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.

Quantonation is a venture capital investment firm established in 2018 and located in Paris, France. It is the first fund dedicated exclusively to investing in quantum and quantum-enabling technologies globally. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, targeting quantum startups across various domains, including computation, communications, simulation, and sensing. Quantonation manages a fund that aims to make 15 to 20 investments, with individual investment sizes ranging from EUR 0.25 million to EUR 2 million. The firm's investment strategy encompasses both hardware and software solutions, with a particular emphasis on deep physics, molecular design, high-performance computation, cybersecurity, and ultra-precise sensing. Quantonation seeks opportunities primarily in North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, positioning itself at the forefront of the emerging quantum technology landscape.

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.

Computer Gross is a value-added distributor based in Italy, specializing in information and communications technology products. The company collaborates with prominent IT brands to deliver high-performance solutions tailored to meet client needs. By leveraging a network of vendors, Computer Gross focuses on developing customized projects in various domains, including data centers, software, networking, cloud, and security. This strategic approach allows the company to create new growth opportunities and provide clients with concrete, personalized solutions that address their specific requirements.

Apple is a multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, and markets a range of consumer electronics, software, and online services. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple is best known for its iPhone, which constitutes a significant portion of its sales. The company's product lineup also includes the iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV, all of which are integrated into a broader software ecosystem. Apple develops its own operating systems, including iOS and macOS, and offers various services such as iCloud and streaming platforms. The company sells its products through a global network of retail stores, online platforms, and third-party distributors. Renowned for its innovation, Apple introduced the Macintosh in 1984 as one of the first personal computers with a graphical user interface, establishing a legacy of technological advancement and consumer-focused design.

Lenovo is a multinational technology company renowned for its innovative personal technology products, including personal computers, smartphones, and data center solutions. Established in 1984 as Legend Holdings, the company rebranded to Lenovo in 2004 following its acquisition of IBM's personal computing division. Today, Lenovo holds the position of the world's largest PC vendor and ranks among the top smartphone manufacturers. The company operates across three main business segments: PC and smart devices, mobile, and data center, which are anticipated to contribute 60%, 13%, and 17% of sales, respectively, in the near term. Lenovo has made significant strides in its data center business, which has seen server-related revenue grow considerably in recent years. With a global workforce of over 54,000 employees and operations in more than 60 countries, Lenovo is committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of customers worldwide.

Dedicated Computing LLC specializes in designing, building, validating, and integrating embedded and single-purpose computing systems for original equipment manufacturers and independent software vendors. Established in 1978 and based in Waukesha, Wisconsin, the company provides a range of products, including control processing systems, data and image processing solutions, and various data storage systems. Its offerings also encompass image generation services and planning/viewing systems for data analysis in medical imaging, security, military training, and industrial applications. Dedicated Computing serves a diverse clientele, including prominent manufacturers in the healthcare, life sciences, training and simulation, and energy exploration sectors. The company emphasizes the importance of security and support in its computing systems, ensuring that clients have access to reliable and efficient technology for their operational needs.

Sunsino Venture Group is a venture capital firm based in Taipei, Taiwan, founded in 1994. The firm has invested in over 200 companies across Taiwan and the United States, focusing primarily on the healthcare, technology, and software sectors. With approximately US$150 million in assets under management, Sunsino Venture Group aims to support innovative companies that demonstrate growth potential in these industries.

BOXX Technologies is a manufacturer based in Austin, Texas, specializing in the design and production of graphic workstations and rendering systems tailored for various industries, including media and entertainment, architecture, engineering, and healthcare. Established in 1996, the company provides high-performance computing solutions aimed at visual effects professionals and visualization applications. BOXX Technologies builds and configures a range of products, including workstations, rendering systems, processors, and servers, to meet the specific needs of clients in sectors such as film, television, animation, game development, and data science. By focusing on customization and performance, the company enables its customers to achieve their desired technological setups and enhance their creative and operational capabilities.

HYPER Inc. is a Japanese company founded in 1990 and based in Tokyo, primarily engaged in the sale and installation of computers and peripheral equipment. The company operates through two main divisions: Information Equipment Sales, which includes both the Computer segment and Service & Support segment. HYPER Inc. also provides maintenance services for communication, office, and office automation equipment. In addition to hardware sales, the company is involved in software planning and development, information processing services, website planning and production, and internet mail ordering. Through its diverse offerings, HYPER Inc. aims to meet the technological needs of various clients in Japan.

Quanta Computer, established in 1988 and headquartered in Taiwan, is the largest original design manufacturer (ODM) of notebook computers globally. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing a wide range of electronic hardware, including enterprise network systems, home entertainment products, telecommunication devices, and automotive electronics. Quanta has a strong focus on cloud computing, integrating innovative technologies to capture emerging market opportunities. The firm operates numerous facilities across Asia, America, and Europe, providing competitive logistics and support services to its clients. With a workforce exceeding 70,000 employees, a significant portion of whom are engaged in research and development, Quanta emphasizes high-quality design and manufacturing services for top-tier technology brands. Its global headquarters, the Quanta R&D Complex, is dedicated to fostering technological advancement and includes state-of-the-art facilities for research, education, and leisure. Quanta's strategic vision aims for sustained growth through broad market expansion while maintaining its roots in Taiwan.

Intex Technologies operates as an IT hardware and electronics distribution company in India. The company offers computer products such as TFT-LCD monitors, notebooks, CRT monitors, and personal computers; and computer peripherals, including add-on cards and products, cabinets, Ethernet cards and switches, fax modems, keyboards, mice, SMPS and UPS systems, and webcams. It also provides consumer electronic products such as MP3 players, DVD players, headphones, home theater systems, and speakers and subwoofers; power electronics including home UPS systems; CRT and LCD televisions; and mobile phones and phone accessories. In addition, the company offers structured cabling products. It serves PC, entertainment electronics, power electronics, computer peripherals, retail, GSM mobile phones, in-car accessories, and enterprise business segments. Its sales are routed through a channel network comprising distributors and dealers across India. Intex Technologies was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in New Delhi, India.

Wistron Corporation is an original design manufacturer based in Taipei, Taiwan, specializing in the design, manufacturing, and after-sales support of information and communication technology products. Founded in 2001, the company offers a diverse range of products, including notebook personal computers, mobile communication devices, servers, storage systems, networking equipment, desktop PCs, LCD TVs, game consoles, and various consumer electronics. Wistron also provides comprehensive after-sales services such as product replacement, repair, and support, applicable to both its own products and those from other manufacturers. The company primarily generates revenue from its operations in Taiwan while also maintaining a presence in other regions across Asia and beyond. Wistron sells its products to various vendors who then distribute them under their own brands.

Quiet Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2017, originally based in San Francisco, California, with operations also in Houston, Texas. The firm focuses on making investments across a range of sectors, including enterprise, consumer, fintech, marketplaces, deep tech, healthcare, and cryptocurrency. As a Registered Investment Adviser, Quiet Capital aims to support innovative companies and entrepreneurs by providing the necessary capital and resources to foster growth and development.

HPC Systems Inc. is a Japanese company founded in 2006, headquartered in Tokyo, that specializes in the development, manufacturing, and sale of high-performance and embedded computers. The company's main offerings include cluster computers and personal cluster systems, catering primarily to research institutes such as government laboratories, universities, and multinational corporate research and development centers. In addition to producing high-performance computing solutions, HPC Systems also engages in configure-to-order services and provides consulting in computational science, addressing the specific needs of its clients in scientific and technological calculations.

ASUS is a multinational computer and electronics hardware company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Recognized as a global technology leader, it ranks among the top three consumer notebook vendors and is the world's leading manufacturer of motherboards, holding nearly a 40% market share. One in every three computers features an ASUS motherboard, with over 24 million units sold in 2008 alone. The company has a significant presence in more than 50 countries, with offices across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and South Africa. In addition to its hardware products, which include PCs, tablets, smartphones, and various electronic components, ASUS co-manages a venture capital fund that invests in sectors like the Internet of Things, big data, and artificial intelligence, targeting investments between 0.25 to 5 million USD.

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.

Spark Capital Partners, LLC is a venture capital and private equity firm established in 2005, with offices in Boston, New York, and San Francisco. The firm specializes in growth capital investments across various stages, from seed startups to later-stage companies. Its investment focus spans a wide range of sectors, including internet, mobile, education services, fintech, consumer products, software, media, and technology. Spark Capital aims to support innovative businesses that merge entertainment and technology, particularly in areas like e-commerce, digital media, and consumer services. The firm typically invests between $0.5 million and $30 million in companies with revenues up to $1 billion and often seeks a board seat to actively engage with its portfolio. Spark Capital is committed to helping founders navigate their unique paths to success.

Pathbreaker Ventures is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm that specializes in pre-seed and seed-stage investments, primarily focusing on technology companies. Established in 2016, the firm targets startups in emerging sectors of computer science, including artificial intelligence, robotics, augmented reality, and connected devices. Pathbreaker Ventures typically invests between $150,000 and $350,000 and collaborates with other early-stage investors when appropriate. The firm's mission is to support specialized teams developing innovative products that aim to transform industries and improve lives.

Source Code Corporation is a computer hardware company that specializes in designing, deploying, and supporting custom server appliances for software developers, vendors, and original equipment manufacturers. Established in 1992 and headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company manufactures a variety of whitebox and custom-branded solutions. Its offerings include engineering and design services, software deployment, product branding, inventory and logistics management, warranty and support, as well as hardware platform services. Source Code caters to various sectors, including financial, healthcare, and government, providing tailored solutions that meet the specific business and technical needs of its clients. The company operates manufacturing facilities in Columbus, Ohio, and Norwood, Massachusetts, along with engineering facilities in Buffalo and Waltham, Massachusetts.

I-O Data Device, Inc. is a Japanese company that specializes in providing a wide range of digital equipment and peripherals. Established in 1976 and headquartered in Kanazawa, it manufactures products including liquid crystal display devices, hard disk drives, optical disk drives, and various network devices such as wireless and wired LAN equipment. The company also offers multimedia products like network cameras, projectors, and audio devices, as well as storage solutions including external and portable SSDs and HDDs. Additionally, I-O Data Device produces computer peripherals such as USB drives, data card readers, and personal cloud storage solutions. Its diverse product lineup caters to both consumer and corporate markets, emphasizing innovation and quality in digital technology.

Lumio, Inc. specializes in developing and selling advanced optical modules designed for data input and output. The company utilizes innovative technologies, including the Crystal Touch® solution, which transforms flat surfaces into interactive interfaces. Its offerings encompass virtual laser keyboards and various virtual interface modules that cater to a wide range of applications, such as smartphones, personal media displays, interactive walls, automotive systems, and healthcare environments. Founded in 2000 and based in Menlo Park, California, Lumio has research and development facilities in Israel, where it focuses on enhancing communications, computing, and entertainment experiences through its proprietary technologies. The company was previously known as VKB, Inc. before rebranding in 2006.

Kontron is a prominent manufacturer of embedded computer technology, providing integrated IT systems and services tailored for cloud and data centers, IT networks, and cybersecurity. The company serves a diverse range of industries including telecommunications, automation, medical technology, and aerospace, aiming to enhance competitive advantages for its clients by reducing time-to-market and costs. Headquartered in Eching, Germany, with significant operations across Europe, North America, and Asia, Kontron employs over 2,500 individuals, including around 500 engineers. The company focuses on developing secure solutions within the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industry 4.0 frameworks, leveraging a comprehensive portfolio of hardware, middleware, and services to support networked machines and industrial automation. Through its innovative technologies, Kontron strives to deliver high reliability and longevity in embedded applications, helping customers achieve improved efficiency and performance.

Computershare, founded in Australia in 1978, has evolved into a leading global provider of issuer services, employing over 15,000 people across approximately 90 offices worldwide. The company offers a diverse range of services, including employee share plans, corporate communications, business services, and corporate trust solutions. Computershare has expanded significantly through acquisitions and focuses on delivering certainty and innovation to its clients. A notable aspect of its operations is the generation of income from client cash balances, which is sensitive to interest rate fluctuations, contributing to a substantial portion of the company's earnings. As a recognized leader in its field, Computershare emphasizes a commitment to service excellence and fosters an entrepreneurial spirit among its workforce.

Razer is a leading manufacturer of gaming hardware and software, catering to the diverse needs of gamers worldwide. Founded in 2005, the company has established itself as a pioneer in product innovation, developing a wide range of gaming devices including laptops, accessories, apparel, and chairs. Razer also offers software solutions that enhance the gaming experience, such as virtual credit systems for in-game purchases. With a focus on transforming the gaming lifestyle, Razer has received multiple awards for its design and technology, reflecting its commitment to creating new categories within the gaming community, which encompasses over 1 billion players globally. The company is supported by notable investors, including Intel Capital and Heliconia Capital Management.

HCL Infosystems Ltd. is an Indian company that specializes in IT services, solutions, and distribution. Established in 1976 and based in Noida, the company operates a comprehensive sales and distribution network that reaches over 15,000 towns across 664 districts in India, providing value-added distribution and marketing support for telecom, IT, office automation, and consumer electronics products. HCL Infosystems offers a wide array of IT services, including infrastructure consulting, workplace and data center services, network and security services, cloud solutions, and technical support. The company's learning solutions division, HCL Learning, caters to educational and training needs across various sectors by providing digital content and tailored learning solutions. HCL Infosystems generates most of its revenue from its hardware products segment, which includes large system integration projects primarily aimed at government clients.

Parcom Capital is a private equity firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, specializing in midmarket investments across various sectors, including technology, trade and services, production, oil and gas, industrials, and distribution. Established in 1982, the firm focuses on management buyouts, succession situations, public to private transactions, and buy and build platforms. Parcom typically targets mid-sized companies in Europe, particularly in the Benelux region, France, England, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland, with investments ranging from €5 million to €50 million. The firm seeks transactions with enterprise values between €20 million and €200 million, revenues of €20 million to €500 million, and EBITDA of €5 million to €50 million. While Parcom generally prefers to take a majority stake in its portfolio companies, it is open to minority investments in specific scenarios. The firm emphasizes a long-term investment approach, aiming to support management teams in achieving their growth objectives.

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.

Cherry designs, develops, and manufacture of computer keyboards, snap-action and rocker switches, magnetic sensors.

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.

iYogi, Inc. is an on-demand software and services company that specializes in providing online technical support for a variety of computing and communication devices and software. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Gurugram, India, the company offers a range of services including optimization, diagnosis and repair, setup and installation, virus removal, usability training, networking, web presence, and managed services. iYogi caters to consumers and small businesses, supporting various technologies such as browsers, operating systems, productivity tools, and security software, as well as devices like computers, mobiles, gaming consoles, and servers. The company's services are available to customers across multiple regions, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, and the Gulf Cooperation Council states. iYogi operates as a subsidiary of iYogi Technical Services Pvt. Ltd.

Stenograph is a prominent supplier of productivity tools tailored for the court reporting profession, boasting over 80 years of experience. The company specializes in developing dictation and transcription software, alongside providing shorthand writing machines and computer-aided transcription solutions. Stenograph serves a diverse clientele, including professional court reporters, CART reporters, scopists, and students, ensuring their information technology needs are met effectively. The firm is recognized for its commitment to innovation, quality, and service, offering training materials and professional development courses to enhance the skills of court reporting professionals. Through its products and services, Stenograph plays a vital role in facilitating the accurate capture and preservation of verbatim records for clients.

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.

Kingston is a technology company that specializes in the design and manufacture of memory and flash products for various devices, including servers, desktops, notebooks, and mobile phones. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, Kingston has established a global presence with manufacturing facilities in the United States, Taiwan, and China, as well as offices in several major cities worldwide. The company's product portfolio includes solid-state drives, memory modules, USB flash drives, SD cards, and microSD cards, among others. Kingston also offers contract manufacturing and supply chain management services, along with technical support and customer service. Committed to high industry standards, Kingston has been ISO 9001 certified since 1994 and focuses on providing customized memory solutions tailored to specific system requirements. Its extensive distribution network includes resellers, retailers, online retailers, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), helping businesses enhance their operations through reliable memory solutions.

Eclipse Ventures is a California-based venture capital firm founded in 2015, specializing in early-stage investments across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, transportation, healthcare, consumer goods, and technology. The firm is managed by a team of former operators who collaborate closely with founders to modernize substantial physical sectors. Eclipse Ventures focuses on enhancing operational practices and fundraising strategies to build resilient, efficient companies that drive economic growth. With a commitment to transforming industries, Eclipse Ventures emphasizes deep engagement with entrepreneurs, aiming to support the development of innovative solutions that can redefine traditional markets.

BNP Paribas is a prominent international commercial bank headquartered in Paris, France, offering a wide array of banking and financial services globally. The organization operates through two primary divisions: Retail Banking and Services, and Corporate and Institutional Banking. It provides various services, including corporate vehicle leasing, digital banking, cash management, and wealth management. Additionally, BNP Paribas extends credit solutions to individuals and offers savings and protection plans. The bank is also engaged in asset management through its subsidiary, BNP Paribas Asset Management, which caters to both institutional and individual investors with services such as mutual funds, private equity, and hedge funds. The company’s investment strategies encompass equities, fixed income, real estate, and money markets. With a legacy dating back to 1848, BNP Paribas has established itself as a key player in the global financial landscape, continuously adapting to meet the evolving needs of its diverse clientele.

PhiTrust Partenaires is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Paris, France, specializing in investments that generate positive social and environmental impacts. Founded in 2005, the firm focuses on small and medium-sized for-profit companies across various sectors, including agriculture, technology, healthcare, and alternative energy. PhiTrust Partenaires seeks to invest globally, with particular emphasis on Europe, West Africa, and regions such as Quebec, the USA, and Asia. The firm typically invests between €0.3 million and €0.6 million in companies with enterprise values ranging from €0.5 million to €20 million. Investment strategies include direct equity and below-market-rate debt, with interests in both majority and minority stakes. PhiTrust Partenaires also engages with not-for-profit organizations through its endowment fund and aims to have representation on the boards or committees of its portfolio companies, ensuring active participation in their governance.

SoftBank Investment Advisers is a venture capital firm based in London, United Kingdom, that specializes in growth equity and late-stage investments. It is a subsidiary of SoftBank Group Corp. The firm focuses primarily on the technology sector, targeting areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, internet-of-things, telecommunications, computational biology, cloud technologies, fintech, consumer internet, and healthcare. SoftBank Investment Advisers typically invests a minimum of $100 million in both minority and majority stakes in private or public companies, with a strong emphasis on opportunities in the United States and globally. Established in 2017, the firm aims to leverage its operational expertise and extensive global network to foster innovation and drive growth in its portfolio companies.

HAX is a venture capital program that accelerates hardware startups through an intensive support system, operating primarily in Shenzhen and San Francisco. Founders begin their journey in Shenzhen, focusing on rapid prototyping and the development of various aspects of their business, including marketing strategies and business plans. Once they refine their products, teams transition to San Francisco, where the emphasis shifts to business development, fundraising, and establishing connections with corporates, investors, and media. HAX also offers specialized programs like HAX Growth, a seven-week bootcamp for launching B2C and B2B hardware startups, and HAX Boost, which helps selected teams enhance their sales and marketing strategies over six weeks. Founded in 2012, HAX is part of SOSV and targets technology companies that aim to create meaningful advancements in sustainability, industrial automation, and human health. The program continues to support startups beyond the initial phases, providing resources and guidance as they grow.

Pear is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2013 by Pejman Nozad and Mar Hershenson, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing in technology companies across various sectors, including consumer, business-to-business, healthcare, biotech, fintech, climate tech, SaaS, and deep tech. Pear targets exceptional founders who are building innovative companies and provides extensive support to help them succeed. The firm has a history of seeding successful startups such as Dropbox and Lending Club, emphasizing its commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent in North America.

Buckley Ventures is a venture capital firm founded by Josh Buckley and headquartered in San Francisco, California. Established in 2019, the firm focuses on early-stage investments in the technology sector. It manages a fund launched in 2020, aiming to support innovative companies and entrepreneurs in their growth and development. Through its strategic investments, Buckley Ventures seeks to identify and nurture promising technologies that have the potential to reshape industries.

Anzu Partners is a venture capital and private equity firm founded in 2014 by Whitney Haring-Smith, David Michael, and David Seldin. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the firm specializes in early-stage investments in industrial and life science technology companies across the United States and Canada. Anzu Partners collaborates with entrepreneurs to develop and commercialize innovative technologies, providing not just capital but also expertise in business development, market positioning, and global connectivity. The firm focuses on breakthrough industrial technologies with transformative potential, aiming to foster long-term relationships that drive results beyond initial investments.

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.

NCI is a private equity firm based in Rouen, France, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investing in both public and private markets, focusing on a diverse range of sectors, including agriculture, construction, logistics, digital technology, hardware, e-commerce, food technology, and information technology. NCI leverages its expertise to identify and support companies within these industries, aiming to foster growth and enhance value through strategic investments.

Delft Enterprises is a venture capital firm established in 2008 and based in Delft, Netherlands. The firm focuses on investing in innovative, early-stage, and technology-based spin-off companies that emerge from Delft University of Technology. By leveraging the university's research and development capabilities, Delft Enterprises aims to support the growth of promising startups and contribute to technological advancements.

Intel Corporation is a leading global designer and manufacturer of essential technologies for cloud computing, smart devices, and connected systems. The company operates through various segments, including Data Center Group, Internet of Things Group, Mobileye, and Client Computing Group, offering a wide range of products such as microprocessors, chipsets, system-on-chip solutions, and memory products. Intel's innovations extend to high-performance computing for targeted industries, as well as technologies for computer vision and machine learning applications. The firm serves original equipment manufacturers, design manufacturers, and cloud service providers. Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Intel also invests through Intel Capital, which has supported numerous startups in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, advancing new technologies and solutions. Intel has consistently led the semiconductor market, driven by its commitment to innovation and the development of transformative products that enhance performance, connectivity, and data utilization across various sectors, including automotive and the Internet of Things.

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.

Francisco Partners Management, L.P. is a private equity firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1999. It specializes in investing in technology and technology-enabled businesses, focusing on companies undergoing strategic, technological, and operational changes. The firm manages approximately $7 billion in capital and targets control investments in private companies, with transaction values typically ranging from $30 million to $2 billion. Francisco Partners engages in various investment activities, including divisional buyouts, public-to-private transactions, growth equity financing, and strategic minority investments. It primarily seeks opportunities in sectors such as communications, financial technology, healthcare technology, software, and industrial technology, with a specific interest in companies based in North America, Western Europe, and Israel. The firm generally acquires a majority or controlling stake in its portfolio companies and often secures a seat on the Board of Directors.

JamJar Investments LLP is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2013, specializing in seed and early-stage investments primarily in the consumer services and products sectors, as well as technology and non-tech industries such as food and drink. The firm typically invests between £0.15 million and £1 million in initial funding rounds, with the capability to participate in follow-on investments. JamJar focuses on European businesses and prefers to back teams of multiple individuals, often leading investments or collaborating with other investors. The firm is managed by the founders of innocent drinks, who bring over 14 years of operational and commercial expertise from building the brand to its successful acquisition by Coca-Cola. This experience equips JamJar with a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial journey, including its challenges and potential solutions.

Refiners I is a venture capital fund managed by The Refiners, an accelerator established in 2016 and based in San Francisco, California. The fund primarily focuses on investing in pre-seed and seed-stage startups across both business-to-consumer and business-to-business sectors. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by international entrepreneurs, The Refiners offers a specialized three-month program that provides funding, networking, and mentorship opportunities within the dynamic environment of Silicon Valley. The goal is to equip startups with the essential tools and expertise needed to expand their vision and scale globally, ensuring they receive comprehensive support tailored to their specific needs.