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.

Techstars is a global platform that invests in and supports early-stage technology companies. Founded in 2006, it operates a mentorship-driven accelerator program, providing seed funding, intensive mentorship, and access to a network of investors and entrepreneurs. Techstars has programs in various locations worldwide, including Boston, Boulder, New York, Seattle, London, Chicago, and Austin. It invests $118,000 in each company, with $18,000 in seed funding and an optional $100,000 convertible debt note. Techstars also has industry-specific accelerator programs, such as Techstars Retail and Techstars Music, focusing on retail and music technology, respectively. Its portfolio includes over 1,000 companies with a combined market cap of $8.1 billion.

Y Combinator, established in 2005, is a prominent American technology startup accelerator and venture capital firm. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage companies, primarily in the United States. The firm's core program involves investing a small amount of capital in exchange for equity, typically around 6-7%, and providing intensive support to startups over a three-month period. This includes refining business models, developing products, and honing investor pitches. Y Combinator serves a wide range of industries, with a focus on technology, healthcare, and finance. Additionally, Y Combinator Continuity, a dedicated investment fund, supports founders as they scale their companies, investing in later-stage alumni companies and helping cash-intensive businesses.

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

Plug and Play Tech Center, established in 2006, is a global innovation platform that connects startups, investors, and corporations. Based in Sunnyvale, California, with operations in 22 locations worldwide, the company runs 12 industry-specific accelerator programs twice a year, fostering collaboration between major corporations and high-quality startups. These programs span sectors such as Fintech, Insurtech, IoT, Brand & Retail, Mobility, and Health & Wellness, among others. Plug and Play invests in seed, angel, and Series A rounds, with a focus on great teams leading emerging growth companies. Since inception, their startup community has raised over $9 billion in venture funding, with notable success stories including Dropbox, PayPal, and LendingClub.

EASME is a European Union executive agency that supports small and medium-sized enterprises and promotes innovation in Europe. It manages projects in the areas of small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the environment, energy, and maritime sectors, funded by COSME, LIFE, and EMFF. EASME organizes the European Sustainable Energy Week and serves industries such as environmental management, energy production, and maritime activities.

Alumni Ventures Group is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, with offices across North America. It provides access to venture investing for individual accredited investors, particularly alumni networks, by offering diversified portfolios of venture opportunities and allowing members to invest alongside fellow alumni in ventures led by peers. The firm backs early-stage and later-stage opportunities across technology, consumer, healthcare, financial services, and other sectors, with a sector- and geography-agnostic approach. It typically invests between $10,000 and $3 million per deal and emphasizes the involvement of alumni connections and an institutional lead investor in opportunities. Alumni Ventures also offers focused funds to broaden participation, enabling accredited investors to access venture portfolios diversified by type, sector, stage, and geography. The model aims to democratize access to venture capital while maintaining rigorous selection standards through alumni networks.

FJ Labs, established in 2015 and headquartered in New York, is a stage-agnostic investment firm focusing on marketplaces and consumer-facing startups. It invests in seed and series A rounds, with a typical investment range of $50,000 to $5,000,000. The firm's portfolio includes notable companies such as Alibaba Group, Beepi, BrightRoll, Betterment, Adore Me, and Earnest, spanning sectors like e-commerce, fintech, and ad tech.

Advanced Propulsion Centre UK, established by the Automotive Council, assists companies in transforming low carbon technologies into viable products. The organization serves as a hub for collaboration and innovation within the automotive industry, facilitating the development and commercialization of advanced propulsion technologies that contribute to a more sustainable future.

HSG, formerly known as Sequoia Capital China, is a global venture capital and private equity firm, managing over USD 55 billion across various funds. Established in 2005, HSG invests in technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors, with a focus on seed, venture, growth, buyout, and infrastructure stages. The firm has backed over 1,500 companies, with more than 160 listed on public exchanges and over 140 achieving unicorn status. HSG operates globally, with offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, London, Tokyo, and Singapore, providing extensive resources and industry expertise to its portfolio companies.

European Investment Bank is the EU's long-term lending institution owned by its member states. It finances public and private sector projects across transportation, energy, telecommunications, health, education, water, housing, and other sectors in the European Union and beyond. The bank provides a range of financing tools including project loans, guarantees, debt and equity investments, and risk-sharing arrangements, as well as microfinance and venture capital funds. It also offers advisory services, infrastructure funding, and support for urban development, PPPs, and sustainable energy projects. Through infrastructure and environmental funds and partnerships with banks and intermediaries, it supports SMEs, innovation, and the transition to a low-carbon economy.

BMW i Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of BMW Group, based in Mountain View, California, with offices in San Francisco and Germany. It makes Series A and B investments in automotive technology and related areas worldwide, focusing on transportation, energy, information technology, mobility, SaaS, manufacturing, and sustainability. The firm seeks opportunities that can influence BMW's current and future businesses across manufacturing, services, and mobility, including hardware, software, and digital platforms. Investments span the United States, Canada, Europe, and Israel.

Qualcomm Ventures, established in 2000, is the investment arm of Qualcomm Incorporated. Based in San Diego, California, it is a global corporate venture capital fund that invests in early-stage technology companies. With over $500 million initially committed and subsequent regional funds totaling over $300 million, Qualcomm Ventures focuses on sectors such as artificial intelligence, automotive, cloud, enterprise, internet of things, mobile, and extended reality. It seeks to generate strong returns while complementing Qualcomm's existing products and services, and often invests between $500,000 and $10 million at the expansion stage. Notable portfolio companies include 99 Taxis, Cruise Automation, and Fitbit.

Antler, established in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore, is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on investing in technology companies. It supports exceptional founders from day one, providing access to a global network of co-founders, talent, advisors, and expansion support, along with capital. Antler's funds, including Antler UK Fund and Antler India Fund, target various sectors such as information technology, climate tech, healthtech, software, energy services, and SaaS, with investments ranging from USD 0.2 to 0.4 million.

Enhanced Capital, established in 1999, is a New York-based investment firm managing over $400 million. It specializes in providing flexible equity and debt financing to small and mid-sized businesses, promoting their growth and expansion. The firm's investment approach is practical and tailored, aiming to maximize the growth potential of companies poised for rapid growth. Enhanced Capital also invests in renewable energy, historic real estate rehabilitation, and affordable housing projects, often leveraging federal and state incentive programs.

HSBC, established in 1865, is a global banking and financial services institution headquartered in London, UK. It operates through four segments: Retail Banking and Wealth Management, Commercial Banking, Global Banking and Markets, and Global Private Banking. HSBC offers a wide range of products and services, including deposits, loans, credit cards, insurance, investment funds, and wealth management solutions. It also provides corporate banking services such as financing, trade services, risk management, and investment banking. With a presence in over 64 countries, HSBC serves individuals, small enterprises, corporations, and governments, offering a comprehensive suite of financial services through its extensive network of branches, digital platforms, and representative offices.

General Motors, established in 2009, is a multinational automotive corporation headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. It specializes in the manufacture and sale of cars, trucks, and vans, offering a wide range of models including sedans, SUVs, pick-up trucks, and hybrid vehicles. The company operates globally, with a significant presence in the United States, China, Brazil, and Europe. In addition to vehicle production, General Motors provides parts and accessories, vehicle safety and security services, and offers used vehicles. The company also has an investment arm, GM Ventures, which focuses on growth-stage companies in areas such as advanced propulsion, connected vehicles, and advanced materials, aiming to foster innovation in the automotive industry. General Motors is among the world's largest automakers by vehicle unit sales and has a rich history, having led global vehicle sales for 77 consecutive years.

Innovate UK is a non-departmental public body established in 2007 and based in Swindon, United Kingdom. Funded by a government grant, it supports innovation in science and technology by providing funding services to businesses across various sectors and regions. The organization aims to drive productivity and economic growth by facilitating advancements that contribute to the UK’s economic landscape. In addition to funding, Innovate UK offers a range of services and information related to business and economic development, thereby fostering a supportive environment for innovation.

Automotive Ventures is a venture capital firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, founded in 2020. The firm focuses on seed‑stage investments across a broad spectrum of mobility and technology sectors, including automotive technology, cybersecurity, connectivity, compliance, autonomous systems, robotics, artificial intelligence, energy and decarbonization, auto commerce, smart city infrastructure, industrial technology, mining, agriculture, dealership operations, and digital shopping. Its investment philosophy centers on a clear thesis about the future of these industries, offering founders strategic guidance and market insight. The firm leverages an extensive network to provide credibility, distribution, and early customer and partner access, while its relationships with co‑investors facilitate subsequent funding rounds. Automotive Ventures emphasizes founder support, acting as a steady partner through both successes and challenges.

Established in Singapore in 1974, Temasek Holdings is a lender that specializes in debt financing. It focuses on driving economic transformation by increasing middle-income populations, developing comparative advantages, and fostering emerging champions across various industries such as financial services, transportation, industrial, consumer goods, real estate, telecommunications, media, technology, and life sciences.

Bpifrance is a financial institution dedicated to supporting companies throughout their development stages, particularly those preparing for stock market listing and seeking credit equity. The organization provides a range of financial solutions, including financing, innovation assistance, and capital investment. By integrating various entities such as OSEO and CDC Entreprises, Bpifrance aims to deliver tailored financial support that addresses the specific needs of businesses. The institution is committed to fostering innovation and helping companies transition toward sustainable growth, ensuring they are well-equipped to face future challenges.

Addor Capital is a growth capital investment firm established in 2014 and located in Nanjing, China. The firm specializes in providing investment services by financing early-stage ventures and acquiring securities of various companies. Addor Capital focuses on a diverse range of sectors, including clean technology, health, new materials, advanced manufacturing, consumer services, cultural industries, and technology, media, and telecommunications. Its investment strategy encompasses seed-stage, early-stage, later-stage, and growth-stage companies, primarily within China.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), established in 1999, is a public-private partnership agency based in Lansing, Michigan. It is dedicated to fostering economic growth and job creation across the state. The MEDC achieves this by offering a range of business assistance services and capital programs, including business attraction and acceleration, entrepreneurship support, talent enhancement initiatives, and urban and community development projects. Additionally, it promotes tourism, film, and digital media industries, as well as arts and cultural affairs, through various incentives and grants. The MEDC works with businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities both locally and globally to strengthen Michigan's economy.

The EIC Accelerator is a Horizon Europe funding program that provides assistance to start-ups and SMEs that have an innovative, game-changing product, service, or business model that has the potential to create new markets or disrupt existing ones, and have the ambition and commitment to scale up, are seeking substantial funding, but the risks involved are too high for private investors to invest alone

500 Global, established in 2010, is a global venture capital firm with over $2.4 billion in assets under management. Based in Mountain View, California, with offices worldwide, the firm invests in early-stage technology companies across 80+ countries. 500 Global focuses on markets where technology and innovation can drive long-term value and economic growth. The firm's investment portfolio spans diverse sectors such as biotech, fintech, internet, and consumer services, with a preference for companies generating at least $100,000 in monthly revenue. 500 Global offers a four-month accelerator program, providing startups with funding, mentorship, and connections to renowned investors. The firm has invested in over 2,800 companies, including 35 unicorns, and has a team of over 190 members based in 25 countries.

Tiger Global Management is a New York based investment firm that manages public and private market strategies to pursue technology-driven growth opportunities worldwide. Founded in 2001 by Charles (Chase) Coleman, the firm invests in leading global companies across various industries, with a particular emphasis on technology-enabled growth. In public markets it employs long/short and growth strategies, while in private markets it targets opportunities from early to late stage. The firm operates globally, including the United States, China, India, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, and works with portfolio companies across their lifecycle to drive long-term value.

SOSV, established in 1995 and headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, is a global venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments. It focuses on deep tech innovations in the health and environmental sectors, supporting founders with breakthrough technologies through its HAX and IndieBio startup development programs. SOSV provides resources, facilities, and lab equipment to accelerate product development and scale, with a track record of helping its portfolio companies secure subsequent funding rounds led by top-tier investors.

SoftBank Group is a multinational telecommunications and internet corporation based in Japan. It operates through four segments: mobile communications, Sprint, fixed-line telecommunications, and internet. The company provides a wide range of services, including mobile and fixed-line voice and data transmission services, broadband services, internet advertising, e-commerce, and digital television. SoftBank Group also invests in various technologies through its venture capital arms, such as SoftBank Investment Advisers and SoftBank Vision Fund, focusing on areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things. One of its notable subsidiaries, SoftBank Robotics, designs and manufactures humanoid robots for various applications, including education, healthcare, and business.

Shunwei Capital, established in 2011 and headquartered in Beijing, is a venture capital firm primarily focused on investing in early-stage Chinese internet companies. It manages multiple funds, including Shunwei RMB Fund II, Shunwei China Internet Opportunity Fund III, and Shunwei China Internet Fund IV, totaling seven funds since inception. The firm's investment portfolio spans across various sectors such as technology, internet of things, mobile internet, intelligent hardware, and rural internet, with a total of 351 investments made to date. Shunwei Capital has successfully exited from 29 investments, demonstrating its track record in the dynamic Chinese internet sector.

Khosla Impact, established in 2013, is an impact investment firm based in Menlo Park, California. It focuses on assisting high-impact entrepreneurs who develop products and services for the three billion people at the bottom of the world's economic pyramid. The firm invests in for-profit enterprises serving low-income individuals and small businesses in emerging markets, with a primary focus on South Asia. Khosla Impact encourages experimentation and supports entrepreneurs passionate about solving socio-economic challenges through technology and innovative business models.

Apollo Global Capital is a holding company that operates primarily in the mining sector, engaging in the extraction of magnetite iron ore and competing in the global iron ore market. The company also manages various business activities, including the sale of database research engine-related products and the execution of pre- and post-production tasks for websites. These products are marketed through finished product advertisements. In addition to its focus on mining, Apollo Global Capital is involved in alternative investment management, with interests spanning private equity, credit-oriented capital markets, and real estate investments.

Maniv Mobility, established in 2015, is a New York-based venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in the transportation and mobility sector. The company aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced transportation technologies, such as safety features, business model innovations, and autonomous vehicles, to address challenges like traffic congestion, automotive fatalities, and urban pollution. Maniv Mobility works with startups, entrepreneurs, and financiers to overcome hurdles and facilitate a new era of mobility.

SAIC Capital Company Limited is the venture capital arm of SAIC Motor Corporation Limited, based in Shanghai, China. Established in 2011, the firm specializes in direct investments and fund of funds strategies, focusing primarily on the automotive sector. It aims to invest in early-stage and growth-stage companies, particularly in areas such as new energy vehicles, intelligent connected vehicles, automotive electronics, and advanced manufacturing technologies. The firm is committed to supporting emerging industries that promote energy savings and environmental protection, as well as advancements in information technology and high-end equipment manufacturing. Additionally, SAIC Capital evaluates investment opportunities that align with national industrial development strategies and offer high potential returns. Through its strategic investments and management of private equity, SAIC Capital seeks to create value for both SAIC and its diverse pool of investors.

Cowin Capital, established in 2000, is a Shenzhen-based private equity firm specializing in early-stage investments. With 18 years of experience, it focuses on supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises, primarily in the energy, communication, electronics, and environmental protection sectors. Cowin Capital takes a long-term approach, aiming to create value through strategic partnerships and operational support. It has successfully invested in over 300 companies, with 60 becoming publicly listed and 150 achieving successful exits. Notably, Cowin Capital was one of the first venture capital institutions to be listed on the New Third Board (NEEQ) in China.

SDIC Venture Capital Co., Ltd. is a venture capital firm headquartered in Beijing, China, with an additional office in Shanghai. Established in 2016 by the State Development and Investment Corporation, SDICVC operates under a market-driven governance structure. It aims to advance the commercialization of the nation's scientific and technological achievements, aligning its investment strategy with national innovation goals. The firm manages a portfolio of funds with a total asset under management of RMB 14 billion, focusing on the transformation of technological advancements. SDICVC seeks to blend the interests of government, society, and the market, positioning itself as a reliable and respected partner in the venture capital landscape. Its mission is underscored by a commitment to achieving policy orientation and investment returns while fostering synergy among various stakeholders.

Established in 2020, the European Innovation Council supports innovative startups and researchers with promising ideas, focusing on early-stage companies with positive environmental, social, or governance impacts. It co-invests alongside private investors.

High-Tech Gründerfonds Management GmbH is a venture capital firm based in Bonn, Germany, specializing in early-stage investments in high-tech startups. Established in 2005, the firm focuses on technology-driven companies across various sectors, including information and communication technology, life sciences, healthcare, automation, and cleantech. HTGF typically invests in companies that have been operational for no more than one year, aiming to contribute up to €0.6 million in initial funding and up to €3 million in follow-on financing. The firm seeks a minority stake, generally around 15%, and provides a subordinated loan convertible into equity, with deferred interest for up to four years to support liquidity. With a total investment volume of approximately €895.5 million across three funds, HTGF has successfully supported over 500 startups and attracted more than €2 billion in follow-on investments from external sources. The firm's investors include notable public and private entities, underscoring its role as a key player in fostering innovation and growth within the German startup ecosystem.

Massachusetts Capital Resource Company, founded in 1977 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, serves as a private investment firm focused on addressing the funding gap for growing companies. The company provides risk capital in the form of mezzanine financing, long-term debt, and equity investments, specifically targeting emerging growth and middle-market firms. Its primary sectors of interest include manufacturing, distribution, service, and technology. By offering tailored investment solutions, Massachusetts Capital complements the financing available from senior lenders and equity investors, thereby supporting the growth and acquisition needs of companies operating in Massachusetts.

Intel Corporation, established in 1968, is a global leader in semiconductor chip manufacturing. The company designs, manufactures, and sells essential technologies for cloud, smart, and connected devices worldwide. Intel operates through various segments, offering platform products like central processing units and chipsets, and non-platform products such as accelerators, connectivity products, and memory and storage solutions. Additionally, Intel provides Internet of Things products and computer vision technology. Serving original equipment manufacturers, original design manufacturers, and cloud service providers, Intel collaborates with other tech giants to advance computing and communications. Intel Capital, the company's strategic investment arm, invests in innovative startups targeting cloud, AI, 5G, and other disruptive technologies. With a workforce of over 100,000 employees globally, Intel is transforming from a PC-centric company to a data-centric one, powering the future of computing and communications.

FM Capital is a company that focuses on early and growth-stage investments in disruptive technologies within the auto-mobility sector. Additionally, it specializes in commercial real estate investment, providing services that include debt acquisitions, financing, advisory, and equity investment solutions. By targeting innovative sectors and offering a range of financial services, FM Capital aims to contribute to the transformation of both the automotive industry and the real estate market.

Volvo Car Group, established in 1927, is a global premium car manufacturer headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden. It produces a range of vehicles including sedans, estates, cross country vehicles, SUVs, and convertibles, renowned for their intuitive Scandinavian design and focus on safety and sustainability. With sales in over 100 countries, Volvo Cars' largest markets are the United States, Sweden, China, Germany, and the UK. The company is committed to sustainable mobility, offering plug-in hybrid and electric cars, and is owned by Zhejiang Geely Holding of China. Volvo Car USA, based in Mahwah, New Jersey, is responsible for the production and sales of Volvo cars in the United States.

Shell E4, established in 2017, is a Bengaluru-based accelerator focused on fostering clean technology and sustainability ventures. It invests in and supports startups working on solutions such as waste management, plastic circularity, carbon capture, and decarbonization technologies, aligning with Shell's broader commitment to a lower-carbon future.

Founded in 1998, Tencent is a leading global technology company based in China. It operates the world's largest game publishing business and owns WeChat, one of the most widely used messaging apps globally with over 1 billion users. The company offers a range of services including social networking, gaming, fintech, cloud computing, online advertising, and digital content.

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., established in 1869, is a global leader in investment banking, securities, and investment management. It operates in four primary segments: Investment Banking, Institutional Client Services, Investing & Lending, and Investment Management. The company provides a wide range of services, including financial advisory services for mergers and acquisitions, underwriting services for various securities, client execution services for fixed income, currencies, commodities, and equities, securities services, and wealth advisory services. It serves a diverse client base comprising corporations, financial institutions, governments, and high-net-worth individuals. Additionally, Goldman Sachs invests in a broad array of asset classes, including debt securities, equity securities, real estate, and private equity, demonstrating its commitment to driving growth and innovation across industries.

Founded in 1995, Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Germany. It specializes in growth capital investments, focusing on high-tech companies in sectors such as biotechnology, IT, and environmental technology. The firm primarily invests in small and medium-sized companies located exclusively in Bavaria, with typical investment amounts ranging from €0.25 million to €9 million.

Autotech Ventures, established in 2013 and based in Menlo Park, California, is a venture capital firm managing over $400 million. It invests in early-stage startups operating in the ground transportation industry, focusing on connected, autonomous, shared, and electrified vehicles, as well as related mobility services. The firm provides portfolio companies with capital, industry connections, market intelligence, talent recruitment support, and fundraising assistance. By bridging the gap between innovative startups and established corporations, Autotech Ventures aims to shape the future of transportation.

Shenzhen Capital Group Co., Ltd (SCGC) is a venture capital firm founded in 1999 by the Shenzhen Government. The company is dedicated to fostering national industries, developing national brands, and promoting economic transformation through investments in emerging sectors. SCGC primarily targets small to medium enterprises and innovative high-tech companies, focusing on those in various stages of growth, including startups and those undergoing transformation. Its investment portfolio spans industries that align with national policy support, such as information technology, internet services, new media, biopharmaceuticals, new energy, environmental protection, chemical engineering, and high-end equipment manufacturing. With a registered capital of 5.42 billion RMB and significant assets under management, SCGC has established itself as a leader in the venture capital landscape, having invested in numerous companies, many of which have achieved public listings across global capital markets.

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

Right Side Capital Management, established in 2010, is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage technology investments. It focuses on funding pre-seed rounds, making 75-100 investments annually in startups outside major tech hubs, with pre-money valuations typically ranging from $1M to $3M. The firm prefers capital-efficient businesses and aims to provide a swift investment decision, usually within two weeks. Since 2012, RSCM has invested in approximately 200 companies across 19 U.S. states and several international locations, including Canada, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe.

Volvo Cars Tech Fund is an investment initiative by Volvo Cars that focuses on funding promising technology start-ups worldwide. This fund seeks to capitalize on strategic technology trends that are reshaping the automotive industry, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, electrification, autonomous driving, and digital mobility services. By investing in these sectors, the fund aims to support innovation and advancements that align with Volvo's vision for the future of transportation.