The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.

EASME is a European Union executive agency that supports small and medium-sized enterprises and promotes innovation in Europe. It manages projects in the areas of small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the environment, energy, and maritime sectors, funded by COSME, LIFE, and EMFF. EASME organizes the European Sustainable Energy Week and serves industries such as environmental management, energy production, and maritime activities.

MassChallenge is a global nonprofit startup accelerator headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, established in 2009. It supports early-stage entrepreneurs across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and social impact, by providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. With locations in Israel, Mexico, Switzerland, Texas, and the UK, MassChallenge connects high-potential startups with industry experts and investors to foster innovation and facilitate growth. The accelerator operates on a non-equity model, allowing entrepreneurs to maintain full ownership of their companies while benefiting from strategic partnerships and tailored training programs. Through its diverse initiatives, such as targeted accelerator programs like MassChallenge HealthTech and FinTech, the organization aims to drive impactful change and enhance the global innovation ecosystem.

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.

Burnt Island Ventures, established in 2020, is a New York-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments. It manages funds that target innovative startups in the water and climate tech sectors, with a particular interest in information technology solutions that address energy, climate, and water challenges. The firm's mission is to identify, fund, and support exceptional entrepreneurs driving progress in these critical areas.

Emerald Technology Ventures AG, established in 2000, is a Swiss-based venture capital firm with a global focus. It specializes in investing in clean technology companies, with a particular emphasis on energy, water, and materials. The firm seeks to back companies at various stages, from seed to expansion, with typical investments ranging from $1.26 million to $12.76 million. Emerald targets companies with projected market growth of at least 15% to 20% per annum and aims to exit its investments within four to six years. It maintains offices in Zurich, Toronto, and Singapore to facilitate its global investment strategy.

SOSV, established in 1995 and headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, is a global venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments. It focuses on deep tech innovations in the health and environmental sectors, supporting founders with breakthrough technologies through its HAX and IndieBio startup development programs. SOSV provides resources, facilities, and lab equipment to accelerate product development and scale, with a track record of helping its portfolio companies secure subsequent funding rounds led by top-tier investors.

Xylem is a prominent global water technology provider that focuses on addressing critical water and infrastructure challenges through innovative solutions. Established in 2011 as a spinoff from ITT Corporation, the company is headquartered in Rye Brook, New York, and operates in over 150 countries. Xylem offers a comprehensive range of services related to the transport, treatment, testing, and efficient use of water across various sectors, including public utilities, industrial, commercial, residential, and agricultural markets. With a workforce of approximately 16,200 employees, Xylem emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency in its technologies, helping customers reduce life-cycle costs while promoting environmentally responsible practices. The company generated $7.4 billion in revenue in 2023, reflecting its significant role in the global water management industry.

Bpifrance is a financial institution dedicated to supporting companies throughout their development stages, particularly those preparing for stock market listing and seeking credit equity. The organization provides a range of financial solutions, including financing, innovation assistance, and capital investment. By integrating various entities such as OSEO and CDC Entreprises, Bpifrance aims to deliver tailored financial support that addresses the specific needs of businesses. The institution is committed to fostering innovation and helping companies transition toward sustainable growth, ensuring they are well-equipped to face future challenges.

Elemental Impact is a consulting organization established in 2009, dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship within the business sector. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, it focuses on initiatives that encourage waste reduction, recycling, and efficient resource utilization across various industries. By providing resources, tools, and guidance, Elemental Impact assists companies in adopting sustainable practices that enhance operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. The organization emphasizes the importance of equity and access in climate solutions, filling critical gaps in funding innovative climate technologies for real-world applications. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, Elemental Impact aims to cultivate a culture of sustainability and create a positive impact on the planet.

Duke Energy is a major utility company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, providing electric and natural gas services to approximately 8.2 million customers across the United States. The company operates regulated utilities in the Carolinas, Indiana, Florida, Ohio, and Kentucky, and has roughly 35,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity. In addition to its core services, Duke Energy manages natural gas distribution for over 1.6 million customers in Ohio and Kentucky. The company also owns and operates diverse power generation assets, including a significant portfolio of renewable energy projects in North America and Latin America. Through its efforts, Duke Energy aims to deliver energy in a sustainable manner while contributing to the economic vitality and resilience of the communities it serves.

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

The European Investment Bank (EIB), established in 1958, is a long-term lending institution owned by the EU Member States. Headquartered in Luxembourg, it offers a wide range of financing solutions, including project loans, loans to banks and intermediaries, venture capital funds, and equity investments. EIB also provides structured finance products, guarantees, and securitization instruments, along with advisory services for infrastructure projects, urban development, and small to medium-sized enterprises. Its portfolio is predominantly composed of loans (93.08%), with a small portion allocated to debt and fixed income, shares, and other assets. EIB's mission is to support European integration and social cohesion, primarily within the European Union and internationally.

Mazarine Ventures is a technology investment firm based in Chicago, Illinois, focused on generating social and environmental impact through early-stage investments. The firm specifically seeks out young companies that offer innovative solutions to improve efficiencies and address water and wastewater-related risks. Mazarine Ventures is particularly interested in founders who are proactive and dedicated to tackling challenges associated with public health, environmental protection, business continuity, and climate change. The firm invests in various sectors, including communications, networking, diagnostic equipment, biotechnology, water utilities, and software, targeting companies with revenue of around one million dollars. Through its investments, Mazarine Ventures aims to support ventures that contribute positively to society and the environment.

Banque des Territoires is a financial institution that provides banking and financial services primarily to local authorities, businesses, social housing organizations, and legal professionals. The company specializes in offering customized loans and investment advisory services, as well as financing solutions designed to support clients in executing their projects. By focusing on the specific needs of its diverse clientele, Banque des Territoires aims to facilitate development and growth within various territories, contributing to local economic and social initiatives.

Evoqua Water Technologies GmbH is a leading manufacturer of water and wastewater treatment products and systems, including disinfection and solutions for municipal, industrial, and purified water applications. Headquartered in Günzburg, Germany, the company operates as a subsidiary of Evoqua Water Technologies LLC. With over a century of experience, Evoqua is recognized for its innovation and expertise in the water treatment sector. The company is organized into two main segments: Integrated Solutions and Services, which offers fully integrated systems and tailored service solutions, and Applied Product Technologies, which focuses on developing product platforms for distribution through third-party channels. Evoqua is committed to helping municipalities and industrial clients protect and enhance water resources worldwide.

Chalmers Ventures AB is a venture capital firm based in Gothenburg, Sweden, specializing in the incubation, seed, early venture, and growth capital stages of investment. Founded in 1997, the firm focuses on companies with a clear connection to the Gothenburg region and Sweden, particularly in sectors such as information and communications technology, new materials, environmental engineering, medical technology, and biotechnology. Chalmers Ventures does not invest in industries related to weapons or drugs. The firm typically invests between SEK 0.05 million and SEK 10 million, with a maximum investment limit of SEK 15 million per company across all phases. It prefers to take minority stakes in companies, particularly those that have participated in its incubation and accelerator programs. Additionally, Chalmers Ventures engages in coaching and business development to support the growth of its portfolio companies.

GO Capital, established in 2003, is a French private equity firm headquartered in Rennes. It manages nearly €400 million and focuses on early-stage investments in technology-driven companies, particularly in the digital, healthcare, and industry sectors. With a team of experienced investors and offices across several French regions, GO Capital supports responsible innovation and has a strong track record in DeepTech.

XPV Water Partners, established in 2006, is a Toronto-based impact investment firm focused on the water sector. Comprising experienced water entrepreneurs, operators, and investment professionals, the firm invests in water and utility enterprises across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, aiming to make a positive difference in the water industry.

Core & Main Inc is a specialty distributor that provides a comprehensive range of products and services related to water, wastewater, storm drainage, and fire protection. The company caters to municipalities, private water companies, and contractors, serving diverse markets including municipal, non-residential, and residential sectors across the nation. Core & Main's extensive product portfolio features pipes, valves, fittings, storm drainage solutions, fire protection equipment, and meter products. The majority of its revenue is derived from the sale of pipes, valves, and fittings, reflecting its commitment to supporting reliable infrastructure development throughout the United States.

A.O. Smith Corporation is a manufacturer and marketer of a wide range of residential and commercial water heating solutions, including gas, gas tankless, and electric water heaters. The company also offers supplementary products such as water heating equipment, condensing and non-condensing boilers, and water system tanks. A.O. Smith operates primarily in two geographic segments: North America, which accounts for the majority of its revenue, and the Rest of the World, with significant sales in Asian markets. In North America, a considerable portion of sales is generated from replacing existing products, and the company employs a wholesale distribution channel along with various selling locations to reach its customers.

HG Ventures, founded in 2018, is the venture capital arm of The Heritage Group, located in Indianapolis, Indiana. The firm focuses on early and growth-stage investments in sectors such as transportation infrastructure, environmental services, specialty chemicals, advanced materials, and energy production. HG Ventures aims to support innovation by investing in private companies that are developing new technologies and approaches within these core and adjacent markets. It offers a unique value proposition to its portfolio companies by leveraging the expertise of The Heritage Group's operating companies and research center. The firm typically invests up to $20 million, primarily in companies based in the United States.

Culligan International, established in 1936, is a global leader in water treatment solutions. The company offers a wide range of services, including water testing, system repair, delivery, and maintenance, along with a diverse product portfolio comprising water softeners, filters, water coolers, and bottled water. Culligan caters to residential, commercial, and industrial clients, providing solutions from simple filtration systems to complex industrial water treatments. With a commitment to delivering better water, Culligan operates worldwide, serving customers through mail, phone, and physical addresses.

The European Innovation Council (EIC), established in 2020 and headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, is dedicated to supporting high-potential innovators, entrepreneurs, small enterprises, and researchers. Its primary focus is on fostering early-stage startups that demonstrate significant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts. The EIC collaborates with private investors to co-invest in ventures, particularly within the deep technology sector, aiming to drive innovation and sustainable development across Europe. By providing financial backing and resources, the EIC seeks to enhance the growth potential of promising startups and contribute to a more innovative and competitive European economy.

New Jersey American Water is a utilities company that provides water and wastewater treatment services to approximately 2.7 million people in New Jersey. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable water services, the company prioritizes customer satisfaction. By adhering to local and federal regulations, including standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), New Jersey American Water ensures that the water quality meets the highest standards.

Nucleus Capital is a Berlin-based venture capital firm founded in 2020 that focuses on supporting purpose-driven entrepreneurs. The firm is dedicated to addressing global challenges related to human and planetary health through entrepreneurial innovation. Nucleus Capital specializes in pre-seed and seed-stage investments, targeting companies in the fields of synthetic and computational biology, food technology, and climate technology. By partnering with founders at the early stages of their ventures, Nucleus Capital aims to foster innovative solutions that contribute to a sustainable future.

Founded in 2010 and based in Eindhoven, Netherlands, EIT InnoEnergy is a leading innovation engine focused on sustainable energy. The company operates with a mission to support the growth of early-stage companies in sectors such as climate technology, clean technology, mobility, and the Internet of Things. EIT InnoEnergy invests primarily in seed and early-stage businesses, aiming to enhance their potential through value-added services that mitigate risks and accelerate development. With offices across Europe and the United States, the firm is committed to fostering innovation in the energy sector to drive sustainable solutions.

Israel - Colorado Innovation Fund focuses on investing in innovative startups from Israel, particularly in the sectors of water, energy, and transportation. By identifying and supporting emerging technologies and solutions in these critical areas, the fund aims to foster growth and development in industries that are vital for sustainable progress. The fund's strategic investments are designed to enhance the capabilities of startups, allowing them to scale and make a significant impact both locally and globally.

American Water Works Company, Inc. is the largest investor-owned water and wastewater utility in the United States, delivering essential services to approximately 15 million people across more than 30 states and two Canadian provinces. The company operates primarily through two segments: Regulated Businesses, which provide drinking water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, and Market-Based Operations, which include nonregulated services such as water supply for military bases under long-term contracts. American Water has expanded its operations through various acquisitions, including the water system assets from the city of Whitwell in Tennessee and the water and wastewater system assets in Missouri's Emerald Pointe development. The company's commitment to providing reliable and safe water services positions it as a key player in the water utility sector.

Yield Lab, LLC is a venture capital firm based in Saint Louis, Missouri, specializing in early-stage investments in the agrifood technology sector. Founded in September 2014, the firm focuses on innovative solutions that enhance agricultural practices and sustainability. Yield Lab invests primarily in agriculture technology, agricultural machinery and equipment, and other areas related to food production, such as animal health, digital agriculture, logistics, and food ingredients. It aims to support startups by providing initial funding in the range of $100,000 to $1.5 million in exchange for equity stakes, primarily targeting companies with the potential to significantly disrupt and improve existing agricultural systems. Yield Lab also operates through regional branches, including specific entities for Asia Pacific and Europe, reinforcing its commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural innovations globally.

Rockies Venture Club, established in 1985, is a Colorado-based non-profit organization focused on fostering economic growth by supporting early-stage entrepreneurial companies. It achieves this through hosting over sixty events annually, including the Angel Capital Summit and Colorado Capital Conferences, connecting startups with investors, and making direct investments. As an active angel group, RVC has made over 30 investments in the last two years. Additionally, RVC manages Rockies Venture Fund I, an angel sidecar fund.

Ecolab is a global leader in providing cleaning, sanitation, and water management solutions across various sectors, including food, healthcare, hospitality, and industrial markets. The company develops, manufactures, and sells a wide range of products and services, such as dish and laundry washing systems, pest control, and infection control products. Ecolab is recognized for its comprehensive solutions and data-driven insights that enhance food safety, maintain clean environments, and optimize water and energy usage. With a strong presence in the U.S. market, Ecolab is also expanding its operations internationally, focusing on operational efficiencies and sustainability to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

Ember Infrastructure is a private equity firm established in 2018 and located in New York, New York. The company specializes in investing in sectors related to energy transition, water, waste management, industrial services, and agriculture. Ember Infrastructure focuses on buyout opportunities that align with its mission to support the shift towards sustainable and clean energy solutions. As a Registered Investment Adviser, Ember Infrastructure aims to drive positive change in the infrastructure landscape while delivering value to its investors.

Axeleo, established in 2013 and based in Lyon, France, is a venture capital firm focused on accelerating the growth of early-stage tech startups. It provides seed investments and operational support to entrepreneurs, with a particular emphasis on B2B software and Greentech sectors. Axeleo's unique approach includes equity investments from seed to Series B stages, along with tailored operational guidance, strategic assistance, and ESG integration. The firm's extensive network of over 150 high-level entrepreneurs, sector experts, and mentors contributes to its success in supporting startups across Europe and the US. In late 2021, Axeleo launched Cyber Booster, a startup studio dedicated to the cybersecurity industry.

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.

SUIZ Environnement is a utility company that offers industrial services to its clients. The company’s range of services include water management, recycling, waste recovery, and urban development. Water management consists of collection, distribution, waste water treatment, and regulations. Recycling consists of collections and logistics, sorting and dismantling, recovery and treatment, sanitation, maintenance, decontamination, and regulations. SUIZ Environnement was founded in 2008 and is based in Paris.

H2O Innovation Inc. is a Canadian company specializing in integrated water treatment solutions utilizing membrane filtration technology. It operates through three primary segments: Water Technologies and Services, Specialty Products, and Operation and Maintenance Services. The Water Technologies and Services segment focuses on providing systems for drinking and industrial process water, as well as water reclamation, desalination, and wastewater treatment. The company also manufactures and supplies a range of membrane filtration systems, spare parts, and specialty reverse osmosis chemicals. Its Specialty Products segment includes a variety of consumables, such as membrane cleaners and coagulants, alongside maple syrup production equipment. The Operation and Maintenance Services segment offers public works services, construction for water infrastructure, and containerized treatment systems. Additionally, H2O Innovation provides technical support and software solutions for monitoring water treatment processes. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Quebec City, the company has established itself as a leader in the water treatment industry, continuously expanding its market presence.

YFM Equity Partners, established in 1982, is a UK-based private equity firm that invests in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It focuses on providing growth capital, management buyouts, and recapitalization to mid and late-stage companies across various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, consumer goods, healthcare, technology, and business services. YFM seeks to invest between £2 million to £10 million, typically taking a majority stake and aiming for a five-year exit through sale or listing. The firm has offices in Leeds, London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Sheffield, and its investment team owns the business.

KAUST Innovation Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2010 and located in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. The firm focuses on fostering the emerging Saudi technology ecosystem by making seed and early-stage investments in high-tech startups across various sectors, including energy and environment, food and water, advanced materials, robotics, information and communications technology, and healthcare. By acting as a long-term strategic partner, KAUST Innovation Ventures supports its portfolio companies through mentorship and acceleration programs offered by its Entrepreneurship Center. The firm aims to cultivate an innovation-driven investment community and attract both local and international investors to contribute to the growth of innovative technologies in the region.

Bridges Israel is an impact investment fund that focuses on investing in Israeli businesses to achieve competitive financial returns while also delivering significant measurable social impact. As an independent affiliate of Bridges Fund Management, it is part of a firm that specializes in sustainable and impact investment, with a presence in major global financial centers. Bridges Fund Management has a strong track record since its inception in 2002, managing over 1 billion in assets. Through its investments, Bridges Israel aims to foster economic growth and contribute positively to society.

Serra Ventures, established in 2008 and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, is a venture capital firm focusing on early-stage technology companies. It invests primarily in the Midwest and Southern California regions of the United States, with a sector focus on information technology, deep technology, instrumentation, B2B, software as a service, devices, and agricultural technologies.

Rainmatter Capital is an incubator based in Bangalore, India, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in funding and nurturing innovative startups in the fintech and health sectors. It provides significant support to these startups, including well-equipped workspaces, mentorship, and financial backing ranging from $100,000 to $1 million in exchange for minority stakes. By focusing on the capital markets space, Rainmatter Capital aims to foster the growth of forward-thinking companies that can contribute to the evolving landscape of finance in India.

Région Sud Investissement is a venture capital firm founded in 2010 and located in Marseille, France. The firm focuses on supporting startups through a variety of financing options, including venture capital investments, participatory loans, and convertible loans. By investing in early-stage companies, Région Sud Investissement aims to foster innovation and economic growth within the region.

The York Water Company is a water utility company based in the United States that focuses on the purification and distribution of water. It impounds and purifies water to meet or exceed safe drinking water standards, serving a diverse customer base that includes residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Additionally, York Water manages the collection and treatment of wastewater, operating three wastewater collection systems and two wastewater treatment facilities. The company operates within its franchised territory, which encompasses over 54 municipalities in York County, Pennsylvania. Through its efforts, York Water aims to preserve local hydrology while ensuring reliable access to clean water for its customers.

LDC, established in 1981, is a London-based private equity firm and the private equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group. It specializes in providing financial investment services, including up to £100 million for buyouts and development capital transactions, to small and mid-sized unquoted companies in the UK. Since its inception, LDC has supported over 550 such businesses across various sectors such as consumer, healthcare, ICT, industrial, media, and technology.

Watts Water Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of water management and conservation solutions, designing and manufacturing a diverse array of products for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal applications. The company's offerings include flow control products such as backflow preventers and water pressure regulators, as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including boilers and water heaters. Additionally, Watts provides drainage and water reuse solutions, encompassing engineered rainwater harvesting systems, and water quality products like filtration and conditioning systems. With a focus on safety, energy efficiency, and innovative technology, the company also features smart home products, including advanced thermostats and mixing systems. Established in 1874 and headquartered in North Andover, Massachusetts, Watts Water Technologies distributes its products through various channels, including plumbing and heating wholesalers, original equipment manufacturers, and retail chains.

WaterBridge Resources is a midstream development company that specializes in the management of water infrastructure for oil and gas producers. The company focuses on developing, acquiring, and operating flowback and produced water infrastructure, which includes gathering systems, pipeline networks, separation facilities, and disposal solutions. Founded by Stephen Johnson and Andy Stephens in collaboration with Five Point Capital Partners, WaterBridge addresses the water management needs of the energy sector across North America. In addition to its core services, the company offers drilling services utilizing seismic-while-drilling technology, which helps clients reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency.

International Finance Corporation (IFC), established in 1956, is a member of the World Bank Group dedicated to fostering private sector development in emerging markets. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with global offices, IFC provides financial and advisory services to support economic activities across various sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and financial services. It invests in both direct equity and debt, as well as fund investments, with a focus on projects that promote sustainable development and inclusive growth. IFC's investment range typically spans from $1 million to $100 million, with a minority equity stake, often up to 20%. It also offers debt financing, with loan sizes up to 25% of total project costs or 50% for expansion projects. IFC's portfolio includes a mix of asset-backed securities, corporate debt securities, government obligations, equity investments, and derivative assets. It aims to exit investments through domestic stock markets, arrangements with project sponsors, or public listings within 7 to 15 years.

Founded in 1933, the Saur Group is the third largest player in the French water distribution and waste water management market. In addition to its core activity, the company has also developed into municipal waste collection and treatment, and also certain ancillary services to local authorities.

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.