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.

Flywheel Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, specializing in seed and early-stage investments in technology and physical sciences. Founded in 1999, the firm primarily targets companies in the Midwest and Southwestern regions of the United States, with a particular focus on New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona, while also considering opportunities in California. Flywheel Ventures invests in sectors such as software, software-as-a-service, semiconductors, digital services, and clean technology. The firm typically makes initial investments ranging from $0.05 million to $1 million and aims for a follow-on funding reserve ratio of 3:1 or greater. Flywheel Ventures seeks to address global challenges through its investments and prefers to take a lead role, often securing board seats in its portfolio companies. The firm also collaborates with other investment firms to provide additional capital for future financing needs.

Cottonwood Technology Fund is a venture capital firm based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on disruptive technologies across various sectors, including healthcare, nanotechnology, robotics, advanced materials, and clean energy. Cottonwood is particularly interested in patent-based high-tech and hardware startups, as well as opportunities in telecom and automotive industries. The firm primarily invests in the Southwestern United States, covering regions such as Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, and Utah, with additional interests in Northern Europe, including the Netherlands. Investments typically range from $1 million to $3 million, and Cottonwood often seeks to take board seats in its portfolio companies to actively engage in their growth and development.

Sun Mountain Capital is a private equity firm based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, established in 2006. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt investments across the United States. Its team comprises experienced professionals with a background in private equity dating back to 1981, having previously worked at prominent financial institutions. Sun Mountain Capital focuses on developing customized private equity programs for pension plans and other program sponsors, leveraging its extensive market analysis to create tailored investment solutions. The firm is also a Registered Investment Adviser, highlighting its commitment to adhering to regulatory standards while delivering value through fund advisory activities and direct investments in promising companies.

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.

GOS Capital is a privately owned venture capital investment firm based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, founded in 2021. The firm specializes in making investments throughout New Mexico, focusing on supporting innovative startups and businesses in the region. As a boutique firm, GOS Capital aims to provide tailored investment strategies to foster growth and development in the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Kickstart Fund is a seed-stage venture capital firm headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, established in 2008. The firm specializes in investing in technology-related companies across various sectors, including B2B, B2C, healthcare, financial services, information technology, life sciences, e-commerce, and health technology, primarily within the Mountain West region. Kickstart's mission is to support the growth of promising companies in Utah and surrounding areas by offering strategic capital, community connections, and expert guidance. Since its inception, the firm has invested in over 100 companies, positioning itself as a key player in the regional venture capital landscape.

Wellington Management Company LLP, founded in 1928 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a prominent investment management firm providing comprehensive solutions to institutional clients worldwide. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including equity, fixed income, multi-asset, and alternative investments, tailored to meet the unique return and risk objectives of its clients. Wellington Management employs a collaborative approach, leveraging proprietary research and analytical tools to identify opportunities and manage risks across global capital markets. The firm caters to a wide array of clients, including sovereign institutions, endowments, foundations, wealth managers, and insurance companies, spanning more than 50 countries. With a focus on long-term investment principles, Wellington Management fosters independent thought and debate within its teams, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized to deliver consistent results. The firm also emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations in its research and investment processes, engaging with companies on key ESG topics.

Verge Fund is a venture capital firm based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, established in 2003. It specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on high-growth ventures in sectors such as life sciences, technology, and renewable energy. Verge Fund targets seed-stage companies, often engaging with them at a point where their business plans are still in development. The firm’s principals bring a combined 43 years of experience in investing and collaborating with entrepreneurial companies in New Mexico, having established connections within local labs, universities, and venture capital networks. This deep understanding of the region allows Verge Fund to identify promising opportunities that are often overlooked, positioning it effectively to support the growth of innovative startups in New Mexico.

Founded in 2019, Btomorrow Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of British American Tobacco based in London, United Kingdom. The firm seeks to invest in health and wellness, functional products, science, sustainability, and technology sectors.

Tailwater Capital, founded in 2013 and based in Dallas, Texas, is a private equity firm specializing in the middle market within the energy sector, particularly focusing on midstream and upstream oil and gas companies. The firm’s principals possess extensive experience in providing growth equity capital, having invested over $1 billion in various domestic energy sectors over the last 14 years. Tailwater Capital manages a diverse portfolio that includes companies such as BlackBrush Oil & Gas, TexStar Midstream Services, Petro Waste Environmental Partners, Align Midstream Partners, and Pivotal Petroleum Partners. As a registered investment adviser, Tailwater Capital is committed to delivering strategic investment solutions in the energy landscape.

JPMorgan Chase is a financial holding company headquartered in New York, providing a wide range of financial services globally. Established in 1799, the firm operates through various segments, including investment banking, commercial banking, and asset management. Its investment banking division offers services such as corporate strategy advisory, capital raising in equity and debt markets, risk management, and market-making in securities and derivatives. In addition, JPMorgan Chase serves consumers and small businesses with financial transaction processing and innovative banking solutions. The company is committed to delivering comprehensive financial services tailored to the needs of its diverse clientele, making it a significant player in the global financial landscape.

New Mexico Community Capital, LLC is a private, nonprofit community development financial institution established in 2004, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The firm specializes in providing early and expansion capital to small businesses, focusing on sectors such as water, energy, food, agriculture, and health care. It targets companies located in rural and under-invested areas, with at least 40 percent of its investments made outside major metropolitan areas like Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Los Alamos. To qualify for investment, businesses should have been operational for at least two years, employ more than five people, generate a minimum of $0.5 million in sales over the past year, and be cash flow positive for at least one year. Investments typically range from $0.5 million to $1 million, with a preference for lead investment roles and board representation. The firm seeks to exit its investments through various methods, including sales, IPOs, or mergers. Notably, it avoids sectors such as gambling, liquor sales, and real estate, focusing instead on community-oriented and sustainable enterprises.

Blue Sage Capital, L.P. is a private equity firm based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in investing in smaller middle-market companies across various industries, including industrial, distribution, business services, healthcare, manufacturing, energy, consumer, and media. Blue Sage primarily targets established and profitable businesses with revenues ranging from $20 million to $125 million and cash flows between $3 million and $12 million at the time of investment. Typical investments range from $20 million to $40 million, with the possibility of co-investing for larger transactions. The firm seeks to acquire minority, majority, or control positions in its portfolio companies and aims for board representation. Investments are usually held for five to eight years, utilizing equity, coupon-bearing securities, and occasionally subordinated debt with warrants. Blue Sage Capital manages over $250 million across two funds and operates additional offices in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Gotham Green Partners is a private equity firm established in 2017, with offices in New York and Santa Monica, California. The firm specializes in investing in cannabis and cannabis-related enterprises, focusing on the entire cannabis value chain on a global scale. Gotham Green Partners manages a diversified investment portfolio and employs strategies such as buyouts and growth capital to support its investments. In addition to the cannabis sector, the firm also considers opportunities in healthcare services, consumer products, consumer services, and wellness, primarily within the United States and Canada. As a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA), Gotham Green Partners is committed to deploying capital effectively within these industries.

Black Oak Capital Partners is a private equity firm established in 2008 and located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The firm specializes in providing flexible financing solutions to lower middle market companies through both debt and equity investments. Black Oak Capital focuses its investments on sectors such as business services, branded consumer products, and manufacturing businesses based in the United States. By targeting these areas, the firm aims to support the growth and development of its portfolio companies while delivering value to its investors.

enCore Energy Corp. is a uranium developer and explorer based in Vancouver, Canada, focusing on the acquisition and exploration of resource properties in the United States. The company holds a 100% interest in over 115,000 acres of private mineral rights in New Mexico, featuring significant uranium deposits such as Crownpoint and Hosta Butte. In addition to these resources, enCore Energy manages several projects, including the Marquez project in New Mexico and additional properties in Utah, Arizona, and Wyoming. These assets are complemented by a strategic presence in the Northern Arizona Strip District, known for its high-grade uranium resources. enCore Energy, previously known as Wolfpack Gold Corp., was incorporated in 2009 and has a leadership team with expertise in the domestic uranium sector.

Lovelace Medical Group is a respected physician group known for its commitment to patient-centered care and exceptional customer service. It consists of experienced and skilled healthcare providers dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate medical services. The group operates within the Lovelace Health System, which includes a network of acute care hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, medical laboratories, and healthcare centers. Lovelace Medical Group emphasizes building strong relationships with patients and utilizes advanced medical practices to ensure effective treatment and care. Additionally, Lovelace Medical Center features state-of-the-art equipment and a 24-hour emergency department, including specialized services for senior patients.

Optum is a comprehensive healthcare organization that provides a wide range of medical services, including primary care, urgent care, chronic condition management, and specialty care such as neurology, pediatrics, and women's health. The organization focuses on delivering innovative care models, particularly for individuals with rare diseases, by facilitating access to advanced treatments and therapies. Additionally, Optum offers analytics, technology, and consulting services through OptumInsight to enhance the performance of health systems across the country. The organization also emphasizes healthcare financial services via Optum Bank, supporting employers and health plan providers with medication pricing options and decision-making guidance. With its integrated approach, Optum aims to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery while providing tailored support to patients and healthcare professionals alike.

CHRISTUS Health is a not-for-profit healthcare system headquartered in Irving, Texas, with a presence in the United States, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico. The organization operates a diverse range of facilities, including long-term care centers, community hospitals, walk-in clinics, and health ministries. Its extensive services encompass various specialties such as cancer care, behavioral health, heart care, orthopedic services, and women's health, among others. CHRISTUS Health aims to provide a comprehensive healing experience tailored to the individual needs of patients and their families, emphasizing dignity and respect in its service delivery. The system includes subsidiaries like CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Medical Center, which offers multi-specialty physician practices and emergency care services. Founded in 1999, CHRISTUS Health continues to be dedicated to improving health outcomes for the communities it serves.

Psilos Group Managers, LLC is a New York-based venture capital firm founded in 1998 that specializes in investments in the healthcare sector, focusing on healthcare services, healthcare information technology, and medical technology. The firm primarily targets mid to later-stage and growth companies, typically investing in the second or third rounds of financing, with investment amounts ranging from $8 million to $15 million per deal. Psilos aims to be a lead or co-lead investor, acquiring significant stakes in its portfolio companies, and seeks to make a total investment of $20 million to $25 million over the life of each investment. With a strong emphasis on partnering with experienced management teams, Psilos looks for opportunities that promise enduring market value and a transformative impact on the healthcare landscape. The firm leverages its extensive network of relationships within the industry to enhance the strategic development of its investments.

Westmoreland Coal Company is an energy mining firm that primarily produces and sells thermal coal to utility customers, along with lignite and surface mined coal products. Founded in 1854 and headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the company operates coal mines across several states in the U.S., including Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, Texas, New Mexico, and Ohio, as well as in Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada. Westmoreland has shifted its focus from eastern underground coal production to surface coal mining complexes in the western U.S. and also engages in power generation in North Carolina. Employing approximately 1,400 people across seven states, the company produces around 28 million tons of coal and generates 1.6 million megawatt hours of electric power annually. Additionally, Westmoreland provides post-retirement benefits to over 1,900 individuals, primarily former coal miners and their dependents.

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.

Stanton Road Capital is a Los Angeles-based investment management firm focused on select commercial real estate and private equity strategies. SRC is an entrepreneurial investor that brings a disciplined, institutional approach to underwriting, structuring, and managing its investments. They focus on underserved segments of the middle-market and aim to create lasting value for their private and institutional capital partners.

Arable Capital Partners, LLC is a private equity firm founded in 2016 and headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, with an additional office in Bakersfield, California. The firm specializes in management-led buyouts, focusing on investments in food and agriculture companies within the Western United States. Arable Capital targets sectors such as logistics, storage, inputs, and other sub-sectors related to agriculture. The firm typically engages in both majority and minority investments, with a preference for long hold periods of 15 years or more. Arable Capital emphasizes a local, entrepreneurial approach to agriculture investing, leveraging an experienced team that has access to sufficient capital for large-scale transactions.

Skorpios Technologies, Inc. is a fabless semiconductor company based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, specializing in the development and marketing of silicon photonic integrated circuit products. The company designs and manufactures integrated optical modules and subsystems, focusing on high-speed communication applications such as video, data, and voice. Skorpios offers system-on-chip solutions including S-roC receiver and S-toC transmitter ICs, utilizing its Template Assisted Bonding platform to enhance connectivity in sectors like aerospace, defense, bioelectronics, and communications. The company's innovative technology integrates the generation, detection, and modulation of light with high-speed electronic circuits using a standard CMOS-compatible process known as Composite-Semiconductor on Insulator (C-SOI). This approach enables Skorpios to provide customers with high bandwidth interconnectivity at competitive manufacturing costs, distinguishing it from other players in the optical communication market. Founded in 2009, Skorpios aims to transform the transceiver and subsystem supply chain to support next-generation high-speed infrastructure products.

AllegisCyber is a private investment firm based in San Francisco that focuses on the technology sector in the United States. Originally part of AVI Capital, AllegisCyber became independent in 1995. The firm manages the AllegisCyber Growth Fund, located in Palo Alto, which specifically targets investments in the cybersecurity sector, aiming to support growth and expansion within this crucial industry.

Freeport-McMoRan Inc. is an international mining company headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, primarily engaged in the exploration and extraction of copper, gold, molybdenum, and other metals across North America, South America, and Indonesia. The company operates through four main divisions: North America copper mines, South America mining, Indonesia mining, and molybdenum mines. Key assets include significant mining operations in the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia, as well as various sites in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. Additionally, it has mining operations in Peru and Chile. Freeport-McMoRan also manages a portfolio of oil and gas properties, primarily located offshore California and in the Gulf of Mexico. The company's extensive mineral reserves include substantial quantities of copper, gold, and molybdenum. Founded in 1987, Freeport-McMoRan has established itself as a prominent player in the global mining sector.

Founded in 2008, Gorge Holdings is a private equity firm based in Portland, Oregon. The firm seeks to invest in lower middle-market companies. The firm prefers to invest in the light manufacturing and distribution industries.

Permex Petroleum Corporation is a junior oil and gas company focused on acquiring, developing, and producing oil and gas properties primarily in the Permian Basin of West Texas and the Delaware Sub-Basin of New Mexico. The company operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Permex Petroleum U.S. Corporation, and holds interests in several properties, including the Pittcock North and South properties, the Mary Bullard property, and the McMurtry property in Texas, as well as the West Henshaw and Oxy Yates properties in New Mexico. These assets span various acreage sizes, allowing the company to engage in operations on private, state, and federal lands. Incorporated in 2017, Permex Petroleum is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

Unique Investment Corporation, founded in 1993 and based in Huntington Beach, California, operates as a financial firm specializing in private equity and real estate investments. The firm focuses on consulting and financial planning services while managing a private equity growth and expansion fund, which targets small and middle-market companies primarily in the western United States. With a commitment to fostering business growth, Unique Investment aims to provide tailored financial solutions that support the development of its investment portfolio and client objectives.

Hilcorp Energy is a privately-held independent oil and natural gas exploration and production company headquartered in Houston, Texas. Founded in 1989, Hilcorp focuses on acquiring, owning, and operating oil and natural gas fields across multiple regions in the United States, including the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana, the Northeast, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Alaska's Cook Inlet and North Slope. With a workforce of over 1,825 employees, the company has gained recognition as one of the top places to work in America, according to various regional and national publications.

Tregaron Capital is a private equity firm based in Palo Alto, California, established in 2001. The firm specializes in mezzanine debt and equity investments in small to mid-sized companies, primarily in the western United States, with a focus on sectors such as business services, information technology, healthcare, software, light manufacturing, value-added distribution, and franchising. Tregaron typically invests between $1 million and $15 million in companies with enterprise values ranging from $6 million to $30 million and revenue levels between $4 million and $100 million. The firm aims to provide capital for various purposes, including acquisition financing, growth capital, refinancing, and management buy-outs. It seeks to take a majority stake in its investments and prefers companies with EBITDA between $1 million and $5 million. Tregaron Capital utilizes personal capital and other sources for its investments, and it often collaborates with co-investors while providing strategic support to help companies achieve growth.

Sorenson Capital is a growth-focused investment firm based in Lehi, Utah, established in 2003. With over $1 billion in capital under management, it specializes in providing venture capital, growth equity, and small- to middle-market buyout investments, primarily targeting growth-oriented companies in the United States. In addition to Sorenson Capital, the firm also encompasses Sorenson Ventures, founded in 2017 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California. Sorenson Ventures concentrates on early-stage investments in business-to-business software and security sectors, typically investing up to $15 million over the life of an investment. Together, these entities leverage a team of experienced entrepreneurs and industry executives to drive innovation and growth within their targeted sectors.

iAnthus provides a unique combination of capital and hands-on operating and management expertise. iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc., through its wholly-owned subsidiary iAnthus Capital Management, LLC, provides investors diversified exposure to best-in-class licensed cannabis cultivators, processors, and dispensaries throughout the United States. iAnthus currently owns, operates or has partnered with marijuana license holders in Massachusetts, Vermont, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Riverlake Partners, LLC is a private equity firm based in Portland, Oregon, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in investments in lower middle market companies, particularly those in the manufacturing and business services sectors. Riverlake Partners targets established firms with enterprise values between $15 million and $60 million, focusing on industries such as industrial parts and products, specialty chemicals, industrial services, media and lab equipment, and various consumer products. The firm seeks to create value through operational and strategic changes in companies with positive cash flow, typically investing between $3 million and $10 million. Riverlake Partners prefers to take a lead role in its investments but is open to minority stakes as well. While primarily focused on the Midwestern and Western United States, the firm also considers opportunities in Canada.

Unirac is a manufacturing company based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that specializes in producing and installing photovoltaic (PV) mounting systems. Founded in 1998, the company focuses on designing and developing solar racking products that cater to residential, commercial, and utility markets. Unirac's product offerings include various mounting solutions such as SUNFRAME, a shared rail system designed for gap-free rows, as well as roof mounts, large arrays, and ground fixed tilts. The company emphasizes competitive pricing, responsive customer support, integrated technology solutions, and engineering services to meet the needs of its customers. Unirac serves a diverse clientele, including homeowners and commercial entities, through a network of stocking distributors across North America and internationally.

Next Point Capital Corporation is a private equity firm based in Henderson, Nevada, established in 2010. The firm specializes in investments in the lower middle market, focusing on leveraged buyouts, equity, and turnaround opportunities. It targets small and medium-sized businesses, particularly in sectors such as food service, aerospace, industrial parts distribution, art publishing, and brand management. Next Point Capital typically invests between $1 million and $5 million in companies located in the Western United States, with a preference for those generating over $10 million in revenue and having an enterprise value ranging from $5 million to $15 million. The firm employs a strategy of taking control ownership in its portfolio companies, offering long-term, patient capital to support working capital needs, acquisitions, and recapitalizations. In its debt investments, Next Point Capital focuses on senior, subordinated, and uni-tranche loans, while its equity investments encompass change-in-control transactions, restructurings, and distressed sales.

Socius Capital, LLC is a private equity firm established in 2005 and headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with additional offices in Sun Valley, Idaho, San Francisco, California, and Denver, Colorado. The firm specializes in investing in middle-market companies, focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, distribution, business services, industrial services, and healthcare. Socius Capital primarily targets companies with capital needs ranging from $3 million to $15 million and a minimum EBITDA of $1.5 million. It does not engage in investments related to startups, turnarounds, real estate, or traditional retail. The firm offers mezzanine financing and seeks to be a majority or minority shareholder, often acquiring equity from departing shareholders or through leveraged recapitalization. Socius Capital typically aims to hold investments for four to six years, seeking a board seat and exiting through an outright sale or repurchase of equity by company or partner shareholders.

Lavu is a computer software company that focuses on developing restaurant management systems and point of sale solutions. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Lavu offers a cloud-based iPad point of sale system that combines the essential features of traditional systems with the flexibility and customizability of modern technology. Its platform simplifies restaurant operations by facilitating payment processing, managing multiple orders, and providing detailed reporting and inventory management. These tools are designed to enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and empower staff, ultimately leading to improved customer experiences in the restaurant industry.

ClearSky Health is a rehabilitative healthcare service provider that operates a network of inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs). The company focuses on serving communities, particularly in underserved areas, by developing and acquiring rehabilitation hospitals and related post-acute care organizations. ClearSky Health specializes in providing post-acute services for patients recovering from various conditions, including strokes, brain injuries, hip fractures, and spinal injuries. This approach aims to meet the rehabilitative treatment needs of patients, facilitating their recovery and improving their quality of life.

Honor Technology, Inc. is a home-care technology company founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, California. It operates an online platform that connects seniors, their families, and in-home caregivers across several states, including California, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Ohio, and Michigan. Honor partners with local home care agencies to deliver non-medical care services, ensuring that older adults can live safely and comfortably in their homes. The company employs a proprietary technology system to facilitate caregiver recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance management. Additionally, it provides seniors with an Honor Frame, which informs them about their caregiver’s identity and arrival times. Families can also track caregiver activities and duration of visits, enhancing transparency and trust in the care process. By integrating its services with third-party care providers through the Honor Care Network, the company aims to deliver high-quality, reliable, and personalized care to older adults.

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.

Optomec, Inc. specializes in additive manufacturing systems for 3D printing of metals and electronics, providing production-grade solutions for various industries. The company offers Aerosol Jet printers capable of producing micron-scale electronics, including 3D antennas and components for integrated circuits and printed circuit boards. Additionally, Optomec provides LENS printers designed for the prototyping and production of metal components, particularly in military, aerospace, and repair applications. Their technology also includes integrated robotic automation for metal additive repair machines and LENS Material Starter Recipes to optimize metal 3D printing processes. Serving industrial, research, and government sectors worldwide, Optomec operates in diverse markets such as electronics, energy, life sciences, and aerospace. Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the company also maintains an operational center in Dübendorf, Switzerland.

Cowles Company, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Spokane, Washington, is a fourth-generation family-owned business. It operates a diverse portfolio of legacy companies and focuses on long-term investments in high-potential growth sectors, including manufacturing, forestry, real estate, digital media, and green technology. The company is dedicated to benefiting shareholders, customers, employees, and the communities in which it operates.

Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), founded in 1936, is the largest non-investor-owned health insurer in the United States, operating Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Serving nearly 14.7 million members, HCSC employs around 23,000 individuals across more than 60 local offices. The company provides a range of health insurance products, including group life, disability, and dental solutions, through its affiliates and subsidiaries. HCSC has a history of being a pioneer in health coverage, offering early access to treatments such as transplants and cancer therapies. It is recognized for promoting value-based care models that enhance collaboration among stakeholders to improve patient experiences. Committed to community well-being, HCSC engages in charitable activities, volunteerism, and partnerships to support the communities where its members and employees live and work.

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.

MedVenture Associates is a private equity firm based in Lincoln, California, founded in 1986. It focuses on early-stage investments in the healthcare sector, specifically targeting companies involved in medical technologies, devices, and life sciences. Over its operational years, the firm managed several venture capital funds aimed at fostering innovation in medical practices and advancing the development of healthcare devices and supplies. MedVenture Associates sought to identify and support entrepreneurs and companies that are poised to contribute to the next generation of medical advancements. The firm has since closed all its funds as of December 31, 2017.

BlueStone Venture Partners is a venture capital firm established in 2018, initially launched in Tucson, Arizona, and currently based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The firm specializes in providing strategic capital and support to early-stage life science companies, primarily focusing on Series A and Series B funding rounds. Its investment interests encompass a range of sectors, including medical devices, health information technology, advanced materials, molecular diagnostics, and biopharma. The firm aims to foster innovation and growth within these industries by partnering with entrepreneurial companies.

DVSM, LLC, founded in 1991 and based in Portland, Oregon, is a private equity firm that specializes in investments in lower mid-market companies across the Western United States. The firm manages over $925 million in equity capital and focuses its investments in various sectors, including business services, food and consumer, healthcare, niche manufacturing, industrials, specialty retail, and transportation and logistics. As a Registered Investment Adviser, DVSM, LLC seeks to collaborate closely with the management teams of the companies it invests in, aiming to foster growth and enhance operational efficiency.