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BBG Ventures (BBGV) announced today the close of its Fund II at $60 million. This fund brings BBGV’s total assets under management to $130 million. The fund also attracted an impressive array of new partners to the fund, with notable names like Fairview, Pivotal Ventures, California Endowment, and Mizuho. Returning lead institutional partners included State of Michigan Retirement Services, Illumen Capital, and the George Kaiser Family Foundation, signaling their strong belief in the fund’s trajectory.

BBGV’s Fund II strategy was shaped by proprietary research with Centiment conducted over the last year with more than 2,000 Americans across race, gender, age, and income, to better understand how and whether identity shapes priorities. The findings, published today in a report titled, "Investing in the Polycultural Future of America," give voice to profound demographic and economic shifts that are reshaping the nation. The emergence of the majority-minority, a rapidly-aging population, and widening wealth gaps are creating a mosaic of unique segments where identities are complex, dynamic and evolving. Despite these differences, the research uncovered surprisingly common concerns across nearly every age group, race and gender. The pressing needs it identified within health and wellbeing, financial security, employment, education, and underserved consumers will guide BBG Venture’s future investments. 

“At BBGV, we’ve always believed that identifying underserved segments, and seeking out the founders who understand them best, will drive the strongest outcomes,” said Nisha Dua, BBGV co-founder and managing partner. “The survey findings show so many shared priorities, but also a need for nuanced solutions that founders with a deep understanding of this new America are best equipped to deliver.”

Moving forward, BBGV will invest in founding teams that include either diverse founding members or female founders solving the problems of today's polycultural America.

“We think founders who bring a combination of lived and learned experience to company building have a competitive advantage,” said Susan Lyne, BBGV co-founder and managing partner. “Investing in women will always be a core element of that thesis, but our research has moved us to broaden our investment mandate to include all underrepresented founders.”

In addition to expanding the mandate, BBG Ventures is also launching its first operator network. As a firm, BBGV has always offered more than just capital, and the Operator Network takes that support even further. Portfolio founders will be paired, based on need, with multi-industry leaders spanning product, engineering, growth, operations, supply chain & logistics, GTM, consumer social, marketing and finance. The list of leaders include operators from Snap, Reddit, Slack, One Medical, Dropbox, Harry’s, Spotify, Google, Otter AI, Glossier, and many more. 

Additional investors who affirmed their confidence in the fund’s new vision include returning partners Bank of America, Global Endowment Management, Gingerbread Capital, Nordstrom and Verizon, along with new partner I-Bank of California.

Before BBGV’s most recent fund in 2021, Lyne and Dua led two funds inside AOL, investing in companies such as triple-unicorn Spring Health, HopSkipDrive, Zola and KiwiCo. This is BBGV’s second fund as an independent firm. Notable investments from the firm’s first institutional fund, BBG Ventures Fund I, include Canela TV, Starface, Topline Pro and Supercircle.  

About BBG Ventures

BBG Ventures (BBGV) is a seed and pre-seed venture fund backing high growth companies with founders who are uniquely qualified to move the world forward. Co-founded in 2014 by managing partners Susan Lyne (ABC Entertainment, Martha Stewart, Gilt, AOL, GoPro and Blade) and Nisha Dua (Bain, AOL, BUILT BY GIRLS), the firm has since become one of the most active investors in female and diverse founders in the United States. BBGV portfolio companies meet the mandate of serving “Polycultural America,” a term coined by BBGV to represent the pressing needs of today’s diverse society. These founders are bringing new thinking to sectors where change is overdue, such as healthcare, future of work, fintech, climate and underserved consumers, solving problems for millions of Americans via B2B and B2C business models. BBGV has raised $130 million in capital to date and portfolio companies include leaders such as double unicorn Spring Health, KiwiCo, HopSkipDrive, Zola, Canela Media, Starface, Topline Pro, and Supercircle. As of today, 96% of the companies in BBGV’s portfolio have at least one female co-founder and 84% have at least one co-founder of color. For more information visit www.bbgventures.com, follow on bbgventures and connect on BBG Ventures. 

Media Contact

Emily Tschirhart
bbg@jbc-pr.com

Elizabeth Sheils and Nora Sheils, co-founders of Rock Paper Coin, have built a game-changing solution tailored to event professionals and creative business owners. In an industry often bogged down by complicated, one-size-fits-all tools, co-founders Elizabeth and Nora understand the specific needs of event professionals with a combined 30 years of experience in the event industry. Unlike larger CRM providers who prioritize feature-heavy interfaces, Rock Paper Coin prioritizes ease of use, addressing the pain points of an underserved audience by focusing on what really matters: simple, efficient tools that just get the job done.

“What makes Rock Paper Coin unique is our commitment to our clients. We don’t just know what they want; we know what they need,” says Elizabeth. “Traditional CRMs often miss the mark for event professionals, leaving them frustrated with systems that don’t fit their workflow. With Rock Paper Coin, we’re solving the real problems—streamlining contracts, invoices, and payments with tools that are intuitive and quick to use.”

The secret to their success lies in their deep industry knowledge and their passion for creating software that aligns with real-world challenges. Rock Paper Coin was designed by operators who not only understand the day-to-day struggles of the events business but also understand where the industry is headed.

“We saw where our competitors were going and knew it wasn’t going to work for the professionals we know and respect,” adds Nora. “Rock Paper Coin isn’t about unnecessary bells and whistles; it’s about providing solutions that empower our users to work more efficiently, close deals faster, and improve their bottom line.”

With 70% of Rock Paper Coin’s signups now driven by referrals, co-founders Elizabeth and Nora are demonstrating clear product-market fit. Their dedication to listening to clients and refining their product has paid off, as they continue to shape a solution that resonates deeply with event professionals. Guided by a commitment to simplicity, these industry veterans have transformed their vision into a highly effective tool tailored to meet the unique needs of the market. September marked their best month on record, reinforcing that they’re onto something truly exceptional.

About Rock Paper Coin

Based in Portland, Rock Paper Coin is the leading client management platform for event professionals and creative business owners, offering an intuitive suite of tools for managing contracts, invoices, and payments. Designed to bridge the gap between event vendors and clients, Rock Paper Coin simplifies the booking and planning process, empowering professionals to work smarter and grow their businesses with ease. For more information, visit https://rockpapercoin.com.

Media Contact

Elizabeth Sheils
elizabeth@rockpapercoin.com

Haiper, the AI platform for visual content creation, this week launched its new Haiper 2.0 model, to help users generate hyper-realistic videos and images faster than ever before, setting a new industry standard for quality.

Haiper 2.0 utilises a proprietary combination of transformer-based models and diffusion techniques, significantly enhancing the quality, realism, and creation speed of generated content. Haiper recently surpassed the 4.5 million user milestone in its first seven months out of stealth. Alongside this updated model, Haiper is also launching Video Templates—blueprint formats for creative, trending videos or product marketing ads. The categories of Templates continue to grow, as Haiper's community contributes new designs.

The new Haiper 2.0 model will produce higher quality outputs, 4K resolution soon, and faster generation times. The new model will also increase temporal coherence with smoother and more lifelike movements. As Haiper scales, the company’s perceptual diffusion transformer (DiT) video models and advanced neural architectures will provide unparalleled performance in resolution, dynamism, and speed.

Dr Yishu Miao, co-founder and CEO of Haiper, commented: “Haiper 2.0 is a groundbreaking upgrade to our widely used and celebrated video generation model. Users will be able to generate ultra-realistic videos faster than ever before. At Haiper, we incorporate creators’ feedback to actively improve aspects that matter most to them: generation speed, realism, and temporal consistency. Launching Templates alongside Haiper 2.0 will make it easier for creators—whether hobbyists, enthusiasts or enterprise customers—to explore new use cases.”

Launched: Video Templates

Haiper 2.0 launches alongside Templates, a series of well-designed workflows to help users animate and transform images into videos. Templates include a range of business use cases, such as logo and product animations; and fun, viral videos: users can morph still images of people and backgrounds into shareable videos, such as characters kissing or hugging, face swapping, or viral TikTok dances. Users simply upload images to a template, and Haiper generates a high-quality video, saving time on typing specific prompts. Videos can then be adapted with further prompts, to ensure generations precisely fit the user’s vision.

Haiper History

Haiper was founded in late 2021 by Dr. Yishu Miao (CEO) and Dr. Ziyu Wang (CTO), both with PhDs in machine learning from Oxford University and former researchers at Google’s DeepMind. The company’s co-founders have experience working alongside AI pioneers, including Geoffrey Hinton, Nando de Freitas, and Phil Blunsom.

Since Haiper’s launch and $13.8M seed round earlier in 2024, the platform has launched additional capabilities, including HD upscaler, text-to-image generation, and keyframe conditioning for ultra-precise videos. Haiper is also leveraging NVIDIA technologies as they explore video generation up to 30 seconds.

About Haiper

Haiper is a video-generative AI platform building a powerful foundation model for visual content. Scaling to become Europe’s powerhouse for visual generative AI, the company has raised $19.2M to date. Founded in late 2021 by Dr. Yishu Miao (CEO) and Dr. Ziyu Wang (CTO), Haiper has expanded its team to 30 people, from eight different countries. The company is headquartered in London and also has an office in Toronto. To learn more, visit https://haiper.ai.

Media Contact

Stacie Chan
stacie.chan@haiper.ai

This month, Hollywood Vacation Rentals celebrated a memorable company event to honor its growth and expansion, marking the addition of seven luxury villas to its management portfolio. The event gathered team members, partners, and local leaders to celebrate this milestone and showcase the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences. With these new properties, Hollywood Vacation Rentals continues to elevate its offerings, solidifying its place as a leader in the South Florida vacation rental market.

Hollywood Vacation Rentals is a premier ​vacation rental company in Florida, offering over 40 luxurious villas in the vibrant South Florida landscape. Catering to families, groups, and discerning travelers, the company specializes in properties that provide comfort and a unique sense of privacy. Many of these villas feature private pools, offering guests an exclusive space to unwind and enjoy the sun.

Unmatched Reputation: Top-Rated Rentals with Glowing Reviews

Hollywood Vacation Rentals commitment to excellence is reflected in thousands of glowing reviews on platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. The company has earned Superhost status, a recognition for hosts who consistently deliver exceptional service and maintain impeccably clean accommodations. Guests regularly praise the professionalism and attention to detail, making ​Hollywood Vacation Rentals a top choice for visitors to South Florida.

Flexible and Diverse Rental Options

Hollywood Vacation Rentals understands the varied needs of travelers, offering long-term, short-term, and ​monthly house rentals, including beachfront properties. This flexibility ensures there is an option that suits every guest, whether you're planning a weekend escape or an extended stay. Each rental is thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities, creating a welcoming, home-like atmosphere for any length of stay. For seasonal visitors, the Snowbird program provides convenient accommodations tailored to longer stays.

Exclusive Deals and Luxurious Amenities

Hollywood Vacation Rentals offers exclusive deals, including last-minute offers and special discounts. Booking a ​rental with a private heated pool near Miami adds an extra touch of luxury. Guests can book directly on our website at ​hollywoodvacationrental.com and avoid platform booking fees, ensuring a more personalized experience and better rates that cater to individual needs.

Experience the Best of South Florida

Hollywood Vacation Rentals prioritizes guest satisfaction, offering luxurious accommodations and private amenities. Their dedication to ​top-tier service and memorable experiences has made them a trusted name in South Florida. For your next getaway, choose Hollywood Vacation Rentals and immerse yourself in the beauty and vibrancy of Florida’s premier coastal destination.

About Hollywood Vacation Rentals

Hollywood Vacation Rentals is South Florida's premier vacation home rental agency. Our carefully selected collection of properties is designed to promote a sense of peace and harmony, allowing our guests to relax, reconnect with friends and family, and above all have fun. Plan your dream South Florida vacation today at ​hollywoodvacationrental.com.

Media Contact

Hollywood Vacation Rentals
Info@hollywoodvacationrental.com

HomeBoost, a home energy platform, today announced its launch out of stealth and the nationwide availability of its inaugural product: BoostBox. A DIY home energy assessment kit, BoostBox empowers homeowners to understand how they can increase their home’s energy efficiency to save on their utility bills and live more comfortably. 

Nine of 10 homes in the US today are under-insulated, with significant air leaks, inefficient appliances, and clogged furnace filters amplifying the discomfort many homeowners experience on a daily basis. Coupled with extreme heat and historic inflation, the average home energy bill in the US during Summer 2024 was the highest in ten years and nearly 8% higher than 2023. Some households now spend nearly 20% of their income on heating and cooling their home as a result. Third parties can recommend energy improvements, but are expensive, in short supply, and often leave homeowners unsure about next steps. HomeBoost makes it fast and easy for homeowners to determine how to make their homes more efficient and make a positive long term impact on their budgets for a fraction of the cost. 

"Consumer studies show there is a massive appetite among homeowners to make changes that improve the livability of their homes while cutting down on energy bills. The problem is they don’t know where to start," said Selina Tobaccowala, CEO and co-founder of HomeBoost. "HomeBoost enables homeowners to drive the process with confidence while providing unbiased, trusted advice along the way.”

BoostBox is the first DIY home energy assessment kit that amplifies ease-of-use for homeowners with the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision-driven analysis:

• Comparable results, cheaper price tag: Available for $99, BoostBox is approximately 80% cheaper than a home auditor and provides nearly the exact same set of findings.
• Compact, easy-to-use hardware: BoostBox includes a thermal camera that plugs into an iPhone along with a blacklight. The thermal camera helps HomeBoost determine where insulation can be improved, window drafts mitigated, and more, while the blacklight shows which incandescent light bulbs can be replaced with longer lasting LEDs.  
• Step-by-step guidance: The HomeBoost mobile app—available for free download on the Apple App Store—walks homeowners through the entire assessment process. They can choose to focus on specific problem areas in 30 minutes or less or conduct a comprehensive scan of their entire home. 
• Personalized, actionable insights: HomeBoost’s AI and computer vision engine quickly turns the inputs homeowners share into a detailed report, complete with recommendations on product upgrades, maintenance they can complete themselves, and larger projects that require contractors.
• Optimized for cost savings: Every recommendation outlines the upfront cost, the savings homeowners can expect to gain, and the amount of time to recoup their investment. This is boosted by input on how to maximize local and federal rebates.

Today, HomeBoost’s technology constantly learns from what homeowners share during their assessment and external inputs like utility rates and weather, which speeds the time it takes to provide the knowledge they need to take action. The data HomeBoost is training its model with today will, in the future, become the building block of a robust marketplace where utilities, contractors, and financing partners work together to help homeowners on their path to energy efficiency.

HomeBoost also announced it has secured $4 million in seed funding from True Ventures, Gigascale Capital, and Incite.org. With consumer energy costs continuing to soar across the country, the investment will be used to fuel customer growth, accelerate technological development, and expand the team.

"HomeBoost and its experienced team of serial-entrepreneurs and technologists are combining the power of software-enabled hardware, personalized commerce, and marketplace to help homeowners reduce energy costs and their carbon footprints at large," said Jon Callaghan, co-founder of True Ventures. "This intersection of technology and mission-focused intent excites us, as does the passion of this team. Deciding to invest was a ‘know-it-when-you-see-it moment’ for us."

"The EPA estimates well-insulated and sealed homes can reduce heating and cooling costs by 15%," said Mike Schroepfer, Partner at Gigascale Capital. "By making home energy efficiency data more accessible, HomeBoost helps people find savings, cut their emissions now, and also prepares them for larger electrification projects down the road, like installing heat pumps or solar panels."

To learn more about HomeBoost and to purchase a BoostBox today, visit www.homeboost.com.

About HomeBoost

HomeBoost is a home energy platform founded by longtime consumer product entrepreneurs to provide trusted partnership at every stage of the homeownership journey. Its initial product—BoostBox—gives homeowners the tools and personalized insights they need to improve their home energy efficiency, save money on utility bills, and live more comfortably. Backed by prominent venture capital firms including True Ventures, Gigascale Capital, and Incite.org, HomeBoost was founded in 2023 and is headquartered in San Francisco. For more information, visit www.homeboost.com.

Media Contact

Patrick Mahoney
press@homeboost.com

Advention, an independent global strategy advisory group, announces the release of its latest white paper, titled "Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Navigating the Landscape." This timely report examines critical gaps in global pandemic preparedness and response (PPR) frameworks and presents actionable strategies to strengthen resilience, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

As the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted stark disparities in healthcare systems worldwide, Advention's comprehensive analysis underscores the urgent need for greater collaboration across public and private sectors. This white paper offers a strategic roadmap for stakeholders to address the vulnerabilities exposed by the pandemic, providing a detailed six-step framework designed to enhance both national and global health security.

The white paper explores the pivotal role of the private sector and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in shaping effective PPR strategies. It outlines approaches to stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, capacity building, innovative financing, and continuous strategy adaptation.

“Pandemic preparedness is not just a health issue; it is a matter of global stability and economic resilience.” said Mugheer Dirwish, UK Managing Director at Advention. “With this white paper, we aim to provide actionable insights and strategic guidance to ensure that the global health community, particularly in LMICs, is better equipped to respond to future pandemics.”

Advention's white paper is a must-read for pharmaceutical companies, NGOs, national health authorities, and other stakeholders committed to bolstering global pandemic resilience. It draws on lessons from COVID-19 and focuses on market-shaping activities, collaboration, and innovation to create more sustainable healthcare systems.

The white paper, "Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Navigating the Landscape" is available for download on Advention's website: https://www.adventionbp.com/insights.

About Advention

Advention is an independent strategy advisory group with offices in Dubai, London, New York, Shanghai and Paris. It offers corporate and business unit strategy, growth strategy and performance improvement services to various sectors, and was recognized by Forbes as a top global consulting firm. To learn more, visit https://www.adventionbp.com.

Media Contact

Mugheer Dirwish
mugheer.dirwish@adventionbp.com

At the International Conference "Nuclear Opportunities for the Country's Development: Wartime and Post-War Reconstruction," held in Kyiv on October 15, 2024, over 200 participants confirmed the critical role of nuclear energy in ensuring Ukraine's economic resilience. Petro Kotin, acting CEO of Energoatom, underscored how essential nuclear power is for the nation’s energy stability.

“Nuclear energy is Ukraine’s only dependable source of electricity and heat amidst Russian aggression. The expansion of nuclear facilities and the construction of new reactors are not just priorities; they are crucial for the country’s future,” Kotin stated.

Kotin highlighted that Ukraine’s nuclear sector ranks second in Europe, trailing only France’s EDF in installed capacity. Timofiy Milovanov, a member of Energoatom's Supervisory Board, emphasized nuclear energy’s pivotal role in maintaining Ukraine’s energy security during the war. He lauded Energoatom's swift shift away from Russian dependency for nuclear fuel and equipment and for successfully preparing all nine reactors under Ukrainian control for the winter.

“Fifteen years ago, Ukraine’s nuclear sector was heavily reliant on Russia. Today, Energoatom has dramatically changed that,” said Milovanov. “Despite the ongoing war, our nuclear operator completed an unprecedented maintenance effort, preparing all reactors for the winter ahead.”

In a video message, Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), expressed confidence in Ukraine's nuclear energy renaissance. He affirmed continued international support for expanding nuclear capacity, particularly at the Khmelnitsky NPP.

“Ukraine will once again have one of the largest nuclear programs in Europe. Protecting this vital source of energy, now and in the post-war period, is crucial,” Grossi stressed.

Tim Gitzel, CEO of Cameco, emphasized the growing partnership with Energoatom. "We are proud to fully support Ukraine’s energy independence. Our partnership includes 100% fuel supply for Energoatom, along with technical support for uranium production," Gitzel explained. He added that Cameco stands ready to assist in building new reactors in Ukraine.

Riaz Awan, Vice President of Holtec International, praised Energoatom’s resilience: “No other nuclear operator in the world has dealt with the challenges Energoatom has faced. Despite missile and drone attacks, they continue to operate reactors and deliver power.” Awan reaffirmed Holtec's commitment to its SMR 300 modular reactor projects with Energoatom, even amidst wartime.

Although nine reactors across three Ukrainian plants are operational, the Zaporizhzhia NPP, Europe’s largest, remains offline. Since being seized by Russian forces in March 2022, it has been used as a military base, violating essential nuclear safety protocols.

About Energoatom

Energoatom, officially known as the National Nuclear Energy Generating Company of Ukraine, is the state-owned operator of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants. Established to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient generation of nuclear power, Energoatom is a key player in Ukraine’s energy sector, providing nearly half of the country's electricity needs. With 15 reactors across four nuclear power plants, Energoatom ranks as Europe’s second-largest nuclear power generator by installed capacity.

Since the start of the conflict, Energoatom has not only maintained operations under challenging conditions but also expedited efforts to achieve full independence from Russian nuclear fuel and materials. In partnership with international companies like Westinghouse and Holtec International, Energoatom is advancing Ukraine's nuclear energy infrastructure to ensure long-term energy security, economic resilience, and alignment with international safety and environmental standards.

For more information, visit https://energoatom.com.ua.

Media Contact

JSC NNEGC Energoatom
pr@atom.gov.ua

CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid, one of the leading crypto payment providers globally, recently shared its performance results for the third quarter of 2024. The company achieved a remarkable €2.23 trillion in total turnover from crypto and fiat transactions, reflecting almost a 27% increase compared to Q3 2023.

During Q3 2024, CryptoProcessing handled nearly 2.52 million transactions, serving a wide range of sectors, including e-commerce, travel, real estate, luxury goods, education, and more.

Commenting on these results, Hanna Drabysheuskaya, CFO of CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid, said:

"Crypto payments are a powerful and dynamic financial force that more and more businesses are choosing today. We serve clients across various sectors—from e-commerce and travel to real estate, rental services, online booking, luxury goods, education, and beyond—providing them with the ability to connect with crypto users. This service is essential, as 617 million people already hold and use cryptocurrencies. We foresee crypto continuing to spread rapidly due to its numerous business advantages, such as lower transaction fees, faster and more affordable cross-border payments, and access to a growing global audience."

About CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid

CryptoProcessing by CoinsPaid is a trusted provider of crypto payment solutions for businesses. With over a decade of cryptocurrency expertise, CryptoProcessing serves hundreds of merchants worldwide, offering seamless integration and support for a wide range of cryptocurrencies. To learn more, visit https://en.cryptoprocessing.com.

Media Contact

Yuliia Zhulii
yuliia.zhulii@coinspaid.com

The founders of the European Bartending School (EBS) have officially launched DrinksWorld.com, an online platform designed to captivate cocktail lovers and aspiring bartenders alike. Building on the success of BarSchool.net, the world's largest bartending school with locations in 25 countries, DrinksWorld.com is set to offer a dynamic range of resources that bring the art of bartending to a wider global audience.

"With DrinksWorld.com, we wanted to take everything we've learned through the years and create a fun, informative space where people can explore the world of cocktails," said Lasse Huss Madsen, one of the co-founders. "Our goal was to ensure that whether you're a seasoned bartender or just starting, you have access to the best information and resources."

DrinksWorld.com isn't just another recipe site; it's an immersive platform that brings the founders' 25 years of industry expertise to life. With a sleek, easy-to-navigate design, it offers more than 500 meticulously crafted cocktail recipes-each complete with step-by-step instructions and tutorials-so users can master drinks from the comfort of their homes. In-depth articles on everything from spirit profiles to bartending techniques complement this growing library of classic and contemporary recipes.

One of the standout features of DrinksWorld.com is its comprehensive online bartending courses. Modeled after EBS's expert-developed programs, these courses allow users to hone their bartending skills and even earn certifications, all without leaving home. Each course, much like the content on the site, is fact-checked and verified by professional bartenders to maintain the high standards set by EBS over the years.

According to Lasse, "We've always prioritized professional education with EBS, and with DrinksWorld.com, we're able to expand that to an even larger audience. Whether you want to sharpen your skills or get certified, our courses are designed to fit into your life."

In addition to the courses, DrinksWorld.com offers personalized features. Visitors can create accounts to bookmark favorite recipes, articles, and techniques, making it easier to track their progress and revisit content at their convenience. The platform also delivers the latest industry trends, ensuring that both professionals and home bartenders stay up to date on new spirits, cocktail innovations, and new bartending techniques.

DrinksWorld.com draws its strength from the years of industry knowledge amassed through EBS's journey. Launched with a single school, EBS rapidly expanded into the most respected bartending institution in the world, and now, with this online venture, its founders are bringing that same level of passion and professionalism to a new platform. DrinksWorld.com represents a continuation of their mission to share the art of bartending on a global scale.

"DrinksWorld gives us the chance to reach beyond the classroom and engage with people who are just as excited about drinks as we are," said Lasse. "The platform lets us share what we've learned from hundreds of expert bartenders and instructors, and inspire others in the process."

DrinksWorld.com is designed to be the ultimate resource. From its extensive recipe database to its educational articles and industry updates, DrinksWorld.com aims to be a hub for anyone passionate about the world of cocktails and spirits.

About DrinksWorld

Founded by the team behind the European Bartending School, DrinksWorld is an online platform dedicated to all things drinks, bartending, and spirits. Featuring expert-verified content, an extensive recipe database, and interactive bartending courses, DrinksWorld offers a rich, engaging experience for cocktail enthusiasts and professionals alike. For more information, please feel free to visit our website at drinksworld.com.

Media Contact

Lasse Huss Madsen
info@drinksworld.com

SugarMD, a leader in diabetes care solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its rebranded website, designed to provide an Amazon-like shopping experience tailored specifically for the diabetes community. This cutting-edge platform offers streamlined navigation, personalized product recommendations, secure transactions, and dedicated customer support—all aimed at making diabetes management as convenient and accessible as possible.

A New Era of Convenience for Diabetes Patients

With SugarMD’s newly enhanced website, customers can expect a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, optimized for easy access to essential diabetes care products. Modeled after Amazon’s renowned service experience, the platform ensures a seamless shopping journey and faster delivery times, all built with the specific needs of diabetes patients in mind.

Key features of the new website include:

• Enhanced navigation: Patients can quickly locate products with improved search and category functions.
• Personalized recommendations: Based on individual health profiles and previous purchases, the site suggests products tailored to each user’s unique needs.
• Secure transactions: SugarMD prioritizes privacy and data security, with a secure checkout process to protect customer information.
• Responsive customer support: A dedicated support team is ready to assist with any inquiries, ensuring a smooth and satisfying shopping experience.

“We’re incredibly excited to introduce our rebranded web experience,” said Dr. Ahmet Ergin, founder of SugarMD. “Our goal was to create a platform that meets the unique needs of the diabetes community while providing a world-class shopping experience. With this launch, we’re committing to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance our customers’ lives.”

Accessing the New Experience

Set to launch in mid-December, the rebranded SugarMD website can be accessed at both sugarmds.com and sugarmd.com, offering patients and online shoppers an opportunity to explore its advanced features and discover the ease of purchasing their diabetes care essentials.

SugarMD offers a comprehensive, holistic approach to our supplements, meticulously crafted in FDA-approved facilities. Dr. Ergin added, “Our commitment to quality is evident at every stage of our manufacturing process, adhering to the highest standards for purity and efficacy. Through rigorous quality control measures, we ensure that each product is both effective and safe for managing glucose levels, underscoring our dedication to providing reliable, high-quality health solutions. We invite you to explore our new site and discover how we strive to exceed your expectations.”

With this rebranding, SugarMD brings diabetes care into a new era of digital convenience, setting a higher standard for accessible, personalized, and secure diabetes management solutions.

About SugarMD

SugarMD is dedicated to empowering individuals living with diabetes by offering a wide range of high-quality products and resources. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, SugarMD aims to transform diabetes care one step at a time. To learn more, visit https://sugarmds.com.

Media Contact

Vito Glazers
vito@glazersmedia.com

SugarMD proudly announces its voluntary participation in the FDA’s Structure, Function, and Claim Program, marking a pioneering step toward greater transparency and quality assurance in diabetes management. This proactive initiative reflects SugarMD’s dedication to providing reliable, effective solutions for the diabetic community, aligning its products with FDA standards to ensure that patients and healthcare professionals have access to the highest level of safety and efficacy.

“We believe in the power of transparency and accuracy when it comes to health management,” said Dr. Ergin, founder of SugarMD. “Our involvement in the FDA Structure, Function, and Claim Program reflects our dedication to fostering trust and advancing diabetes care.”

Participation in this FDA program underscores SugarMD’s commitment to transparency and accountability in healthcare. In an industry where voluntary involvement in such rigorous scrutiny is rare, SugarMD distinguishes itself by going above and beyond regulatory requirements. This action reinforces the company’s dedication to offering the diabetic community trustworthy, precise information about product claims, further supporting informed decision-making and enhancing the quality of care.

By aligning with FDA standards, SugarMD aims to build trust and establish itself as a leader in holistic diabetes care. This initiative represents more than a compliance effort; it is a cornerstone of SugarMD’s approach to healthcare, designed to advance diabetes care through validated, scientifically-backed products that healthcare professionals and diabetic patients can rely on with confidence.

For more information about SugarMD’s commitment to advancing diabetes care and setting new standards in transparency and product integrity, please visit https://sugarmds.com.

This latest initiative reaffirms SugarMD’s mission to improve lives by setting a new benchmark for trust, safety, and effectiveness in the diabetic community, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for all.

About SugarMD

SugarMD is dedicated to empowering individuals living with diabetes by offering a wide range of high-quality products and resources. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, SugarMD aims to transform diabetes care one step at a time. To learn more, visit https://sugarmds.com.

Media Contact

Syed Haq
feedback@sugarmds.com

SugarMD is proud to announce a new partnership with St. Jude Children’s Hospital, reflecting a shared commitment to preventing and ultimately eradicating diabetes. This collaboration underscores SugarMD’s dedication to improving access to healthcare and addressing social determinants that impact health outcomes, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. Through this alliance, SugarMD seeks to empower communities with tools and resources to foster healthier lives and reduce the risk of diabetes from an early age.

Founded by Dr. Ahmet Ergin, SugarMD is driven by an understanding of the importance of empathy and accessibility in healthcare. Inspired by his own journey as an immigrant facing limited resources, Dr. Ergin designed SugarMD with a mission to give back. The company’s automated donation process integrates philanthropy into each customer purchase, seamlessly channeling a portion of every sale to critical healthcare organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Doctors Without Borders, and the American Red Cross. This feature ensures that customers are contributing to a greater cause while supporting their own health.

SugarMD’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Hospital aims to address the root causes of chronic health issues, including diabetes. Childhood experiences and access to resources significantly impact lifelong wellness, and by investing in initiatives that promote healthy choices from a young age, SugarMD is working to lay a solid foundation for future generations. This approach extends beyond immediate health challenges, fostering environments where healthier habits and better healthcare access reduce the risk of chronic conditions and promote sustainable well-being.

At the core of this initiative is a belief in the importance of health equity. With each purchase, SugarMD customers are not only investing in their health but also contributing to a broader mission that champions accessible healthcare and improved quality of life for under-resourced communities. Through this partnership with St. Jude’s and other ongoing efforts, SugarMD is reinforcing its commitment to creating meaningful change in the fight against diabetes.

Next month, SugarMD will spotlight another charity as part of its broader philanthropic strategy, but the current focus remains on amplifying the vital work being accomplished in collaboration with St. Jude Children’s Hospital. SugarMD welcomes the opportunity to share this impactful story with communities nationwide, uniting efforts to make diabetes prevention and health equity a priority.

About SugarMD

SugarMD is dedicated to empowering individuals living with diabetes by offering a wide range of high-quality products and resources. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, SugarMD aims to transform diabetes care one step at a time. To learn more, visit https://sugarmds.com.

Media Contact

Syed Haq
feedback@sugarmds.com

The National CIO Review has released its latest coverage, "Interest Rate Cuts and Economic Growth to Spark IT Leadership Opportunities in 2025." This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the economic drivers that are set to unlock significant opportunities for the expansion of technology leadership roles in the coming year.

The article discusses how anticipated interest rate cuts and projected economic growth are poised to reshape the IT environment in 2025, opening new avenues for the expansion of technology leadership roles, enabling leaders to drive innovation and support business growth. By taking advantage of these favorable conditions, CIOs and IT executives can align their strategies with emerging market opportunities, accelerating digital transformation and expanding their impact on business growth.

“We’re seeing businesses shift from survival mode to growth mode, and with that shift comes an increased need for strategic technology leaders, resulting in a surge of new technology leadership openings. Organizations that delayed key technology hires are now racing to bring in visionary CIOs and supporting leaders who can align digital transformation with business outcomes,” says Joe Gross, President and Managing Partner of CIO Partners.

As enterprises navigate a dynamic economic environment, the expansion of IT leadership hiring is more critical than ever, providing a unique opportunity for experienced technology professionals to step into influential positions. TNCR's latest curation offers valuable perspectives for technology executives looking to position their teams and organizations for success in 2025.

Read the full article to explore how economic growth and strategic financial decisions can empower IT leadership to spark a new wave of innovation and operational excellence.

Link to the full article: Interest Rate Cuts and Economic Growth to Spark IT Leadership Opportunities in 2025

About The National CIO Review

The National CIO Review (TNCR) is the leading voice for CIOs and IT leaders, championing insightful thought leadership and providing critical analysis on the latest trends in technology. TNCR aims to inform and inspire the technology executives who are shaping the future of business. To learn more, visit https://nationalcioreview.com.

Media Contact

Emily Hill
emily.hill@burgateglobal.com

Seeking to advance investment and leadership in the evolving business of women’s sports, Murphy Media Partners successfully launched a new platform called SIGHT Lines, the first in a series of planned global events designed to move investment dollars off the sidelines and into women’s sports.

The SIGHT Lines forum, “Elevating Brand, Media and Tech Conversations in Women’s Sports,” was held last week at The Core Club in New York City. The invitation-only event brought together a group of C-suite executives in sports, media, advertising, tech and finance to discuss market research, business opportunities and new ideas.

“SIGHT Lines is designed to turn the surging popularity of women’s sports into business opportunities and solid investments with compelling ROI,” said Kathleen Murphy, founder and CEO of Murphy Media Partners. “The diverse group of leaders brought together for this SIGHT Lines event has already sparked new conversations, investment opportunities and collaborations among businesses—exactly as intended. We plan to continue leveraging MMP’s global network and creating bespoke events with leaders around the world, to spur new investment in women’s sports and generate new businesses around the sector.”

Lingering resistance among brand leaders and lack of industry data were cited as key barriers to investment in women’s sports in new research by The Collective, Wasserman. The research strongly indicates that demonstrating the economic impact of women’s sports is vital to overcoming investment barriers, with proven returns cited as the primary motivating factor.

The New York City event featured expert panelists with decades of sports and media experience who shared specific and unique insights into the explosive growth of women's sports. Julie Haddon, NWSL Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer; Hillary Mandel, EVP & Head of Americas for Media, IMG; and Danielle Brown, SVP of Sports Brand Solutions, Disney Advertising, engaged in discussion with Senior Sports Reporter Rachel Bachman of The Wall Street Journal around news, issues, media deals, what we lose by marketing “women’s sports” as such, and more.

The Collective, Wasserman and EDO collaborated on a unique data presentation just for SIGHT Lines attendees, emphasizing the critical nature of data and outcomes measurement to prove positive business results and attract dollars from brands and investors. Data from Brand Decision Makers of Women’s Sports Investments from The Collective, and EDO’s Women’s Sports TV Outcomes Report combined for a powerful, concise view of the state of women’s sports and what is needed to propel it forward. For example:

• Advertisers invested $8.5 billion in live sports TV ads in 2024; yet women’s sports only accounted for $242 million, or about 3%
• 87% of brand decision-makers expect to increase their women’s sports brand spend over the next 5 years
• Women’s sports sponsorship shows the strongest positive impact on brand image at 57%
• Auto ads in the U.S. Open Women’s Final outperformed the primetime average by 218%
• One ad in the FIFA Women’s World Cup was 10x more impactful than the average prime time ad

Additional key speakers added:

Brian Lawlor, President of Scripps Sports, emphasized the company's ongoing commitment to women’s sports, saying, "Scripps Sports has invested heavily in elevating women’s sports programming because we believe in its potential not just to grow audiences, but to drive meaningful business outcomes. Our partnership with the WNBA and NWSL on ION and our investments in dedicated studio productions are just the start. The combination of entities that Kathleen Murphy and SIGHT Lines put in the room reinforced the fact that the business of women’s sports is no longer just a conversation; it’s an actionable movement, and we’re excited to be part of it."

​

Thayer Lavielle, Managing Director, The Collective Wasserman: “Proving the impact of the women’s sports ecosystem is crucial to overcoming barriers to investment: 57% of surveyed brand-decision makers cited unproven business returns as the primary barrier to investing in women’s sports and 78% say industry data and insights would help overcome challenges and gain support for women’s sports partnerships. SIGHT Lines is a vibrant forum to provide the perspective and solutions from industry leaders to this challenge.”

Jenny Wall, CMO of VideoAmp, also reflected on the event’s significance and the value of critical measurement, stating, “Women’s sports are not just a good story—they’re good business. With 90% of media still geared toward male audiences, there’s a massive opportunity to shift that focus, and SIGHT Lines has shown that leaders are ready to make those moves. The insights shared at this event are proof that the time for substantial investment in women’s sports is now.”​

Laura Grover, SVP Client Solutions, EDO: "Women's sports account for just 3% of live sports TV ad investment in 2024, yet they offer one of the fastest-growing opportunities for ad performance, with an 8% increase in effectiveness over last year. Forward-thinking brands like Disney, Papa John's, SKIMS, and New Balance are seeing real results from their Women's Sports investments."

Stephanie Hughes, CEO Wiss Family Office: “Since 2019, we've sponsored women in sports and believe more female athletes lead to stronger boardrooms, as many C-suite women identify as athletes. We're excited to join SIGHT Lines, help the next generation of investors find undervalued and high-growth opportunities, and connect with the diverse executives Kathleen and Murphy Media Partners have assembled.”

Eden Lopez, Managing Director, Financial Advisor, The LSS Group, RBC Wealth Management: “The LSS Group is an all-female private wealth management team and we understand what it means to have to break through barriers. As longtime supporters of women’s sports and female athletes, we’re proud of the research RBC sponsors in this area. We’re thrilled to be part of SIGHT Lines and in the company of the eclectic group of executives that Kathleen and Murphy Media Partners have put together to shine a light on the many opportunities in women’s sports.”

About SIGHT Lines

SIGHT Lines, a platform developed by Murphy Media Partners, is focused on advancing investment and leadership in the evolving business of women’s sports. By convening top global leaders from sports, media, tech, finance, and business, SIGHT Lines sparks critical conversations that lead to meaningful business actions.

About Murphy Media Partners

Murphy Media Partners connects and inspires extraordinary people and transformational businesses to lead world-changing work. Our clients are leaders in business, sports, women’s sports, technology, entertainment and media who are seeking new ideas, new connections and new solutions to challenges that are met only through connection with other extraordinary leaders. Kathleen Murphy’s deep experience in national media, global markets, and as a senior strategic advisor to businesses makes her uniquely qualified to convene the right leaders at the right time and motivate them to create solutions and opportunities to business challenges.

To learn more, visit MurphyMediaPartners.com.

Media Contact

Kathleen Murphy
k@murphymediapartners.com

Symbicore, a full-service marketing agency specializing in Fractional CMO services and omnichannel marketing execution, is excited to announce its official partnership with Fye Labs, a leading IoT innovation firm based in Toronto. This strategic partnership not only positions Symbicore as Fye Labs’ dedicated marketing partner but also extends its services to Fye Labs’ client partners, ensuring that their innovative projects are effectively branded, launched, and positioned for long-term market success.

Fye Labs has established itself as a pioneer in IoT solutions, creating advanced sensor-based technologies that optimize real-time monitoring and operational efficiency for businesses across diverse industries. Through this partnership, Symbicore will drive Fye Labs’ marketing efforts and provide essential branding and market development services for all of Fye Labs’ client projects. This comprehensive approach ensures that each project is launched with strategic precision, generating maximum market traction and long-term growth.

“Symbicore’s expertise will be instrumental in amplifying not just our brand but the market presence of our entire ecosystem,” said Suvojit Ghosh, PhD, founder and CEO of Fye Labs. “We’re confident that with Symbicore’s guidance, both our internal projects and those of our partners will be marketed with the right strategic focus to achieve meaningful impact.”

Symbicore will provide a full suite of marketing services, including brand strategy, demand generation, digital marketing, and market positioning for Fye Labs and its client partners. The partnership is designed to help all parties involved realize their full market potential, ensuring that innovative IoT projects are delivered with the necessary momentum to succeed in competitive industries.

“This partnership represents a unique opportunity to not only strengthen Fye Labs’ market position but also to ensure that their client partners’ projects are successfully branded, launched, and scaled,” said Donovan Fowke, founder and president of Symbicore. “We are committed to helping Fye Labs and their partners execute strategic, results-driven marketing efforts that build strong brands and drive growth.”

Symbicore’s Director of Strategy, Sidney Evans, will play a crucial role in developing and overseeing the strategic direction of this partnership. Evans emphasized the importance of a tailored approach to each client project: “Every IoT solution Fye Labs delivers is unique, and our goal is to ensure that each project not only enters the market effectively but also gains traction and sustains growth over time. We’re thrilled to contribute to the success of these groundbreaking innovations.”

By working closely with Fye Labs and their client network, Symbicore will ensure that IoT projects are positioned for optimal visibility and success from the outset, further enhancing the impact of Fye Labs’ innovative solutions across industries.

About Symbicore

Symbicore is a full-service marketing agency offering Fractional CMO services, omnichannel marketing execution, and flat-rate design and development for growing B2B businesses. Symbicore’s action-driven strategies help companies scale, generate demand, and build strong brand identities. For more information, visit symbicore.com.

About Fye Labs

Fye Labs is a Toronto-based IoT innovation company that creates advanced sensor-based solutions, enhancing real-time monitoring, operational efficiency, and automation for businesses. Fye Labs is committed to delivering cutting-edge IoT technologies that drive performance and connectivity across industries. For more information, visit fyelabs.com.

Media Contact

Donovan Fowke
donovan@symbicore.com

Rainbow Labs, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Queer and Gender Nonconforming Youth (QGNC) through community engagement and mentorship, honored multi-talented artist VINCINT and activist journalist Ashlee Marie Preston at their inaugural Violet Visionary Awards on October 17, 2024.

Held at Serra on Vine, the ceremony guests were asked to wear violet attire, symbolizing the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community as represented in the Rainbow Flag. The event coincided with Spirit Day, a day dedicated to uplifting LGBTQ+ youth.

VINCINT received The Voice of Inspiration Award for their impactful artistry and dedication to representation within the LGBTQ+ community.

Ashlee Marie Preston was honored with The Heart of the Community Award, recognizing their unwavering commitment to activism and inspiring change for LGBTQ+ youth.

"This is a full circle moment because I literally used to sleep outside a few feet away from here when I was a young homeless youth. And it was programs and services such as the ones that Rainbow Labs offer that gave me tools to help me transmute that pain into power," said Preston. "At a time where there are so many young people who don't know who is in their corner, it's important for us to be able to remind them that we are going to continue to not only show up for their safety and survival but to actually invest in their ambitions, passions and the things that really makes them feel alive."

The Light of the Future Award celebrated the transformative power of mentorship. This year, it was awarded to mentee Allix Grace and mentor Gael Alegria.

The evening, hosted by the legendary Nina West, featured captivating performances from renowned house ballroom groups: House of Comme de Garçons, House of Xclusive Lanvin, and House of Balmain. DJ GoodBoy provided music.

At the event, Rainbow Labs announced the launch of The Dream Builder Lab, a monthly giving program that supports LGBTQ+ youth through mentorship and youth development programs throughout Los Angeles County. Members help fund safe, inclusive spaces for youth to explore their identities and gain leadership skills. Contributions provide resources for activities like LGBTQ+ sports, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and creative storytelling, ensuring access to life-changing opportunities. Donors receive insider updates, early access to programs, and recognition for their support. The program aims to foster a future where LGBTQ+ youth can thrive.

Rainbow Labs extends its thanks to generous sponsorships from Diageo, Alaska Airlines, The Godfrey Hotel, Kaiser Permanente, Cedars, Los Angeles Football Club, and Aesop. Pepsi, and Haus Labs by Lady Gaga and individual contributions. The Violet Visionary Awards will return on October 16, 2025, celebrating even more leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Media inquiries: Email Jacob Toups and Joseph Harvey

Download hi-res assets: Click here

Photo credit: Mo Satarzadeh (event), Brennan Wright (red carpet)

About Rainbow Labs

Rainbow Labs is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization that uplifts and empowers LGBTQ+ youth through mentorship and transformative programming. Our mission is to embolden Queer and Gender Nonconforming Youth to discover, curate, and experiment with the elements of a fulfilled life through community building and the lived experiences of mentors. Through innovative initiatives like our Leadership Lab, Sports Lab, Storytelling Lab, and Accelerator Lab, Rainbow Labs inspires youth to dream big, celebrate their authentic selves, and become the leaders of tomorrow. Learn more at www.rainbowlabs.org.

Media Contact

Jacob Toups
jtoups@rainbowlabs.org

The National CIO Review has released its latest curation, identifying the rise of "Agentic AI", detailing the transformative potential of this next wave of artificial intelligence. With expert insights this captures the essence of how Agentic AI is reshaping the way businesses and technology leaders navigate the evolving landscape of AI.

The article, "The Rise of Agentic AI" provides readers an in-depth look into the key takeaways. Agentic AI, described as systems that can take more autonomous actions, represents a significant leap in the AI evolution, poised to elevate productivity and drive transformative change across industries. By expanding decision-making capabilities and offering enhanced responsiveness, Agentic AI is expected to revolutionize traditional business models and redefine efficiency across the board.

“The rise of Agentic AI co-workers is unlocking unprecedented levels of productivity. The magic happens, when you can not only enable massive gains in efficiency but also address key challenges like AI governance and compliance,” says Geraldine McBride, CEO of MyWave.ai.

As business and IT leaders grapple with the potential implications and opportunities that come with this technology, TNCR’s offers critical insights into the trends and considerations that are shaping the future of work, governance, and digital transformation.

Read the full article to understand how Agentic AI can become a powerful ally for your organization’s technology strategy. Find out how leading enterprises are already piloting these cutting-edge systems to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive and AI-driven marketplace.

Link to the full article: The Rise of Agentic AI

About The National CIO Review

The National CIO Review (TNCR) is the leading voice for CIOs and IT leaders, championing insightful thought leadership and providing critical analysis on the latest trends in technology. TNCR aims to inform and inspire the technology executives who are shaping the future of business. To learn more, visit https://nationalcioreview.com.

Media Contact

Emily Hill
emily.hill@burgateglobal.com

The Matchbox, a leader in B2B marketing & advertising solutions, proudly announces the launch of its Hybrid AI Media Production Services. This innovative service blends human creativity with advanced AI and ML technologies, enabling the production of customized marketing content at unparalleled speed and scale.

How It Works

Starting with human-driven design to capture a brand’s core message, Hybrid AI leverages generative AI to produce hundreds of creative variations, each tailored to diverse audience segments. This approach allows brands to deliver content that feels authentically human-crafted and resonates personally with viewers. While efficiency is significantly enhanced, the final product maintains the highest professional quality, with no compromise on design or any noticeable AI involvement.

“In an era where personalization is key, our Hybrid AI technology allows brands to resonate with their audience like never before,” said Erik Leavell, Director of Design at The Matchbox. “We’re using AI not to replace creativity but to supercharge it, giving our clients the ability to evolve their message dynamically and effectively."

Hybrid AI employs top AI tools like Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and Adobe Creative Suite to create visually stunning content across formats, from video to static imagery. By improving turnaround times and streamlining the creative process, The Matchbox’s Hybrid AI maximizes both creative quality and efficiency.

"A/B testing is a legacy approach. We like to use the full alphabet," added Ani Bisaria, CEO of The Matchbox

Join the Future of Advertising

With campaigns showing up to twice the engagement and significantly reduced costs per acquisition, The Matchbox’s Hybrid AI program has already proven its potential to transform marketing strategies for B2B brands.

The Matchbox invites companies to embrace the future of creative production—where AI and human expertise combine to create the most personalized, efficient, and engaging advertising possible.

For more information on Hybrid AI and how it can help your business grow, visit thematchbox.inc/hybrid-ai or book an informational call at thematchbox.inc/contact.

About The Matchbox

The Matchbox is a premier digital marketing and media agency with offices in Los Angeles and New York. We specialize in scaling mid-market and enterprise companies through a range of services, including paid media, programmatic advertising, media production, and sales/marketing operations. Leveraging both AI and human expertise, we are committed to reshaping work experiences and increasing productivity for our clients around the world. For more information, please visit www.thematchbox.inc.

Media Contact

E. Hill
press@thematchbox.inc

Charleston Literary Festival has just announced writer Latria Graham and poet Dasia Moore as the Inaugural Charleston Literary Festival Cato Fellows.

Latria Graham is a magazine feature writer from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, LA Times, The Guardian, espnW, Southern Living, and The Atlantic. She is the ethical travel columnist for Afar Magazine, as well as the writer behind Garden & Gun's “This Land” column, which uses time, place, and memory to document and investigate the lesser known or rapidly disappearing aspects of the natural world in the South. An Assistant Professor of Creative Writing in Augusta University’s English and World Languages department, she is also an instructor in the University of Georgia's Narrative Nonfiction MFA program housed in the Grady College of Mass Communication & Journalism.

“Being one of the inaugural fellows is a remarkable honor because I've used the written word as my means of expression, and I can trace my lineage back to the coast of South Carolina, a place where for generations my Black ancestors were forbidden by law from learning to read or write. So to be recognized in this way, for bringing vulnerability and my emotional truth to the page is no small thing. The talent that comes to this festival is exceptional and I'm excited to learn more about the craft and enhance the caliber of my creativity.” —Latria Graham

Dasia Moore is a poet, journalist, and queer child of the Black South. Her writing has appeared or is forthcoming in publications including The Offing, Fence, Hayden’s Ferry Review, and The Boston Globe, where she was a magazine staff writer. Dasia holds her MFA in creative writing from New York University, where she was a Lillian Vernon Fellow, and a BA from Yale University. She is honored to be one of two inaugural Cato Fellowship recipients. Raised in her family homes of Charleston, SC and Reidsville, NC, Dasia now lives and writes in Durham.

"To have my poetry recognized in the very city that made me a poet is a dream fulfilled. I write about loss across the Black Atlantic, including my own family’s loss of land and homes in Charleston. Thank you to the Charleston Literary Festival for believing in my work; it would be an understatement to say I am honored.” —Dasia Moore

The Charleston Literary Festival Cato Fellowship Prize is awarded to two highly-skilled writers of fiction, creative nonfiction, or poetry who are resident in North or South Carolina. Writers receive a full residency in Charleston during the ten days of Charleston Literary Festival with full access to the Festival events, authors, and a writing desk in Dock Street Theatre as well as a cash prize of $7,500.

Marion Cato, philanthropist and author, expressed her insight into the importance of the Fellowship Prize:

“To be able to touch another person with your selection of words is a rare gift. It is a bold and brave endeavor, oftentimes revealing far more about the writer than of the subject matter. Very few are blessed with this gift, this willingness to expose oneself, to be judged. With the establishment of a fellow program as part of Charleston Literary Festival, we thrive to nurture the yearning of a few select individuals to continue to share their creativity with all of us in our lifelong adventure in learning about the world around us and, most importantly, ourselves in the process. It is my hope that in creating this program, I can honor my late husband Wayland H. Cato Jr., who was a passionate reader his entire life.”

The Catos believe that the world would be a better place if exceptional writers were nurtured and encouraged.

Sarah Moriarty, Executive Director of Charleston Literary Festival, echoed Mrs. Cato’s sentiments:

“Charleston Literary Festival is grateful and honored to establish this fellowship to support emerging writers in North Carolina and South Carolina. We were bowled over by the response to this fellowship with 140 extremely high quality submissions. The diversity of voices in the region, made evident by the exceptional work submitted, demonstrates the richness of the cultures of the Carolinas and the talent among us.”

Charleston Literary festival Releases names of the second annual Young Writers Awards winners

Charleston Literary Festival is also committed to supporting teen writers. The nine winners of the second annual Charleston Literary Festival Young Writers Awards have also been announced today.

Charleston Literary Festival’s Young Writers Awards recognizes nine emerging young high school writers from Charleston County School District with exceptional talent while promoting the power of literature and encouraging creative growth. The awards are open to all 9th-12th graders currently enrolled in a public high school in Charleston, South Carolina.

The nine winners receive a small cash prize, certificate, gift bag, and be invited to attend a special session to connect with the Charleston Literary Festival Inaugural Fellows—thereby building mentorship into the program and connecting the upcoming generation of writers with exciting more established emerging writers.

The top three winners will have the opportunity to read their work onstage at the Charleston Literary Festival at Dock Street Theatre—as an opener for key Festival author sessions. This gives these young writers a platform to present their work alongside some of the best authors and thinkers in the country.

Student works are submitted by teachers and adjudicated by a dedicated panel of literary professionals. The works selected for distinction are based on three criteria: originality, skill, and emergence of personal voice.

The 2024 winners are as follows:

Poetry

• First place: A Poem for the Fellow Vultures by Arden Johnson, freshman at Charleston School of the Arts (Danielle DeTiberus, supporting teacher)
• Second place: Roadside Crypts by Willard Hurley, senior at Lucy Beckham High School (Sarah Hoover, supporting teacher)
• Third place: Brisbane Drive by Harper Hayes, freshman at Charleston School of the Arts (Danielle DeTiberus, supporting teacher)

Short story

• First place: Walking with My Shadow by Lucille Harper, freshman at Charleston School of the Arts, (Danielle DeTiberus, supporting teacher)
• Second place: Tabernacle by Adam Leon, junior at Academic Academy (Monique Collins, supporting teacher)
• Third place: The Echoes of Aeloria by Tyquan Singleton, Senior at Military Magnet High School (Kirk Zaro, Supporting Teacher)

Personal essay

• First place: How To Exhale by Chloe Crilley, sophomore at Wando High School (Jeannie Fox, supporting teacher)
• Second place: Through Our Eyes by Madeline Leluc, Junior at Charleston School of the Arts (Danielle DeTiberus, supporting teacher)
• Third place: Last First Day by Tucker McManus, sophomore at Academic Magnet Academy (Monique Collins, supporting teacher)

“The Young Writers Awards is a valuable endeavor for teens whether or not they consider themselves “writers,” said Jen Comer, Director of the Charleston Literary Festival Young Writers Awards. “At a time in a teen’s life when they are trying to figure out their own path, creative writing provides a safe place to experiment with thoughts, identity, and finding one’s place in society—writing is where we find the freedom to be our authentic selves.”

“The Young Writers Awards continue to inspire my students to not only push themselves creatively, but to engage more in their local writing community. What incredible opportunities and resources you have provided these young writers with!" added Danielle DeTiberus, Creative Writing Faculty at Charleston School of the Arts. 

Charleston Literary Festival Young Writers Awards are generously sponsored by Patti Manigault. Charleston Literary Festival runs in downtown Charleston from November 1–10, 2024.

Tickets to Charleston Literary Festival are available online now.

• Tickets for Charleston Literary Festival are on sale now at https://www.citypapertickets.com/events/154102345/early-bird-all-session-access-pass
• For more information about the Festival schedule, please visit www.charlestonliteraryfestival.com
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About Charleston Literary Festival 

Charleston Literary Festival is a boutique literary festival with an international edge to its programming held in Charleston, South Carolina, every November. Over ten days, world-renowned writers and readers come together to discuss and explore. By connecting readers and thinkers with a wide range of quality speakers, the Festival promotes the power of excellent writing, ideas, and champions the free exchange of ideas. An independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, now in its eighth year, previous attendees include Claire Keegan, Hernan Diaz, Patrick Radden Keefe, Deborah Lipstadt, Yaa Gyasi, George Saunders, Madeline Miller, Margo Jefferson, Imani Perry, Walter Isaacson, Eddie S Glaude, JR, Tiya Miles, Stephen Greenblatt, André Aciman, Colm Tóibín, Yiyun Li, Lisa Taddeo, Lauren Groff, Rebecca Makkai, Lorrie Moore, Jenny Offill, Jia Tolentino, Deborah Eisenberg, Joyce Carol Oates, Jeanette Winterson, Ben Okri, Louis Menand, David Blight, Adam Gopnik, A.O. Scott, and many more.

For more information, visit https://www.charlestonliteraryfestival.com.

Media Contact

Sarah Moriarty
sarah.moriarty@charlestonliteraryfestival.com

LeadIQ, the trusted and accurate sales prospecting and data enrichment SaaS platform that empowers revenue teams to drive demand creation and sales efficiency with accurate account and contact data, effortless integrations and AI-driven tools, today announced the launch of two new integrated solutions to transform how sales teams manage prospecting and data integrity: LeadIQ Prospecting Hub and LeadIQ Data Hub. These innovative tools will streamline sales processes, improve data accuracy and empower teams to connect with high-value prospects efficiently.

“In today’s sales environment, data accuracy and streamlined workflows are essential for success,” said Mei Siauw, CEO of LeadIQ. “With the Prospecting Hub and Data Hub, we are providing revenue teams with everything they need to prospect smarter, optimize their workflows, and keep their CRM data reliable — all while reducing manual effort.”

LeadIQ Prospecting Hub: Smarter Prospecting, Simplified

The LeadIQ Prospecting Hub is an all-in-one platform that combines real-time data capture, AI-driven messaging and easy integration with sales engagement tools. Sales teams can effortlessly find, capture and sync contact data, enabling them to reach out to the right prospects at the perfect time. The platform’s integrated workflows reduce time spent on manual tasks, allowing teams to focus on high-value interactions.

Key Features

• Accurate Data Capture: Find, capture and sync verified contact details, effortlessly.
• AI-Driven Messaging: Create personalized, AI-generated prospecting emails in seconds.
• Actionable Signals: Leverage buying signals to engage with prospects at the right time.
• Seamless Integration: Sync data across popular tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, LinkedIn and more.

“At Nextiva, maintaining accurate and up-to-date prospect data is critical for our sales teams to operate efficiently,” said Allie Kaiser, Senior Director of XDR & Automation at Nextiva. “LeadIQ’s new Prospecting Hub has streamlined our ability to capture, sync, and engage with prospects, allowing our team to focus on what matters most—building relationships and closing deals. The integration across our existing tools has made a significant impact on our sales workflow, saving us valuable time and effort.”

LeadIQ Data Hub: Elevate Your CRM’s Potential

LeadIQ’s Data Hub is a comprehensive solution that enhances CRM data integrity through real-time enrichment. Sales teams can now rely on always up-to-date, accurate data that simplifies decision-making and engagement. The Data Hub integrates smoothly with Salesforce and other tools, ensuring sales teams work with reliable, actionable insights.

Key Features

• Real-Time CRM Enrichment: Automatically update records with accurate B2B data.
• Job Change Tracking: Receive notifications when key contacts change roles, ensuring timely engagement.
• Seamless Integration: Effortlessly map data to CRM fields, enhancing existing workflows.
• Reliable Data: Keep CRM systems fresh with continuous data updates, reducing manual input.

“LeadIQ’s Data Hub has been a game changer for our customers, ensuring strategic generation of pipeline based on actionable buying signals,” said Nathan Creswell, Head of Product, LeadIQ. “With real-time data enrichment and integrated functionality, they no longer worry about outdated information or manual data entry. This level of automation and precision has enabled our customers’ sales teams to engage prospects more strategically, driving better results across the board.”

For more information about LeadIQ’s Prospecting Hub and Data Hub, visit leadiq.com.

About LeadIQ

LeadIQ empowers revenue teams with the most accurate and comprehensive contact data. Seamlessly integrating with tools like LinkedIn Sales Navigator, CRM systems, and outreach platforms, LeadIQ enhances demand creation and sales efficiency. Used by over 20,000 sales professionals, LeadIQ’s AI-driven email assistance, superior data quality, and global reach allow sales teams to focus on strategic selling rather than manual data entry, saving the average sales rep up to six hours a week. Its powerful data enrichment capabilities enable RevOps professionals to capture key marketing signals, convert them into actionable insights, and maintain a CRM as the reliable source of truth for driving sustainable revenue growth. To learn more, visit leadiq.com.

Media Contact

Maura Ginty
maura.ginty@leadiq.com