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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Addor Capital is a principal investment firm based in Nanjing, China, founded in 2014. The firm specializes in growth capital investments and focuses on financing early-stage ventures across various sectors, including clean technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, consumer services, cultural industries, and technology, media, and telecommunications. Addor Capital manages several investment funds, such as the Addor Capital Health Achievement Fund I and the Nantong Addor Innovation Venture Fund, which aim to support companies within the healthcare sector and other innovative industries in China. The firm is committed to identifying and nurturing promising enterprises at different stages of development, from seed to growth stages, contributing to the advancement of the Chinese economy.

Shunwei, Inc. is a venture capital firm based in Beijing, China, founded in 2011 by Lei Jun, a notable figure in the tech industry. The firm specializes in early to mid-stage investments across various sectors, including technology, media, telecommunications, and the internet, with a particular focus on the local internet industry. Shunwei seeks to support startups and growth-stage companies, targeting investments primarily in China and India, while also pursuing cross-border opportunities. The firm has managed multiple investment funds and has executed hundreds of investments, maintaining a keen interest in innovative areas such as smart hardware, e-commerce, and internet finance. Shunwei's strategic approach includes partnerships with diverse investors, including sovereign wealth funds and family offices, reflecting its commitment to fostering the growth of technology-driven enterprises.

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.

ZhenFund is a venture capital firm established in 2011 by Bob Xu and Victor Wang, in collaboration with Sequoia Capital China. Based in Beijing, with additional offices in Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Silicon Valley, ZhenFund focuses on seed stage investments and has over $1 billion under management. The firm primarily targets sectors such as e-commerce, education, artificial intelligence, mobile internet, and healthcare. Its portfolio includes over 750 high-growth companies, highlighting its significant presence in China’s early-stage venture capital landscape. Notable investments include companies like OFO, VIPKID, and Hero Entertainment. ZhenFund aims to support and inspire the next generation of global entrepreneurs, leveraging the founders' extensive experience in the education sector and successful investment track records.

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.

CDP Venture Capital, established in 2015 and based in Rome, Italy, is a prominent venture capital investment firm dedicated to fostering innovation and economic development within the country. The firm aims to enhance the venture capital ecosystem by investing in startups and growth companies across a diverse range of sectors, including consumer products, energy, healthcare, information technology, automotive, fashion, food, fintech, insur-tech, advanced manufacturing, agriculture materials, education, big data, life sciences, financial services, software-as-a-service, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. By prioritizing these industries, CDP Venture Capital seeks to create sustainable growth and support the overall development of Italy's entrepreneurial landscape.

Mizuho Capital, established in 1983 and headquartered in Tokyo, is a prominent venture capital firm affiliated with Mizuho Bank, one of Japan's largest banks. The firm manages approximately ¥49.6 billion JPY and focuses its investments primarily on information technology, biotechnology, healthcare, and various manufacturing sectors. Mizuho Capital was formed in 2002 through the merger of Fujigin Capital, Tokyo Venture Capital, and IBJ Investment, which were subsidiaries of three major banks. With a significant track record, over 600 companies backed by Mizuho have successfully gone public, positioning the firm as the fifth-largest venture capital firm in Japan. Mizuho Capital aims to leverage its expertise to invest in private markets across the Asia-Pacific region.

Lenovo Capital and Incubator Group is a global investment entity that focuses on core technology and internet-related sectors, including cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Based in Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, the group manages venture capital funds, such as the Lenovo Smart Internet Innovation RMB Fund, which specifically targets the Internet innovation industry in China. The group's strategy emphasizes leveraging Lenovo's extensive global resources to promote research and development, facilitating new business avenues, and fostering innovation. Through targeted investments and incubation efforts, Lenovo Capital and Incubator Group seeks to align with Lenovo's strategic objectives and drive future advancements in technology.

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

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.

New Enterprise Associates, Inc. is a global venture capital and private equity firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. The firm specializes in investments across various stages of company development, from seed and startup to later-stage growth and public investments. With over $19 billion in cumulative committed capital, NEA focuses on technology and healthcare sectors, particularly in areas such as consumer internet, financial technology, software, healthcare services, life sciences, and energy technology. The firm also invests in semiconductor companies and alternative energy initiatives in India. NEA has a proven track record, with more than 210 portfolio company IPOs and over 360 acquisitions. The firm's investment strategy encompasses a global perspective, targeting opportunities in North America, Asia, and South America, and typically involves investments ranging from $0.05 million to $20 million.

SBI Investment Co., Ltd. is a venture capital firm based in Tokyo, Japan, and serves as the investment arm of SBI Holdings, Inc. Established in 1996, the firm specializes in venture and growth capital investments across a diverse array of sectors, including information technology, biotechnology, healthcare, finance technology, environmental energy, and e-commerce, among others. SBI Investment focuses on opportunities in China and Southeast Asia, aiming to support companies with significant growth potential. The firm typically seeks to exit its investments through initial public offerings or mergers and acquisitions, leveraging its expertise to enhance the value of its portfolio companies.

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.

Fortune Capital, founded in April 2000, is a Shenzhen-based venture capital firm recognized as one of the earliest market-oriented firms in China. The company primarily invests in various sectors, including information technology, consumer goods and services, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, environmental services, and clean technology. Over the years, Fortune Capital has developed a reputation for high performance in the venture capital and private equity landscape in China. In addition to providing financial support, the firm offers personalized value-added services to its portfolio companies, fostering their growth and development. Fortune Capital holds several leadership positions in industry associations, reflecting its influence and commitment to the venture capital community.

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.

Xiaomi Technology, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Beijing, is a mobile internet company that specializes in manufacturing and distributing smartphones and consumer electronics. The company operates through several segments, including Smartphones, IoT and Lifestyle Products, and Internet Services. Its smartphone offerings include popular models like the Redmi series, while its IoT segment features smart TVs, AI speakers, and various lifestyle products. Xiaomi has gained a loyal customer base by emphasizing user feedback in product design and continuously innovating its offerings, such as the MIUI operating system. It has expanded its presence beyond Mainland China, emerging as a market leader in India and increasing its footprint in Europe. The company also provides internet value-added services and engages in diverse activities such as retail, software development, and hardware repair services. With a commitment to delivering quality products at competitive prices, Xiaomi aims to enhance user experiences across its technology ecosystem.

Intel Ignite is an accelerator based in Tel Aviv, Israel, established in 2019 to support early-stage deep tech startups. The firm focuses on various sectors, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, computer vision, autonomous technologies and robotics, hardware and manufacturing, software development tools and DevOps, security and privacy, data management, cloud and edge computing, next-generation computing, and web3 infrastructure. By providing resources and guidance, Intel Ignite aims to help these companies succeed in their respective fields.

Sony Innovation Fund is the venture capital arm of Sony Corporation, established in 2016 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The fund specializes in investing in early-stage technology startups, with a particular focus on sectors such as entertainment, fintech, healthcare, the internet of things, mobility, deep tech, and sensor technologies. In addition to providing financial support, the fund aims to foster business creation by offering access to Sony's extensive global network and resources. Through collaboration with startups, Sony Innovation Fund seeks to catalyze innovation and growth in areas aligned with Sony's strategic interests.

Par Equity LLP is a venture capital firm based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, specializing in early-stage and growth investments, particularly in the technology sector. Founded in 2008, the firm targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with high growth potential, including those in digital health technology. Par Equity primarily invests between £0.25 million and £2.5 million in companies with enterprise values up to £10 million, focusing on opportunities that involve proprietary technology and proven commercial products poised for transatlantic expansion. The firm aims to support Scottish companies looking to enter the United States market while also attracting U.S. businesses to Scotland. Par Equity operates an additional office in San Francisco, California, enhancing its capability to facilitate cross-continental investment opportunities.

SDIC Venture Capital Management Co., Ltd. is a Beijing-based investment firm established in 2016, focusing on sectors such as smart manufacturing, integrated circuits, artificial intelligence, network security, new materials, consumer products, information technology, environmental protection, new energy, biopharmaceuticals, and healthcare. The firm is a subsidiary of the State Development & Investment Corporation, a state-owned entity aimed at driving economic development in China. SDIC Venture Capital manages several funds with total assets amounting to 14 billion RMB. The firm prioritizes investments aligned with national strategic industries and key research initiatives, emphasizing technological innovation and the implementation of national development strategies. By fostering collaborations between government, society, and the market, SDIC Venture Capital aims to facilitate the transformation of scientific and technological advancements into practical applications while ensuring a return on investment.

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.

Cowin Capital is a private equity investment firm based in Shenzhen, China, specializing in the long-term investment of small and medium enterprises. Founded in 2000, the firm has extensive experience in capital management, having invested in over 300 companies, with more than 60 achieving public status and 150 successfully exiting. Cowin Capital focuses on sectors such as healthcare, technology, telecommunications, energy conservation, and environmental protection. The firm manages several venture capital funds that target a range of industries, including business services, consumer products, and high-end equipment manufacturing. By supporting innovative enterprises, Cowin Capital aims to foster growth and contribute to the development of high-quality listed companies within the Chinese capital market.

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.

Scottish Enterprise is Scotland's primary economic development agency, operating as a non-departmental public body of the Scottish Government. Its mission is to foster economic growth by supporting the development of innovative, high-wage industries with a strong international presence. The organization plays a crucial role in assisting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in securing financing, helping them engage with funders and access the necessary capital for expansion. Scottish Enterprise invests through its arm, the Scottish Investment Bank, which focuses on various sectors, including renewable energy, life sciences, and creative industries. The firm engages in both direct and fund-of-fund investing, typically providing financial support in the form of equity or loans ranging from £0.01 million to £10 million. Additionally, it collaborates with public and private sectors and works alongside UK and international investors to enhance the funding landscape for Scottish businesses. Through these initiatives, Scottish Enterprise aims to create a sustainable economic impact and strengthen the funding market within Scotland.

Taiwania Capital, founded in 2017 and based in Taipei, Taiwan, is a venture capital firm focused on fostering economic growth in Taiwan through strategic partnerships with global companies. The firm manages multiple funds, including those that target early-stage investments in various sectors such as enterprise software, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and information technology. Additionally, Taiwania Capital has dedicated funds for specific regions, investing in markets like the United States, Japan, Israel, and Eastern and Northern Europe. Its investment strategy encompasses a wide range of industries, including healthcare, biotechnology, and consumer products, aiming to support innovation and development in these fields.

Microsoft Corporation is a leading American multinational technology company based in Redmond, Washington, that develops, manufactures, licenses, and supports a diverse range of software products and services. Its offerings include the Windows operating system, Microsoft Office suite, and a variety of enterprise solutions through Microsoft Dynamics, which encompasses customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. Additionally, Microsoft provides gaming hardware like Xbox consoles, as well as cloud services via Microsoft Azure. The company also runs several global accelerator programs, such as those in London, Seattle, Beijing, and Paris, aimed at nurturing startups by providing mentorship, technical support, and resources to foster growth and innovation. With a commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, Microsoft for Startups offers free access to its cloud services and facilitates connections with its extensive partner ecosystem. Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, Microsoft has established itself as a pivotal player in the technology sector, serving both consumer and commercial markets worldwide.

In-Q-Tel, founded in 1999 and based in Tysons, Virginia, is a not-for-profit venture capital firm that partners with innovative companies to provide advanced technologies to the U.S. Intelligence Community, including the Central Intelligence Agency. The organization focuses on accelerating the development and delivery of vital solutions that enhance national security. In-Q-Tel invests in a diverse range of technology sectors, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, data analytics, and the Internet of Things, seeking to support startups that can deliver timely innovations essential for intelligence and defense operations. By identifying and fostering cutting-edge technology, In-Q-Tel plays a crucial role in equipping government agencies with the tools necessary to fulfill their missions effectively.

Founded in 2016, UTokyo Innovation Platform Company is a venture capital investment firm based in Tokyo, Japan. The firm seeks to invest in Japanese university-affiliated companies operating in the life sciences, healthcare, agricultural technology, space, robotics, hardware, information technology and services, and artificial intelligence sectors. The firm also runs an incubation program.

Northern Light Venture Capital, established in 2005 by Feng Deng and Yan Ke, is a venture capital firm headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with a strong focus on China. The firm manages approximately $1.5 billion in committed capital across multiple funds, including both US and RMB funds, and has invested in over 180 portfolio companies. It specializes in early and growth stage investments, particularly in sectors such as information technology, healthcare, consumer services, and clean technologies. The management team comprises experienced executives, including Feng Deng and Yan Ke, who bring significant expertise from their backgrounds in technology and venture capital. Northern Light aims to identify and nurture innovative and disruptive business opportunities that leverage China's resources to create enduring enterprises in the global market. Notable portfolio companies include Meituan.com, Kaixin001.com, and Gogo.com.

MedTech Innovator is a nonprofit global competition and accelerator based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2013. It focuses on supporting companies in the medical device, digital health, and diagnostic sectors. The organization aims to enhance patient outcomes by fostering the growth of businesses that contribute to the transformation of the healthcare system. Each year, MedTech Innovator showcases 100 companies that align with key themes identified through surveys of industry leaders. The accelerator's diverse portfolio includes firms involved in consumer healthcare, imaging, remote patient monitoring, clinical studies, and workflow optimization, emphasizing its commitment to advancing innovative healthcare solutions.

Brinc is an accelerator firm established in 2014, headquartered in Central, Hong Kong, with additional offices in various countries including Poland, China, Spain, Australia, India, and Bahrain. The firm specializes in investing in startups across a diverse range of sectors such as blockchain, alternative protein, healthcare technology, agritech, smart cities, clean technology, food technology, and logistics, among others. Brinc's mission is to support entrepreneurs, whom they refer to as "game changers," by providing investment and mentorship to help them tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Additionally, Brinc operates training programs for incubators and accelerators, particularly in China, aiming to enhance the quality of startups and create opportunities for follow-on investments within the rapidly growing venture capital ecosystem.

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 wide range of technology sectors, including advanced materials, clean energy, disruptive technology, healthcare IT, and consumer services, among others. General Catalyst typically invests between $0.05 million and $0.25 million in seed-stage companies and between $10 million and $50 million in growth equity, seeking profitable firms with substantial revenue and EBITDA. Their approach emphasizes mentorship and collaboration, fostering strong relationships with entrepreneurs who share their vision and values. They have managed eight venture capital funds, accumulating around $3.75 billion in capital commitments, reflecting their commitment to supporting innovative companies throughout their growth journey.