Fusion energy is transitioning from breakthrough science to commercial reality. Is now the right moment for institutional investors to take fusion seriously? This session explores the commercialization roadmap, key milestones, and the Great Lakes region’s role in shaping the industry. 
●    milestones & pathways to commercialisation/grid integration
●    government and private sector tailwinds driving the sector
●    the fusion supply chain: immediate investment opportunities
●    how can Midwest capital play a defining role
 

The Midwest is already home to pioneering fusion companies. This session brings a leading fusion technology firm, SHINE Technologies, on stage with some of their investors to discuss its four-stage strategy for de-risking its journey to commercial fusion and to explore the investment proposition.
●    what attracted backers to SHINE—and what can others learn?
●    critical milestones in their capital formation journey
●    strategies for leveraging Midwest resources to accelerate development
 

Fresh from securing a significant Series A round, Realta Fusion represents the next wave of fusion energy companies. Company executives and investors will discuss:
●    the unique technological solution differentiating Realta in the fusion landscape
●    key factors that convinced investors to back their approach
●    how regional collaboration can strengthen the Midwest's position as a fusion energy hub
 

Opportunity for investors and fusion industry leaders to connect.

This session highlights concrete pathways for Midwest manufacturers and suppliers to enter the growing fusion energy supply chain. Industry leaders will outline specific component and service needs, qualification requirements, and partnership models that create immediate business opportunities.
●    components and capabilities in demand: High-precision manufacturing, advanced materials, specialized engineering services, and testing requirements
●    technical specifications and qualification processes: What Midwest suppliers need to know to position for success
●    partnership models: How established manufacturers can engage with fusion developers through strategic supplier relationships, joint ventures, and technology collaborations
●    capital requirements and funding strategies for retooling existing manufacturing capabilities

Fusion and its supply chain require diverse financing strategies, from venture capital and strategic investment to government partnerships. This panel will provide institutional investors with actionable insights into how to structure investments in this emerging sector.
●    how different investor types (VC, PE, corporates, LPs) can participate
●    structuring risk-adjusted investments in fusion and supply chain companies
●    fusion investment vs. other deep-tech and energy transition opportunities
●    what early movers in fusion investing have learned