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.

China Culture Industrial Investment Fund Management Co., Ltd. is a principal investment firm located in Beijing, China, primarily focused on the cultural industry. As the only state-level cultural industry investment fund, it plays a significant role in advancing the development of China's cultural sector, aligning with the goals set by the Party Central Committee and the State Council. The fund aims to attract social capital into the cultural industries, thereby enhancing investment and financing mechanisms. Established in 2009, the firm manages investments in various areas, including news publishing, media, cultural arts, cultural technology, and leisure activities. It is jointly established by several organizations, including state-owned enterprises, and operates under principles of standardized management and sound financial practices. The management's objective is to provide market-oriented investment services to foster the growth of China's cultural landscape.

MASSACHUSETTS CAPITAL RESOURCE COMPANY was established in 1977 as a limited partnership privately owned and funded by Massachusetts-based life insurance companies. The Company’s mission was to create a source of risk capital to fill the senior debt to equity funding “gap” experienced by growing companies. Their investment activity complements, rather than competes with, the financing provided by senior lenders and equity investors. Mass. Capital provides higher risk growth and acquisition capital to manufacturing, distribution, service and technology companies. They focus on emerging growth and middle market companies with operations in Massachusetts. Their investments are structured to fit the specific needs of portfolio companies and to complement funding available from senior lenders and equity investors.

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.

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.

Insight Partners is a global private equity and venture capital firm established in 1995, specializing in growth-stage investments in the software, internet, and data services sectors. Headquartered in New York City, with additional offices in London, Tel Aviv, and Palo Alto, the firm manages over $75 billion in assets and has invested in more than 750 companies worldwide. Insight Partners focuses on partnering with high-growth technology and software companies that are driving significant change in their industries. The firm aims to support visionary executives by providing practical, hands-on expertise throughout their growth journey, from initial investment to public offering. With a strong commitment to fostering a culture of growth and opportunity, Insight Partners has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve IPO status.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FounderFuel is a mentor-driven venture accelerator based in Montreal, Canada, founded in 2011 by Real Ventures. The organization offers a three-month intensive program designed to support new startups in advancing along the venture path. During this program, participants benefit from the guidance of a network comprising veteran entrepreneurs, operators, and executives, which helps them refine their business visions, expand their professional networks, and accelerate their development. FounderFuel primarily focuses on seed funding opportunities, particularly in the technology sector, with a keen interest in startups leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Founders Fund is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm established in 2005, specializing in investments across various stages, from seed to growth. The firm focuses on transformative technologies and seeks to address significant global challenges through its investments in sectors such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, aerospace, cybersecurity, and consumer internet. With over $2 billion in capital under management, Founders Fund has a history of backing notable companies, including SpaceX, Palantir, and Facebook, emphasizing a founder-friendly investment strategy that provides substantial support with minimal interference. The firm typically invests between $500,000 and $300 million, targeting innovative companies worldwide.

Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 1992, headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, with additional offices across the United States. The firm specializes in growth equity, lending, and mezzanine debt investments, focusing primarily on small businesses at various stages of development, excluding seed stage. Advantage Capital targets investments in low-income communities, both urban and rural, and supports economic development initiatives. The firm seeks to invest in companies that utilize proprietary technologies in sectors such as communication, information technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and energy, among others. It offers various forms of debt capital, including senior and mezzanine debt, and has a preference for co-investing with other firms. Initial investments typically range from $0.5 million to $10 million in companies with sales under $5 million, with potential for larger investments based on milestones. Advantage Capital is committed to addressing the funding gaps in underserved areas and fostering economic growth in communities that lack traditional sources of risk capital.

SV Angel is a San Francisco-based seed fund founded in 2009, specializing in early-stage investments primarily within the Internet software sector. The firm adopts a portfolio approach to seed investing, distinguishing itself from traditional venture capital firms by not taking board seats and investing in a larger number of companies, often exceeding 100 annually. SV Angel leverages an extensive network to assist startups with business development, financing, mergers and acquisitions, and other strategic advice. This approach, pioneered by founder Ron Conway over 20 years ago, has enabled SV Angel to invest in and advise numerous successful companies, including notable names like Facebook, Google, and Airbnb. The firm continues to focus on providing support to technology-focused consumer and enterprise sectors across the United States.

Peak Capital is an early-stage venture capital fund based in Amsterdam, specializing in investments across Europe, particularly in the Benelux, DACH, and Nordic regions. With a fully financed fund of 66 million euros, Peak Capital is managed by experienced entrepreneurs who focus on scaling marketplace, platform, and software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies from Seed to Series A and beyond. The firm emphasizes transparency and effective communication while maintaining a diverse portfolio of over 28 companies, which includes notable exits such as IENS to Tripadvisor, Radionomy to Vivendi, and United Wardrobe to Vinted. Since its founding in 2013, Peak Capital has built a reputation for its hands-on approach and commitment to fostering strong relationships with founders.

Lightspeed Ventures, LLC is a global venture capital firm founded in 2000, headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with additional offices in Beijing, Shanghai, New Delhi, and Herzliya Pituach. The firm specializes in early-stage and expansion-stage investments, focusing on a diverse range of sectors including consumer, enterprise technology, cleantech, financial technology, mobile, e-commerce, and biotechnology. Lightspeed engages in both equity and debt financing for startups and growth companies, as well as providing incubation services. It primarily invests in the United States, Europe, Israel, China, and India, with specific investment strategies tailored to different regions. In India, for instance, it focuses on advertising, healthcare, education, and retail, while in China, it targets both early and late-stage businesses across various technology sectors. The firm manages significant capital through its funds, actively participating in the growth of innovative companies across multiple industries.

Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2004 by Vinod Khosla, a co-founder of Sun Microsystems. Based in Menlo Park, California, the firm manages over $5 billion and primarily invests in early-stage technology companies throughout the United States. Khosla Ventures provides capital, strategic advice, and venture assistance to entrepreneurs focused on breakthrough innovations across various sectors, including consumer technology, enterprise solutions, health, education, agriculture, and sustainable energy. The firm has a particular interest in high-risk, high-reward opportunities, often acting as a sole investor in "science or innovation experiments." Investment sizes typically range from $100,000 to over $20 million, allowing Khosla Ventures to support both traditional ventures and unconventional projects.

Sapphire Sport is a pioneering investment platform focused on early-stage ventures at the intersection of sports, media, and entertainment technology. As part of Sapphire Ventures, which manages $4 billion in assets, Sapphire Sport operates with a dedicated fund of $115 million aimed at addressing opportunities within the broader sports technology market. Established in 2019 and based in Austin, Texas, this fund primarily invests in early-stage companies in the information technology sector, allocating between $3 million to $7 million across five to six startups. Sapphire Ventures, founded in 1996 and independent since 2011, has a track record of investing in innovative technology companies globally, supporting their growth into significant market players. The firm has completed over 55 exits from its portfolio and continues to partner with visionary teams to foster the development of impactful businesses.

Enhanced Capital Partners, founded in 1999 and headquartered in New York, is a national investment firm that specializes in equity and debt investments in small and mid-sized companies across the United States. With over $400 million under management, the firm employs a flexible investment strategy aimed at promoting the growth and expansion of businesses. Enhanced Capital focuses on various sectors, including healthcare technology and technology, media, and telecommunications. As a subsidiary of P10 Holdings, it seeks to maximize the growth potential of companies poised for rapid development through its practical investment approach.

Founded in 2009, Founder Collective is a private equity firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in New York. The firm specializes in seed-stage investments, primarily in technology-related companies across various sectors, including software and telecommunications. Founder Collective manages $50 million in capital and typically invests between $0.2 million and $2 million in early-stage ventures. The firm is comprised of a network of successful entrepreneurs who leverage their experience to identify promising startups. While the firm’s investment focus is geographically centered on the East Coast, it maintains a global investment outlook, targeting companies with a significant information technology component.

Halogen Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Los Angeles, California, established in 2017. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage consumer technology startups that have a female founder. Halogen Ventures primarily targets pre-seed, seed, and series A funding rounds, supporting companies that are developing innovative technologies and products in the consumer sector. The firm is committed to providing hands-on support to its portfolio companies throughout their growth journey, assisting founders in building networks, gaining brand exposure, hiring talent, securing follow-on funding, and navigating paths to acquisition or initial public offerings.

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.

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.

HV Capital is a Munich- and Berlin-based venture capital firm that supports founders in developing their internet companies. Since 2000 HV Capital, formerly HV Holtzbrinck Ventures, has invested in Internet and technology companies through various generations of funds and is one of the most successful and financially strongest early-stage and growth investors in Europe. HV Capital has already invested in around 200 companies, including Zalando, Delivery Hero, FlixMobility and SumUp. The total of all HV Funds amounts to €1.7 billion. The company supports startups with capital between €500,000 and €50 million. This makes HV Capital one of the few venture capitalists in Europe that can finance startups through all growth phases.

True Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2005. Specializing in early-stage technology startups, the firm focuses on providing seed and Series A funding, typically investing between $0.25 million and $3 million for a stake of 22 to 25 percent. True Ventures has more than $2.8 billion in assets under management and has supported over 300 companies, contributing to the creation of more than 25,000 jobs globally. The firm's investment strategy encompasses a wide array of sectors, including healthcare technology, consumer products, software, and emerging technologies. True Ventures is recognized for its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through its support programs, aiming to foster innovation and growth in the startup ecosystem. Notable portfolio companies include Peloton, Fitbit, and Duo Security, among others. True Ventures has received accolades such as the National Venture Capital Association's Venture Firm of the Year in 2018.

Haatch Ventures LLP is a venture capital firm and incubator based in Stamford, United Kingdom, founded in September 2013 by Scott Weavers-Wright, Elaine Weavers-Wright, and Fred Soneya. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in technology sectors such as software as a service (SaaS), artificial intelligence, and retail technology. Haatch specializes in providing growth capital to startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, typically investing between £100,000 and £300,000 while participating in rounds up to £2 million. In addition to financial support, the firm offers strategic guidance and networking opportunities to enhance the prospects of success for its portfolio companies. Haatch also manages an EIS fund aimed at investing in scalable and disruptive business models, particularly those that have achieved early market traction and are seeking support to scale to Series A.

Social Leverage is a venture capital firm based in Arizona, founded in 2009, that focuses on early-stage and seed-stage investments primarily in the Software, Consumer, and Fintech sectors. The firm leverages two decades of experience in building, valuing, and selling companies to evaluate potential investments. Social Leverage aims to identify capital-light companies with viable products that address significant market needs. The firm typically invests between $100,000 and $500,000 and maintains a strong pipeline of opportunities through relationships with top venture capital and private equity funds, as well as innovative entrepreneurs and management teams. Notable investments include companies such as Robinhood, Kustomer, and Angellist, demonstrating Social Leverage's commitment to supporting exceptional talent in the technology space.

Axel Springer is a prominent media company based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 1946. Initially starting as a small publishing house in Hamburg, it has grown to become Europe's largest digital publishing entity, with a strong presence in over 40 countries and a leading position in both print and digital content. The company operates a diverse range of media brands, including well-known newspapers and magazines, while also maintaining a significant focus on digital marketing and classified advertising. Axel Springer has successfully transitioned to a digital-first strategy, with digital media revenues now contributing nearly 70 percent of its total income, a significant increase from just 2 percent in 2006. To further enhance its digital portfolio, the company actively engages with startups through its investment arm, Axel Springer Digital Ventures, focusing on innovative business models and technologies that align with its growth objectives. Through this approach, Axel Springer aims to solidify its position as a leading digital publisher while continuing its commitment to informative and entertaining journalism.

Kleiner Perkins is an American venture capital firm founded in 1972 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage, growth, and incubation companies across various sectors, including healthcare, consumer products, artificial intelligence, machine learning, fintech, robotics, and drones. Kleiner Perkins is committed to partnering with founders who possess innovative ideas, supporting them from the inception of their ventures through to their initial public offerings and beyond. The firm also has a notable focus on digital technology and life sciences, leveraging its expertise to maximize the potential of the companies in which it invests.

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.

Gannett is a prominent international media and marketing solutions company based in the United States, recognized as one of the largest and most geographically diverse local media organizations in the country. It engages over 110 million people monthly through a comprehensive portfolio that includes both digital and print products. Gannett's notable brands, such as USA TODAY and CareerBuilder, provide advertisers with extensive reach and innovative marketing solutions. The company operates 82 daily publications and 443 non-daily local publications, reaching millions of readers and unique visitors across its digital platforms. Gannett also owns or manages 46 television stations, making it one of the largest independent TV station groups in major U.S. markets. With a strong digital presence, Gannett helps businesses enhance their marketing strategies through G/O Digital, its digital marketing services organization, which offers a suite of localized solutions. Additionally, Gannett's subsidiary Newsquest serves as a leading regional news provider in the United Kingdom, further broadening its reach and impact in the media 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.

Right Side Capital Management is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, established in 2010. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing exclusively on the pre-seed round of technology startups. Right Side Capital Management aims to support companies with capital-efficient business models that are typically located outside major hubs like the San Francisco Bay Area and New York City. The firm invests in a range of technology sectors, including internet and cloud technologies, and operates primarily within the United States and Canada, with occasional investments in Western Europe, Israel, Australia, and New Zealand. Right Side Capital Management conducts 75 to 100 investments annually, with portfolio companies spanning 19 states. The firm seeks to provide a clear response to entrepreneurs within two weeks, with investments generally ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 and pre-money valuations between $1 million and $3 million.

News Corporation, founded in 1979 and headquartered in New York, is a global media and information services company that creates and distributes content for consumers and businesses. The company operates across six segments: Digital Real Estate Services, Subscription Video Services, Dow Jones, Book Publishing, News Media, and Other. It offers a variety of content and data products, including The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, and MarketWatch, through multiple channels such as newspapers, websites, mobile applications, and podcasts. News Corp also publishes a range of books, from fiction to religious texts, and provides sports and entertainment programming to pay-TV subscribers. Additionally, it delivers online real estate services and professional software products. Its extensive portfolio includes well-known newspapers like The Australian, The Times, and the New York Post, as well as various digital platforms and services, making it a significant player in the global media landscape.

DFJ Growth is a venture capital firm based in Silicon Valley that specializes in investing in growth-stage technology companies. As the later stage investing practice of Draper Fisher Jurvetson, DFJ Growth focuses on partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs who aim to create transformative technology-driven businesses poised for market leadership. Established in 1985, the firm has a long history of providing capital to innovative companies across various sectors, including consumer, enterprise, and healthcare technology. With a commitment to supporting visionary leaders, DFJ Growth plays a significant role in fostering the development of the next generation of iconic companies.

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.

Enterprise Ireland is a government agency established in 1998, dedicated to fostering the growth and funding of indigenous businesses in Ireland. Its primary mission is to support the development of world-class companies that can compete effectively in global markets, thereby enhancing national and regional prosperity. Enterprise Ireland manages a substantial Equity Fund, which includes over 2,500 investments, with a significant focus on technology, followed by life sciences and general sectors. The agency's portfolio managers conduct more than 350 investments each year across various stages, from pre-seed to series E. In addition to its Equity Fund, Enterprise Ireland participates in a Fund of Funds program and engages in numerous co-investments with both global and domestic venture capital and private equity funds. The agency is proactive in seeking partnerships with new funds to continue its mission of supporting Irish enterprises.

Relay Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Toronto, Canada, with an additional office in Calgary. Founded in 2010 by John Albright and Kevin Talbot, the firm specializes in investments across various stages, including startup, seed, early-stage, and growth capital. Relay Ventures focuses primarily on the mobile computing industry, targeting applications and services such as mobile commerce, enterprise applications, social networking, and location-based services. The firm also emphasizes mobile-related software and services, particularly those that enhance the mobile ecosystem and connected Internet. Its investment preferences include technology-facing companies within North America, with a notable interest in sectors like fintech, urban tech, and sports tech.

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

Firstminute Capital is a London-based venture capital firm established in 2017, focusing on early-stage investments in technology companies across Europe, the United States, and Israel. The firm aims to support innovative startups by making seed stage investments ranging from $250,000 to $750,000. Firstminute Capital is backed by a diverse group of limited partners, including prominent firms and individuals, such as Tencent and several unicorn founders. The firm prioritizes investing in entrepreneurs with strong potential, reflecting its commitment to fostering the growth of the next generation of tech leaders.

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.

Pearson plc is a leading multinational education and publishing company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Established in 1844, Pearson provides a wide range of educational products and services to governments, institutions, corporations, and professional bodies globally. The company operates through various segments, including North America and International Education, offering curriculum materials in both print and digital formats, student assessments, and educational technologies. It also partners with universities to deliver online learning and provides services such as program development and student support. Additionally, Pearson is involved in publishing educational materials in multiple languages, including English language teaching resources, and offers testing and certification services for professionals. The company also publishes The Financial Times, an international business newspaper, and operates digital platforms that deliver financial information and advertising services.

BDC Capital Inc. is the private equity and venture capital division of the Business Development Bank of Canada, focusing on direct investments and fund of funds strategies. The firm specializes in providing risk capital to small and medium-sized enterprises, including subordinate financing, recapitalizations, and mezzanine investments. BDC Capital's venture capital activities encompass a wide range of stages from seed funding to pre-IPO financing, with a particular emphasis on technology-based companies in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and clean technology. It aims to support women-led businesses and typically invests between CAD 3 million and CAD 35 million, taking minority stakes in its portfolio companies. BDC Capital seeks to exit investments within three to five years through various strategies, including initial public offerings or strategic sales. Established in 1975 and headquartered in Montreal, the firm has a presence in key Canadian provinces, actively participating in syndicates and maintaining a focus on high-growth potential companies.

Rockstart is a startup accelerator and venture capital firm founded in 2011, headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands, with additional offices in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Bogotá, Colombia. It specializes in incubating early-stage companies and investing in funding rounds up to Series B across four key sectors: energy, health, agrifood, and emerging technologies. Rockstart connects startups with investors, mentors, and partners, facilitating access to capital, market opportunities, and expertise. The firm has implemented tailored programs that foster collaboration between startups and corporates, enhancing co-creation and commercial partnerships. Since its inception, Rockstart has invested in over 230 startups, helping them raise more than €90 million and create over 700 jobs. Additionally, Rockstart manages a specific fund targeting emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing, with a focus on impact investments in health and emerging markets.

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.

Speedinvest GmbH is a venture capital firm founded in 2011 and based in Vienna, Austria, specializing in early-stage investments in technology-related startups across Europe. The firm focuses on sectors such as deep tech, fintech, health, industrial tech, consumer marketplaces, software as a service, and climate tech. Speedinvest typically invests between €0.25 million and €3 million in pre-seed to Series A stages, aiming to take minority stakes of up to 20% in its portfolio companies. The firm emphasizes operational support, often taking on active roles within the companies it invests in for periods ranging from six months to a year. With additional offices in cities including San Francisco, Berlin, Paris, London, and Munich, Speedinvest seeks to leverage a global network to enhance its contributions to Europe’s startup ecosystem.

Singapore Press Holdings, founded in 1984, is a leading media organization in Southeast Asia, focused on publishing newspapers and magazines in Singapore. It operates 19 titles under the Newspaper Printing and Presses Act, including nine daily newspapers in four languages, which reach approximately 3.05 million readers daily. In addition to its print publications, SPH produces over 100 magazine titles covering diverse topics and has significant digital presence, with its online newspapers attracting more than 300 million page views and 20 million unique visitors each month. SPH also operates a range of online platforms, including job and property marketplaces, and has developed mobile applications for its publications. In the radio sector, SPH holds an 80 percent stake in SPH UnionWorks, which runs several entertainment stations. The organization is involved in event management through its arm Sphere Exhibits and has ventured into out-of-home advertising. Furthermore, SPH owns and manages prominent retail and office properties, including Paragon and The Clementi Mall, along with residential developments like Sky@eleven.

Betaworks is a startup studio and venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2008. The company focuses on building and investing in next-generation internet companies, operating as a network that connects ideas, people, capital, and data. Betaworks emphasizes an innovative approach to seed-stage investments, typically ranging from $150,000 to $200,000, targeting early-stage, technology-driven companies with working prototypes. The firm collaborates closely with its portfolio companies, which include notable names such as Giphy and Instapaper, fostering a community that encourages entrepreneurship and mentorship. Betaworks Ventures, established in 2016, further extends the firm’s commitment to investing in various sectors including B2B, B2C, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Through its unique model, Betaworks aims to create a more sustainable approach to innovation, allowing builders to engage in multiple projects rather than being tied to a single venture.

Dream Incubator is a Tokyo-based strategic consulting and business development firm established in 2000. It primarily serves Japanese corporate clients and governmental institutions by providing capital and professional services to support the growth of next-generation companies. The firm focuses on early-stage investments across Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, and the United States, particularly within the technology and media sectors. Additionally, Dream Incubator manages a venture capital fund, the Dream Incubator Tech Investment Fund, which specifically targets technology and media investments in India. Alongside its consulting services, Dream Incubator also operates its own businesses, contributing to its diverse portfolio.

Wayra UK Limited is an accelerator focused on early-stage technology startups, operating since 2012 and based in London. It offers various programs aimed at different sectors, including healthcare, information technology, cyber security, smart transport, and 5G. The Wayra Call provides funding of up to €0.25 million for innovative digital products and services. The Velocity Health program specifically targets healthcare startups, offering £34,000 in investment along with a potential cash prize. Other programs like Wayra Fair By Design and GCHQ Cyber Accelerator also provide financial support tailored to their respective industries. Wayra has a global presence, operating in ten countries and leveraging its affiliation with Telefónica to foster connections between entrepreneurs and industry leaders, thus facilitating collaboration and business opportunities.