Techstars Central LLC, founded in 2006 and based in Boulder, Colorado, operates as a startup accelerator and venture capital firm focused on supporting early-stage technology-oriented companies. It specializes in a mentorship-driven accelerator program, selecting ten startups each summer to participate in a three-month incubation period, offering funding of $120,000 in exchange for equity. Techstars invests primarily in sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, blockchain, augmented reality, and IoT, while avoiding investments in medical devices, healthcare technology, and local service-oriented businesses. In addition to its primary accelerator, Techstars has various specialized programs, including those focused on music, retail, mobility, and social impact, with global reach extending to regions such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The firm prefers taking minority stakes, typically between six and ten percent, without seeking board representation or investor rights. Techstars has built a robust network of entrepreneurs, mentors, and corporate partners to foster innovation and growth within its portfolio, which includes over 1,000 companies with a significant collective market capitalization.

GSV SL is a buyout fund managed by GSV Ventures, which is based in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 2016, GSV Ventures focuses on the digital education market, investing in companies that span the educational spectrum from Pre-K to adult learners. The firm is dedicated to supporting early and late-stage entrepreneurs who are reshaping the $7 trillion digital education and future of work sectors. Notable investments include companies such as Coursera, ClassDojo, Degreed, and Guild Education. In addition to its investment activities, GSV Ventures organizes the ASU+GSV Summit, a prominent event that attracts thousands of founders, investors, educators, and policymakers from around the globe.

500 Global, formerly known as 500 Startups, is a venture capital firm and incubator based in Mountain View, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in seed investments, primarily focusing on early-stage technology and financial services startups across various sectors, including biotech, e-commerce, fintech, and digital healthcare. 500 Global operates a four-month accelerator program, where it typically invests between $0.05 million and $1 million for a 5 to 10 percent equity stake in companies with at least $100,000 in monthly revenue. The firm targets a global market, with particular emphasis on regions such as the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Since its inception, it has invested in over 2,200 startups and supports the growth of innovation ecosystems through educational programs and partnerships. 500 Global also prioritizes investments in companies led by minority founders, reflecting its commitment to diverse entrepreneurial leadership.

Owl Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2014 and based in California, specializing in investments in education technology companies. The firm focuses on a broad range of educational sectors, including early childhood, K-12, higher education, and career mobility. With over $600 million in assets under management, Owl Ventures has invested in 24 companies, leveraging its extensive domain expertise to support entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses into industry leaders. The firm takes an active, hands-on approach to help drive innovation and entrepreneurship within the education technology landscape.

Reach Capital is a Palo Alto-based venture capital firm established in 2015 that focuses on early-stage investments in the education technology sector. The firm targets startups developing technology solutions for various educational challenges, including early childhood, K-12, higher education, and lifelong learning. Reach Capital prefers to invest between $100,000 and $500,000 in seed rounds and $1 million or more in Series A or B rounds, typically acquiring stakes of 3% to 5% in seed investments and 8% to 10% in later-stage funding. By supporting promising entrepreneurs, Reach Capital aims to enhance educational opportunities for all children and acts as a catalyst to attract additional investment in the rapidly growing ed-tech market. The firm explicitly avoids investments in wearable devices and related applications for schools.

Rethink Food is part of Rethink Capital Partners, a platform that develops impact investment vehicles targeting social and financial returns. The firm specializes in late Seed to Series C rounds and growth capital investments, focusing on companies led by women or those that prioritize gender diversity in leadership. Rethink Food aims to invest in technology-driven businesses that address critical challenges related to health, education, sustainability, and economic empowerment, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. With a preference for investments ranging from $2 million to $15 million in companies generating recurring revenues between $0.5 million and $15 million, Rethink Food seeks to foster systemic change through its support for entrepreneurs and tech platforms committed to creating a more inclusive economy. Established in 2016, Rethink Capital Partners operates from its headquarters in White Plains, New York, with additional offices in New York City and San Francisco.

Google is a multinational corporation specializing in Internet-related services and products. Its extensive product portfolio includes Google Search, which provides access to online information; Google Ads, an auction-based advertising program; AdSense, which allows websites to display ads; and YouTube, a platform for video content. Google also offers Android, an open-source mobile operating system, alongside hardware products like Chromebooks and Chromecast. The company provides cloud-based services such as Google Drive, Google Cloud Storage, and Google App Engine, as well as tools for real-time analytics. Additionally, Google AI focuses on advancing artificial intelligence and integrating it into various products. The philanthropic arm, Google.org, supports initiatives that leverage technology for social good, while the Google Foundation invests in innovative technologies to address global challenges. Founded in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin in Mountain View, California, Google has become the world's leading search engine and a key player in the digital landscape.

Lean Capital, formerly known as Revolution Learning, is a venture capital and private equity firm established in 2008 and based in San Mateo, California, with additional offices in Austin, Texas, and Beijing, China. The firm specializes in early to mid-stage investments in the education technology sector, focusing on innovative learning content, platforms, and services. Lean Capital primarily targets companies that have developed or are in the process of commercializing innovative products in their home markets, particularly in emerging markets such as Latin America. The firm is dedicated to funding entrepreneurs who aim to enhance learning experiences through new technology platforms and applications, believing that advancements in education will play a crucial role in shaping the future.

Sequoia Capital is a prominent venture capital firm founded in 1972 and based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing across various stages of startups, including seed, early, and growth stages, and focuses on sectors such as technology, healthcare, financial services, internet, and mobile. Sequoia typically invests between $100,000 and $1 million in seed companies, $1 million to $10 million in early-stage ventures, and $10 million to $100 million in growth investments. The firm operates globally, with significant activities in regions like Israel, China, and India, where it partners with dynamic founders to build successful companies. Sequoia's extensive portfolio includes notable firms and offers valuable insights and resources, benefiting from decades of experience in the venture capital landscape.

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, established in 1934 by Alfred Pritchard Sloan, Jr., is a philanthropic nonprofit organization based in the United States. It focuses on supporting research and education in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and economics. The foundation is committed to fostering innovation and enhancing the understanding of these disciplines through its grantmaking initiatives. By funding various projects and programs, the Sloan Foundation aims to promote advancements that contribute to the betterment of society and the economy.

LearnLaunch is dedicated to enhancing education by supporting the development and growth of education technology companies in New England. The organization provides a variety of resources, including classes, peer group learning, conferences, and networking opportunities, aimed at individuals and organizations engaged with educators, students, and families. One of its key initiatives, the LearnLaunch Accelerator, focuses on assisting early-stage EdTech entrepreneurs in successfully growing their startups through a three-month residential program in Boston. This program immerses founders in a community of like-minded professionals and offers mentoring, seed funding, and an EdTech-focused curriculum. The accelerator aims to advance product and market development, enabling entrepreneurs to secure necessary resources and effectively navigate the education industry.

Duke Energy is a major electric power holding company based in the United States, providing electric and natural gas services to approximately 7.5 million customers across six states, including Ohio and Kentucky. The company operates through two primary segments: Electric Utilities and Infrastructure, and Gas Utilities and Infrastructure. It generates electricity from a diverse mix of sources, including coal, nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, and natural gas, and boasts an electric generating capacity of about 35,000 megawatts in the Carolinas and the Midwest. In addition to electricity, Duke Energy also offers natural gas transportation and distribution services. The company is committed to sustainability and community support, further evidenced by its philanthropic efforts through the Duke Energy Foundation, which focuses on enhancing community vitality and promoting climate resilience. Founded in 1837 and headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Duke Energy continues to play a significant role in the energy sector.

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is a not-for-profit organization established on June 30, 1969, through the merger of the Old Dominion Foundation and the Avalon Foundation. Its primary mission is to enhance, promote, and defend the roles of the humanities and the arts in fostering human flourishing and contributing to the well-being of diverse and democratic societies. The Foundation manages a diverse investment portfolio, allocating its assets across various categories, including private equity, public equities, real assets, diversified strategies, and fixed income and cash. Through its initiatives and funding, the foundation aims to support cultural institutions, education, and scholarly research, thereby reinforcing the importance of the arts and humanities in contemporary society.

Antler is a global early-stage venture capital firm founded in Singapore in 2017, focused on investing in technology companies with significant growth potential. With a presence across six continents and major entrepreneurial hubs such as London, New York, Singapore, and Sydney, Antler has supported the establishment of over 200 startups, 40% of which have at least one female co-founder. The firm identifies exceptional individuals and early-stage businesses, providing comprehensive support from team formation and business model validation to capital investment. Antler invests primarily at the pre-seed stage and continues to engage with its portfolio companies through subsequent funding rounds, including Series C. The firm operates several funds, including those targeting specific regions like East Africa, while maintaining a commitment to fostering diverse founding teams representing 70 nationalities. Through its global platform, Antler aims to help founders build impactful startups that can define the future of technology.

Educapital SAS is a venture capital firm based in Paris, specializing in seed and early-to-late stage investments within the education and learning sectors. Founded in 2017, Educapital focuses on innovative companies in European developed markets, the United States, and Israel. The firm targets sectors such as talent management, recruitment services, content and platforms, tools and technology, as well as hardware and software related to education. Typically, Educapital invests between €0.5 million and €2.5 million in equity per portfolio company. In addition to financial backing, Educapital provides its portfolio companies with access to a broad network within the edtech community, aiding their growth and potential to scale into European and global leaders.

NewSchools Venture Fund, founded in 1998 and based in Oakland, California, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming public education, particularly for minority and low-income students in underserved urban communities. The organization seeks to close the achievement gap by investing in innovative educational solutions through its various funds, which focus on both nonprofit and for-profit ventures. By providing early-stage capital, NewSchools supports entrepreneurs developing education technology tools, charter schools, and educational services that enhance student achievement. The fund has made over $180 million in investments across more than 70 organizations, advocating for effective policies and sharing insights from its experiences. NewSchools aims to ensure that all children have access to high-quality education, fostering scalable solutions to address critical educational challenges.

FJ Labs is a U.S.-based investment firm established in 2015 by Fabrice Grinda. The firm operates with a stage-agnostic approach, primarily targeting marketplaces and consumer-facing startups. FJ Labs focuses its investments on seed and Series A rounds, with a financial commitment ranging from $50,000 to $5,000,000. The firm has invested in a variety of notable companies, including Alibaba Group, beepi, BrightRoll, Betterment, and ADORE ME.

Bossa Nova Investimentos e Administração S.A. is a venture capital firm based in São Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2010. Specializing in pre-seed, seed, startup, and early-stage investments, the firm focuses on technology sectors such as software, service development, mobile applications, and B2B solutions. It is recognized as a leading investor in the pre-seed stage within Brazil and has expanded its investment activities to include companies in the United States. Bossa Nova typically invests between R$0.1 million and R$0.8 million per project, primarily through minority investments. Additionally, the firm manages the Bossa Nova Sports Tech Fund, which targets consumer and business products, information technology, wellness, and gaming sectors, with a preference for investments ranging from R$0.1 million to R$0.3 million across multiple companies.

Tencent Holdings Limited, founded in 1998 and headquartered in Shenzhen, is a leading internet service provider that offers a diverse range of value-added services and online advertising solutions. The company operates through several segments, including Value-Added Services (VAS), FinTech and Business Services, and Online Advertising. Tencent is well-known for its popular communication and social platforms, such as WeChat and QQ, which facilitate user connectivity and provide various digital content and lifestyle services. In addition to social networking, Tencent engages in online gaming, cloud services, and the production and distribution of films and television programs. The company's extensive portfolio also includes software development, information technology services, and online entertainment. Tencent's strategic focus is on delivering comprehensive online services that cater to the diverse needs of internet users, solidifying its position as a significant player in the global digital landscape.

ICONIQ Capital, LLC is a global multi-family office and investment firm based in San Francisco, California, with additional offices in New York and Singapore. Established in 2001, ICONIQ Capital originally served as the family office for Mark Zuckerberg but has since expanded its clientele to include influential families and organizations from Silicon Valley and beyond. The firm specializes in direct investments, particularly in technology growth equity, venture capital, middle market buyouts, and real estate. Its investment focus includes sectors such as enterprise software, financial technology, and information technology, primarily within North America and Europe. In addition to investment management, ICONIQ offers financial advisory and family office services, aiming to facilitate strategic relationships and governance for its clients.

Brighteye Ventures is a Paris-based venture capital firm founded in 2017 that specializes in investing in education technology companies at the seed and Series A stages. Recognized as a leading EdTech venture capital fund in Europe, Brighteye Ventures seeks innovative start-ups at the intersection of learning, entertainment, and creativity, with the goal of empowering human potential. The firm targets investments in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, focusing on software and education technology sectors. With a typical investment range between EUR 0.2 million and EUR 3 million, Brighteye Ventures aims to support entrepreneurs who leverage technology and industry expertise to build competitive businesses with the potential for global leadership. Through its deep experience and network in tech, education, and media, the firm assists portfolio companies in refining their products, establishing partnerships, and scaling internationally.

The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) is a quasi-public agency established to implement the Massachusetts Life Sciences Act, a $1 billion initiative aimed at fostering growth in the life sciences sector. Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, MLSC is dedicated to creating jobs and enhancing scientific research to improve health outcomes. The Center focuses on financial investments in both public and private institutions that advance research, development, and commercialization in various fields, including biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostics, and digital health. By promoting innovation and facilitating collaboration within the Massachusetts life sciences community, MLSC plays a crucial role in supporting early-stage companies and driving advancements in therapeutics and infrastructure.

ZhenFund is a venture capital firm established in 2011 by Bob Xu and Victor Wang in collaboration with Sequoia Capital China, focusing primarily on seed-stage investments. With over $1 billion under management, ZhenFund has become a significant player in China's early-stage venture capital landscape and is expanding its operations in the United States. The firm's portfolio includes over 750 high-growth companies, such as 17zuoye, OFO, VIPKID, and RED, reflecting its commitment to nurturing innovative startups. Bob Xu, a prominent figure in the industry, has seen multiple seed investments achieve IPOs in New York City, a testament to ZhenFund's successful investment strategy. The firm aims to support and inspire the next generation of global entrepreneurs through its investment activities.

Kapor Capital is a venture capital firm based in Oakland, California, that specializes in investments in seed and early-stage companies. Established in 2009, it focuses on tech-driven startups that address critical social needs across various sectors, including education, health, fintech, and consumer finance. The firm is dedicated to supporting companies that prioritize diversity and aims to close gaps in access and opportunity through innovative solutions. Kapor Capital does not engage in philanthropic grants but seeks to generate positive social impact through its investments. The firm recognizes the transformative potential of startups and the role of diverse teams in fostering meaningful change within industries.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is a state agency established to promote the growth of the clean energy sector in Massachusetts. Founded in 2009 under the Green Jobs Act, MassCEC focuses on accelerating job creation and economic development within the clean energy industry. The organization provides early-stage investments to startups, offers renewable energy rebates for residents and businesses, and supports workforce development initiatives to prepare individuals for careers in clean energy. By leveraging the state's unique assets, MassCEC aims to facilitate the development of renewable energy projects and establish Massachusetts as a leader in the national and global clean energy landscape.

The Jim Joseph Foundation, established in 2006, is a non-profit organization based in the United States dedicated to enhancing Jewish education for young Jews. Collaborating with various grantee-partners, the Foundation aims to create impactful Jewish learning experiences across diverse settings. By awarding grants to effective organizations, it seeks to engage, educate, and inspire young Jewish individuals, fostering a sense of joy and connection to vibrant Jewish life. The Foundation recognizes the importance of dynamic learning environments and is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of Jewish youth and young adults.

Ulu Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in seed-stage and early-stage investments in technology companies. Founded in 2008, the firm primarily targets opportunities in sectors such as enterprise IT, educational technology, legal informatics, and internet-enabled services. Ulu Ventures focuses on investments in the Bay Area, leveraging the market opportunities created by the Stanford and Silicon Valley communities. The firm typically co-invests with other investors, aiming for cumulative investments between $500,000 and $1 million. Ulu Ventures utilizes a disciplined decision-making process that emphasizes risk-reward trade-offs and logical principles of portfolio construction, distinguishing itself from other venture capital firms. Its investment strategy includes a preference for companies with viable exit strategies in subsequent stages of growth.

Omidyar Network is a philanthropic investment firm founded in 2004 by Pierre and Pam Omidyar. Based in Mumbai, India, with additional offices globally, the firm specializes in both equity investments and grants, focusing on early-stage enterprises and non-profit organizations. Its investment strategy spans various sectors, including digital society, emerging technology, education, property rights, governance, financial inclusion, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Omidyar Network prioritizes initiatives that enhance access to capital and promote transparency in media and markets. The firm aims to empower individuals and communities by supporting ventures that foster responsible technology practices, innovative financial solutions, and effective governance tools. With a commitment to creating social impact, Omidyar Network invests between $1 million and $10 million in for-profit entities and up to $5 million in non-profits, focusing on regions such as India, Africa, Europe, and the United States.

Alumni Ventures Group, LLC is a venture capital firm founded in 2013 and based in Manchester, New Hampshire, with additional offices in North America. The firm specializes in seed, early-stage, and late-stage pre-IPO investments, focusing on companies that have an alumni connection and an institutional lead investor with relevant expertise. It offers high-quality, diversified venture portfolios to individual investors, particularly accredited alumni from top entrepreneurial schools, who previously lacked access to venture capital opportunities. Alumni Ventures Group invests between $0.01 million and $3 million in various sectors and geographies, without seeking board or observer seats. Additionally, the firm provides focused funds that enable any accredited investor to access a diverse venture portfolio, allowing for investment across different types, sectors, stages, and geographical locations.

Tiger Global Management, LLC is an investment firm established in 2001 by Charles Coleman, based in New York, with affiliate offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangalore, and Melbourne. The firm operates in both private and public markets, focusing on regions such as China, India, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the United States. Tiger Global employs a fundamentally oriented investment strategy that targets growth-oriented private companies through its private equity efforts, which have a ten-year investment horizon. In the public equity space, the firm emphasizes thorough due diligence on individual companies and long-term secular themes. Its investment approach primarily concentrates on sectors including the global Internet, technology, telecommunications, media, consumer, and industrial industries. Tiger Global is committed to principles such as integrity, intellectual honesty, teamwork, and long-term thinking in its pursuit of superior risk-adjusted returns for its investors.

Salesforce is a global leader in cloud computing, specializing in business software delivered on a subscription basis. Renowned for its customer relationship management (CRM) solutions, Salesforce serves a wide array of industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail. Its product offerings encompass Sales Cloud, which helps manage customer interactions; Service Cloud, which provides intelligent customer support; and Marketing Cloud, which focuses on digital marketing strategies. Additionally, Salesforce features Community Cloud for collaboration among customers and partners, as well as Analytics Cloud for data insights and teamwork. The company also operates Salesforce Ventures, its investment arm that supports the growth of enterprise technology startups, and the Salesforce AI Investment Fund, which focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning innovations. Founded in 1999 in California, Salesforce continues to drive customer success through its diverse range of services and investment initiatives.

Bpifrance Financement S.A. is a French financial institution that provides a range of financing solutions and support services aimed at fostering the growth of startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and mid-cap companies. It offers various financial products, including medium to long-term loans, export insurance, and leasing options for both tangible and intangible assets. Additionally, Bpifrance supports companies through consulting services, guarantees for bank financing, and training for executives. The organization also engages in direct investments and manages funds aimed at enhancing the financial landscape for businesses at different stages of their development. Established in 1980 and based in Maisons-Alfort, France, Bpifrance was formerly known as OSEO S.A. and rebranded in July 2013. It operates as a subsidiary of Bpifrance SA, reinforcing its commitment to bolstering the French economy through diversified financial solutions.

SoftBank Group Corp. is a multinational telecommunications and internet corporation based in Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1981, it provides a wide range of services including mobile and fixed-line communications, broadband, and digital television. The company operates through several segments, including the SoftBank Vision Fund, which focuses on investing in technology sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and fintech. Additionally, SoftBank manufactures and distributes mobile devices and offers services in e-commerce, internet advertising, and IT solutions. The firm also engages in renewable energy by generating and supplying electricity. Beyond telecommunications, SoftBank has interests in various sectors, including media, professional sports, and fashion through platforms like ZOZOTOWN. With a global presence, SoftBank actively invests in growth-stage companies, aiming to foster innovation and technological advancement across diverse industries.

Emerge Education is a venture capital firm and accelerator based in London, specializing in early-stage investments in education startups and education technology. Founded in 2012, the firm focuses on improving educational outcomes in the United Kingdom and Europe. Emerge Education typically invests between £0.05 million and £0.2 million in startups that show the potential to achieve significant monthly recurring revenue within 12 to 18 months. The firm seeks equity stakes of 3% to 10%, often around 8%, and has the option to participate in subsequent funding rounds at a discounted rate. Emerge Education selects approximately four startups per quarter from around 200 proposals and offers a three-month accelerator program twice a year, focusing on teams with two or more members. The firm's unique position is bolstered by insights from leading education entrepreneurs, enabling it to effectively address the skills gap in the market.

The North Carolina Biotechnology Center, established in 1981 as a private, non-profit corporation by the state's General Assembly, is dedicated to enhancing the biotechnology sector in North Carolina. It focuses on fostering biotechnology research, business development, and educational initiatives to create long-term economic benefits for the state. Although it does not conduct laboratory research itself, the Center plays a crucial role in supporting job creation and promoting strategic policies that bolster the biotechnology industry. By facilitating collaboration among researchers, businesses, and educational institutions, the Center aims to position North Carolina as a leader in biotechnology innovation and economic growth.

High-Tech Gründerfonds Management GmbH, established in 2005 and based in Bonn, Germany, is a venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage investments in high-tech startups across various sectors, including information and communication technology, software, healthcare, and life sciences. The firm focuses on companies that are less than one year old and have a turnover of less than €10 million. High-Tech Gründerfonds typically invests between €0.5 million and €3 million, acquiring a minority stake of up to 25% in its portfolio companies. The firm often acts as the lead investor and provides follow-on financing, having facilitated over €2 billion in additional funding from external investors. With a commitment to nurturing innovation, it has supported the development of more than 500 startups and has successfully exited over 100 investments. The firm’s backing includes participation from various public and private entities, reflecting its role as a key player in the German startup ecosystem.

Blume Venture Advisors Pvt. Ltd., founded in 2010 and based in Mumbai, is a venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in technology-driven startups across India. The firm primarily targets seed to pre-Series A funding rounds, often being the first institutional investor in its portfolio companies. Blume Ventures invests predominantly in technology sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, healthcare, and consumer internet, while also exploring opportunities in alternative technologies such as clean technology and robotics. Investment amounts typically range from $0.05 million to $0.3 million at the seed stage, with follow-on investments between $0.5 million and $1.5 million. The firm adopts a collaborative investment approach, often co-investing with angel investors and other venture funds, and provides ongoing support and mentorship to its portfolio companies, fostering their growth and development over an investment horizon of 8 to 10 years.

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 diverse range of sectors including technology, advanced materials, clean energy, cybersecurity, healthcare, and consumer services. General Catalyst seeks to invest in companies that demonstrate strong growth potential, typically targeting those with an EBITDA between $3 million and $30 million and minimum revenues of $10 million. The firm has managed eight venture capital funds with approximately $3.75 billion in capital commitments. It emphasizes building lasting relationships with entrepreneurs and provides mentorship to foster success, enabling companies to scale effectively. General Catalyst primarily invests in North America and Australia, with a preference for seed investments in Silicon Valley, New York, and Boston.

5Y Capital is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Shanghai, China, specializing in seed, startup, early venture, and growth capital investments. Established in 1992, the firm focuses on a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare, technology, fintech, internet services, consumer services, media, and life sciences, among others. It aims to support entrepreneurs in building innovative companies, particularly in China and other emerging markets in Asia/Pacific. Managing approximately USD 5 billion in dual-currency funds, 5Y Capital attracts investments from global sources, including sovereign wealth funds and family offices. The firm typically makes initial investments exceeding USD 500,000 per portfolio company. 5Y Capital operates under the Morningside Group, which is committed to socially responsible investing, particularly in educational opportunities and scientific research.

EduLab Capital Partners is a seed-stage venture capital firm established in 2018, focusing on early-stage investments in the education technology sector. Based in Boston with an additional office in Tokyo, the firm specializes in supporting entrepreneurs with innovative business models that go beyond traditional education frameworks. EduLab Capital Partners offers foundational assistance to help startups expand their customer base, make essential early hires, and secure further funding for sustainable growth. The firm's expertise in the education market, combined with knowledge in artificial intelligence, provides strategic advantages for its investments. Additionally, EduLab's extensive network of global partnerships and distribution channels enables its portfolio companies to accelerate product integration and enhance their market impact effectively.

New Oriental Education & Technology Group, established in 1993 in Beijing, is a prominent provider of educational services and products in China. The company offers a diverse range of programs that cater to students of all ages, including language training, test preparation for various admissions and assessments, primary and secondary education, online education, and overseas studies consulting. Previously reliant on K-9 academic after-school tutoring, which constituted a significant portion of its revenue, New Oriental has shifted focus following regulatory changes in 2021. It is now exploring new initiatives in nonacademic tutoring and intelligent learning systems, while continuing to provide high school academic tutoring and overseas test preparation services. Additionally, New Oriental holds a majority stake in East Buy, a leader in livestreaming e-commerce.

Kohlberg Kravis Roberts is a global investment firm that manages a diverse range of alternative asset classes, including private equity, energy, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and hedge funds through strategic partnerships. Founded in 1976 by Jerome Kohlberg, Jr., Henry Kravis, and George R. Roberts, the firm has completed numerous notable transactions, including the leveraged buyout of RJR Nabisco and TXU. KKR employs a disciplined investment approach aimed at generating attractive returns for its fund investors while investing its own capital alongside that of its clients. The firm's extensive operations span 21 cities across 16 countries, with its headquarters currently located in New York. KKR also offers comprehensive human resources services, further diversifying its business capabilities.

University Ventures is a New York-based investment firm dedicated exclusively to the global higher education sector. It employs a unique strategy of 'innovation from within', aiming to enhance the missions and traditions of colleges and universities worldwide. By collaborating with top-tier institutions, University Ventures directs private capital towards developing innovative programs that meet significant economic and social needs. This approach not only sets new standards for student outcomes but also contributes to the evolution of higher education on a global scale. The firm is recognized as a thought leader on trends affecting higher education and actively shares insights on pressing issues with the academic community. Many institutions regard University Ventures as a trusted partner in navigating the transformative changes occurring in the sector.

Global Founders Capital (GFC) is a venture capital firm established in 2013 and headquartered in Berlin, Germany. The firm is stage agnostic, meaning it invests in companies at various stages of development, from early-stage ventures to those preparing for an initial public offering. GFC focuses on empowering talented entrepreneurs and seeks investment opportunities in sectors such as internet, retail, financial software, media, communication, and information technology. With a global perspective, GFC aims to support innovative companies across all continents.

GGV Capital is a global venture capital firm established in 2000, specializing in investments in local founders across various sectors. The firm focuses on seed-to-growth stage investments in areas such as Consumer/New Retail, Social/Digital & Internet, Enterprise/Cloud, and Frontier Tech. GGV manages approximately $6.2 billion in capital across 13 funds, offering expansion capital ranging from $5 to $25 million for initial investments. Its portfolio includes notable companies such as Airbnb, Alibaba, Affirm, ByteDance, and Peloton. GGV Capital operates offices in major tech hubs including Beijing, San Francisco, Shanghai, and Silicon Valley, emphasizing a commitment to supporting innovative businesses in the United States, China, and Southeast Asia.

New Enterprise Associates, Inc. is a private equity and venture capital firm established in 1977 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with additional offices in India and China. The firm specializes in investments across various stages of company development, including seed, start-up, early stage, and later stage, with a focus on sectors such as information technology, healthcare, and energy technology. NEA's investment strategy encompasses a wide range of industries, including consumer internet, software, biotechnology, medical devices, and alternative energy. With over $19 billion in cumulative committed capital, the firm has a notable track record, having participated in more than 210 portfolio company IPOs and over 360 acquisitions. NEA aims to invest between $0.05 million and $20 million, targeting both domestic and international markets, particularly in Asia and the Americas.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers a comprehensive suite of information technology infrastructure services to businesses through cloud computing. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Seattle, AWS provides a range of products including compute, networking, storage, content delivery, databases, and analytics. Its services cater to various sectors, such as government, education, and non-profits, across North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. AWS also supports developers with tools, documentation, SDKs, and training resources. By enabling organizations to convert fixed capital expenses into variable costs, AWS facilitates a flexible business model that enhances operational efficiency. The company operates data centers in key global locations, including the United States, Europe, Brazil, Singapore, Japan, and Australia. AWS functions as a subsidiary of Amazon.com Inc.

Matrix Partners is a venture capital firm established in 1977, with offices in San Francisco, Cambridge, Shanghai, Beijing, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The firm focuses on seed, early-stage, late-stage, and growth capital investments across various sectors, including software, communications, artificial intelligence, fintech, digital health, and clean technology. With a commitment to building long-term relationships with entrepreneurs, Matrix Partners aims to support visionary founders in developing significant, industry-leading companies. The firm has a strong track record, having participated in hundreds of investments, with many of its portfolio companies achieving successful IPOs or profitable mergers and acquisitions. The team at Matrix Partners combines local insights with global expertise, comprising both former entrepreneurs and seasoned investors.

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a government organization established in 1965 and headquartered in Washington, D.C. Its primary mission is to foster economic development in the Appalachian region by implementing strategic plans aimed at increasing job opportunities and enhancing infrastructure. The ARC focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by communities in Appalachia, promoting sustainable economic growth, and improving the quality of life for residents. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the commission works to create a more prosperous and equitable future for the region.

Bank of America is a prominent financial institution based in Charlotte, North Carolina, providing a comprehensive range of banking, investment, asset management, and risk management services. It caters to approximately 51 million consumer and small business relationships through around 5,300 retail banking offices, 16,350 ATMs, and a robust online banking platform with 30 million active users. The institution offers specialized support to about 3 million small business owners with innovative online products and services. With operations in over 40 countries, Bank of America is recognized as a leader in wealth management and corporate and investment banking, serving corporations, governments, institutions, and individuals globally. Founded in 1874, the company has established itself as a key player in the financial sector, focusing on delivering a diverse array of financial solutions tailored to meet the needs of its varied clientele.