Edward Barnholt

The Tech Interactive is a science and technology center located in downtown San Jose, CA. The non-profit company offers hands-on activities, experimental labs, and design challenge experiences to inspire innovation and problem-solving skills in people of all ages. The company is committed to providing immersive STEM experiences for learners and educators through their exhibits, IMAX films, and signature programs like The Tech Challenge. The Bowers Institute also offers online resources and workshops to teach educators about new advances in STEM teaching. The company was founded by Edwin V. Zschau and David S. Lee.

Silicon Valley Leadership Group operates as an advocacy organization to influence public policy relating to the valley. The non-profit company is based in San Jose, CA.

Headquartered in Fremont, California, Solyndra designs and manufactures solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, comprised of panels and mounts, for the commercial rooftop market. Solyndra’s CIGS technology is a proven and scalable solar solution that offers strong ROI and economics for the rooftop owner . The company has installed its systems on more than 1000 rooftops in more than 20 countries. In 2010 Solyndra was named “One of the 50 Most Innovative Companies in the World” by MIT’s Technology Review Magazine. Using innovative cylindrical modules and thin film CIGS technology, Solyndra systems are designed to provide the lowest levelized cost of electricity and the highest kilowatt hour production per rooftop for typical installations. The unique Solyndra form factor is designed specifically for the commercial rooftop, offering the fastest and easiest installation, a non-penetrating mounting system, and superior wind, snow and soiling performance. In addition Solyndra offers energy and conservation advantages when installed in conjunction with a white or “cool” roof. Founded in 2005, today the company employs high-volume manufacturing based on proven technologies and processes to meet the needs of the global solar market. Solyndra manufactures its products in the United States where it currently operates a state-of-the-art 300,000 square foot front-end manufacturing factory and a 500,000 square foot back-end facility. The manufacturing facility has helped Solyndra drive costs down dramatically allowing the company to offer highly competitive “all in” installed cost on the rooftop. In 2011 Solyndra will double it’s production capacity, ramping toward 300MW in 2012. The company employs approximately 1050 employees around the world and has offices in the United States, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and France. Revenues were approximately $140 million in 2010.

Founded in 1964, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations in the following program areas: conservation and science, population and reproductive health and children, families and communities. The Foundation provides national and international grants and has a special focus on the Northern California counties of San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz and Monterey. The David and Lucile Packard Foundation is headquartered in Los Altos, CA.