National Institutes of Health is a biomedical research agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, based in Bethesda, Maryland. It is the primary U.S. government organization devoted to biomedical and health research, conducting science through the Intramural Research Program and funding external research through the Extramural Research Program. The NIH comprises 27 institutes and centers and supports about 1,200 principal investigators and more than 4,000 postdoctoral fellows across basic, translational, and clinical research. It has contributed to major advances such as vaccines and therapies and is dedicated to advancing knowledge and translating discoveries into improvements in public health. Established in 1887, NIH operates as a central hub for medical research in the United States.

The National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency in the United States that funds and supports research and education in science and engineering. It funds fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering and administers non-dilutive funding programs to aid early‑stage technology development, helping translate discoveries into commercially viable products and services. Through grants and fellowships, the NSF supports researchers, educators, and startups, contributing to innovation and U.S. competitiveness. The agency operates with a substantial budget to advance science, engineering, and STEM education nationwide.

The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) is a federal Cabinet department established by Congress on October 15, 1966, and commenced operations on April 1, 1967. It is overseen by the Secretary of Transportation and is dedicated to addressing the nation's transportation needs. The Department's mission is to ensure a transportation system that is fast, safe, efficient, accessible, and convenient, aligning with the vital national interests of the United States. USDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for American citizens by fostering a robust transportation infrastructure that meets current and future demands.

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission, established in 1995 and based in Little Rock, Arkansas, focuses on enhancing the state's economic landscape. The organization plays a pivotal role in creating economic opportunities by providing debt facilities that attract higher-paying jobs and promote the expansion and diversification of local economies. Additionally, the Commission aims to increase incomes and investments, fostering overall positive growth throughout Arkansas. By supporting various initiatives, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission is dedicated to improving the economic well-being of communities across the state.

The Stephens Group, LLC is a private, family-owned investment firm founded in 1933 and headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, with additional offices in Frankfurt, London, and New York. The firm specializes in private equity and venture capital, focusing on mid-venture investments, leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations, growth capital, and mature investments across a diverse range of sectors. Its investment portfolio spans agriculture, energy, industrials, software, consumer products, financial services, healthcare, and technology, among others. The Stephens Group typically invests between $10 million and $125 million in companies with enterprise values ranging from $50 million to $400 million and seeks both minority and control positions in its investments. The firm aims to partner with management teams, often pursuing a board seat in its portfolio companies to foster long-term growth and success.

Arvest Bank, established in 1961 and headquartered in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a regional bank operating over 250 branches across Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas. It offers a wide range of banking services, including loans, deposits, treasury management, credit cards, mortgage loans, and mortgage servicing. Arvest also provides investment and wealth management services through its subsidiary, Arvest Investments, Inc. The company is known for its local management structure, with each of its 16 markets having its own local board and management team, serving customers in over 120 communities. Arvest is recognized as an Equal Housing Lender and is a member of the FDIC.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) leads initiatives in food, agriculture, natural resources, and rural development. It aims to expand markets for agricultural products globally, foster alternative markets domestically, improve rural infrastructure, enhance food safety, promote nutrition education, and manage public lands collaboratively.

RZC Investments is a private equity firm based in Bentonville, Arkansas, founded in 2017. It focuses on vehicle and sports investment management and pursues opportunities across consumer, outdoor and recreation, business-to-business services, healthcare, industrial, and financial technologies sectors.

Advantage Capital Partners is a United States‑based venture capital firm that provides growth equity, debt, and mezzanine financing to small and mid‑market companies, with a focus on underserved communities and state and local economic development. The firm invests across sectors including manufacturing, technology, business services, life sciences, and energy, and also supports real estate development projects with equity and debt. It typically makes initial investments ranging roughly from half a million to ten million in companies with modest sales, and may participate in larger follow‑on rounds or co‑invest with other firms. It uses senior debt, mezzanine debt, subordinated loans, and government‑guaranteed lending, and often pursues equity positions through preferred shares or convertible notes. Advantage Capital operates nationwide in the United States, with roots in New Orleans and offices in multiple states, and has backed thousands of jobs and housing projects as part of its mission to expand inclusive economic growth.

Established in 2018, Cadron Capital Partners is a venture capital firm headquartered in Conway, Arkansas with an additional office in Fayetteville. The company specializes in investing in early-stage technology and cash-flowing companies based primarily in Arkansas, typically committing between $250,000 to $2 million per investment.

Regions Bank is a financial institution that offers a wide range of personal, small business, commercial banking, and wealth management services. Its personal banking services encompass checking and savings accounts, cash solutions, protection services, and various financial products such as money market accounts and IRAs. For small businesses, Regions provides checking accounts, cash management, merchant processing, and payroll services. In the commercial banking sector, it offers asset-based lending, equipment financing, and government financing solutions. The bank also specializes in wealth management, including private wealth management, estate planning, and trust services. Regions Bank operates branches across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, and Texas, and was founded in 1928 in Birmingham, Alabama. Originally known as First Alabama Bank, it adopted the name Regions Bank in 1996 and operates as a subsidiary of Regions Financial Corporation.

Southern Bancorp, Inc. is a community development bank dedicated to providing banking and lending services to underserved communities in Arkansas and Mississippi. Founded in 1986 and formerly known as Southern Development Bancorporation, the company has originated over $2 billion in development loans, primarily targeting individuals and organizations in economically disadvantaged areas. As a certified community development financial institution, Southern Bancorp aims to enhance financial access and investment, fostering economic growth in rural regions. The organization focuses on comprehensive community engagement, recognizing that access to capital alone is insufficient for meaningful change. Its efforts extend beyond traditional banking to include credit counseling and public policy advocacy, all aimed at empowering families and communities to achieve financial stability and growth.

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.

PotlatchDeltic is a timber manufacturing company that specializes in producing high-quality lumber and plywood. The company operates primarily through three segments: timberlands, wood products, and real estate. Its timberlands segment is responsible for the planting and harvesting of trees, along with the construction and maintenance of access roads. The wood products segment focuses on the manufacturing and distribution of various wood products, including lumber and plywood. The real estate segment involves generating sales from company-owned timberlands and managing commercial and residential properties. The timberlands and wood products segments together account for the majority of PotlatchDeltic's revenue, reflecting the company's integral role in the forestry and wood manufacturing industries across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Minnesota, and Mississippi.

Founded in 2012, NewRoad Capital Partners is an Arkansas-based investment firm focusing on growth equity investments. It primarily invests in demand-driven businesses across Retail and CPG, Business Services, Supply Chain and Logistics, Consumer Goods, Outdoor Goods, Healthcare Technology, Media, and Retail Technology sectors.

Inuvo specializes in digital marketing solutions, connecting advertisers with targeted audiences across various online platforms such as video, mobile, display, social media, and native. Its key products include ValidClick for data-driven marketing services and IntentKey for reaching in-market consumers. Inuvo operates a network of websites like alot.com and earnspendlive.com, covering categories like health, finance, travel, and education. The company generates revenue through digital advertising placements across devices, websites, and applications.

Revolution is a manufacturer based in Little Rock, Arkansas, specializing in closed-loop plastic bags and a range of other products for agricultural, consumer, and industrial markets. With over 25 years of experience, the company focuses on sustainable solutions by employing a unique circular approach to recycling and manufacturing. Revolution diverts more than 300 million pounds of plastic waste from landfills each year, processing this material into high-quality certified recycled resin. This resin is then utilized in the production of various sustainable products, including trash can liners, reusable carryout bags, and construction films. By incorporating post-consumer recycled materials, Revolution helps its clients reduce their carbon footprint while promoting environmental responsibility.

Equity Bancshares, Inc. serves as the bank holding company for Equity Bank, a commercial bank based in Wichita, Kansas. Founded in 2002, the bank offers a comprehensive range of financial services primarily targeting businesses, business owners, and individuals. It accepts various deposits, including demand, savings, money market, and time deposits. The bank's loan offerings encompass commercial loans, real estate-backed financing, working capital loans, and various consumer loans, catering to a diverse clientele that includes national and regional companies, restaurant franchisees, hoteliers, and agribusinesses. Additionally, Equity Bank provides a suite of online and mobile banking solutions, debit card services, and treasury management options. As of December 31, 2019, the bank operated 52 full-service branches across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, making it a significant player in the regional banking landscape.

Murphy Oil Corporation is an independent exploration and production company with a portfolio of global offshore and onshore assets supporting oil-weighted growth. It produces oil and natural gas in the United States, Canada, and Malaysia and conducts exploration activities worldwide. The company is headquartered in El Dorado, Arkansas, and employs over 1,500 people globally.

Brinker International, Inc. operates casual dining restaurants, primarily under the brands Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. Chili's is known for its bar and grill offerings, featuring a menu that includes signature items such as slow-smoked baby back ribs, craft burgers, fajitas, and tableside guacamole. Maggiano's specializes in Italian cuisine, offering a diverse menu that includes appetizers, chicken, seafood, veal, prime steaks, and desserts. As of June 2013, Brinker International's system included 1,591 restaurants across 50 states and Washington, D.C., as well as locations in various countries including Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, and Mexico. The company generates the majority of its revenue from the Chili's segment, reflecting its strong presence in the casual dining market.

Founded in 1933, Stephens is a privately held financial services firm based in Little Rock, Arkansas. It offers comprehensive investment banking services across various sectors.

CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is a public utility holding company based in Houston, Texas, engaged in the delivery of energy services across various segments. The company provides electric transmission and distribution services, primarily serving over 2.5 million customers in the Houston area and southern Indiana. Its Natural Gas Distribution segment supplies regulated intrastate natural gas and transportation services to approximately 4 million customers, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Additionally, CenterPoint Energy's Energy Services division offers natural gas supplies and management services, while its Infrastructure Services segment focuses on underground pipeline construction and repair. The company also participates in midstream operations, providing natural gas and crude oil gathering and processing services, as well as pipeline transportation and storage. Founded in 1866, CenterPoint Energy plays a vital role in the energy sector, operating across multiple states including Arkansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Cloyes Gear & Products, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets timing drive systems and components for the automotive industry, serving original equipment manufacturers and the automotive aftermarket. Its product range includes timing gears, sprockets and chains, timing chain tensioners, guides and dampers, three-piece timing sets, multi-component timing kits, timing belts and belt tensioners, and related components, as well as timing drive systems and water pump kits, with additional offerings for marine, industrial, and farm applications and installation services. The company markets through wholesalers, national and local retailers, repackagers, and production engine rebuilders, and traces its roots to 1921 with headquarters in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and additional operations in Paris, Arkansas, and Mexico.

Tencarva Machinery is a prominent distributor of process equipment and services, catering to industrial and municipal clients across the Southeast United States since 1978. The company specializes in providing a wide range of pumping systems, fluid handling systems, air handling equipment, and liquid process equipment tailored for various industries, including chemical, citrus, paper, textile, and power. In addition to its diverse product offerings, Tencarva also operates repair centers and field service teams capable of servicing most types of rotating process equipment. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive reliable and cost-effective solutions that meet their specific application needs.

Alpaca Audiology, LLC, founded in 2011 and based in Russellville, Arkansas, is a provider of patient-centered hearing healthcare services. The company operates a network of audiology clinics across the United States, offering ear testing services and hearing aid machines. Alpaca Audiology also distributes audiology products to clinics and provides healthcare practice management services. As of July 24, 2019, it was acquired by Belsono Management Group, LLC.

CardioWise is a Fayetteville, Arkansas-based developer of non-invasive cardiac CT imaging software that provides quantitative analysis of heart structure and function. The company offers a cloud-based Software as a Service platform that generates interpretable 3D color maps of heart function for cardiologists and patients, enabling objective assessment from standard imaging. Its AI-powered tools are designed to accelerate diagnosis, improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance the standard of care, and help reduce healthcare costs by supporting timely, data-driven clinical decisions. The company was founded in 2010.

Southwestern Energy Company is an independent energy firm focused on the exploration, development, and production of natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids in the United States. The company operates primarily in two segments: Exploration and Production, which is its main revenue driver, and Marketing. Southwestern Energy emphasizes the development of unconventional natural gas reservoirs, particularly in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, holding significant acreage in Northeast and Southwest Appalachia. As of the end of 2019, the company reported substantial proved reserves, including over 12,721 billion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent and 929 billion cubic feet of proved undeveloped reserves. Additionally, it engages in marketing natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids, catering to energy companies, utilities, and industrial buyers. Founded in 1929, Southwestern Energy is headquartered in Spring, Texas.

Founded in 1969, Acxiom specializes in data-driven marketing solutions. It offers a range of services including data enablement platforms, consumer insights packages, and identity resolution solutions to help businesses enhance customer experiences and improve ROI.

Founded in 2009, Circumference Group is an investment firm specializing in equity strategies across various sectors including technology-enabled services, marketing tech, fintech, payments, and telecommunications infrastructure. It manages investments through its hedge fund and provides venture funding via CG Ventures.

mmhmm develops a virtual camera application that integrates with video conferencing platforms to provide dynamic backdrops, collaboration tools, and presentation features across web, desktop, mobile, and cloud services. The app includes an online broadcast editor to control presentations during conferences and helps teams collaborate to make virtual meetings more engaging and informative.

SupplyPike is a technology company founded in 2018 and based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, that specializes in supply chain management solutions. The company offers a cloud-based platform that utilizes machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance retail analytics and sales forecasting. Its software enables suppliers to efficiently manage relationships with retailers by automating processes such as filing disputes, reviewing purchase orders, invoices, and deductions. By monitoring supply chain statuses, SupplyPike helps organizations reduce costs and waste while facilitating data-driven decision-making, ultimately streamlining operations and saving valuable time for its clients.

Union Pacific is the largest railroad company in North America, operating over 32,000 route miles across 23 states west of Chicago. It specializes in transporting a wide range of goods including coal, industrial products, intermodal containers, agriculture goods, chemicals, fertilizers, and automotive goods. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, Union Pacific employs approximately 45,000 people.

ArcBest is a logistics company offering comprehensive shipping solutions. It operates through three segments: Asset-Based (less-than-truckload services), ArcBest (expedite freight transportation, premium logistics, and international freight services), and FleetNet (roadside assistance for commercial vehicles). Headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the company serves businesses of all sizes, providing tailored solutions to meet complex transportation needs.

Established in 1903, Simmons Bank is a commercial bank based in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. It offers a range of financing solutions including agricultural loans, construction loans, SBA loans, and warehouse lending, serving clients primarily from manufacturing, retail, healthcare services, consumer durables, software, agriculture, cybersecurity, health tech, and industrials sectors.

Founded in 2018 and based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, AcreTrader operates a platform facilitating investment in agricultural real estate. It offers transparency, flexibility, and ease of use for investors seeking to acquire shares of farmland online, while managing all administrative aspects and promoting soil sustainability.

A-Street is a private equity investment firm based in Bentonville, Arkansas, founded in 2021, that focuses on transforming PreK-12 learning by investing in innovative education ventures, including digital-first instructional materials and assessment solutions for students, families, and schools.

Standard Lithium is a lithium brine producer focused on rapidly developing large-scale US-based resources. It minimizes risks through strategic partnerships and advanced extraction technologies.

Dos Rios Partners is a private equity firm founded in 2013, headquartered in Austin, Texas with an additional office in Dallas. The firm specializes in investing in proven, growing niche businesses across various sectors, focusing on companies based between the Rio Grande and Mississippi rivers. Dos Rios prefers investments of $5 million to $15 million in companies with EBITDA between $3 million and $12 million.

Westrock Coffee Company, LLC is a comprehensive provider of coffee and tea solutions based in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Founded in 2009, the company specializes in coffee sourcing, roasting, and distribution, catering to a wide range of sectors, including retail, foodservice, convenience stores, and hospitality. Its product offerings include various coffee blends, teas, brewing equipment, and accessories. Westrock Coffee also engages in sustainable sourcing practices and provides supply chain management and product development services. The company serves clients globally and offers online sales, ensuring a broad market reach. Formerly known as Coffee Legends, LLC, Westrock Coffee has established itself as a key player in the coffee industry, focusing on quality and sustainability.

Meritus Ventures is a venture capital firm based in London, Kentucky. It makes equity investments in expansion-stage private companies, with a focus on rural areas of central and southern Appalachia. The firm targets opportunities in information technology, industrials, and technology, media, and telecommunications sectors, and its activity spans across Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Appalachian counties in Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. It may provide operational support to portfolio companies.

Founded in 1910, BOK Financial is a regional financial services company headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It offers a wide range of products and services to consumers and businesses through its subsidiaries, including banking, investment management, mortgage banking, cash management, brokerage, and trading services.

Founded in 1984, Landscape Workshop is a full-service grounds management company specializing in commercial properties across the Southeast. It offers landscaping construction, maintenance, design, irrigation services, facility services, and snow removal, serving industries such as healthcare, retail, office parks, multifamily facilities, and municipalities.

Ingeborg Investments is a venture capital firm established in 2017 and based in Bentonville, Arkansas. The firm specializes in investing in women-led enterprises, targeting seed, early-stage, and series B startups. Ingeborg Investments seeks to support innovative ventures that enhance various aspects of life, including parenting, careers, financial security, and women's health. By focusing on these sectors, the firm aims to improve overall quality of life for women and their families.

Bank OZK, founded in 1903 in Jasper, Arkansas, has a rich history of over 115 years in the banking sector. With its headquarters in Little Rock, the bank operates more than 100 locations across the Southeast. It offers a wide range of financial services, including personal loans, savings accounts, money market accounts, time deposits, wealth management, individual retirement accounts, and real estate loans. Customers can also access personal checking accounts, credit and debit cards, as well as mobile and online banking services. Bank OZK prides itself on building strong relationships with its customers, believing that this personal commitment is essential for providing tailored financial solutions. This customer-centric approach has earned the bank a reputation as one of the top-performing banks in the United States, contributing to high levels of customer satisfaction.

Walton Family Foundation is an independent nonprofit foundation based in Bentonville, Arkansas. Established in 1987, it awards grants to support children's development, elementary and secondary education, and environmental and natural resources initiatives, and it collaborates with grantees and philanthropic partners to improve opportunities and outcomes for individuals and communities, guided by Walton family values and a commitment to strengthening communities.

Established in 2006, Bengal Capital is a venture capital firm specializing in investments within the cannabis industry since 2013. The company provides seed stage and growth capital alongside traditional advisory resources to its operators across various sectors of the cannabis industry.

Walmart is a multinational retail corporation operating supermarkets, discount stores, and e-commerce platforms worldwide. It focuses on providing affordable goods and convenient shopping experiences.

Lee Equity Partners is a U.S.-based private equity firm founded in 2006 and headquartered in New York. The firm focuses on middle-market investments in healthcare, financial services, business services, and consumer goods companies in the United States. It partners with top-tier management teams to build companies with high growth potential.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is a United States government agency established in 1958, primarily in response to advancements in space exploration by the Soviet Union. Originating from the National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics, NASA has a long history of advancing aeronautics and astronautics. It gained prominence for its Apollo program, which successfully landed humans on the moon in 1969. NASA has since been instrumental in various space missions, including the development of the space shuttle, which provided regular access to space from 1981 until its retirement in 2011. The agency plays a key role in the International Space Station, furthering human presence in space through international collaboration. In addition to manned missions, NASA conducts extensive scientific research, exploring planets like Mars and monitoring Earth's climate through satellites. Its aeronautics teams continue to innovate in creating safer and more efficient aircraft. Overall, NASA's work aims to expand human knowledge and capabilities in space while contributing to advancements that benefit life on Earth.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) is a congressionally authorized organization dedicated to conducting research that provides valuable information to help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding health care options. PCORI's research focuses on enhancing patients' understanding of prevention, treatment, and care choices, as well as the scientific evidence that underpins these options. By prioritizing patient-centered approaches, PCORI aims to improve health outcomes and foster a more informed healthcare environment.