 1879 and headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, is a leading global investment management firm that provides a comprehensive range of financial products and services. The company specializes in retirement savings, insurance solutions, and asset management for individuals, businesses, and institutional clients. It offers services such as retirement plans, mutual funds, and investment advisory, managing assets across various markets, including public and fixed income, real estate, and currencies. Principal Financial Group operates through a network of subsidiaries, including Principal Global Investors, which focuses on equity and debt investments globally. The firm is dedicated to empowering clients to achieve their financial goals through tailored investment strategies and a diverse portfolio.

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.

PMA Financial Network, Inc. is a provider of financial and investment advisory services tailored to school districts and public entities. Founded in 1984 and based in Naperville, Illinois, the firm serves over 2,400 clients across eleven states. PMA offers a range of services, including self-directed investment options, customized discretionary management solutions, and comprehensive financial planning programs. Its public finance expertise encompasses financial advisory services, credit rating assistance, and planning for bond and sales tax referendums. The company also administers investment pool services, which include advanced reporting and transaction systems, as well as fund accounting and marketing services. PMA is recognized for its commitment to best practices and is regarded as a trusted partner in the financial success of its clients.

Great North Labs is an early-stage venture fund focused on investing in technology startups in the upper Midwest. The firm aims to foster grassroots economic development by investing in exponential and disruptive technologies. Great North Labs provides both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs, enhancing their chances for success while nurturing the local ecosystem to develop the next generation of transformative tech. The fund invests in companies from Seed to Series B stages, prioritizing those that leverage breakthrough technologies to innovate industries still reliant on analog processes. With a team composed of successful founders, Great North Labs emphasizes the importance of execution in its investment strategy, seeking high-potential startups regardless of their geographic location.

MidWestOne Bank is a commercial banking institution based in Iowa City, Iowa, founded in 1934 by Ben S. Summerwill. The bank provides a range of personal and business banking services, including commercial, real estate, agricultural, and consumer loans. It also offers various deposit products such as checking accounts, savings accounts, and time deposits. In addition to traditional banking services, MidWestOne Bank provides wealth management solutions and mortgage services. Customers benefit from modern conveniences like online and mobile banking, debit cards, and access to ATMs. The bank is committed to delivering relationship-based services and operates through a network of full-service banking offices.

Prairie Crest Capital is a venture capital firm based in Des Moines, Iowa, established in 2016. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, specifically targeting seed and series A funding for companies across the United States that are engaged in agriculture and technology innovation. By leveraging their financial and operational expertise, the partners at Prairie Crest Capital aim to identify and support promising enterprises that have the potential for significant growth and transformation in the agriculture sector.

Lee Enterprises is a prominent publisher of local news and advertising, primarily focusing on midsize markets in the United States. The company operates 49 daily newspapers and has a joint interest in four others, along with over 300 weekly newspapers and specialty publications across 23 states. Its daily newspapers have a circulation of 1.6 million, with a Sunday circulation of 1.9 million, collectively reaching more than four million readers each day. Lee Enterprises has embraced a digital-first approach, attracting over 12 million unique visitors to its online platforms monthly. The company's portfolio includes digital subscription services, print editions, and niche products that deliver both local and national news. By providing high-quality, trusted news and advertising services, Lee Enterprises aims to serve its communities effectively in both digital and print formats.

CTI Foods, LLC is a food processing company that specializes in supplying a variety of meat and food products to the quick service restaurant industry. Established in 2003 and headquartered in Wilder, Idaho, the company provides a diverse range of culinary solutions, including raw and pre-cooked proteins, soups, sauces, and dehydrated beans. CTI Foods operates six state-of-the-art processing facilities located in California, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Texas, employing over 1,500 individuals. By focusing on flavor and menu innovation, CTI Foods aims to deliver custom and proprietary products tailored to the specific needs of its clients in the foodservice and restaurant sectors.

At Vermeer, we’ve never limited ourselves to the task at hand. Like our founder, Gary Vermeer, we strive to do more.

Midwest Growth Partners, LLLP is a private equity firm specializing in investing in small to mid-sized companies lower middle market, management buyouts, outright acquisitions, internal recapitalizations, majority and minority growth capital, competitive roll-ups, succession planning liquidity for retiring business owners, general transfer, distressed, later stage, industry consolidation, and turnaround situations. The firm does not invest in start-ups, "pure-play" brick and mortar retailers, and non-core real estate. It seeks to invest in small family-owned rural businesses in the food and agriculture, distribution and logistics, manufacturing, and business service industries but may consider investments in other industries. The firm seeks to invest in Iowa, the Upper Midwest which includes Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Nebraska, and also in North Dakota and Kansas in companies with headquarters, or significant operations, located in communities with populations of 50,000 or less. It typically invests in companies with sales value between $4 million to $40 million and maximum EBITDA of $5 million, and makes equity investments between $0.5 million and $5 million in its portfolio companies depending on the structure of the transaction and nature of the investment. The firm may co-invest on larger opportunities. It invests in companies with revenues between $4 million and $40 million. Midwest Growth Partners, LLLP is based in Des Moines, Iowa.

Alliant Energy Corporation, founded in 1917 and headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, is a public utility holding company that provides regulated electricity and natural gas services across the Midwest. The company operates primarily through its two subsidiaries: Interstate Power and Light Company (IPL) and Wisconsin Power and Light Company (WPL). IPL serves retail customers in Iowa and southern Minnesota, while WPL caters to customers in southern and central Wisconsin. Together, these subsidiaries supply electricity to approximately one million customers and natural gas to around 425,000 customers. In addition to utility services, Alliant Energy also invests in various businesses, including freight services via a railway, a barge terminal on the Mississippi River, and logistics solutions. Furthermore, the company owns a natural gas-fired electric generating unit and a wind farm, contributing to its diverse energy portfolio.

Immanuel is the premiere option and longtime leader for retirement living in Nebraska and Iowa. As a non-profit organization, we invest our money back into our communities and Pathways centers, because the residents, participants and staff are what make us who we are.

Woodward Communications, headquartered in Dubuque, Iowa, is an employee-owned media company that offers a diverse range of services including community media, marketing communications, and targeted business trade services. The company is dedicated to delivering news, entertainment, and relevant stories about the people, places, and businesses that impact contemporary society. It publishes newspapers, weekly publications, and magazines, and operates radio stations, while also providing advertising services to clients. Through its various platforms, Woodward Communications aims to engage and inform its audience effectively.

The Ensign Group is a provider of post-acute healthcare services in the United States, operating 103 skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities, as well as five home health and three hospice operations across multiple states, including Arizona, California, and Texas. The company's offerings include skilled nursing, assisted living, home health, and hospice services, primarily funded through Medicare and Medicaid programs. Ensign operates through two main segments: Skilled Services, which focuses on skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation therapy, and Standard Bearer, which involves properties owned through a captive real estate investment trust (REIT) and leased to skilled nursing and assisted living operations. In 2014, Ensign further expanded its reach by acquiring Life's Doors Hospice and related services in Boise, Idaho.

Triumph Bancorp, Inc. is a financial holding company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, that offers a wide range of banking and commercial finance products and services primarily to retail customers and small-to-mid-sized businesses across the United States. The company operates through three segments: Banking, Factoring, and Corporate. Its banking services include various depository products such as checking and savings accounts, as well as loans for commercial, industrial, and agricultural purposes. Additionally, Triumph Bancorp provides factoring services to sectors including transportation, along with equipment financing and insurance brokerage services. The company has established a network of branches across multiple states, including Iowa, Illinois, Colorado, New Mexico, and Kansas, as well as loan production offices in Missouri. Through its diversified approach, Triumph Bancorp aims to deliver value and foster strong client relationships in the financial services sector.

Iowa Seed Fund is a venture capital fund established in 2011 and located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The fund primarily targets Iowa-founded businesses that demonstrate potential for rapid value growth, particularly in the advanced manufacturing, bioscience, healthcare, and information technology sectors. It invests in a range of opportunities, including pre-revenue, early revenue, and growth-stage companies, with a focus on fostering innovation within the Iowa region.

Aureon, based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a business solutions provider that offers a range of support services tailored for organizations of all sizes across the United States. Originally founded in 1988 as Aureon HR, Inc., the company has evolved into a comprehensive provider of human resource outsourcing, technology services, and contact center solutions. By leveraging a blend of talent, technology, and tools, Aureon enables clients to enhance productivity and focus on their core business operations. The company serves clients in 48 states, delivering scalable business support that includes custom communications, internet and network management, and carrier-class services.

St. Croix Hospice is a prominent provider of hospice services for patients facing life-limiting illnesses. With 21 office locations across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas, the company offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support patients, their families, and caregivers. These services include physician care, nursing, hospice aide assistance, continuous care nursing during crises, social services, spiritual care, therapy, nutritional counseling, and routine medical check-ups. St. Croix Hospice focuses on enhancing the comfort and quality of life for those with terminal diagnoses while addressing their physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Avtex, a Pohlad Family Company, specializes in application and systems integration, focusing on enterprise communication and collaboration technologies. The company designs, develops, deploys, and supports solutions in areas such as IP telephony, networking, messaging, and contact centers. As a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner and Interactive Intelligence Platinum Elite Partner, Avtex offers a comprehensive range of services that includes portal design, custom applications, and unified communications. With a mission to enhance the interactions between organizations and their customers, Avtex provides consultancy services that help convert physical platforms to online formats and implement effective communication tools. The company serves over 1,200 clients across the United States and in six countries, with offices located in major cities such as Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Des Moines, Omaha, and Cincinnati.

AgencyBloc provides specialized management solutions for life and health insurance agencies, enabling them to streamline their operations through an integrated system that combines customer relationship management (CRM), commission processing, and marketing automation. The company focuses on delivering user-friendly tools that facilitate efficient processes, allowing clients to concentrate on building relationships and acquiring new business rather than configuring generic systems. By specializing in the insurance vertical, AgencyBloc ensures that its clients can effectively manage and report on their data in real time, empowering them to scale their operations as they grow.

United Fire Group sells through more than 1,000 independent agencies in 43 states, plus the District of Columbia, and as a life insurer in 36 states, represented by more than 900 independent life agencies. They employ more than 900 individuals throughout their offices in California, Colorado, Iowa (home office), Louisiana, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Texas.

Heartland Express is a prominent provider of truckload transportation services in the United States and Canada, specializing in both dry van and temperature-controlled logistics. The company focuses on delivering reliable and efficient services, enabling clients from various sectors, including consumer goods, appliances, food products, and automotive industries, to enhance their transportation networks and customer satisfaction. Heartland Express is recognized for its commitment to on-time pickup and delivery, as well as its strategic approach to building long-term relationships with customers. The company prioritizes safety in its operations by employing highly qualified drivers and maintaining one of the newest fleets with rigorous maintenance protocols. Additionally, Heartland Express is dedicated to environmental sustainability, partnering with the Environmental Protection Agency to implement initiatives that reduce emissions and fuel consumption. This commitment to safety and sustainability has earned Heartland Express recognition as one of the safest carriers in the nation.

Stone Arch Capital, LLC is a private equity firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in investing in lower middle market companies primarily located in the Midwest, focusing on states such as Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota. Stone Arch Capital targets investments ranging from $10 to $25 million in companies with annual revenues between $15 million and $150 million and EBITDA between $3.5 million and $30 million. The firm seeks to acquire control, either as a minority or majority stakeholder, in sectors including manufacturing and services, while avoiding real estate, technology, and commodities. Stone Arch Capital emphasizes building partnerships with management teams to enhance shareholder value and is committed to responsible investment practices without engaging in hostile transactions.

Perfect Game is a sports organization that operates a platform dedicated to promoting amateur baseball. By collaborating with Major League Baseball and other baseball partners, Perfect Game aims to grow the sport and provide recognition for talented players and teams. The organization hosts travel team tournaments and individual showcase events, allowing players to display their skills on a national stage. In addition to supporting player development, Perfect Game also works to cultivate a broader fan base for baseball.

Based in Des Moines, Iowa, and established in 1971, LCS is a leading provider of high-quality senior lifestyle products and services. The LCS Family of Companies focus on development, operations management, marketing and sales management, and strategic planning for Life Plan Communities, also referred to as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC), and rental independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities nationwide. The company also provides a full-service real estate private equity enterprise, insurance, national purchasing consulting services and in-home care. The companies of LCS serve thousands of seniors across the nation

Affinity Gaming is a casino gaming company that operates 11 properties across Nevada, Colorado, Missouri, and Iowa. The company focuses on creating a welcoming and casual atmosphere for its guests, emphasizing customer satisfaction through high-quality service and a diverse range of entertainment options. Affinity Gaming offers a variety of gaming experiences, including slot machines and table games, alongside amenities such as hotel rooms, dining establishments, and entertainment venues. By prioritizing a friendly environment and engaging with customers on a personal level, Affinity Gaming aims to provide a memorable experience that encourages repeat visits.

Caravel Autism Health, LLC specializes in designing tailored treatment programs for children with autism and related developmental disabilities. The company provides various treatment pathways, including options for early learners aged two to six, skill builders for children seven and older, and programs for teens in middle and high school. In addition to personalized applied behavior analysis therapy, Caravel offers social skills training covering topics such as communication, teamwork, and friendship, along with diagnostic evaluations and parent support services. Established in 2009 and based in Deerfield, Illinois, the company operates across several locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa, serving families in the greater Chicago area and beyond.

Flint Hills Resources is an independent refining, chemicals, and biofuels company headquartered in Wichita, Kansas. Established in 1995 as a subsidiary of Koch Industries, it has developed a diverse portfolio of products, including gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, asphalt, ethanol, biodiesel, liquefied natural gas, polymers, and various intermediate chemicals. The company operates refineries in Alaska, Minnesota, and Texas with a combined capacity of approximately 670,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Flint Hills Resources also runs multiple ethanol plants in Iowa and Nebraska, producing a total of 550 million gallons annually, and is a significant purchaser of ethanol in Minnesota. Through strategic investments and acquisitions exceeding $7.6 billion since 2002, the company aims to enhance its operational capabilities while meeting customer demands in the refining and chemical sectors. Its manufacturing facilities, located in Illinois, Michigan, and Texas, produce essential materials used in numerous industries, including automotive and packaging. Flint Hills Resources is committed to efficient resource utilization and community involvement, striving to create value for both its customers and society at large.

TaxACT is a tax preparation software provider established in 1998, offering solutions for both individuals and businesses to efficiently prepare and file their taxes. The company provides various software products, including editions tailored for different needs such as free, deluxe, and state returns. Additionally, TaxACT offers specific business solutions for entities like sole proprietors, partnerships, and corporations. The software is accessible through a secure online platform, with options for desktop downloads, ensuring a user-friendly experience. Alongside its software offerings, TaxACT also provides consulting services and expert insights to assist customers in making informed financial decisions and managing their tax obligations effectively.

Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) is a defined benefit public pension fund established in 1953, based in Des Moines, Iowa. It serves public employees within the state by providing retirement plans and benefits. IPERS organizes retirement planning sessions and workshops, offering resources such as information, forms, and reporting tools for employers to assist with pension reporting. With approximately $24 billion in assets under management, the fund invests in a diverse range of asset classes, including public equities, fixed income, real assets, and alternative investments like private equity and real estate. The allocation to alternative investments typically ranges from 5% to 12% of total assets, employing various strategies such as buyouts, distressed debt, and venture capital. IPERS adheres to ethical investment guidelines, avoiding companies involved in certain activities related to Iran, Sudan, or those that boycott Israel. The management of the fund is overseen by an executive team dedicated to ensuring the long-term sustainability of retirement benefits for its members.

Morningside Private Investors is a family office based in Ridgefield, Connecticut, founded in 1987. The firm specializes in management buyouts, recapitalizations, and growth capital investments, primarily targeting small to mid-sized companies in the manufacturing, distribution, and service sectors. Morningside focuses on businesses involved in engineered products, industrial equipment, commercial services, and logistics, with an emphasis on those benefiting from low-cost natural gas. It typically invests between $10 million and $75 million in companies with revenues exceeding $25 million and EBITDA over $5 million. Morningside makes both majority and minority investments and maintains a long-term investment horizon of eight to ten years. The firm does not engage with companies in telecom, media, technology, or software sectors.

PGIM Core Plus is a real estate investment fund managed by PGIM Real Estate, based in Atlanta, Georgia. The fund focuses on making core plus investments in the European market, targeting properties that offer a mix of stable income and potential for appreciation. It seeks to incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into its investment decisions, aligning with growing trends towards responsible investing. The fund is part of PGIM's broader real estate strategy, which encompasses a diverse range of investment vehicles across various asset classes. PGIM Real Estate leverages its extensive knowledge and expertise in the industry to identify opportunities that contribute to both financial returns and positive social impact.

Founded in 1996, Monument Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Indianapolis, Indiana. The firm focuses on management buyouts, leveraged buyouts, leveraged recapitalization opportunities, and add-on investments and invests in companiesoperating in manufacturing, value-added distribution, and industrial service businesses located primarily in the Midwest.

FoodChain ID offers analytic testing, third-party certification, and consulting services focused on the agriculture and food industries. The company specializes in ensuring food safety and quality by providing testing for genetically modified organisms, pesticide residues, cannabidiol, and gluten in food products. Their suite of services includes food testing, certification, and supply chain compliance software, assisting clients in meeting food quality standards and regulatory requirements in the United States.

Four Pillars Investors is a private equity investment firm established in 2015 and based in Overland Park, Kansas. The firm focuses on acquiring and operating small to middle-market businesses, primarily in the manufacturing and distribution sectors, with an emphasis on companies that exhibit untapped growth potential. Four Pillars Investors is committed to long-term ownership and aims to support its investments in a collaborative manner, fostering an environment that promotes shared success while avoiding overwhelming the businesses it invests in.

Omaha World-Herald is a daily newspaper based in Omaha, Nebraska, that serves a broad readership in both Nebraska and southwest Iowa. The publication offers a wide range of content, including news, commentary, sports, entertainment, obituaries, and advertisements, aiming to engage its audience and encourage involvement in local and regional issues. As a leading source of information in its area, it reaches more readers in southwest Iowa than any other Iowa newspaper, reflecting its significant influence and commitment to community engagement.

CIVCO Medical Solutions, based in Coralville, Iowa, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and marketing medical equipment and technology solutions. The company offers a diverse range of products, including ultrasound probe covers, probe cleaning and disinfection systems, and ultrasound needle guides. By focusing on guidance and infection control, CIVCO Medical Solutions aims to provide healthcare providers with high-quality medical products that enhance patient care and safety.