The Otto Bremer Trust Foundation is an independent foundation based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Established in 1944, the foundation assists people in achieving full economic, civic, and social participation in and for the betterment of their communities. The trust makes a measurable and meaningful impact for positive change in communities throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, and western Wisconsin. The assets of the foundation are managed by the executive management team.

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.

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.

LongWater Opportunities, based in Dallas, Texas, with an additional office in Fargo, North Dakota, is a private equity firm focused on control buyout investments in lower middle-market manufacturing companies across the United States. Established in 2009, the firm partners with family owner-operators and entrepreneurs, aiming to foster mutually beneficial relationships. LongWater emphasizes a hands-on approach to enhance its portfolio companies by implementing strategic and operational initiatives that aim to build sustainable competitive advantages. The firm targets companies with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) ranging from $2 million to $10 million, with a commitment to creating long-term value in American manufacturing.

Dynamic Communities is a prominent organization dedicated to supporting technology-centric user groups through a community-focused model. It facilitates the development and engagement of volunteer-driven groups that serve as platforms for technology users to share knowledge and enhance product performance. The organization manages a variety of conferences, events, and online community groups aimed at promoting education and collaboration within the business software sector. These gatherings range from small chapter meetings to large multi-day conferences, providing individuals and organizations with opportunities to connect and exchange ideas about maximizing the use of common software platforms. Through its initiatives, Dynamic Communities fosters a collaborative environment that enhances industry knowledge and promotes effective problem-solving in technology and product development.

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.

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP), based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a prominent private equity firm founded in 1961. NEP specializes in investing equity capital in established middle-market companies across various sectors, including agriculture, business services, consumer products, distribution, industrials, and healthcare. The firm focuses on companies with proven business models capable of generating profits and has extensive experience in management buyouts, recapitalizations, and growth financings, particularly in founder and family-owned businesses. NEP typically targets investment sizes ranging from $30 million to over $250 million, aiming to partner with companies that demonstrate strong potential for growth and industry leadership. Currently, NEP is investing from its latest fund, which has a total capital commitment of $1.6 billion.

Parkland is an independent supplier and marketer of fuel and petroleum products, operating primarily across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, the company provides a diverse range of services, including the distribution of refined fuels, propane, and lubricants to motorists, businesses, and wholesale customers. Parkland's operations encompass various segments, such as Retail Fuels, which supports a network of over 1,070 retail gas stations, and Commercial Fuels, which delivers bulk fuel and related products. The company also manages fuel supply through its Supply and Wholesale segment, contracting with refiners and utilizing storage facilities to distribute products efficiently. Additionally, Parkland operates convenience stores and provides electric vehicle charging stations, reflecting its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of consumers in the regions it serves.

Arthur Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2008, with headquarters in Fargo, North Dakota, and an office in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The firm specializes in post-angel and pre-institutional investments, focusing primarily on early-stage and growth capital opportunities in technology sectors. Arthur Ventures targets B2B software companies, with particular interest in infrastructure, financial technology, and communications within the information technology domain. Additionally, it invests in life sciences, emphasizing biotechnology, drug discovery, and medical devices, as well as clean technology, focusing on energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions. The firm primarily invests in companies located in the Upper Midwest and Great Plains regions of the United States, with a broader investment scope that includes North America and Western Europe. Initial investments typically range from $500,000 to $3 million, with later-stage investments made in syndication with other investors.

Swanson Health Products is a family-owned business based in Fargo, North Dakota, that has been operating since 1969. It specializes in the online and catalog retail of a wide range of health and wellness products, including vitamins, minerals, nutritional supplements, sports nutrition items, organic foods, and beauty products. The company is known for offering guaranteed low prices on its extensive selection, making it a prominent player in the health supplement market.

Choice Financial Holdings, Inc. is a bank holding company based in Fargo, North Dakota, that operates Choice Financial Group and Choice Financial Savings Bank. Established in 1979, the bank provides a range of personal and commercial banking services tailored to meet the needs of the local community. Its offerings include savings deposits, mortgages, personal loans, and internet banking, ensuring accessibility to essential retail banking services. Additionally, Choice Bank emphasizes comprehensive financial management, covering areas such as investment and retirement planning, risk management, and estate conservation. The institution aims to build strong partnerships with its clients, focusing on understanding their unique needs to develop effective financial strategies.

Kellogg Company, headquartered in Battle Creek, Michigan, is the leading global producer of cereal and a major manufacturer of convenience foods, including cookies, crackers, and savory snacks. Founded in 1906, the company markets over 1,500 products in more than 180 countries, emphasizing nutrition and quality in its offerings. Kellogg's portfolio features more than 100 ready-to-eat cereals that cater to diverse consumer preferences, providing convenient and healthy food options. In India, where the company entered the market in 1995, Kellogg's has established a strong presence, becoming synonymous with delicious and nourishing breakfast cereals enjoyed by families.

Networked Energy Services Corporation specializes in smart grid infrastructure solutions, focusing on the development and deployment of smart meters, data concentrator nodes, and comprehensive software applications. Its offerings include the UIEM Software Suite, designed for energy market management, which encompasses meter data management, load control, and building automation. The Element Manager provides tools for visual statistics, user rights management, and diagnostics, while the System Software facilitates the configuration and data retrieval from low voltage grid sensors. The company also provides a range of smart grid devices, including various types of smart meters and control nodes. Additionally, Networked Energy Services delivers three-tier grid modernization solutions and a web portal offering resources for software updates and technical support. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Jose, California, the company has design and research centers in Silicon Valley and Fargo, North Dakota, with sales offices located globally. Networked Energy Services operates as a subsidiary of Cedrus Enterprises Holding S.A.L.

Alerus Financial Corporation, headquartered in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is a comprehensive financial services provider serving individuals and businesses across the United States. The company operates through four main segments: Banking, Retirement and Benefit Services, Wealth Management, and Mortgage. Alerus offers a variety of deposit products, including checking accounts, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit, alongside treasury management services such as cash management and merchant services. It provides commercial and consumer lending options, including business loans, residential mortgages, and lines of credit. Additionally, Alerus specializes in retirement plan administration, investment advisory services, and wealth management, which encompass financial planning and trust services. The company also facilitates online banking and mobile banking solutions, along with various credit and debit card options. Established in 1879 and previously known as First National Bank North Dakota, Alerus Financial rebranded in 2000 to reflect its diverse range of financial offerings.

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.

MAHLE GmbH is a global supplier and development partner for the automotive industry, specializing in the manufacturing and supply of engine systems and components, filtration, thermal management products, and electronic components. Founded in 1920 and headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, MAHLE addresses critical issues in powertrain and air conditioning technology, offering integrated solutions for both combustion engines and electric vehicles. The company is heavily involved in e-mobility, providing holistic thermal management solutions essential for electric vehicles. With over 76,000 employees and operations in 34 countries, MAHLE maintains more than 170 production locations worldwide. In 2015, the company reported sales of approximately EUR 11.5 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the automotive sector. Additionally, MAHLE's investment arm focuses on growth capital and venture capital investments, targeting minority and majority stakes within the automotive industry.

JLG Architects is an 100-percent employee-owned full-service architecture firm with ten offices across Minnesota, South Dakota, and North Dakota. Founded in 1989, the firm has over 100 employee owners and has been named a 2015 “Giant of Architecture” by Building Design+Construction magazine, and a 2015 “Top 50 Architecture Firm in Business” by Architect magazine

Waveland Ventures III, managed by Waveland Capital Group and based in Irvine, California, is an investment fund primarily focused on the oil and gas sector. Established in 2000, the fund targets opportunities in exploration and production, specifically within the Mid-Continent region and the Permian Basin of the United States. It aims to invest in drill-ready projects and seeks partnerships with energy companies to develop a diversified portfolio. The firm also engages in investments related to oilfield services, emphasizing both non-operated working interests and private equity stakes in operating companies within the industry.

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.

ARB Midstream, LLC, based in Denver, Colorado, specializes in logistics and infrastructure solutions for the North American energy markets. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on the construction, development, and optimization of crude oil-related assets, providing comprehensive midstream and marketing services for crude oil, liquefied petroleum gases (LPGs), and refined products. ARB Midstream serves a diverse clientele, including producers, midstream companies, and refiners, and operates in key regions such as Colorado, Texas, Wyoming, North Dakota, and Calgary, Alberta. By targeting under-served markets, ARB Midstream aims to develop innovative midstream assets that create long-term value for both its customers and investors.

Mason Wells is a private equity investment firm based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, established in 1998. The firm specializes in mid-market investments within the biotechnology, medical devices, life sciences, consumer packaged goods, engineered products and services, packaging materials, and outsourced business services sectors. Mason Wells aims to support founders, family owners, and managers during ownership transitions, helping companies to realize their potential while maintaining their legacy and culture. Its portfolio includes businesses such as A and R Logistics, AWT Labels and Packaging, CE Power Solutions, Eddy Packing, and Aquion. The firm typically generates revenue ranging from $25 million to $300 million.

Mill City Capital is a private equity firm founded in 2010 and based in Wayzata, Minnesota. The firm specializes in investing in lower middle-market companies with enterprise values between $20 million and $100 million, primarily focusing on those located in the Midwestern United States and western and central Canada. Mill City Capital has developed a strong network of relationships in these regions and targets companies in the industrial and consumer sectors. As a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA), the firm aims to foster growth and create value within its portfolio companies.

Black Ridge Oil & Gas, Inc. engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas properties primarily in the Bakken and Three Forks trends in North Dakota and Montana. As of March 15, 2013, it had interests in approximately 12,971 net acres; and owned working interests in 91 gross wells. The company was formerly known as Ante5, Inc. and changed its name to Black Ridge Oil & Gas, Inc. in April 2012. Black Ridge Oil & Gas, Inc. was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota.

TorcSill Foundations LLC specializes in the design, manufacture, and installation of helical piles and ground anchoring systems primarily for the energy sector. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Pasadena, Texas, the company serves a broad range of customers, including oil and gas midstream operations, electrical transmission and utility firms, EPC contractors, and various industrial facilities. TorcSill is recognized for its engineering expertise and commitment to safety, ensuring that all foundations are installed to high standards. With additional offices across several states, including North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma, the company has established a significant presence in the energy market, focusing on quality and efficiency in its offerings.

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.

Goodnight Midstream, LLC is a provider of fluids management services to oil and gas producers, primarily operating in North Dakota, Wyoming, Texas, and New Mexico. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Dallas, the company has established itself as a leading independent service provider in the Bakken region. Goodnight Midstream owns over 150 miles of saltwater gathering pipelines, which are connected to a network of 16 saltwater disposal facilities. The company's focus is on gathering and disposing of produced saltwater, helping clients minimize environmental impact, enhance health and safety, and reduce lease operating expenses.

ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd. specializes in the production of custom antibodies and related services, catering to clients across the United States, Canada, Europe, and beyond. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, the company offers a comprehensive range of services including B cell sorting, phage display production, antibody engineering, and hybridoma production. Additionally, it provides advanced capabilities in antibody optimization, epitope mapping, and custom antigen design. ImmunoPrecise operates state-of-the-art laboratory facilities in Victoria, British Columbia, and has a subsidiary in the Netherlands. The company collaborates with various institutions, including the University of Victoria and Zymeworks Inc., to develop innovative solutions for detecting and treating diseases such as COVID-19. With a focus on therapeutic, diagnostic, and research applications, ImmunoPrecise employs a skilled team of R&D scientists and utilizes proprietary technologies to enhance the efficiency of antibody production.

Longhouse Partners LLC is a private equity firm based in Detroit, Michigan, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in investments in the lower middle market, targeting sectors such as business services, consumer products and services, niche manufacturing, and multi-site healthcare services. Within business services, it focuses on areas like business process outsourcing, engineering, technical services, and marketing services. In the consumer products and services sector, its interests include food and beverage, apparel and accessories, and education. Longhouse Partners typically seeks to invest in companies based in the U.S. or Canada, with a preference for those in the Midwest. The firm aims to target businesses with revenues exceeding $10 million and EBITDA ranging from $2 million to $10 million.

Dakota Venture Group (DVG) is a venture capital investment fund operated by students at the University of North Dakota. Established in 2006, it holds the distinction of being the first entirely student-run venture capital fund in the United States. DVG offers students a unique opportunity to engage in all aspects of the investment process, including conducting due diligence, making final investment decisions, and negotiating deal terms. The organization focuses on investing in high-growth companies across the United States, providing a valuable experiential learning platform in the fields of venture capital and angel investing.

Enservco Corporation is a provider of well-site services to the domestic onshore oil and gas industry, operating through its subsidiaries Heat Waves Hot Oil Service and Dillco Fluid Services. The company specializes in a range of services including hot oiling, frac heating, acidizing, pressure testing, and fluid management, catering to both large and small energy companies across diverse regions in the United States, including Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Enservco is also expanding its operations to the Northeastern U.S., particularly targeting the Marcellus shale in the Appalachian Basin, and is establishing a facility in North Dakota to serve the Bakken Formation. With a fleet of over 200 specialized trucks and related equipment, Enservco also offers frac tank rental and oilfield construction services, focusing on providing reliable, round-the-clock service to 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.

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.

NASA's vision is to reach for new heights and reveal the unknown so that what we do and learn will benefit all humankind. President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in 1958, partially in response to the Soviet Union's launch of the first artificial satellite the previous year. NASA grew out of the National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics (NACA), which had been researching flight technology for more than 40 years. President John F. Kennedy focused NASA and the nation on sending astronauts to the moon by the end of the 1960s. Through the Mercury and Gemini projects, NASA developed the technology and skills it needed for the journey. On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first of 12 men to walk on the moon, meeting Kennedy's challenge. Meanwhile, NASA was continuing the aeronautics research pioneered by NACA. It also conducted purely scientific research and worked on developing applications for space technology, combining both pursuits in developing the first weather and communications satellites. After Apollo, NASA focused on creating a reusable ship to provide regular access to space: the space shuttle. First launched in 1981, the space shuttle flew more than 130 successful flights before retiring in 2011. In 2000, the United States and Russia established permanent human presence in space aboard the International Space Station, a multinational project representing the work of 16 nations. NASA also has continued its scientific research. In 1997, Mars Pathfinder became the first in a fleet of spacecraft that will explore Mars in the next decade, as we try to determine if life ever existed there. The Terra and Aqua satellites are flagships of a different fleet, this one in Earth orbit, designed to help us understand how our home world is changing. NASA's aeronautics teams are focused on improved aircraft travel that is safer and cleaner. Throughout its history, NASA has conducted or funded research that has led to numerous improvements to life here on Earth.

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.

Founded in 2021, Homegrown Capital is a venture capital firm based in Brookings, South Dakota. The firm seeks to invest in business-to-business software, agricultural technology, and finance technology sectors in Northern Plains.

Continental Grain Company, founded in 1813 and based in New York, is a prominent privately held firm specializing in the food and agriculture sectors. The company initially started as a grain trading business in Arlon, Belgium, and has since expanded its operations to include diversified investment activities focused on protein-based businesses. By partnering with exceptional management teams, Continental Grain seeks to create long-term value and pursue strategic growth opportunities worldwide. Its investment groups, including CGC Ventures and a middle market investment division, enable the company to explore new avenues for growth within the global food and agriculture landscape. With a strong entrepreneurial legacy and a commitment to financial success, Continental Grain Company aims to positively impact its employees and business partners.

Germin8 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2017. It specializes in multi-stage investments in disruptive Food and AgTech companies across the global value chain. The firm is composed of industry veterans, founders, technologists, and experienced investors who provide both capital and strategic resources to transformative companies addressing major trends in the food system. Germin8 Ventures focuses on innovative and sustainable solutions within agrifood technology, frontier science, and computational applications relevant to agriculture, food, and nutrition. By recognizing that each entrepreneur's journey is unique, the firm aims to offer tailored support and resources that enable founders to concentrate on their core competencies and drive their businesses toward success.

Gener8tor is a nationally recognized accelerator firm based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, founded in 2012. It invests in high-growth startups across various sectors, including software, IT, e-commerce, and life sciences. Gener8tor runs a 12-week accelerator program three times a year, selecting five startups per cohort to receive $100,000 each, along with a comprehensive mentorship experience. The firm leverages a robust network of mentors, technologists, corporate partners, angel investors, and venture capitalists to foster startup growth. Additionally, Gener8tor manages a venture capital fund that aims to invest in multiple companies, primarily within the software and technology sectors. As a member of the Global Accelerator Network, Gener8tor has achieved GOLD-tier status in the U.S. based on rankings from the Seed Accelerator Rankings Project, underscoring its commitment to supporting entrepreneurial endeavors.

Founded in 2011, Badlands Capital is a private equity firm based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The firm prefers to invest in manufacturing and business service sectors.

Corre Partners is a lending firm, founded in 209 and based in New York City, New York. The firm provides financing solutions.

The Andersons, founded in 1947 in Maumee, Ohio, is a diversified company primarily focused on the agriculture sector. It operates across North America in various segments, including Trade, Renewables, and Nutrient & Industrial. The Trade segment, which accounts for the majority of the company's revenue, specializes in the movement of physical commodities such as grains, grain products, and feed ingredients. The company also has a presence in the ethanol and plant nutrient markets, along with a retail division serving consumers in locations such as Toledo and Columbus. The Andersons aims to enhance its impact by providing exceptional service, supporting community initiatives, and fostering improvement among its workforce, all while maintaining a commitment to its core values.

Cargill is a global producer and marketer of food, agricultural, financial, and industrial products, founded in 1865 and headquartered in the United States. With a workforce of approximately 142,000 employees across 67 countries, the company serves a diverse range of clients, including farmers, manufacturers, retailers, and governments. Cargill's extensive product offerings include grains, oilseeds, animal nutrition, biofuels, meat and poultry, as well as various food and industrial products. The company is also committed to providing services such as risk management and support for farmers and producers. Cargill places a strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration, leveraging its research and development capabilities to create new products and enhance existing ones, while addressing economic, environmental, and social challenges faced by its customers.

Lewis & Clark AgriFood is an investment firm based in Saint Louis, Missouri, established in 2019. The firm specializes in the agrifood sector, concentrating on agricultural innovation, sustainability, and ag-tech. It targets late-stage venture capital and growth-stage companies that are tech-enabled and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, particularly in plant agriculture, food, supply chain, and animal health. By focusing on firms approaching positive operating cash flow, Lewis & Clark AgriFood aims to mitigate risk while seeking substantial returns on investment, primarily along the United States coasts.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank, established in 2017 and headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, aims to invest $35 billion of federal funding into revenue-generating infrastructure projects that serve the public interest and attract private capital. The bank acts as a catalyst for private investment, supporting projects that promote economic growth across Canada. Its core sectors of investment include green infrastructure, clean power, public transit, trade and transportation, and enhanced broadband infrastructure. The bank also provides advisory services to review government capital plans and transform public infrastructure strategies into defined projects, facilitating their development from concept through feasibility, commercial structuring, and financial analysis.

Rosecliff Ventures is a New York-based venture capital and accelerator firm established in 2016. It focuses on investing in early-stage and growth equity opportunities within technology-enabled companies across various sectors, including financial services, consumer goods, healthcare, and software. The firm typically invests between $0.5 million and $10 million in each company, targeting strong management teams characterized by integrity and experience. Rosecliff Ventures aims to support its portfolio companies through various stages of development, including incubation, seed funding, and late-stage financing. As a registered investment adviser, the firm is committed to identifying and nurturing innovative businesses with significant growth potential.

Excell Partners is a venture capital firm established in 2005 and based in Rochester, New York. It operates as a seed fund supported by New York State and focuses on making investments in seed and early-stage companies across various sectors, including medical devices, materials, energy, biotechnology, ag-tech, imaging, information technology, and software. Although Excell is a not-for-profit organization, it employs a for-profit approach by structuring investments with convertible debt and equity returns. This strategy aims to ensure that the fund becomes self-sustaining over time, allowing it to continue supporting innovative startups and fostering economic growth. Excell Technology Ventures is a related entity that extends the firm's investment capabilities.

Generational Partners is a venture capital firm established in 2022 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California. The firm focuses on early-stage investments through its fund, Generational Partners Fund I, which is also a 2022 vintage fund. By targeting promising startups, Generational Partners aims to support innovative companies at the beginning of their growth trajectory.

Vertex Ventures China specializes in investing in high-growth internet and technology start-ups throughout mainland China. With offices in Beijing and Shanghai, the firm not only offers funding support but also delivers value-added services to its portfolio companies during their growth stages. Vertex Ventures China benefits from its affiliation with the broader Vertex network of venture funds, which spans the US, Israel, Southeast Asia, and India. This collaboration allows the firm to leverage local market knowledge while maintaining a global perspective, enhancing its ability to support entrepreneurs and drive innovation within the dynamic Chinese market.

Groove Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2020 and located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage companies across a diverse range of sectors, including fintech, biotechnology, agricultural technology, healthcare, digital health, education, energy, enterprise software, financial services, medical devices, software as a service, artificial intelligence, robotics, clean energy, e-commerce, retail technology, and sports and fitness. By targeting these industries, Groove Capital aims to support innovative startups and foster growth in emerging markets.

Lumina Foundation is an independent, private foundation committed to increasing the proportion of Americans with degrees, certificates and other high-quality credentials to 60 percent by 2025. Lumina’s outcomes-based approaLumina Foundation is an independent, private foundation committed to increasing the proportion of Americans with degrees, certificates and other high-quality credentials to 60 percent by 2025. Lumina’s outcomes-based approach focuses on helping to design and build an equitable, accessible, responsive and accountable higher education system while fostering a national sense of urgency for action to achieve Goal 2025.ch focuses on helping to design and build an equitable, accessible, responsive and accountable higher education system while fostering a national sense of urgency for action to achieve Goal 2025.