BDC Capital Inc. is the private equity and venture capital arm of the Business Development Bank of Canada, focusing on direct and fund of funds investments. It specializes in various financing options, including subordinate, recapitalization, bridge, and venture capital, targeting middle market, later stage, and small to medium-sized businesses. BDC Capital engages in venture capital activities across all stages, from seed funding to pre-IPO financing, with a particular emphasis on technology and healthcare sectors. Its investment strategy includes a commitment to supporting women-led firms and spans industries such as life sciences, telecommunications, information technology, and advanced technologies. The firm typically invests between CAD 0.1 million and CAD 35 million, often seeking minority stakes and board representation in its portfolio companies. BDC Capital prefers to exit investments within three to five years, utilizing strategies such as initial public offerings and strategic sales. Established in 1975 and headquartered in Montreal, the firm also has offices in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta, focusing its investments primarily within Canada.

The Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) is a seed-stage acceleration program founded in 2012 at the Rotman School of Management in Toronto, Canada. It is dedicated to supporting massively scalable, science- and technology-based ventures by providing a unique coaching process focused on specific objectives. CDL connects startups with experienced entrepreneurs and leading scientists across various sectors, including artificial intelligence, healthcare, quantum computing, blockchain, energy, and cleantech. The program has expanded its reach, operating in six cities: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, and New York City, and emphasizes the commercialization of scientific and technological advancements.

Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2004 by Vinod Khosla, co-founder of Sun Microsystems, and is headquartered in Menlo Park, California. The firm manages over $5 billion and focuses on investing in a diverse range of sectors, including consumer technology, enterprise solutions, education, healthcare, financial services, agriculture, sustainable energy, and robotics. Khosla Ventures provides not only capital but also strategic guidance to entrepreneurs, particularly in early-stage ventures, where it often supports innovative and unconventional projects. The firm seeks to back companies that are driven by breakthrough technologies, with investment sizes ranging from $100,000 to over $20 million. Khosla Ventures maintains a collaborative approach, frequently co-investing with other firms, including Kleiner Perkins, with which it has historical ties.

Accelerator Centre is a venture capital firm and accelerator located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, established in 2006. It specializes in incubating and investing in startups, offering a range of programs that provide funding and support over a period of 12 to 24 months. The firm combines in-house mentorship, educational programming, and networking opportunities with access to funding and facilities. Its unique accountability model and comprehensive programming are designed to help entrepreneurs transition from startup to scale-up, facilitating a quicker time to market while attracting customers and investment. Through these initiatives, Accelerator Centre aims to build successful companies and enhance the Canadian commercialization landscape.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania is a non-profit organization established in 1982 that serves as a vital capital provider and supporter of technology development in the region. Based in Philadelphia, it has invested over $170 million in more than 2,000 early-stage and established technology companies, fostering innovation primarily in information technology, health, and physical sciences. The organization not only provides financial support but also develops partnerships between universities and industries to accelerate the commercialization of scientific discoveries. By strengthening the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, Ben Franklin Technology Partners plays a crucial role in job creation and economic transformation in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

CIBC, or Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, has been providing banking services in Canada since 1867 and operates over 1,000 branches, along with more than 4,000 ATMs. The bank’s investment banking subsidiary, CIBC World Markets, engages in both domestic and international equity and debt capital markets, offering services such as mergers and acquisitions, capital market products, and advisory services. CIBC Asset Management Inc. focuses on managing investments for high net worth individuals, corporations, and various institutions, offering tailored portfolios, mutual funds, and hedge funds. The firm employs a combination of fundamental and quantitative analysis to invest in public equity and fixed income markets globally. Additionally, CIBC Capital Partners specializes in venture capital and private equity investments, primarily targeting mid and late-stage companies, particularly in sectors like healthcare, biotechnology, and technology. CIBC's comprehensive suite of services positions it as a significant player in the Canadian financial landscape.

Alumni Ventures Group, LLC is a venture capital firm founded in 2013 and based in Manchester, New Hampshire, with additional offices in major cities across North America. The firm specializes in seed, early-stage, and late-stage pre-IPO investments, focusing on companies with an alumni connection and supported by established institutional lead investors. Alumni Ventures aims to provide accredited investors, particularly alumni from top entrepreneurial schools, with access to diversified venture portfolios that span various sectors and geographic regions. The firm typically invests between $0.01 million and $3 million and does not require board or observer seats in its portfolio companies. Through its managed fund families, Alumni Ventures enables investors to participate in a collaborative investment approach, fostering connections among alumni while facilitating investment opportunities in innovative ventures.

Real Ventures is a Montreal-based venture capital firm established in 2007, specializing in early-stage investments across various sectors, including internet software, agtech, fintech, and health technology. The firm primarily focuses on seed stage, incubation, and growth capital investments, typically committing between $0.25 million and $1.15 million per investment, while aiming for a minimum 5% equity stake in its portfolio companies. Real Ventures prioritizes investments in Quebec-based companies but also extends its reach to other regions in Canada, particularly the Toronto-Waterloo corridor. In addition to providing financial support, the firm is dedicated to fostering the development of tech ecosystems by connecting entrepreneurs with local and national resources, thereby enhancing the growth potential of the companies it backs.

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015 by Fabrice Grinda. The firm is stage-agnostic, focusing on marketplaces and consumer-facing startups, with a particular emphasis on sectors such as B2B, B2C, financial services, mobile technology, advertisement technology, e-commerce, food technology, gaming, health technology, real estate technology, restaurant technology, ridesharing, SaaS, and virtual reality. FJ Labs invests primarily in seed and Series A rounds, with an investment range between $50,000 and $5,000,000. The firm has backed notable companies including Alibaba Group, Beepi, BrightRoll, Betterment, ADORE ME, and Earnest.

StandUp Ventures is a Toronto-based venture capital firm founded in 2017, focusing on early-stage investments in women-led companies. The firm targets sectors such as business products and services, information technology, healthcare, and health-tech. StandUp Ventures aims to invest in 30 to 40 companies over a period of three to five years, primarily at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages. The firm is supported by a diverse advisory committee of successful founders and venture investors who offer strategic mentorship to entrepreneurs. StandUp Ventures actively seeks to address the funding gap faced by women-led businesses, which remain underfunded compared to their male counterparts. By fostering strong deal flow across Canada and collaborating with angel investors and U.S. venture capitalists, StandUp Ventures is dedicated to increasing access to capital for these businesses.

Cadence Design Systems, Inc. specializes in electronic design automation (EDA), providing software, hardware, and silicon intellectual property (IP) to support the development of integrated circuits (ICs) and electronic systems. The company offers a range of software solutions that automate the chip design process, improving accuracy and productivity across various design activities, including functional verification, digital IC design, custom IC design, and system interconnect design. Cadence licenses its software through subscription, term, and perpetual models, and its products are complemented by engineering and educational services. The company has expanded its capabilities through acquisitions, including Denali Software, Altos Design Automation, and Azuro, enhancing its portfolio to meet the evolving needs of semiconductor and systems companies. By integrating its technologies, Cadence enables a more efficient and comprehensive approach to electronics product development, facilitating the convergence of semiconductor and system-level design.

Fonds de solidarité FTQ is a private equity and venture capital firm established in 1983 and headquartered in Montreal, Canada. The firm specializes in investing in small and medium-sized businesses, primarily within Quebec, focusing on sectors such as aerospace, agri-food, chemicals, construction materials, life sciences, telecommunications, and tourism. Fonds de solidarité FTQ targets projects requiring investments of $3 million or more and offers loans up to $2 million. The firm does not invest in retail, real estate, farming, biotechnology, or financial services. It actively seeks opportunities in various industries, including environmental initiatives, cultural projects, and advanced manufacturing. The firm typically holds its investments for five to ten years, with a preference for equity financing and an ability to take minority or majority stakes in portfolio companies. By prioritizing projects that positively impact the Quebec economy, Fonds de solidarité FTQ aims to foster local development and growth while supporting business succession and innovation.

Inovia Capital is a venture capital firm based in Montreal, Canada, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across various sectors, including software, healthcare, digital media, e-commerce, and telecommunications. Inovia focuses on both business-to-business and business-to-consumer companies, particularly in areas such as software-as-a-service, digital health, and enterprise platforms. With over $1 billion in assets across early and growth stage funds, Inovia provides not only capital but also coaching and access to talent, aiming to support passionate tech founders with global ambitions. The firm invests primarily in North America and Europe, targeting companies that have the potential to transform complex industries like financial services, healthcare, and transportation.

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.

Autodesk is a multinational corporation that specializes in developing software for 3D design, engineering, and entertainment. Founded in 1982 and headquartered in San Rafael, California, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio of applications tailored for various industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and media. Notable products include AutoCAD for professional drafting and design, Autodesk Revit for model-based design, and Autodesk Maya and 3ds Max for 3D modeling and animation. The software solutions provided by Autodesk facilitate design, modeling, simulation, and visualization, addressing the needs of over 4 million paid subscribers across 180 countries. The company's commitment to innovation helps users streamline their workflows and enhance productivity in their respective fields.

SOSV is a global venture capital firm founded in 1995 and headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey. Specializing in seed-to-growth stage investments, SOSV operates multiple accelerator programs worldwide, including HAX for hardware, IndieBio and RebelBio for life sciences, Chinaccelerator and MOX for cross-border internet ventures, Food-X for innovative food solutions, and dlab for blockchain technology. The firm focuses on investments in revolutionary deep technologies aimed at improving human and planetary health, as well as cross-border markets, particularly in Asia. SOSV invests in approximately 150 startups annually, providing support through its resources to accelerate product development and scaling. Over its two-decade history, SOSV has established a strong reputation, consistently ranking among the top venture capital firms globally.

SpeedInvest GmbH is a venture capital firm based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2011. It specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on technology-related startups across Europe, particularly in sectors such as deep tech, fintech, insurtech, consumer tech, and marketplaces. The firm typically invests between €0.25 million and €3 million in pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, while preferring to acquire minority stakes of up to 20% in its portfolio companies. SpeedInvest aims to be actively involved in the companies it invests in, often taking on operational roles for six months to one year. With additional offices in cities like San Francisco, Berlin, Paris, and London, SpeedInvest leverages a global network to support entrepreneurs in building successful businesses, thus contributing to the development of Europe’s startup ecosystem.

Export Development Canada (EDC) is an export credit agency established in 1944 and headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario. The organization is dedicated to supporting and enhancing Canada's export trade by facilitating international business opportunities for Canadian companies, both large and small. EDC offers a range of financial services, including trade financing, export credit insurance, and secured loans, specifically designed to assist Canadian exporters, investors, and their international buyers. Additionally, EDC engages in private equity and venture capital investments, further contributing to the growth and competitiveness of Canadian businesses in the global market.

Goldman Sachs is a prominent global investment banking, securities, and investment management firm, established in 1869 and headquartered in New York City. The firm provides a range of services to corporations, financial institutions, governments, and high-net-worth individuals. Its Investment Banking segment offers advisory services for mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, and restructuring, as well as underwriting for public offerings and private placements of various securities. The Institutional Client Services segment focuses on client execution across fixed income, currencies, commodities, and equities, while also offering financing and securities lending to institutional clients. The Investing & Lending segment engages in originating long-term loans and investing in debt securities and real estate. Additionally, Goldman Sachs Asset Management serves both institutional and individual investors with comprehensive investment and advisory solutions across diverse asset classes. The firm also operates several specialized investment groups, including private equity and infrastructure funds, targeting a variety of sectors and investment strategies worldwide.

GE Equity is a division of General Electric that focuses on maximizing returns on investment capital through equity investing. It specializes in acquiring minority ownership stakes in established companies with significant growth potential. The division pursues various investment strategies, including growth capital, buy-out co-investments, secondary direct purchases, recapitalizations, and limited partner investments. Leveraging GE's extensive industry knowledge and global reach, GE Equity seeks to identify and capitalize on high-potential opportunities across multiple sectors. By combining financial acumen with operational expertise, GE Equity plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall value of General Electric's investment portfolio.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical group practice and research organization based in Rochester, Minnesota, with additional locations in Florida and Arizona. Founded in 1864, it provides comprehensive medical care across various specialties, including diabetes, cancer, neurology, orthopedics, and cardiology. The organization is dedicated to advancing medical education and research, offering a range of degree programs and conducting clinical, translational, and epidemiological studies aimed at developing innovative diagnostic tools and treatments. Mayo Clinic also operates Mayo Clinic Ventures, which collaborates with physicians and scientists to transform healthcare through innovation. With its commitment to patient-centered care, research, and education, Mayo Clinic plays a vital role in improving health outcomes and advancing medical knowledge throughout the United States.

Drive Capital is a venture capital firm based in Columbus, Ohio, founded in 2012. The firm focuses on investing in innovative companies across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, financial services, and consumer products, primarily in the Midwest region of the United States. Drive Capital targets seed-stage to later-stage investments and aims to partner with entrepreneurs who have ambitious goals and are addressing significant market opportunities. The firm is known for its flexibility in investment amounts, ranging from $100,000 to tens of millions, depending on the potential of the business. Founding partners Mark Kvamme and Chris Olsen bring extensive experience in venture capital, having previously been involved in several other firms before establishing Drive Capital.

F Prime, Inc. is a venture capital firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with additional offices in San Francisco and London. Founded in 1969, it has a strong legacy rooted in Fidelity Investments, which has been a significant player in asset management since 1946. F Prime focuses on early-stage investments in North America and Europe, primarily in the healthcare, life sciences, technology, therapeutics, fashion, medtech, and health information technology sectors. The firm operates several funds, including those dedicated to healthcare, oncology, life sciences, and health technology services. F Prime Capital Partners emphasizes supporting entrepreneurs without the pressure of external fundraising, allowing them to concentrate on identifying and nurturing promising companies.

MedTech Innovator is a nonprofit global competition and accelerator based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2013. It focuses on supporting companies in the medical device, digital health, and diagnostic sectors. The organization aims to enhance patient outcomes by fostering the growth of businesses that contribute to the transformation of the healthcare system. Each year, MedTech Innovator showcases 100 companies that align with key themes identified through surveys of industry leaders. The accelerator's diverse portfolio includes firms involved in consumer healthcare, imaging, remote patient monitoring, clinical studies, and workflow optimization, emphasizing its commitment to advancing innovative healthcare solutions.

Bessemer Venture Partners is a prominent venture capital firm, founded in 1911 and based in Redwood City, California. With approximately $4 billion in assets under management, the firm invests globally in startups across various sectors, including consumer, enterprise, healthcare, information technology, and deep tech, from seed stage to growth. Bessemer's partners are dedicated to supporting founders by providing guidance and resources throughout the company's lifecycle. The firm has a notable track record of backing early-stage investments in companies such as Pinterest, Skype, and Twitch, and has played a significant role in the development of 117 IPOs, including notable names like Twilio and LinkedIn. With funds targeting a range of sectors, Bessemer Venture Partners exemplifies a commitment to fostering innovation and building enduring businesses.

General Catalyst Group Management, LLC is a private equity and venture capital firm founded in 2000 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with additional offices in North America and Europe. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth equity investments, focusing on a wide range of technology sectors, including advanced materials, clean energy, disruptive technology, healthcare IT, and consumer services, among others. General Catalyst typically invests between $0.05 million and $0.25 million in seed-stage companies and between $10 million and $50 million in growth equity, seeking profitable firms with substantial revenue and EBITDA. Their approach emphasizes mentorship and collaboration, fostering strong relationships with entrepreneurs who share their vision and values. They have managed eight venture capital funds, accumulating around $3.75 billion in capital commitments, reflecting their commitment to supporting innovative companies throughout their growth journey.

Sequoia Capital, founded in 1972 and based in Menlo Park, California, is a prominent venture capital firm that invests in early to growth stage companies across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, financial services, and consumer services. The firm specializes in supporting startups and emerging growth companies, typically investing between $100,000 and $1 million in seed companies, $1 million to $10 million in early ventures, and $10 million to $100 million in growth investments. Sequoia Capital operates globally, with a presence in regions such as Israel, China, and Southeast Asia, and has built a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies like Airbnb, Alibaba, and JD.com. The firm emphasizes a partnership approach with entrepreneurs, leveraging decades of experience to guide them from initial concept through to public offering and beyond.

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. is a publicly owned investment management firm founded in 1937 and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. The company offers a diverse range of services, including separate account management, mutual funds, and sub-advisory services, catering to individuals, institutional investors, retirement plans, and financial intermediaries. T. Rowe Price manages investments in both public equity and fixed income markets globally, employing a combination of fundamental and quantitative analysis with a bottom-up investment approach. The firm also engages in socially responsible investing, focusing on environmental, social, and governance issues. In addition to traditional investment strategies, T. Rowe Price participates in late-stage venture capital investments, typically investing between $3 million and $5 million. The company operates numerous offices worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to delivering investment excellence over the long term.

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.

Desjardins is a comprehensive financial services organization that caters to both individuals and businesses. It provides a wide array of personal services, including loans, credit cards, insurance, investment options, and wealth management. For businesses, Desjardins offers services such as financing, accounts management, trade finance, and payroll solutions. Additionally, the organization operates Desjardins Venture Capital, which manages investment funds and supports businesses through its extensive network and expertise. Desjardins also features a securities brokerage arm, offering investment advisory services and various brokerage products. With a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its members and clients, Desjardins utilizes an extensive distribution network and online platforms to deliver its services effectively.

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 and based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in seed-stage investments, targeting technology startups across various sectors, including communications, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and more. With a focus on pre-seed and seed-stage companies, Liquid 2 Ventures aims to support early-stage entrepreneurs in the United States as they develop innovative solutions and grow their businesses. The firm was established by Joe Montana, Mike Miller, and Michael Ma, bringing together their expertise to foster technological advancements and drive economic growth in the tech industry.

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.

EQT Ventures is a European venture capital firm founded in 2015 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, with over €1.2 billion in total capital raised. The firm launched its first fund in May 2016, followed by a second fund in November 2019, aimed at supporting bold founders in various sectors, particularly in information technology and SaaS. With a commitment to providing more than just financial backing, EQT Ventures offers mentorship and guidance to companies at seed, early, and later stages of growth. The firm operates from six offices located in major cities, including London, Stockholm, and San Francisco, adopting a "locals with locals" approach to better support entrepreneurs. EQT Ventures utilizes its proprietary artificial intelligence platform, Motherbrain, to inform investment decisions and has facilitated over $100 million in portfolio investments through this data-driven strategy.

Fidelity Investments, founded in 1946 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a privately owned investment management firm that offers a wide range of financial services. These services include individual retirement accounts (IRAs), 401(k) rollovers, annuities, discount brokerage, retirement planning, estate planning, wealth management, and life insurance. The firm caters to individual investors, businesses, financial advisors, and institutions, managing equity, fixed income, and balanced mutual funds. Fidelity invests in global public equity and fixed income markets, employing in-house research to inform its investment decisions. The firm serves over 32 million individuals, assists more than 22,000 businesses in managing employee benefits, and provides support to over 13,000 financial institutions with innovative solutions. Fidelity operates through numerous regional offices and Investor Centers across the United States.

Global Brain is a Tokyo-based venture capital firm founded in 1998, specializing in early-stage investments across various sectors, including e-commerce, software, gaming, media, IoT, education, entertainment, and fintech. The firm has expanded its investment activities to the US and Asia, targeting series A-stage technology companies. Since its inception, Global Brain has invested in approximately 30 companies, achieving seven initial public offerings and seven mergers and acquisitions. The firm supports its portfolio companies by providing not only capital but also strategic guidance, partnerships, and team-building resources to help them reach their milestones. Global Brain is particularly adept in e-commerce, operating a platform called EC-PLANET, which encompasses several group companies, including a large online sports goods store and a logistics firm offering comprehensive fulfillment services. This network, along with Global Brain's connections to established Japanese companies, facilitates market entry for US and Asian businesses into Japan.

Panache Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2018 and headquartered in Montréal, Canada, with additional offices in Calgary, Vancouver, Toronto, and San Francisco. The firm specializes in pre-seed and seed-stage investments, focusing on sectors that leverage Canada's strengths, including artificial intelligence, fintech, digital health, enterprise software, and blockchain technology. Panache Ventures aims to support innovative startups across various industries such as cybersecurity, e-commerce, healthcare, and virtual reality, primarily within Canada. The firm typically makes initial investments of up to USD 1 million in early-stage companies, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and development.

AutoCanada is one of Canada's largest multi-location automobile dealership groups, operating 53 franchised dealerships with 60 franchises across eight provinces. The company employs over 3,700 people and sells a diverse range of new and used vehicles, including brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Infiniti, Nissan, Hyundai, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Audi, Volkswagen, BMW, and MINI. AutoCanada also provides spare parts, maintenance services, and customer financing. The majority of its revenue comes from the sale of used vehicles, with most business activities concentrated in Canada.

Lumira Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Toronto, Ontario, specializing in investments in emerging, mid, and late-stage companies within the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Founded in 2007, the firm primarily focuses on biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, digital health, and consumer health companies, with a strong emphasis on opportunities in North America, particularly Canada and the United States. Lumira Ventures typically invests between 5 million and 15 million in its portfolio companies, which currently includes over 30 active investee firms. The firm is dedicated to maximizing the value of its investments through active board participation and facilitating access to additional funding sources, strategic partners, and market opportunities. With a track record of investing in more than 100 healthcare companies since its inception, Lumira Ventures aims to support entrepreneurial management teams in addressing significant unmet needs within the healthcare landscape.

Cemex is a Mexico-based global leader in the construction industry, primarily engaged in the production, distribution, and sale of cement, ready-mix concrete, aggregates, and various related building materials. The company operates production facilities in numerous countries, including the United States, Spain, and Germany, among others. In addition to its core manufacturing activities, Cemex Ventures serves as its corporate venture capital arm, focusing on urban development and innovative construction technologies. It collaborates with startups, entrepreneurs, and academic institutions to foster advancements in the construction ecosystem. Furthermore, the Cemex Research Group plays a crucial role in driving research and development initiatives, aiming to enhance product offerings and promote sustainability across the industry. By integrating innovative solutions and technologies, Cemex seeks to address the evolving needs of the construction sector while reinforcing its position as a leading provider of construction materials.

The EIC pilot supports top-class innovators, entrepreneurs, small companies and scientists with bright ideas and the ambition to scale up internationally. It brings together the parts of Horizon 2020 that provide funding, advice and networking opportunities for those at cutting edge of innovation.

MassChallenge is a non-equity startup accelerator headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with additional locations in Israel, Mexico, Switzerland, Texas, and the UK. Founded in 2009, it focuses on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting high-potential startups across various industries globally. MassChallenge provides expert mentorship, a tailored curriculum, and access to corporate partners without taking any equity from the startups. Its programs, including specialized initiatives like MassChallenge FinTech and MassChallenge HealthTech, aim to facilitate partnerships between startups and established companies to drive innovation and growth. To date, MassChallenge has helped over 1,200 alumni raise more than $2 billion in funding and create over 65,000 jobs, demonstrating its significant impact on the global innovation ecosystem.

CAE is a global leader in providing advanced simulation and modeling technologies, along with integrated training solutions, primarily serving the civil aviation and defense sectors. The company generates annual revenues exceeding C$1.5 billion and employs over 7,000 people across more than 100 locations in over 20 countries. CAE boasts the largest installed base of both civil and military full-flight simulators and training devices, training more than 75,000 crewmembers annually through its extensive network of 29 training centers. Its operations are divided into two primary segments: Civil Aviation, which offers comprehensive training solutions for various aviation personnel, and Defense and Security, which provides scalable training and simulation solutions to enhance force readiness. Additionally, CAE offers modeling and simulation software across various market segments and supports customers through its professional services division.

Industrial Alliance Insurance and Financial Services, founded in 1892, is a prominent Canadian insurance company that provides a wide array of financial products and services. These offerings include life and health insurance, savings and retirement plans, mutual and segregated funds, auto and home insurance, as well as mortgages and car loans. The company manages over $126 billion in assets and operates across various segments, including Insurance Canada, Individual Wealth Management, Investment, Corporate, and U.S. Operations. With a focus on conservative investment strategies and robust risk management, Industrial Alliance maintains financial stability, allowing it to adapt to changing economic conditions while delivering value to its clients in Canada and the United States.

Brick & Mortar Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2015, located in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in investing in architecture, engineering, construction, and technology sectors, particularly focusing on innovative software and hardware solutions for the built environment. By concentrating on the real estate, hospitality, and construction industries, Brick & Mortar Ventures cultivates deep industry expertise and fosters relationships that enhance the value of its portfolio companies. The firm takes an active role as an investor and partner, providing support to emerging companies that align with its mission of advancing technology for the built world. In 2022, Brick & Mortar Ventures launched an early-stage venture capital fund to further its investment activities.

Insight Partners is a global private equity and venture capital firm founded in 1995 and headquartered in New York City, with additional offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Palo Alto. The firm specializes in investing in growth-stage technology, software, and internet companies, focusing on sectors such as B2B, B2C, cybersecurity, cloud technology, and financial technology. With over $75 billion in assets under management, Insight Partners has invested in more than 750 companies worldwide, helping many achieve significant milestones, including over 55 initial public offerings. The firm’s approach emphasizes hands-on collaboration with visionary executives, providing practical expertise to support companies throughout their growth journey. Insight Partners is committed to fostering a culture that views growth as an opportunity, driving transformative change across various industries.

CAI Capital Partners is a private equity firm founded in 1989 and headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with additional offices in Montreal, Toronto, Brooklyn, and Palm Beach. The firm specializes in investing in lower middle-market businesses across North America, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, business services, energy, consumer goods, aerospace, defense, and healthcare. CAI seeks to assist established companies, especially those undergoing transitions or looking for growth, by providing equity investments typically ranging from CAD 17.82 million to CAD 75 million. The firm prefers to take controlling stakes and actively participate in management, often taking board seats. CAI has a strong focus on companies with revenues exceeding CAD 50 million and EBITDA between CAD 3 million and CAD 10 million. With a proven track record, CAI has invested over CAD 1.4 billion in equity or equity-related investments, positioning itself as a strategic partner for motivated management teams in Canada and the United States.

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.

U.S. Venture Partners (USVP) is a prominent venture capital partnership dedicated to assisting entrepreneurs in turning their innovative ideas into impactful companies. With over thirty years of experience, the firm specializes in early-stage investments primarily within the information technology and healthcare sectors. USVP's investment focus includes enterprise software, IT security, consumer internet, mobile applications, e-commerce, and IT-enabled healthcare services. The team at USVP comprises former entrepreneurs, technologists, corporate leaders, financial experts, and industry specialists, all committed to fostering innovation that generates economic growth and job creation.

Cadmatic is a company based in Turku, Finland, specializing in the development and supply of advanced 3D design software and information management solutions for the plant and marine industries. As part of the Elomatic Group, Cadmatic focuses on delivering innovative and user-friendly digital design and engineering tools that cater to the specific needs of its clients. The company emphasizes highly skilled software development and exceptional customer support, aiming to exceed user expectations and enhance productivity in complex design environments.

Startup Wise Guys, founded in 2012 and based in Tallinn, Estonia, is a prominent early-stage investor and accelerator in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region and the Nordics. The organization has accelerated over 165 startups, primarily in B2B SaaS, fintech, and cybersecurity, achieving a startup survival and success rate exceeding 77%. Its intensive three-month accelerator program focuses on product validation, development, and sales to business customers, supported by a network of over 200 international and local mentors. The program culminates in Demo Days and major tech events where startups present their ventures to potential investors. Additionally, participants gain access to an alumni community of more than 145 startups across 40 countries and exclusive alumni events centered on business development and fundraising. Startup Wise Guys also manages dedicated funds targeting various sectors, including an Africa Fund that invests in fintech, health tech, and digital SaaS, among others.