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.

Goldman Sachs is a global investment banking, securities, and investment management firm headquartered in New York City. Established in 1869, it provides a wide range of financial services to corporations, financial institutions, governments, and high-net-worth individuals. The firm operates through several segments, including Investment Banking, which offers financial advisory services related to mergers and acquisitions, and underwriting services for public and private offerings. Its Institutional Client Services segment facilitates client transactions across various asset classes and provides services like securities lending. The Investing & Lending segment focuses on long-term loans and investments in debt and equity securities, while the Investment Management segment offers portfolio management and wealth advisory services. Additionally, Goldman Sachs engages in private equity investments across multiple sectors and geographies, reinforcing its position as a leading investor in both public and private markets.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of The World Bank Group that focuses on fostering sustainable economic growth in developing countries through private sector investment. It provides a range of financial services, including loans, equity investments, quasi-equity products, and advisory services aimed at supporting startups and various stages of company development. IFC invests in sectors such as agribusiness, financial services, health, education, infrastructure, global manufacturing, oil and gas, telecommunications, and tourism, with a particular emphasis on projects that promote food security, digital finance, and affordable healthcare. The organization targets investments ranging from $1 million to $100 million, often seeking minority stakes but may also take a majority position in its portfolio companies. IFC aims to create jobs, generate tax revenues, and enhance corporate governance in emerging markets, thus contributing positively to local communities. Established in 1956 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., IFC operates globally with offices across various regions, focusing its efforts on financing projects that align with its mission of improving lives in developing countries.

Plug and Play, founded in 2006 and based in Sunnyvale, California, operates as a business accelerator and venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage and seed investments in technology startups. The firm runs 12 industry-specific accelerator programs annually, connecting startups with corporate partners and investors to foster collaboration and growth. Plug and Play's investment strategy encompasses a wide range of sectors, including fintech, health and wellness, travel, cybersecurity, and sustainability, allowing it to support diverse startups from any country. The firm provides various resources, including funding, mentorship, office space, and networking opportunities, and has a global presence with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Plug and Play has a strong track record, having helped numerous startups secure over $9 billion in funding since its inception. Its programs aim to refine business models and facilitate introductions to potential investors, ultimately contributing to the growth of the startup ecosystem.

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.

Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services firm that offers a wide range of banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer finance products to individuals, businesses, and institutions both in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three primary segments: Community Banking, Wholesale Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management. The Community Banking segment provides services such as checking and savings accounts, credit cards, and various types of loans. Wholesale Banking offers commercial and corporate banking services, including capital markets and cash management solutions. Wealth and Investment Management focuses on personalized financial planning and investment services. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the U.S., with a significant presence through retail branches and ATMs. The company continues to evolve by incorporating innovative financial solutions and expanding its global footprint in financial services.

SEI Investments is a global provider of asset management, investment processing, and investment operations solutions, established in 1968 and headquartered in Oaks, Pennsylvania. The firm serves a diverse clientele, including wealth managers, institutional investors, and high-net-worth individuals, by offering a comprehensive range of wealth solutions. These services encompass fund administration, portfolio and fund accounting, as well as trustee and custodial services tailored for various investment vehicles, including private equity and mutual funds. Additionally, SEI operates internationally, with a presence in markets such as Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. Through its innovative global operating platform, SEI aims to enhance clients' success by addressing their emerging needs and delivering relevant business solutions.

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.

Accion is a global nonprofit organization founded in 1961 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It focuses on increasing access to financial tools and services for underserved individuals and small businesses to promote financial inclusion. Accion catalyzes financial service providers to deliver affordable, high-quality solutions at scale, thereby helping communities thrive. The organization supports innovative fintech startups through its investment initiative, Venture Lab, which invests in early-stage companies that enhance financial access and improve service quality. Venture Lab provides both capital and strategic support, facilitating growth and operational efficiency for its portfolio companies. By engaging industry leaders and regulators, Accion challenges the financial sector to become more inclusive, ultimately working towards a world where everyone has the opportunity to improve their financial well-being.

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983 and based in Palo Alto, California, with additional offices in San Francisco, London, and Bangalore. The firm specializes in early and growth-stage investments, focusing on technology sectors such as software, big data, cloud technologies, fintech, healthcare, and digital media. Accel is known for backing innovative entrepreneurs and has a history of investing in notable companies including Facebook, Dropbox, and Spotify. With over three decades of experience, Accel employs dedicated teams that utilize market-specific strategies to identify and support the next generation of industry leaders. The firm manages approximately $9.6 billion and carries out investments typically ranging from $5 million to $15 million, aiming to foster the development of world-class, category-defining businesses globally.

Village Capital is a Washington, D.C.-based venture capital firm founded in 2009 that focuses on early-stage and seed investments in sectors such as agriculture, education, energy, financial services, and healthcare. The firm aims to empower entrepreneurs by employing a unique peer-support model, allowing entrepreneurs to select the ventures that receive pre-committed seed funding at the conclusion of its programs. Village Capital connects high-potential entrepreneurs with essential resources, fostering innovation and growth. It operates both a nonprofit that provides training for founders and a for-profit investment fund that invests in top program graduates, having supported over 1,000 entrepreneurs and more than 550 enterprises across various global regions. The firm has achieved notable success, with its alumni generating significant revenue and creating thousands of jobs, while maintaining a high recommendation rate among participants.

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.

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.

FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, plays a significant role in supporting the private sector in developing countries and emerging markets across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Central and Eastern Europe. Established in 1970 through a partnership between the Dutch government and various financial institutions, FMO focuses on providing loans, equity, and other investment activities. Its investment portfolio is diversified, with key sectors including financial institutions, energy, agribusiness, food and water, and private equity. By fostering sustainable economic growth, FMO aims to create a positive impact in the regions it serves.

Citi Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that focuses on addressing social challenges through financial services and products. It operates an Impact Investment Fund with a commitment of $200 million, which is used to make equity investments in U.S.-based private sector companies. These companies are selected for their innovative approaches to tackling pressing societal issues while achieving both social and financial returns. Additionally, Citi Foundation supports affordable housing projects, commercial developments, and community facilities aimed at benefiting low-income neighborhoods and populations. Through these initiatives, the foundation seeks to foster economic growth and improve the quality of life in underserved communities.

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.

Oikocredit is a financial institution established in 1968 and based in the Netherlands. It focuses on empowering individuals and communities by providing funding to the microfinance sector, fair trade organizations, cooperatives, and small to medium enterprises. Oikocredit aims to create sustainable opportunities for people in need, enabling them to improve their own circumstances through access to financial resources.

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.

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.

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.

Startupbootcamp is a global network of industry-focused startup accelerators founded in 2010, headquartered in London with additional locations in cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin, and Miami. The organization specializes in providing mentorship and investment to early-stage startups across various sectors, including digital health, fintech, smart transportation, food technology, and more. Each accelerator program lasts three months and offers startups funding, office space, and access to a network of over 400 investors and industry experts. By focusing on specific industries, Startupbootcamp connects startups with relevant partners and resources to facilitate growth and innovation. The organization has launched more than 20 programs worldwide, enabling selected startups to refine their business models and secure funding opportunities while benefiting from tailored support and guidance throughout the acceleration process.

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.

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.

Ribbit Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2012 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in companies that are focused on disrupting the financial services sector and related technologies. Ribbit Capital seeks opportunities across various regions, including the United States, East Asia, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and India. The firm has a broad investment focus that encompasses information technology, mobile applications, insurance technology, and cryptocurrency. As a Registered Investment Adviser, Ribbit Capital manages multiple funds that aim to support innovative individuals and brands in their quest to transform the financial landscape.

Andreessen Horowitz LLC, founded in 2009 by Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing across various stages of company development, from seed and early-stage to growth and late-stage ventures. It primarily targets the technology sector, with a strong emphasis on software, cloud computing, and Internet infrastructure. The firm also explores opportunities in consumer and business Internet applications, mobile software, and data storage, as well as at the intersection of computer science and life sciences, particularly in areas like digital therapeutics and computational medicine. Andreessen Horowitz is known for its significant financial backing, with investments typically ranging from $50,000 to $50 million. The firm has established multiple funds, including early-stage funds that focus on a variety of sectors, while explicitly avoiding investments in clean energy, transportation, and certain life sciences domains.

BlackRock is a global investment management corporation headquartered in New York City, specializing in a diverse array of asset classes and investment strategies. The firm manages equity, fixed income, and balanced mutual funds, along with hedge funds and exchange-traded funds. BlackRock also provides investment advisory services and engages in private equity and venture capital through its subsidiaries, focusing on direct investments and fund of funds across various sectors, including natural resources. The firm caters to a wide range of clients, from large institutions to individual investors, aiming to help them achieve their financial goals. With a commitment to transparency and client service, BlackRock has become the largest asset manager in the world, overseeing trillions of dollars in assets. Its global presence is supported by offices in key financial hubs, allowing it to address the unique needs of clients across different regions.

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.

Temasek Holdings is an investment company based in Singapore, founded in 1974, with a diverse portfolio valued at approximately S$242 billion. The firm invests across various sectors, including telecommunications, media and technology, financial services, transportation, consumer products, real estate, life sciences, agriculture, and energy. Temasek's investment strategy is guided by long-term trends, focusing on themes such as transforming economies, rising middle-income populations, and emerging champions. Its investment structure includes a mix of liquid assets, listed and unlisted holdings, and private equity, reflecting a commitment to being a significant shareholder in both local and international businesses. Temasek Capital Management, a subsidiary, specializes in private equity and mid-stage technology and life sciences investments, further enhancing Temasek's global investment footprint.

QED Fund V, managed by QED Investors, is an early-stage venture capital fund based in Alexandria, Virginia. Established in 2008, it focuses on investing in high-growth companies primarily within the fintech sector, including mortgage technology, real estate technology, software, and financial services. The firm targets its investments across various regions, including Latin America, the United States, and the United Kingdom. QED Investors is dedicated to supporting its portfolio companies by providing both capital and operational expertise, fostering a close partnership that emphasizes the importance of information in driving business success. The fund aims to nurture innovative startups that leverage technology to enhance competitive advantage in the financial services landscape.

Startup Wise Guys is a prominent early-stage investor based in Tallinn, Estonia, recognized as one of the leading venture capital funds in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region and the Nordics. Since its inception in 2012, it has operated a renowned startup accelerator that has supported over 165 startups, primarily in sectors such as B2B SaaS, Fintech, and Cybersecurity. The intensive three-month program aims to validate, develop, and market products to business clients, benefiting from the guidance of more than 200 mentors. The accelerator culminates in Demo Days and attendance at major tech events, providing startups the opportunity to pitch to investors. With a startup survival and success rate exceeding 77%, the program has facilitated two major exits and fosters a robust alumni network of over 145 startups across more than 40 countries. Additionally, Startup Wise Guys manages specific funds targeting investments in various sectors, including technology and clean tech, with a focus on early-stage ventures.

OMERS Administration Corp. is a privately owned pension fund based in Toronto, Ontario, providing services to approximately 470,000 municipal employees and retirees across Ontario. Established in 1962, OMERS administers a range of retirement and death benefit programs to ensure the financial security of its members. The fund manages a diversified portfolio that includes investments in public equities, fixed income securities, and alternative assets, as well as real estate. OMERS focuses on value stocks for its equity portfolio and invests in a variety of fixed income instruments, including federal and provincial bonds, mortgages, and investment-grade corporate bonds. The firm also engages in global investments through its subsidiaries, OMERS Infrastructure and OMERS Private Equity, which target high-quality private equity and infrastructure assets in partnership with experienced management teams, aiming to generate sustainable returns for its members. OMERS has additional offices in key financial hubs, including New York, London, and Sydney.

Seedcamp is a London-based venture capital investment firm founded in 2007, focusing on early-stage investments in technology sectors, including fintech and healthcare. The firm identifies and invests in exceptional founders tackling significant global challenges through innovative solutions. Over its decade-long history, Seedcamp has invested in more than 260 startups, including notable companies like TransferWise, Revolut, and UiPath. With a strategy designed to fast-track founders' visions, Seedcamp provides access to essential capital, a supportive community, and a vast global network built on extensive experience in nurturing talent. The companies backed by Seedcamp have collectively raised over $1 billion in further funding, demonstrating the firm's impact on the startup ecosystem in Europe and beyond.

Entrepreneur First Operations Limited is an accelerator focused on seed funding for technology startups, founded in 2011 and headquartered in London, with additional offices in Singapore, Berlin, Paris, Bangalore, and Hong Kong. The firm specifically invests in individuals at the "pre-team, pre-idea" stage, selecting participants based solely on their technical talent. Its intensive six-month program aims to provide comprehensive support during the critical early stages of startup development. Entrepreneur First offers stipends to participants during the program, with varying amounts based on location. The firm typically invests in startups in London, Singapore, Bangalore, Berlin, Paris, and Hong Kong, taking a 10 percent equity stake. Over the years, it has successfully launched more than 100 startups, collectively valued at over $1 billion, and is backed by notable investors such as Y Combinator, Index Ventures, and Octopus Ventures.

Proparco is a French government organization established in 1977, dedicated to promoting private sector funding in sustainable development. Based in Paris, the firm focuses on financing and supporting companies and financial institutions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Proparco's investment strategy emphasizes key development sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, and financial services. The organization aims to strengthen the contributions of private actors towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the international community. Proparco finances projects that create jobs, provide essential goods and services, and combat climate change, offering a range of financial instruments including loans, equity, and guarantees. Its interventions are designed to enhance the resilience of communities and promote sustainable economic growth in emerging markets.

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.

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.

Village Global is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2017 and based in California. The firm focuses on pre-seed and seed-stage investments, primarily in fintech and healthcare technology companies. It is backed by a network of successful entrepreneurs, which enhances its capacity to identify and support promising startups in these sectors.

Anthemis is a London-based venture investment platform established in 2010, focusing on early-stage investments in the financial services and technology sectors, particularly in the Fintech and InsurTech markets. The firm seeks to drive innovation and change within these industries by fostering a diverse ecosystem of startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and academics. Guided by principles of collaboration, inclusivity, and virtuous outcomes, Anthemis aims to address the pressing challenges faced by the financial services sector. Over its years of operation, the company has managed multiple investment funds and has made 179 investments, successfully exiting 16 of these ventures. Through its strategic investment approach, Anthemis is committed to cultivating sustainable businesses that contribute positively to society.

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.

Octopus Ventures Ltd. is a private equity and venture capital firm based in London, specializing in direct investments and fund of funds. The firm primarily invests in small and medium-sized enterprises across various sectors, with a particular focus on health, technology, and industry. Within the health sector, it targets areas such as digital health and patient-driven medicine, while in technology, it prefers investments in artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things. Octopus Ventures typically leads investment rounds, aiming to take board seats in its portfolio companies, and usually invests between £0.28 million and £25 million in companies with a minimum EBITDA of £0.5 million. Founded in 2007, the firm operates as a subsidiary of Octopus Investments and has additional offices in New York. The team provides support beyond financial investment, leveraging a network of global venture partners for expertise and guidance.

Union Square Ventures is a private equity and venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in early-stage, growth capital, and late-stage financing, primarily within the internet sector. It focuses on companies that operate in the applications layer of the web, internet services, and mobile technology, emphasizing those that can create large networks and leverage innovative information technology for high-growth opportunities. Union Square Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $20 million in portfolio companies, with initial investments often starting at $1 million, and occasionally higher for Series A rounds. The firm targets ownership levels of 15% to 20% and prefers to act as a lead investor, actively engaging with the entrepreneurs it funds. Its investment strategy spans various industries, including media, marketing, financial services, fintech, climate tech, blockchain technology, telecommunications, and healthcare, with a preference for companies located in New York, San Francisco, London, and Berlin.

CDC Group, established in 1948, is the UK’s Development Finance Institution wholly owned by the government. Its primary mission is to foster business development in Africa and South Asia, aiming to create jobs and improve living conditions in some of the world’s most impoverished regions. CDC invests strategically in sectors where job creation is most needed, including manufacturing, agribusiness, infrastructure, financial institutions, construction, health, and education. By supporting businesses in these areas, CDC seeks to stimulate economic growth and enhance the private sector in regions where it is often underdeveloped. Through its portfolio, which includes numerous investee businesses, CDC has demonstrated a significant impact on job creation and local economies, contributing to tax revenues and ultimately improving the lives of individuals in the communities it serves.

Fuel Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2014 that specializes in early-stage investments in technology companies, particularly in the marketplaces, platforms, and SaaS sectors. The firm focuses on identifying high-potential startups during their seed and growth stages, aiming to support businesses with proven models that can scale rapidly and achieve international reach. Fuel Ventures has invested in over 65 companies, emphasizing partnerships with exceptional entrepreneurs who possess innovative technologies. The firm provides a supportive environment for these entrepreneurs, combining mentorship, sector expertise, and a strong network to help transform their visions into successful businesses. By fostering collaboration and innovation, Fuel Ventures aims to drive substantial returns and contribute to the next era of technological advancement.

Fondation Genevoise pour l'Innovation Technologique is a venture capital firm specializing in seed, start-up, and early-stage investments. It also provides incubatory services. It typically invests in pharmaceutical, healthcare, cleantech, telecommunication services, ICT, information technology, life sciences, nanotechnology, high tech, med tech, and tech innovative companies. The firm seeks to invest in companies based in Switzerland. It typically invests between CHF0.1 million ($.11 million) and CHF0.5 million ($.54 million) per equity transaction and structures its investments in the form of equity and convertible loans. It assumes upto three percent equity in every new company. The firm may also become a member of the board of directors of the portfolio companies. The firm makes balance sheet investments. Fondation Genevoise pour l'Innovation Technologique was founded in 1991 and is based at Plan-les-Ouates, Switzerland.

Credit Suisse is a Swiss financial institution founded in 1856, offering a comprehensive range of banking services through its various divisions. The company operates globally across several segments, including Global Markets, International Wealth Management, Investment Banking, and the Swiss Universal Bank. It specializes in providing over-the-counter derivative products, securities trading, investment research, and advisory services related to mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructuring, and capital raising activities. Credit Suisse also has a private equity arm that focuses on investments in buyouts, venture capital, and mezzanine financing, primarily in Europe and North America. This division invests across various sectors, including clean energy, life sciences, and financial services, typically committing substantial equity capital to middle market firms. Additionally, Credit Suisse is engaged in private equity fund investments and offers specialized services in real estate and structured equity investments. The firm is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, and operates various international offices, including significant locations in London and New York.

Founded in 2016 and based in New York City, Republic is an equity crowdfunding platform that allows individuals to invest in startups with a minimum investment of $10. The platform caters to a diverse range of private companies seeking funding from the general public, including those in sectors such as gaming, real estate, and cryptocurrencies. Republic serves a variety of clients, including venture capital firms, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals, facilitating access to capital for innovative businesses while enabling a broader audience to participate in the investment process.