KCRise Fund, established in 2016 by Darcy Howe, is a venture capital firm based in Kansas City, Missouri. It operates as a for-profit initiative under the broader KCRising vision, aimed at enhancing the economic capacity of the greater Kansas City area. The firm focuses on investing in seed-stage and early-stage companies within Kansas and the western half of Missouri, targeting sectors such as information technology, advanced manufacturing, augmented reality, cybersecurity, and e-commerce. KCRise Fund collaborates with institutional venture capital investors and is supported by a diverse group of investors, including corporations, university endowments, and local business leaders. As of now, KCRise Fund manages $70 million in committed capital and has launched KCRise Fund II to further its investment activities.

Feel free to apply on our website: https://www.avpict.com/entrepreneurs We are a collaborative group of active investors from diverse professional and industry backgrounds investing in early stage, high potential companies in Wichita and the Midwest. Providing more than just money, we bring connections, knowledge, mentoring and operational assistance to bold early-stage entrepreneurs with game-changing ideas.

Kompass Kapital Management LLC is a private equity firm based in Overland Park, Kansas, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in providing expansion and growth capital, focusing on investments in operating companies, partnerships, funds, financial instruments, and real assets. Kompass Kapital Management typically makes equity investments ranging from $3 million to $15 million, often preferring to acquire minority stakes in the companies in which it invests. The firm is dedicated to enhancing value and supporting the growth of its portfolio companies through strategic capital injection.

US Department of Energy is a government agency that regulates energy policy, research, and development. The Energy Department's mission is to ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.

OpenAir Equity Partners is a venture capital firm established in 2008 and based in Overland Park, Kansas. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, primarily targeting startups in the mobile, wireless, and connected device sectors within the technology industry. OpenAir Equity Partners aims to support innovative companies that seek to advance technology and enhance connectivity.

Nueterra Capital is a venture capital investment firm based in Leawood, Kansas, founded in 1997. The firm focuses on investing exclusively in early and growth-stage healthcare companies, aiming to empower entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary capital, resources, and expertise to drive innovation in the healthcare sector. By aligning its investments with the needs of these companies, Nueterra Capital facilitates business expansion and the creation of new growth opportunities. In addition to healthcare, the firm has interests in consumer products and services, real estate, and technology sectors.

Five Elms Capital is a growth investment firm based in Kansas City, Missouri, established in 2007. The firm specializes in investing in rapidly growing B2B software businesses, focusing on those that demonstrate strong user engagement and satisfaction. With over $2.4 billion in assets under management, Five Elms provides both capital and strategic resources to support companies in accelerating their growth and solidifying their positions as leaders in the software industry. The firm has built a robust network and possesses deep domain expertise, having invested in more than 65 software platforms globally. With a dedicated team of over 70 investment professionals, Five Elms Capital maintains its exclusive focus on software investments, positioning itself as a key player in the sector.

Leawood Venture Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2016 and based in Leawood, Kansas. The firm focuses on investing in technology-driven companies, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, cybersecurity, edge computing, mobile and wireless technologies, fintech, and automation and infrastructure. Leawood Venture Capital is distinguished by its team's extensive market and technology expertise, which allows them to provide significant value to their portfolio companies. With strong relationships across the country, the firm is well-positioned to access high-quality investment opportunities from leading technology hubs. Since its inception, Leawood Venture Capital has successfully raised multiple funds and invested in over 25 companies.

Stray Dog Capital LLC is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Leawood, Kansas, specializing in early-stage investments. Established in 2013, the firm focuses on supporting businesses that offer alternatives to the use of animals in the supply chain. By providing capital, expertise, and support, Stray Dog Capital aims to foster growth in companies across various sectors, including food, beverage, and biotechnology, primarily in the United States and Europe.

Sunflower Bank is a commercial banking institution founded in 1892 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with additional locations across Kansas and Missouri. The bank provides a wide range of financial services, including personal checking and savings accounts, mortgage options, and loans. For businesses, Sunflower Bank offers deposit accounts, loans, treasury management services, and trust and wealth management services. As a member of the FDIC, Sunflower Bank is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its customers' deposits while serving the financial needs of individuals and businesses alike. Sunflower Financial serves as the holding company for the bank.

Firebrand Ventures is a venture capital investment firm established in 2016 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. The firm primarily focuses on early-stage, innovative software startups, particularly in regions that are underserved by venture capital. With additional offices in Austin and Boulder, Firebrand Ventures targets technology companies located in the United States and Canada. Its investment strategy aims to support the growth of promising startups, fostering innovation in communities that often lack access to venture funding.

Blackbird Ventures is a principal investment firm based in La Jolla, California, focusing on investments in emerging technology companies, information technology, software, biotechnology, and real estate development. Founded in 2012, Blackbird aims to support innovative entrepreneurs with ambitious ideas by investing in startups from their inception through to their growth stages. The firm has built a diverse portfolio valued at over $7 billion, featuring more than 100 companies across Australia and New Zealand, including notable startups like Propeller, Gilmour Space, Halter, Eucalyptus, and Harrison AI. Blackbird Ventures is dedicated to fostering generational ambition and ownership, making it a significant player in the venture capital landscape.

Kansas has the largest concentration of animal health companies in the world. Their researchers are making breakthroughs in oncology, IT, medical devices, and other important areas of human health. And they're advancing solutions in agribusiness on the strength of their agricultural heritage.

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.

Riley Permian specializes in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas, with a primary focus on high-growth opportunities in the Permian Basin. The company emphasizes the horizontal development of the San Andres Formation, leveraging its technical expertise and advanced evaluation techniques. In addition to its core operations in the Permian Basin, Riley Permian also manages properties in Kansas and Tennessee. The company is recognized for its operational experience, which positions it as a leader in acquiring, developing, and producing energy resources.

Morpheus Ventures is a venture capital investment firm based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage companies that operate in diverse technology sectors, including data analytics, machine learning, robotics, transportation, and software as a service (SaaS). Morpheus Ventures focuses on identifying and supporting innovative startups that aim to transform their respective industries through advanced technology solutions. As a Registered Investment Adviser, the firm emphasizes strategic investments that align with its vision of fostering technological advancement and entrepreneurship.

MPM Capital is a healthcare investment firm that focuses on the biotechnology, healthcare, and life sciences sectors. Established in 1996 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with additional offices in California and Kansas, the firm specializes in investing in companies that develop therapeutic technologies, particularly in oncology and medical technology. MPM Capital targets a range of investment stages, from seed and early ventures to late-stage biopharmaceutical and diagnostics companies with clinical proof-of-concept. The firm typically invests between $5 million and $50 million and seeks to be a lead investor, often taking interim operating roles within its portfolio companies. Its global investment strategy emphasizes opportunities in the United States, Europe, and Asia, particularly India, with a commitment to translating scientific innovations into clinical outcomes that can significantly impact patient lives.

Physician Housecalls is an organization dedicated to serving the unique needs of home-bound patients in Oklahoma and Kansas. It offers a range of services, including home-based primary care, geriatric care, and family practice, ensuring that individuals receive essential medical support in the comfort of their own homes. The company specializes in chronic care management, care plan oversight, transition management, wellness visits, and behavioral health integration. By providing these services, Physician Housecalls aims to improve the health and quality of life for patients residing in post-acute facilities, assisted living centers, and independent senior apartments.

Fulcrum Global Capital, founded in 2016, is a corporate venture capital firm based in Kansas City, Missouri. It is the venture capital arm of a major US agriculture producer and focuses on investing in companies that are innovating within the agriculture and animal health sectors. The firm targets a range of areas including agriculture technology, food production, food safety, and food waste. As a Registered Investment Adviser, Fulcrum Global Capital seeks to support and foster growth in sectors that are crucial for sustainable development and food security.

C3 Capital Partners, LP is a private equity firm based in Kansas City, Missouri, with additional offices in Dallas, Texas. Established in 1994, the firm specializes in investing in small to middle-market companies across various sectors, including energy, healthcare, specialty chemicals, consumer products, and business services. C3 Capital focuses on growth capital, buyouts, industry consolidation, and recapitalization transactions, typically investing between $2 million and $15 million in companies with sales ranging from $10 million to $210 million and EBITDA between $1 million and $20 million. The firm prefers to take board representation but does not seek controlling stakes in its investments. C3 Capital has a history of investing over $300 million in 63 small businesses and is led by experienced principals with extensive backgrounds in private equity and management across several industries.

Continuum Health Alliance, LLC is a healthcare management company established in 1998 and headquartered in Marlton, New Jersey, with additional offices in East Brunswick, New Jersey, and Lenexa, Kansas. The company specializes in providing integrated care and performance solutions tailored for various healthcare clients, including physician practices, hospitals, and community organizations. Its services encompass revenue cycle management, administrative support, financial and accounting services, and information technology. Continuum also facilitates partnerships between providers and payers, helping independent physicians enroll in payer programs and adopt new payment models. Additionally, the company focuses on enhancing clinical integration through value-based contracts and by identifying clinical gaps within healthcare networks. By blending the expertise of physicians and business professionals, Continuum Health Alliance aims to streamline healthcare operations, allowing providers to concentrate on patient care while delivering comprehensive support services across the healthcare spectrum.

Ulu Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2008 and based in Palo Alto, California. Specializing in seed-stage and early-stage investments, the firm focuses on technology-enabled services, particularly in sectors such as educational technology, legal informatics, and various internet industries. Ulu Ventures targets investments in internet-enabled consumer and business services, digital media, mobile applications, and financial technology, among others. The firm often collaborates with other investors to make cumulative investments ranging from $500,000 to $1 million. It aims to invest primarily in the San Francisco Bay Area and seeks opportunities with viable exit strategies in subsequent funding stages. Ulu Ventures is notable for being the first Latina-led venture fund in Silicon Valley and is committed to reducing investment risk through a structured decision-making process.

Abstraction Capital is a venture capital firm based in Kansas City, Missouri, that specializes in providing early-stage funding, specifically pre-seed and seed round capital, to companies focused on developing technical tools and software infrastructure. The firm targets businesses that create developer tools, workflow automation solutions, and technologies that enhance software development processes. Abstraction Capital emphasizes investments in areas such as API-first architectures, low-code platforms, open-source initiatives, and observability tools. By supporting companies that enable a more modular and integrated approach to software development, Abstraction Capital aims to foster innovation in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Postmates Inc. operates an on-demand food and grocery delivery platform that connects customers with local couriers to deliver products from various restaurants and stores across the United States. Founded in 2011 and based in San Francisco, the platform features a wide selection of over 600,000 restaurants and retailers, many of which are exclusive to Postmates. The service covers approximately 80% of U.S. households, reaching all 50 states, with a strong presence in Los Angeles and other southwestern markets. Customers can enjoy free delivery from all merchants by subscribing to Postmates Unlimited, the industry’s first subscription service. In addition to food delivery, Postmates also offers gift card services, enhancing the user experience and encouraging local shopping without delays.

Union Pacific Corporation, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, is the largest public railroad in North America, operating the Union Pacific Railroad. It manages a vast network of over 31,800 route miles across 23 states, primarily in the western two-thirds of the United States. The company provides essential transportation services for a diverse range of goods, including agricultural products, coal, industrial chemicals, and automotive goods. In 2023, Union Pacific generated $24 billion in revenue by hauling freight, which also includes intermodal containers and construction materials. The company has expanded through acquisitions of several railroads and holds a 26% stake in the Mexican railroad Ferromex, which contributes approximately 10% of its revenue by facilitating cross-border freight movements.

BOK Financial Corporation is a regional financial services company headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, founded in 1910. The company provides a wide array of financial products and services to consumers and businesses through its various subsidiaries, including BOKF, BOSC, Cavanal Hill Investment Management, and The Milestone Group. BOKF operates the TransFund electronic funds network and has seven banking divisions: Bank of Albuquerque, Bank of Arizona, Bank of Arkansas, Bank of Kansas City, Bank of Oklahoma, Bank of Texas, and Colorado State Bank and Trust. The firm specializes in areas such as cash management, mortgage banking, and brokerage and trading services, catering primarily to middle-market and small businesses, as well as financial institutions and individual clients.

Midwest Growth Partners, LLLP is a private equity firm specializing in investing in small to mid-sized companies lower middle market, management buyouts, outright acquisitions, internal recapitalizations, majority and minority growth capital, competitive roll-ups, succession planning liquidity for retiring business owners, general transfer, distressed, later stage, industry consolidation, and turnaround situations. The firm does not invest in start-ups, "pure-play" brick and mortar retailers, and non-core real estate. It seeks to invest in small family-owned rural businesses in the food and agriculture, distribution and logistics, manufacturing, and business service industries but may consider investments in other industries. The firm seeks to invest in Iowa, the Upper Midwest which includes Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Nebraska, and also in North Dakota and Kansas in companies with headquarters, or significant operations, located in communities with populations of 50,000 or less. It typically invests in companies with sales value between $4 million to $40 million and maximum EBITDA of $5 million, and makes equity investments between $0.5 million and $5 million in its portfolio companies depending on the structure of the transaction and nature of the investment. The firm may co-invest on larger opportunities. It invests in companies with revenues between $4 million and $40 million. Midwest Growth Partners, LLLP is based in Des Moines, Iowa.

Fred and Marian Pfister Anschutz created the Anschutz Family Foundation in 1982 as a result of many years of successful gas and oil, real estate and ranching ventures. Fred B. Anschutz's (1909-1993) career was characterized by uncanny and intuitive foresight and by a willingness to enter into ventures others considered too risky. His first business success came through striking a rich oil field in his home state of Kansas. Earnings from an oil exploration business that eventually spanned Kansas, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming were parlayed into ranches and livestock operations across the West. The family and their business headquarters moved from Wichita to Denver in the 1960's. Marian P. Anschutz (1910-1986) with husband, Fred, ingrained traditional American values of hard work, community involvement and love of the land in their children and grandchildren. Sue Anschutz-Rodgers has continued her parents' legacy through her own business and ranching ventures and commitment to philanthropy. The Foundation's assets have grown over its 34 year history from the original $4.5 million endowment to $56.4 million through investments and additional family contributions. Sue served as the Foundation's first President and Executive Director and currently serves as its Chair and President. Four of the founders' six grandchildren and two great grandchildren serve as trustees of the Foundation, while granddaughter Susan Rodgers Drumm served as program officer from 1994-2001. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed 8,671 grants to nonprofit organizations for a total of $50,183,941. The Foundation's focus on supporting organizations that meet human and community needs in Colorado has remained steady throughout its existence. In the early years, the Foundation funded fewer organizations with larger grants. Gradually, the philosophy shifted to providing smaller grants ($2,500-$10,000) to many organizations. The intent was to spread the Foundation's resources into more areas and to encourage nonprofits to develop diversified funding streams. Although the primary activity of the Foundation is grant making, considerable energy has and will be directed to efforts to build the capacity of Colorado's nonprofit sector, to enhance grant making, and to work collaboratively with other funders. In the early 1990's, the Foundation partnered with the Community Resource Center to orchestrate Colorado Rural Philanthropy Days, a twice-yearly event that built on an initiative of the nonprofit community in Mesa County. Sue's vision in launching this event, which is still going strong today, was to increase foundation support to rural areas of the state. The intent is for private and public funders, who are concentrated in the Front Range, to visit Colorado's rural communities to gain a greater understanding of the issues and challenges faced in those communities and to facilitate introductions between metro-based funders and Colorado's rural nonprofit leaders and local elected officials. Colorado Rural Philanthropy Days address two of the Foundation's goals: to increase funding to nonprofit organizations in rural Colorado and to demystify the grant-making process. The Foundation plans to continue on its current path of embracing opportunities that enhance the nonprofit sector and focusing on organizations that strengthen families and communities and assist people to help themselves.

Convey Health Solutions, Inc. is a specialized provider of healthcare technology and business process outsourcing solutions, focusing on member enrollment, service, and administration for government-sponsored health plans. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the company operates additional facilities in Arizona, Illinois, and the Philippines, along with a distribution center in Lenexa, Kansas. Convey Health Solutions serves a diverse clientele, including Medicare plans, Medicaid payors, commercial health insurance plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and wellness companies across the United States. The company aims to enhance member interactions and ensure compliance through its comprehensive administrative solutions, which encompass enrollment, billing, compliance monitoring, and advisory services, all supported by proprietary technology and data analytics.

Safelite Group was founded at a single location in Wichita, Kansas in 1947 and has grown to become the largest auto glass specialist in the United States with more than 500 locations. From front and rear windshields to side glass, we’re proud to serve more than 4 million customers every year. Whatever your auto glass needs may be, there’s a good chance we can fix it through repair or replacement. Safelite AutoGlass is the nation's leading auto glass repair and replacement company. Only Safelite can give you the reliability of the Safelite Advantage:tm:.

Arvest Bank Group, headquartered in Lowell, Arkansas, operates over 250 branches across Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas, serving more than 120 communities. The bank is recognized for its commitment to customer service and has received accolades for being among America’s Best Large Employers. Arvest Bank Group offers a comprehensive range of financial services, including loans, deposits, treasury management, credit cards, and mortgage services. Additionally, the company provides investment management through its subsidiary, Arvest Investments, which specializes in retirement planning, education planning, and trust services, catering to both individual and corporate clients. Arvest Trust Company, also part of the group, focuses on asset management, trust services, and estate planning. With its locally managed markets and dedicated teams, Arvest Bank Group emphasizes personalized banking experiences while adhering to the principles of responsible lending and financial stewardship.

QTS Realty Trust operates as a technology infrastructure company that provides data center facilities and managed services. The company's managed facilities provide colocation, and monitoring and systems management services. Its managed services include managed storage/tape backup, security, disaster recovery, professional services, load balancing, application and database management, and monitoring and service management; and media services include media and streaming, media encoding and transcoding, event production, signal acquisition, creative services, and digital media library services. The company has strategic partnerships with IBM, Internap, Cisco Powered Network, Microsoft Gold Partner, EMC, Veritas, StorageTek (Sun), and Network Appliance. Quality Technology Services, Inc. was formerly known as e^deltacom. The company was incorporated in 2000 and is based in Suwanee, Georgia. It has facilities in Overland Park, Kansas; Atlanta, Georgia; Jersey City and Fairfield, New Jersey; Manhattan, New York; Santa Clara, California; Miami, Florida; Lenexa, Topeka, and Wichita, Kansas; and Indianapolis, Indiana. As of September 1, 2005, Quality Technology Services, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Quality Group of Companies, Inc.

TJC is a private equity firm that specializes in buying and building companies.

WireCo WorldGroup Inc. is a manufacturer and supplier of steel and synthetic ropes, specialty wires, and engineered products for various end markets, including industrial and infrastructure, oil and gas, fishing, mining, and maritime sectors. The company produces a wide range of products, such as drill lines, mining ropes, cranes, mooring lines, and electromechanical cables. It also specializes in synthetic ropes, yarns, and tapes used in applications like agriculture, cables, and concrete reinforcement. WireCo WorldGroup markets its offerings under several brands, including Union, CASAR, and Lankhorst Ropes, among others. The company serves a diverse clientele, including distributors, original equipment manufacturers, contractors, and multinational energy firms, through a global sales force. Founded in 1931 and based in Prairie Village, Kansas, WireCo WorldGroup was previously known as Wire Rope Corporation of America until its rebranding in 2007. It operates as a subsidiary of WireCo WorldGroup US Holdings, Inc.

Cartesian provides professional services in strategy, execution and managed solutions to global leaders in the communications, digital media, and technology industries. Cartesian, incorporating the brands formerly known as TMNG Global and CSMG, has offices in Boston, Kansas City, London, New York and Washington. The name Cartesian signifies intelligent and creative thinking, imaginative problem solving and technical expertise from its origins relating to the French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes. Up until this month, the company has been operating under the TMNG Global, CSMG and Cartesian brands in different markets. Now operating under the single Cartesian brand name, the company will continue to serve its clients with excellence through its portfolio of professional services in strategy, execution and managed solutions. The combination of the recent organizational changes, collapsing of business units, and the rebranding under the name Cartesian, all facilitate greater collaboration in support of higher-value engagements, the creation of IP and the delivery of cross-functional engagements, especially in the growing area of managed analytics. Cartesian will continue to focus on driving the long-term roadmap for its proprietary Ascertain® software solutions and overall technology enablement. “This change comes at a defining moment in our Company’s history as we operate as one firm, one team under a unified, single brand. The name Cartesian best defines our expert team, what we do for our clients, and reflects our business approach across strategy, execution and managed solutions. We continue to evolve the business and its offerings and as we move forward in our business transformation, now is the perfect time across the organization, to adopt the Cartesian name and all that it represents.” Donald Klumb, Chief Executive Officer of Cartesian

The American Journalism Project is the first venture philanthropy organization dedicated to local news by investing in and building nonprofit newsrooms that are sustained by and look like the people they serve. We make catalytic investments in nonprofit news organizations, partner with communities to launch new organizations, and coach leaders as they grow and sustain their newsrooms.

The McClatchy Company is a prominent newspaper publisher in the United States, operating 30 daily newspapers across 29 markets, including notable titles such as the Miami Herald, The Kansas City Star, and The Sacramento Bee. Founded in 1857 by James McClatchy during the California Gold Rush, the company initially focused on California but later expanded its reach to the Northwest and East Coast through strategic acquisitions. McClatchy has established itself as the leading local news provider in its markets, offering a range of services that include print and digital publications, community newspapers, and direct marketing. The company delivers content through its own websites, mobile applications, and various digital platforms. In 2006, McClatchy became the second-largest newspaper publisher in the U.S. after acquiring Knight Ridder Inc., although it subsequently streamlined its portfolio by selling non-strategic newspapers. McClatchy filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 in 2020, highlighting the challenges faced by traditional media in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Its headquarters are located in Sacramento, California.

VantEdge Partners, LP is a private equity investment firm founded in 2015 and located in Overland Park, Kansas. The firm specializes in middle market investments and focuses on various sectors, including industrial, distribution, business services, restaurants, sports, infrastructure, technology, and consumer markets. VantEdge Partners typically invests between $20 million to $75 million, and it is open to minority investments when collaborating with co-investors. The firm is dedicated to building partnerships that foster growth and value creation in its portfolio companies.

Koch Disruptive Technologies (KDT), established in 2017 and based in Wichita, Kansas, focuses on originating and investing in innovative entrepreneurs and technologies across various industries. Its investment strategy encompasses sectors such as healthcare, supply chain and manufacturing, cybersecurity, fintech, semiconductors, connectivity, enterprise software, and energy transformation. KDT aims to enhance the existing businesses of Koch Industries and foster new opportunities for growth. Additionally, the firm offers strategic support to its portfolio companies through Koch Labs, further emphasizing its commitment to driving innovation and creating value.

Enterprise Bank & Trust provides banking products and services. Enterprise Bank & Trust operates 28 branch offices in the St. Louis, Kansas City and Phoenix metropolitan areas. Enterprise Bank & Trust offers a range of business and personal banking services, and wealth management services. Enterprise Trust, a division of Enterprise Bank & Trust, provides financial planning, estate planning, investment management, and trust services to businesses, individuals, institutions, retirement plans and non-profit organizations.

Akumin Inc. is a Canada-based company that specializes in outpatient diagnostic imaging services across the United States. With a network of 129 imaging centers located in states such as Florida, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Georgia, Texas, Illinois, and Kansas, Akumin provides essential imaging capabilities to physicians, thereby aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and disorders. The company offers a comprehensive range of medical imaging services, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), ultrasound, X-ray, mammography, and other diagnostic or interventional radiology procedures. By reducing unnecessary invasive procedures, Akumin aims to minimize costs and improve the overall care experience for patients. The company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

SafetyCulture Pty Ltd is a technology company based in Sydney, Australia, that specializes in developing mobile applications aimed at improving workplace safety and operational efficiency. Its flagship product, SafetyCulture iAuditor, enables real-time audits and inspections across various industries, including construction, hospitality, retail, and manufacturing. The platform allows teams to digitize inspections, manage assets, and report issues, fostering a culture of safety and compliance. SafetyCulture offers customizable solutions focused on health and safety management, risk compliance, and sustainability, enhancing productivity and visibility for organizations. Founded in 1999 and originally known as Wades Business Solutions Pty Ltd, the company rebranded in 2010 and has since expanded its presence with offices in Kansas City, Manchester, Townsville, and Manila.

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.

Operator of real estate investment trust based in Kansas City, Missouri. The company specializes in regional market analysis, projections, rent roll analysis, environmental reporting, insurance needs assessment, renovation and immediate repair solutions.

Seaboard Corporation is a diversified agribusiness and transportation company based in Merriam, Kansas, with operations spanning six segments. The Pork segment focuses on the production and sale of fresh and frozen pork products, including loins and tenderloins, serving various markets such as foodservice and grocery stores. In Commodity Trading and Milling, the company sources and markets agricultural commodities like wheat and corn, while also producing flour and feed. The Marine segment provides cargo shipping services across the United States and 26 countries in the Caribbean and Central and South America, operating a fleet of chartered and owned vessels. Seaboard's Sugar and Alcohol segment produces sugar and alcohol and generates energy through a cogeneration power plant. Additionally, the Power segment acts as an independent power producer in the Dominican Republic. The Turkey segment markets both branded and non-branded turkey products domestically and internationally. Founded in 1918, Seaboard's evolution has included growth through acquisitions and partnerships, maintaining its commitment to agriculture and transportation.

The Enterprise Center of Johnson County is the result of the vision, commitment and collaboration of greater Kansas City’s most respected civic and business leaders. In January 1989, Johnson County Community College President, Charles Carlsen, convened a Business Incubator Task Force (the Task Force) to study the feasibility and impact of developing a Business Incubator in Johnson County. President Carlsen invited a wide range of leadership to participate in the Task Force, including representatives from entrepreneurial ventures, state, county and local government organizations, economic development, banking and venture capital, law firms and the business community. The Enterprise Center of Johnson County is the result of the vision, commitment and collaboration of greater Kansas City’s most respected civic and business leaders. In January 1989, Johnson County Community College President, Charles Carlsen, convened a Business Incubator Task Force (the Task Force) to study the feasibility and impact of developing a Business Incubator in Johnson County. President Carlsen invited a wide range of leadership to participate in the Task Force, including representatives from entrepreneurial ventures, state, county and local government organizations, economic development, banking and venture capital, law firms and the business community.

The IMA Financial Group, Inc. specializes in risk management, insurance, employee benefits, and wealth management. It is the ninth largest privately held and employee-owned insurance broker in the country and employs nearly 650 associates at offices in Colorado, Kansas, Michigan, New York and Texas.

TGP Investments, L.L.C., founded in 1998 and based in Kansas City, Missouri, is a merchant banking firm focused on middle-market private equity investing. The firm specializes in identifying and investing in profitable and growing companies within the manufacturing, distribution, and business services sectors. TGP Investments is the managing entity for TGP Capital Partners, which seeks to provide growth capital aimed at facilitating acquisitions, internal growth, or liquidity events for existing shareholders. The firm typically invests between $5 million and $14 million in both control and minority equity positions, partnering with experienced management teams in companies with revenues ranging from $15 million to $150 million. With a strong investment team, TGP Investments aims to support the development and expansion of its portfolio companies.

Saint Luke's Health System is a not-for-profit health organization based in Kansas City, Missouri, established in 1882. It is dedicated to providing comprehensive health care and health-related services within a supportive environment. The health system offers a wide range of services, including brain and spine care, cancer treatment, diabetes management, heart and vascular care, home care and hospice, liver disease management, maternity and neonatal services, rehabilitation, weight-loss surgery, and women's health. Notably, Saint Luke's is recognized for its heart transplant programs and cardiovascular disease research. The organization emphasizes both physical and mental health, aiming to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves.

Capital For Business, Inc. is a private equity investment firm based in St. Louis, Missouri, with an additional office in Kansas City. Founded in 1959, the firm focuses on investing in middle-market, family-owned businesses, particularly in the manufacturing and value-added industrial services sectors. Capital For Business specializes in various investment strategies, including management buyouts, leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations, and corporate divestitures, while avoiding sectors such as real estate, financial institutions, and unproven technologies. The firm typically invests between $500,000 and $30 million in companies with revenues ranging from $10 million to $100 million and targets enterprise values between $5 million and $100 million. It has a patient investment approach, generally holding investments for five to seven years, and actively seeks to participate in the management of its portfolio companies by taking board positions. Capital For Business also leverages its extensive network within the private equity community to support its investments and facilitate follow-on funding when necessary.