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.

The U.S. Department of Energy is a government agency established in 1977, located in Washington, D.C. Its primary mission is to ensure the security and prosperity of the nation by tackling energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges. The Department focuses on promoting transformative scientific and technological solutions to address these issues, thereby supporting the country's energy needs and environmental sustainability.

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.

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.

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.

Elemental Impact, established in 2009 and located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an impact investment firm dedicated to fostering positive change through strategic investments. The firm focuses on supporting companies in the energy, mobility, agriculture, circular economy, and water sectors. Elemental Impact aims to improve systems that significantly affect people's lives and has actively invested in numerous startups to facilitate this mission. By providing financial backing and resources, Elemental Impact contributes to the growth of innovative solutions that address critical global challenges.

Bpifrance Financement S.A. is a French financial institution that provides a wide range of financing solutions and support services for businesses at various stages of their development. Established in 1980 and based in Maisons-Alfort, France, the company offers medium to long-term loans, export insurance, real estate and equipment leasing, and working capital loans. Bpifrance also invests in startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and mid-cap companies through direct investments and fund management activities. Additionally, it provides consulting services for executives and training for CEOs, aiming to facilitate innovation and growth. Bpifrance was formed from the merger of several entities in July 2013, including OSEO, CDC Entreprises, and FSI, to enhance its role in supporting the financing of the French economy.

Breakthrough Energy is an impact investment firm founded in 2016 and based in Kirkland, Washington. It is composed of members from the Breakthrough Energy Coalition and focuses on investing in innovative technologies aimed at providing reliable and affordable energy without contributing to climate change. The firm targets companies in the environmental services and cleantech sectors, making minority investments at various stages of development, including seed, early, and later stages. Breakthrough Energy emphasizes the importance of a public-private partnership involving governments, research institutions, and investors to accelerate the development of zero-emission energy solutions. By leveraging scientific and technological expertise, Breakthrough Energy aims to address pressing energy needs, particularly in underserved regions, while fostering the creation of transformative energy technologies that can mitigate climate change impacts.

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.

IndieBio is an accelerator firm established in 2014 and based in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in New York. It specializes in startups that utilize synthetic biology to address significant global challenges. IndieBio runs four-month accelerator programs aimed at both companies and teams with innovative ideas, focusing on seed-stage and early-stage investments. The firm typically invests $250,000, providing $50,000 in exchange for eight percent equity in biotech startups, with the possibility of an additional $25,000 as a convertible loan note. IndieBio prioritizes investments in businesses that leverage biology as the core of their technology, particularly in life sciences, biotechnology, and related fields. The firm favors teams with a minimum of two co-founders and is open to investing in startups from various geographical locations.

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.

EIT InnoEnergy, established in 2010 and based in Eindhoven, Netherlands, serves as an innovation engine for sustainable energy across Europe. The organization focuses on enhancing the success of start-ups and facilitating the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while assisting corporations in mitigating risks associated with open innovation. By leveraging a global network of partners, EIT InnoEnergy connects entrepreneurs, investors, and industry stakeholders to foster collaboration and drive the development of market-ready solutions. The firm invests in seed-stage and early-stage companies across various sectors, including energy, climate technology, clean technology, and mobility. With the support of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, EIT InnoEnergy aims to create an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship, maximizing impact in the sustainable energy landscape.

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is a venture capital investment firm based in Ottawa, established in 2001. The organization focuses on funding and supporting Canadian cleantech projects, helping companies advance innovative technologies to market. SDTC's investments span various sectors, including agriculture, energy efficiency, green buildings, transportation, and waste management. By fostering the growth of these companies, SDTC aims to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and generate export opportunities while delivering environmental and health benefits to Canadians. Operating independently, SDTC collaborates with a diverse network of partners from private industry, academia, and government, both domestically and internationally, to enhance the impact of its initiatives. The organization receives funding from the Government of Canada to further its mission.

SVG Ventures is an investment and advisory firm based in Los Gatos, California, founded in 2010. The firm focuses on early-stage technology companies, particularly in the agrifood, supply chain, sustainability, and climate sectors. It operates the Thrive Agtech Accelerator, an innovation platform dedicated to supporting sustainable agri-food companies through acceleration, mentorship, and venture-building services. SVG Ventures collaborates with public and private organizations to foster strategy, innovation, and global expansion. The firm is known for its extensive network and hands-on approach, providing multi-stage investments and resources to help startups at all stages of development succeed in the agtech and food tech industries.

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

Lowercarbon Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2018 and based in Jackson, Wyoming. The firm focuses on funding research and investing in technologies aimed at reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. It supports scientists, inventors, and entrepreneurs dedicated to developing solutions that lower emissions, remove carbon, and actively cool the planet. Lowercarbon Capital targets investments across various sectors, including commercial services, commercial transportation, energy equipment, utilities, computer hardware, and software, with a particular emphasis on companies that contribute to carbon emission reduction.

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.

Energy Impact Partners LLC is a private equity and venture capital firm established in 2015 and headquartered in New York, with additional offices in San Francisco, Palm Beach, Cologne, and London. The firm focuses on growth equity, credit, and infrastructure investments, primarily targeting early and growth-stage companies within the energy sector. Its investment strategy emphasizes energy efficiency and sustainable energy generation and distribution, including areas such as smart buildings, clean energy, smart grids, energy storage, and customer engagement. Energy Impact Partners aims to foster innovation in the energy industry by co-investing in projects and companies that promote digital and decentralized energy solutions, intelligent operations, and comprehensive energy services across North America and Europe.

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.

Temasek Holdings, established in 1974 and based in Singapore, is an investment company managing a diversified portfolio valued at approximately S$242 billion. The firm actively invests across various sectors, including telecommunications, media and technology, financial services, transportation, consumer products, real estate, life sciences, and energy. Temasek focuses on long-term investment themes such as transforming economies, growing middle-income populations, deepening comparative advantages, and supporting emerging champions. Its investment strategy encompasses a combination of liquid assets, listed and unlisted equities, and private equity opportunities, with a notable emphasis on mid-stage technology and life sciences investments through its private equity arm, Temasek Capital Management. Furthermore, Temasek aims to be the preferred investor for companies in Singapore and internationally, reflecting its commitment to global investment opportunities.

Shenzhen Capital Group Co., Ltd is a venture capital firm established in 1999 by the Shenzhen Government. The company focuses on fostering national industries, enhancing national brands, and facilitating economic transformation through investments in small to medium enterprises and innovative high-tech companies. It targets businesses in their start-up, growth, and transformation stages, primarily within sectors supported by national policies, including information technology, internet, new media, biopharma, new energy, environmental protection, chemical engineering, and high-end equipment manufacturing. With registered capital of 5.42 billion RMB and total assets under management of 338.99 billion RMB, SCGC has built a substantial portfolio, comprising nearly 1,000 companies, with significant investments totaling 43.9 billion RMB. As of April 2019, the firm was recognized as a leader in the venture capital space, with 145 of its portfolio companies successfully listed across 16 global capital markets.

work with private equity and venture capital fund managers, investment advisors and business entities from around the world.

Rockstart is an accelerator and venture capital firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2011. It focuses on incubating and investing in early-stage startups, particularly in the sectors of energy, health, agrifood, and emerging technologies. Rockstart aims to empower purpose-driven founders by providing access to capital, mentorship, and a robust network of partners and investors. The firm has established itself as a global player in startup acceleration, offering customized programs that foster collaboration between startups and corporates. With additional offices in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Bogotá, Colombia, Rockstart has invested in more than 230 startups, helping them raise over €90 million and create over 700 jobs. The firm also manages specialized funds, such as Rockstart Emerging Tech, which targets innovative sectors including artificial intelligence and blockchain.

MassVentures is a venture capital firm based in Waltham, Massachusetts, established in 1978 as a quasi-public corporation by the Massachusetts Legislature. The firm focuses on providing seed and early-stage funding to high-growth startups, facilitating their transition from concept to commercialization. MassVentures invests primarily in sectors such as information technology, healthcare, cybersecurity, e-commerce, mobile, manufacturing, and robotics. With a governance structure that includes an independent Board of Directors and management by experienced venture capitalists, MassVentures leverages the state's entrepreneurial spirit and innovation centers to support the Massachusetts innovation economy. The firm also offers accelerator programs to further assist emerging companies in their growth journey.

Qiming Venture Partners is a prominent venture capital firm based in Shanghai, China, with additional offices in Beijing, Suzhou, and Hong Kong. Founded in 2006, the firm specializes in investing in early to growth-stage companies across various sectors, including healthcare, information technology, consumer products, media, and clean technology. Qiming has established itself as a leading investment firm in China, managing multiple funds with over $1 billion in assets. The firm focuses on supporting innovative entrepreneurs and companies that demonstrate high growth potential, particularly in the technology and healthcare landscapes. Through its strategic investments, Qiming aims to foster the development of new business models and technologies, contributing to the dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in China.

Antler is a global early-stage venture capital firm founded in Singapore in 2017, focused on identifying and investing in exceptional individuals and early-stage technology companies with the potential to become defining businesses of tomorrow. With a presence in major entrepreneurial hubs across six continents, Antler supports startups from inception through to growth, providing assistance in team formation, business model validation, and capital investment at the pre-seed stage and beyond. Since its inception, Antler has invested in over 200 companies, with a notable emphasis on diversity; 40% of these companies have at least one female co-founder and founders represent 70 different nationalities. The firm has established multiple funds targeting various regions, including Southeast Asia and East Africa, and aims to build long-term relationships with its portfolio companies as a committed investor and supporter.

5Y Capital is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Shanghai, China, focused on seed, start-up, early venture, and growth capital investments. Founded in 2008 and previously known as Morningside Venture Capital, the firm manages approximately USD 5 billion in dual-currency funds, supported by global investors such as sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and endowments. 5Y Capital primarily invests in various sectors, including healthcare, technology, fintech, media, software, life sciences, and education, with a special emphasis on medical treatment, biotechnology, and digital health. The firm seeks opportunities in China and other emerging markets across Asia and the Pacific, aiming to support entrepreneurs in building innovative companies. 5Y Capital typically makes initial investments exceeding USD 500,000 per portfolio company and operates as a subsidiary of Morningside Group, which has been active in venture capital investments since 1992.

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.

Prelude Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2013. The firm focuses on investing in companies that are innovating within the ClimateTech sector, addressing significant opportunities to reduce the carbon intensity of the global economy. Prelude Ventures manages multiple funds, including Prelude Climate Opportunities Fund I and Prelude Climate Fund II, which target a diverse array of sectors such as advanced energy, food, agriculture, transportation, logistics, advanced materials, manufacturing, and advanced computing. The firm prioritizes impact investments aimed at fostering sustainability and enhancing the resilience of various industries, ranging from environmental services and alternative energy to logistics and agriculture. Through its backing of exceptional entrepreneurs and management teams, Prelude Ventures aims to drive meaningful change in the climate sector across the United States and Canada.

Enhanced Capital Partners, founded in 1999 and headquartered in New York City, is a national investment firm specializing in equity and debt investments in small and mid-sized companies across the United States. With over $400 million under management, the firm focuses on various sectors, including healthcare technology, renewable energy, and affordable housing projects. Enhanced Capital employs a flexible investment approach that includes offering tax credits, tax credit lending, and impact lending to foster the growth and expansion of businesses. The firm manages multiple funds that primarily target the lower middle market, utilizing federal and state incentive programs along with public policy investment strategies to maximize growth potential and support rapid development for its portfolio companies.

Investissement Québec, established in 1998 and headquartered in Montreal, Canada, serves as a financial institution and economic development agency dedicated to supporting businesses looking to establish operations in the province. The organization provides a range of services, including site identification, business assistance, and the formation of strategic alliances across various industries. Its financial offerings encompass loans, equity financing, tax credits, development capital, project financing, loan guarantees, and equity investments. Investissement Québec focuses on key sectors such as aerospace, agri-food, transportation, information and communication technologies, life sciences, and microelectronics, positioning itself as a vital partner for corporations aiming to expand in Québec.

S2G Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, established in 2014, that focuses on investing in the food and agriculture sectors. The firm aims to support entrepreneurs whose products and services address the growing consumer demand for healthy, sustainable, and locally sourced food. S2G Ventures identifies key areas within the food system that are poised for innovation and change, creating a diverse portfolio that includes seed, venture, and growth-stage investments. Its investment interests span various domains, including agriculture, ingredients, infrastructure and logistics, food safety and technology, retail and restaurants, and consumer brands.

AgFunder Inc. is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2013. It specializes in early-stage investments, particularly in the agritech and food tech sectors, focusing on companies that address challenges within the food system. AgFunder emphasizes technologies that generate significant environmental and social impacts, evaluating each investment against ESG principles and the Sustainable Development Goals. As part of its investment strategy, portfolio companies must adopt ESG policies to embed these principles into their company culture. The firm operates as a Platform-VC, utilizing technology and research to create a global network of over 50,000 members, including more than 5,000 investors. AgFunder also offers co-investment opportunities through special funds and Special Purpose Vehicles, aiming to scale its investments in innovative solutions such as automation, supply chain digitization, food waste reduction, alternative proteins, and nutrition.

Mitsubishi UFJ Capital Co., Ltd. is a venture capital firm based in Tokyo, Japan, established in 1974. The firm focuses on seed, development stage, and start-up investments, primarily targeting sectors such as healthcare, biotechnology, information technology, electronics, and high technology. It aims to invest in companies relevant to the Japanese market and actively engages in investment syndication for Japanese opportunities. In addition to its domestic focus, Mitsubishi UFJ Capital also makes venture investments in the United States. The firm manages several venture capital funds, including those dedicated to life sciences and technology sectors, further diversifying its investment portfolio. With additional offices in Osaka and Nagoya, Mitsubishi UFJ Capital plays a significant role in advancing innovation and growth within its targeted industries.

Demeter Partners is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Paris, France, founded in 2005. It focuses on investments that support the ecological transition, targeting companies across various stages of development, including seed, start-up, early-stage, and growth. The firm primarily invests in sectors such as eco-industries, eco-energies, green technology, and alternative energy resources. Specific areas of interest include water, air, and waste treatment, energy efficiency, and renewable energies, as well as infrastructure projects related to sustainable energy. Demeter typically invests between €0.5 million and €30 million in small to medium-sized enterprises and prefers to take minority stakes while seeking board representation in its portfolio companies. While the firm predominantly operates in Europe, particularly in France, it also explores opportunities in North America and other regions. Demeter is recognized as a significant player in the European private equity landscape, particularly following its merger with Emertec Gestion in 2016, which enhanced its focus on the energy transition and environmental sectors.

The California Energy Commission serves as the state's primary energy policy and planning agency, established by the Legislature in 1974 and headquartered in Sacramento. Its responsibilities encompass forecasting future energy needs, maintaining historical energy data, and licensing thermal power plants with capacities of 50 megawatts or greater. The Commission promotes energy efficiency by establishing appliance and building standards, collaborating with local governments to ensure compliance. It also supports public interest energy research and the development of renewable energy technologies through various incentives, including those for solar systems in new home construction and small wind installations. Additionally, the Commission implements the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program and coordinates the state's response to energy emergencies. Through these initiatives, the Commission aims to provide Californians with affordable, reliable, and environmentally sustainable energy choices.

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.

SFC Capital is a venture capital firm based in London, United Kingdom, that specializes in early-stage investments, particularly in pre-seed and seed-stage startups. Founded in 2012, it is recognized as one of the UK's most active seed investors, providing capital and support to promising British startups across various sectors, including software, technology, e-commerce, consumer products, and hospitality. SFC Capital operates a unique investment model that combines its Angel Network and Seed Funds, allowing investors to engage with SEIS- and EIS-qualifying businesses either directly or through managed diversified portfolios. The firm also received a £10 million allocation from Business Investments as part of the Regional Angels Programme to further its mission of supporting early-stage companies throughout the UK. As an Appointed Representative of SFC Capital Partners Ltd, it is authorized and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority.

Shell E4, established in 2017 and based in Bengaluru, India, is an accelerator focused on supporting innovative startups in the clean technology sector. The initiative targets various areas including sustainability, waste management, plastic circularity, and machine learning solutions aimed at achieving net zero emissions. Additionally, Shell E4 invests in technologies related to electronic vehicle charging, battery swapping, cost-effective carbon capture, supply chain decarbonization, and novel carbon dioxide conversion processes. By fostering energy entrepreneurs, Shell E4 plays a crucial role in advancing environmentally friendly technologies and practices, thereby contributing to global sustainability efforts.

Climate Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2018. The firm focuses on investing in sectors that contribute to the reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions, including adaptation, alternative proteins, agriculture, energy, web3 technologies, and transportation and real estate. By supporting innovative companies in these areas, Climate Capital aims to facilitate a transition toward a more sustainable future.

Legend Capital, a subsidiary of Legend Holdings Ltd., was founded in April 2001 and is based in Beijing, China. The firm manages private equity investments across four funds, totaling up to US$700 million, focusing primarily on early-stage ventures and mid-market growth companies. Its investment strategy targets sectors including information technology, telecommunications, media, healthcare, consumer goods, clean technology, and advanced manufacturing, with a strong emphasis on businesses that are either based in China or related to Chinese markets. Legend Capital is known for its active involvement with portfolio companies, providing them with essential business resources and tailored services to enhance development and optimize company performance in the Chinese market. The firm has built a diverse portfolio of over 60 companies, contributing to its reputation as a respected player in China's venture capital industry.

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.

Hillhouse Investment Group, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Hong Kong, is a private equity firm that specializes in a wide range of investments, from seed funding to buyouts and listed equities. The firm primarily focuses on opportunities in Asia but also selectively invests in North America and Europe. Hillhouse’s investment strategy is stage-agnostic, allowing it to invest in companies at various stages of growth, from startups to established public entities. Its portfolio spans several sectors, including consumer, technology, media, telecommunications, healthcare, energy transition, and advanced manufacturing. In healthcare, Hillhouse emphasizes biotechnology, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. The firm is recognized for its commitment to independent research and employs sector experts to guide its investment decisions, aiming for long-term results rather than short-term gains.

Katapult is an accelerator and venture capital firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2016. It specializes in early-stage technology startups that aim to address environmental and societal challenges through exponential technologies. The firm focuses on areas such as clean energy, resource efficiency, food and water, education, health, and diversity, among others. Katapult offers a structured program lasting three months, with the possibility of a one-month follow-up, providing up to $100,000 in funding while taking an 8% equity stake in each startup. The firm actively invests in various regions, seeking to support innovative solutions that foster sustainability and societal progress.

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.

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.

China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC), established in 1995 as China's first joint venture investment bank, is a prominent provider of financial services. It offers a wide range of services, including investment banking, capital markets, securities sales and trading for both institutions and individuals, fixed income, asset management, private equity, individual wealth management, and research. CICC is also known for its specialized healthcare investment fund, which focuses on buyout opportunities within the healthcare sector. Based in Beijing, CICC continues to play a significant role in the evolving financial landscape of China.

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.

Red Cedar Ventures, founded in 2014 and based in East Lansing, Michigan, is a venture capital firm that concentrates on supporting startup companies affiliated with Michigan State University. The firm aims to accelerate the commercialization of university technologies by providing growth-stage capital to ventures that have already secured lead funding from other venture capital firms. Their latest initiative, Michigan Rise, focuses on pre-seed to Series A investments and seeks to bolster Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem across various industries. By investing in early-stage technology entrepreneurs and companies, Red Cedar Ventures plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and economic development within the state.

NOM Finance, the private equity and venture capital branch of NV NOM Investerings- En Ontwikkelingsmaatschappij voor Noord-Nederland, focuses on fostering the growth of businesses in Northern Netherlands, particularly in the provinces of Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe. The firm specializes in investments across various sectors including agro and food, information technology, life sciences, cleantech, healthcare, and high-tech industries, while intentionally avoiding primary agriculture, retail, and regional services. NOM Finance provides funding for seed and startup ventures, expansion, restructuring, and management buy-outs, typically investing between €0.5 million and €2.5 million in equity and mezzanine financing, as well as offering deferred loans ranging from €0.05 million to €1.5 million. The firm usually seeks minority stakes in its portfolio companies and aims for exits within five to seven years. Established in 1974 and headquartered in Groningen, NOM Finance plays a vital role in supporting entrepreneurs throughout the various stages of their businesses.