SOSV is a venture capital firm headquartered in New Jersey, focused on seed-to-growth stage investments in sectors such as biotechnology, hardware, robotics, and cross-border software, particularly in Asia. Established in 1995, SOSV operates several global accelerator programs, including HAX for hardware, IndieBio and RebelBio for life sciences, Chinaccelerator and MOX for cross-border internet, Food-X for disruptive food technologies, and dlab for blockchain innovations. The firm invests in approximately 150 companies annually and emphasizes a strategy that combines early-stage funding with extensive support, facilitating product development, customer acquisition, and scaling. SOSV's commitment to nurturing revolutionary deep technologies and its proven track record position it among the top 10% of venture capital funds worldwide.

Collaborative Fund, founded in 2010 by Craig Shapiro in New York, is an investment firm that focuses on supporting creative entrepreneurs in technology and media. The fund emphasizes two primary themes: the rise of the creative class and the shift toward collaborative consumption. These themes highlight the growing importance of values in consumer and employment decisions, as well as the transition from a hyper-consumption economy to one centered on collaboration. Collaborative Fund seeks to be a key source of capital and strategic support for businesses that aim to innovate and positively impact society. The fund has attracted investments from notable figures, including individuals with backgrounds in media and entrepreneurship, further enhancing its potential to influence the future of business and daily life.

Techstars is a global startup accelerator founded in 2006, headquartered in Boulder, Colorado. It provides a supportive environment for entrepreneurs through various programs, including mentorship-driven accelerators, startup programs, and corporate innovation partnerships. Techstars connects founders with a vast network of mentors, investors, and industry experts to foster company growth. The organization operates multiple accelerator programs worldwide, focusing on diverse sectors such as mobility, retail, and social impact. It also manages a venture capital fund that invests in innovative technology companies at early stages. With over 1,000 companies in its accelerator portfolio, Techstars has developed a reputation for nurturing successful startups across various markets, helping them scale and achieve significant valuations.

Founded in 2001, DSM Venturing is the corporate venture capital arm of Royal DSM, based in Heerlen, Netherlands. The firm invests in companies developing innovative products and services in sectors of life sciences (animal and human health & nutrition) and biomedical.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania is a non-profit organization established in 1982 that promotes the development and adoption of new technologies in the region. Over the past 30 years, it has emerged as a prominent provider of seed stage capital, investing more than $170 million in over 1,750 technology companies, many of which have achieved significant industry success. In addition to financial support, Ben Franklin fosters university and industry collaborations to expedite the commercialization of scientific innovations. The organization is dedicated to enhancing the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem, creating jobs, and transforming lives through its initiatives.

Valor Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in Chicago, established in 1995, that specializes in operational growth investments across various sectors, including consumer, infrastructure, industrial services, and manufacturing. The firm focuses on high-growth companies at different stages of development and aims to partner with entrepreneurs who are dedicated to excellence and industry transformation. Valor Equity Partners typically invests between $10 million and $75 million in platform companies with revenues ranging from $30 million to $200 million and EBITDA between $5 million and $20 million. The firm also has a presence in North America and India, targeting investments in a wide array of industries, including healthcare, technology, clean energy, and financial services. With a commitment to solving the challenges of growth and scale, Valor Equity Partners seeks to be a lead investor, emphasizing both control and non-control equity investments.

Brand Foundry Ventures is a consumer only venture capital firm based in New York. The firm seeks to invest in e-commerce, mobile commerce, consumer products, and consumer devices.

Riverside Company is a global private equity firm specializing in investments in growing businesses with enterprise values of up to $400 million. Established in 1988, Riverside has completed over 480 transactions and manages a diverse international portfolio of more than 80 companies. As one of the largest private equity firms in the world, Riverside Company focuses on both control and non-control investments to support the growth and development of companies across various industries.

Nestlé S.A., headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, is a leading multinational food and beverage company that operates globally across 189 countries. Founded in 1866, it generates over CHF 90 billion in annual revenue and offers a wide range of products, including baby foods, bottled water, cereals, coffee, dairy, ice cream, and pet care items. The company's diverse portfolio features well-known brands such as Nescafé, Maggi, KitKat, and Purina, with 34 brands each surpassing CHF 1 billion in sales annually. Nestlé operates through various segments, including Zone Europe, Middle East and North Africa, Zone Americas, and Zone Asia, Oceania, and sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, Nestlé has a stake in the cosmetics firm L'Oréal, further diversifying its interests. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, leveraging its venture capital fund to invest in new technologies and research in food and nutrition.

Mercury Fund is a Houston-based venture capital firm founded in 2005, with an additional office in Ann Arbor. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, primarily focusing on technology-related companies in the U.S. Midcontinent. With over $200 million in assets under management, Mercury seeks out innovative startup opportunities, particularly those led by entrepreneurs who have demonstrated product-market fit and are prepared for growth. Known for its active involvement in the region, Mercury has positioned itself as a key partner for both new entrepreneurs requiring guidance and experienced founders looking to capitalize on the resources and talent available in Middle America.