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November 1, 2024 11:30 AM
EDT
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NEW YORK, NY
Repeat Founder Duo Raises $2.6M and Launches Workgrounds to Automate Hotel Room Block Sourcing and Management with AI
Repeat founders Nikhil Sethi and Garrett Ullom have raised $2.6 million for Workgrounds, a startup solving hotel room block management for group bookings. Workgrounds already has clientele from fast-growing companies, including SeatGeek, RevenueCat, and Yieldmo, as demand for the product soars. Investors in this pre-seed funding round include Oceans Ventures, Hannah Grey, Volo Ventures, and deftly.vc.
Sethi and Ullom previously founded ad-tech company Adaptly in 2010 while college students at Northwestern University. Adaptly, a platform that helps marketers buy targeted ads across online platforms such as Amazon, Google, and Facebook, scaled to over 200 employees and was ultimately acquired by Accenture in 2018. This time, the duo are tackling another B2B startup idea in the corporate space with similarities: a huge market dominated by a few large platform players and archaic processes that can be automated on the user-side to simplify the experience of a vast customer base.
“We were shocked to discover how manual the entire end-to-end process was for sourcing, negotiating, and managing hotel room blocks for corporate groups—a process that is repeated millions of times a year,” said Nikhil Sethi, co-founder of Workgrounds. “We wanted to apply AI and other automation to 100x the experience for companies to easily manage hundreds of room blocks in parallel and all through software, a simple user interface, and without the need for hotels to change anything in their well-established processes.”
Workgrounds is building an end-to-end stack to automate the many manual processes that enable corporate group travel. The first version of the Workgrounds platform allows organizations to input their team’s locations or connect via their HRIS systems and in one-click, automatically request proposals using AI from all hotel suppliers in a target market to get the best proposals possible. Given the economies of scale organizations can see by booking as a group, there are upwards of 31% savings being left on the table by not allowing machines and automation to do the hard work. Workgrounds allows teams to cast a wide net and automatically parse those proposals to give planners immediate high-quality results without having to run a manual, time-consuming process. In addition, the AI agents handle change orders and negotiation to truly deliver the best possible experience.
“We re-imagined the user experience from the perspective of travel planners, the finance teams and their guests. We created a modern, simple experience, packed with functionality to really enable organizations to manage room blocks for hundreds of teams representing thousands of travelers with ease,” added Sethi.
“Working with Workgrounds has been a huge time and money saver for SeatGeek. Our ability to secure room blocks for our teams and partners has gone from a multi-week process to just a matter of days, making the platform a no-brainer for our teams. We can now spend more time focused on creating memorable experiences for our meetings and events and less time managing the core logistics of bringing our teams together,” said Gerard Visser, Director of Workplace Services, SeatGeek.
Workgrounds is benefiting from the secular trend towards a more distributed workforce and flexible work, accelerating adoption and travel spend. While running Adaptly, the team observed the large shift to new ways of flexible working. Further accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, this global shift created major operational and cost-related implications for corporate travel and opened an opportunity for AI-enabled software to solve these challenges by providing greater degrees of control and through automation.
“We built Workgrounds to be the solution we would have wanted at Adaptly and then at Accenture,” said Garrett Ullom, co-founder of Workgrounds. “We wanted something that brought all the pieces together in a seamless way. Starting with room blocks, we see a big opportunity to help solve corporate travel scaling issues for teams.”
About Workgrounds
Workgrounds is an end-to-end platform that automates the process to source, book, and manage hotel room blocks at scale for enterprises. Our AI agents eliminate the manual processes of corporate group travel and enable organizations to easily manage hundreds of room blocks in parallel, saving them both time and money. To learn more, visit www.workgrounds.com.
Workgrounds is an end-to-end platform that automates the process to source, book, and manage hotel room blocks at scale for enterprises. Our AI agents eliminate the manual processes of corporate group travel and enable organizations to easily manage hundreds of room blocks in parallel, saving them both time and money. To learn more, visit www.workgrounds.com.
Media Contact
Nikhil Sethi
nikhil@workgrounds.com
October 31, 2024 2:58 PM
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LONDON, United Kingdom
King Charles III Sips Kava in Samoa Prompting Kava Coalition to Call for Legal Kava in the U.K.
Today, the Kava Coalition, renewed their call to lawmakers to make kava legal in the United Kingdom (U.K.) following a recent high-profile photo op of King Charles III sipping kava in a Samoan ceremony.
On October 24, King Charles and Queen Camilla were officially welcomed to Samoa in the home village of the head of state, Tuimaleali'ifano Va'aleto'a Sualauvi II. King Charles was handed a kava drink known locally as ‘ava’ and, honoring the Samoan custom, poured some on the ground and then took a sip.
Dr. Simon Gellar, PhD., is a leading researcher on the consumption and economy of kava and serves as the Kava Coalition's subject matter expert. He commended the ceremony and noted that E.U. and U.K. rules governing kava’s sale and consumption reflected misunderstandings about kava.
The Samoan episode further demonstrates the benefits of trade in Kava between countries, particularly emerging South Pacific economies. Countries such as Samoa can experience positive social mobility via the demand for Kava from Western countries. Prolonged prohibition only hurts these emerging economies, which are particularly vulnerable to economic losses in a global economy.
“Kava culture in the U.K. and E.U. lacks historical context and has unfairly faced bias due to unfamiliarity and flawed beliefs,” said Dr. Gellar. “If the U.K. were serious about giving consumers a choice, they would acknowledge this bias and consider access to kava as a beverage alternative.”
In 2003, products containing kava were banned in the U.K. because of concerns about toxic effects on the liver. More recent analyses of these studies have questioned the findings and raised skepticism.
Dr. Gellar’s research, a soon-to-be-published paper titled "Elixir of the South Pacific or Harmful Muddy Water: Examining the Consumption of Kava from a Cross-Cultural Perspective and the Lived Experience of Macro-Level Social Processes,” documents kava’s long history and debunks health claims raised against it. The study is slated to be published and disseminated through peer-reviewed channels later this year.
“Millions of people around the world enjoy kava daily with little or no adverse reactions,” said Dr. Gellar. “Evidence supporting prohibition of kava anywhere around the world is suspect at best, or flat out erroneous at worst. It is time for the U.K. to take the lead and revisit then reinstate kava once and for all.”
According to news reports, Queen Elizabeth also participated in a similar kava sipping ceremony in 1977.
“If U.K. citizens at the highest levels of society and diplomacy can consume kava without restriction, then it seems natural the same privilege should extend to U.K. and E.U. residents,” said Dr. Gellar. “Very few people have the luxury of traveling around the world to access a plant-based substance that could be easily available locally in a regulated marketplace.”
About the Kava Coalition
Kava Coalition (KC) is a global alliance of kava consumers, experts, and industry leaders committed to advancing kava education, advocacy, and choice. Through educational initiatives and community engagement, KC promotes awareness and appreciation for kava’s traditional practices and cultural significance. Simultaneously, KC advocates for modern regulation that reflects current scientific knowledge, ensuring consumer safety and product integrity.
Media Contact
Byron Johnson
bjohnson@kavacoalition.org
October 31, 2024 1:07 PM
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COLUMBUS, OH
ROX Announces the 2024 Class of Dr. Patty Diversity Fellows
Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX), a national nonprofit dedicated to creating generations of confident girls, is proud to announce the 2024 cohort of the Dr. Patty Diversity Fellowship has been awarded to 10 women of color from nine states.
Named in honor and memory of Dr. Patricia F.R. Cunningham II, a champion for girls, equity, access and social change, this prestigious fellowship increases access to ROX’s robust, evidence-based Program for Girls and provides leadership opportunities for diverse female educators and school mental health professionals. The fellowship is underwritten by the Bath and Body Works Foundation, with additional funding from the PNC Foundation.
ROX welcomed the 10 new fellows to Columbus last week for their three-day ROX facilitator licensure training: Naquita Page-Dawson (SC), Angela Barber-Joiner (OH), Rosie Guerra (TX), Brittnay Powe-Inge (AL), Kourtnay Abernathy (GA), Michele Jordan (MO), Carolyn Thorpe (MD), Cecilia Hebard (GA), Tanisha Dumas (NC), and Khush Driver (CA).
The fellows will now deliver the 20-week school-based ROX Program for Girls at their schools, while continuing their fellowship experience through 2026. Leah Borden, Senior Advisor to the Dr. Patty Diversity Fellowship shared, “When girls in ROX have a Dr. Patty Fellow as their facilitator, they experience the impact of a ‘real life’ role model who looks like them—one who continually shows up for them, believes in them and invests in them. This profoundly increases their connection to school and their sense of belonging in their educational environment.”
“At ROX we use data to inform our programming, our decisions and our investments. Data shows that diverse women are underrecognized in educational leadership and that girls want and need advocates, role models and mentors that look like them. The Dr. Patty Diversity Fellowship program is working to address the disparities and increase the opportunities. Our goal is to continue to grow the fellowship as we partner with additional sponsors and supporters,” said Dr. Lisa Hinkelman, founder and CEO of ROX.
Dr. Patty Diversity Fellows are women of color with a license in social work, counseling, education or school psychology. They have a passion for empowering girls and are committed to creating a safer, stronger and more equitable world for girls. Fellows are trained to lead a 20-week evidence-based curriculum that teaches girls the skills needed to navigate the tough challenges they face, including: confidence, body image, social media, relationships, pressure and leadership. Their fellowship includes all costs associated with two years of having ROX programming in their schools, including facilitator training, monthly professional and leadership development, fees paid for participating girls and related travel expenses.
“Each year, we select a cohort of 10 women based on a competitive application process. They are passionate about changing the lives of girls in their schools,” says Dr. Sibyl West, Senior Advisor to the Dr. Patty Diversity Fellowship. “They are motivated to engage in this work, are charismatic leaders in their communities, and they form a unique bond with one another that is unlike any other experience found in their professional spaces.”
About Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX)
Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) is the national nonprofit authority on girls. Since 2011, ROX research, programs, and resources have helped ensure that girls are in control of their own relationships, experiences, decisions, and futures. Operating in nearly 600 schools across 40 states, we conduct large-scale national research, deliver evidence-based programs in schools nationwide, and equip adults to better support and empower girls in grades 5–12. For more information about ROX programming, visit www.rulingourexperiences.org.
About Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX)
Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) is the national nonprofit authority on girls. Since 2011, ROX research, programs, and resources have helped ensure that girls are in control of their own relationships, experiences, decisions, and futures. Operating in nearly 600 schools across 40 states, we conduct large-scale national research, deliver evidence-based programs in schools nationwide, and equip adults to better support and empower girls in grades 5–12. For more information about ROX programming, visit www.rulingourexperiences.org.
Media Contact
Julie Ohlemacher
julieohlemacher@rulingourexperiences.com
October 31, 2024 11:26 AM
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NEW YORK, NY
The Real Feel Unveils First Month of Sentiment Data, Showing Americans’ Moods Hold Steady with Election Day Around the Corner
The Real Feel, the first real-time human sentiment platform, has released insights from its initial weeks of pre-election sentiment tracking, revealing the public’s steady state of mind as the nation approaches Election Day.
The Real Feel’s sentiment technology captures how Americans feel each week through public polling, AI, and data analysis (Figure 1). The goal is to provide businesses and government agencies with actionable insights into the public’s emotional landscape so they can make better-informed decisions. By anonymously capturing Americans’ moods, the company is bringing transparency and depth to how we understand collective sentiment, especially around pivotal moments like the 2024 election.
Overall
With a unique lens on how people are feeling, the data shows consistent mood levels week over week despite the political and social tensions of the season. This information offers a rare glimpse into the emotional landscape of Americans as they anticipate a high-stakes election outcome.
Over the past month, The Real Feel’s sentiment scores, rated on a scale from 1 to 10, have remained stable, hovering around a 7, indicating an unshaken mood across the population. Weekly ratings illustrate this constancy (Figure 2).
Gender, Age Group, and Political Affiliation Trends
- Across demographics, sentiment patterns reveal that men consistently report a more positive mood than women. Men’s mood ranged from 7.1 to 7.6, while women’s mood ranged from 6.6 to 6.9 (Figure 3).
- Specifically White males had the highest moods between 7.1 to 7.9, and tend to describe a sense of optimism and well-being, with many expressing they feel well-rested, though some still report work-related fatigue. In contrast, women’s lower moods are often attributed to feeling overwhelmed with balancing multiple responsibilities, from managing work and family to navigating relationship challenges, which adds to their overall sense of stress (Figure 4).
- People aged 18–29 have consistently rated their moods the lowest, between 5.9 to 6.8, compared to other generations. Many in the age group are grappling with heightened anxiety about the future and struggling to balance life’s demands. This trend likely reflects new societal pressures unique to their generation, such as the influence of social media, inflation, and shifting attitudes toward traditional work environments (Figure 5).
- On the political spectrum, mood ratings remained fairly balanced among Democrats and Republicans, with all groups ranging from 6.3 to 7.5, slightly higher among Republicans last week compared to Democrats. Scores by political affiliation reveal a mood consistency that persists despite rising tensions (Figure 6).
While mood ratings are fairly aligned across party lines, people across the board report mixed feelings, from hopeful optimism to anxiety about the country’s direction. The anticipation of the election has, in some cases, exacerbated these feelings, with a few respondents sharing sentiments like, “extremely worried about the outcome of the upcoming elections” (Mood: 4, Anxious, Female, 60+, White / Caucasian, Democrat).
General Sentiments: Overworked, Lonely, and Financially Strained
The Real Feel has also identified initial themes echoing across multiple demographics:
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Overworked and fatigued: Many respondents report feeling overwhelmed by their work responsibilities. Globally, countries like Korea, Spain, and France are testing shorter work weeks or implementing laws to support a better work-life balance, suggesting the U.S. could consider similar changes.
- “because of work i’m just super tired and stressed out about things going on within work and at home it’s so frustrating yeah!” (Mood, 7, Ok, Female, 18–29, HHI $0–9,999, White / Caucasian).
- “been up since 3am work 5 days a week 10 hours. so ya” (Mood: 8, Tired, Male, 45–60, Democrat).
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Loneliness: The absence of close-knit communities has led many to feel isolated. This is a common theme, with respondents noting financial hardships and demanding work schedules as obstacles to social engagement.
- “been alone all day so i'm kind of bored” (Mood: 8, Bored, Female, 45–60, White / Caucasian, both Democrat and Republican).
- “People say they care about me but actually don’t” (Mood: 2, Sad, Female, 18–29, Democrat).
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Financial hardship: Inflation, layoffs, and economic challenges are heavily felt, especially by younger Americans. Millennials and Gen Z cite income as a primary concern, impacting both their mood and their ability to find time for self-care or relaxation.
- “There's so many home repair and medical bills and I have multiple jobs to stay afloat” (Mood: 4, Anxious, Female, 45–60, Republican).
- “i'm in pain physically, and i'm behind in so many things that it's affecting my financial life too.” (Mood: 3, Anxious, Female, 60+, $75,000–99,999, Political Party Other).
Despite these challenges, many respondents have found solace in spending time with family, self-care routines, and faith practices, which have been instrumental in providing moments of peace and joy.
Looking Ahead: Post-Election Sentiment Analysis and Beyond
As Election Day approaches, The Real Feel will track public’s sentiment in detail, preparing for a post-election analysis to compare how Americans’ moods evolve in response to the election’s outcome. This data will allow us to capture any shifts in sentiment and help leaders understand what the election results mean for Americans.
The Real Feel will also continue capturing weekly sentiment in the U.S., building deeper insights into how Americans are feeling. By consistently tracking these shifts, they’re able to uncover trends that offer specific value to businesses and organizations such as federal government & political organizations, financial institutions, marketing intelligence platforms and agencies, AI tech companies, and more. This ongoing analysis provides a clearer understanding of human emotions and motivations, empowering stakeholders to make decisions that better resonate with the public.
To learn more, visit The Real Feel at https://www.therealfeel.ai.
About The Real Feel
Founded in 2024, The Real Feel is the first real-time human sentiment and insights platform for people and businesses. By capturing and analyzing sentiment data in real time using polling and AI, we enable individuals to track their feelings and provide businesses with detailed, anonymous insights to inform better decisions. Our diverse customer base includes data and marketing intelligence companies, financial institutions, tech firms, brands, agencies, government institutions, and media organizations. For more information, visit https://www.therealfeel.ai.
Media Contact
Lisa Hu
lisa@therealfeel.ai
October 31, 2024 3:18 AM
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SEOUL, South Korea
Foodrella Launches New Line of Sauces, Driving the Global Popularity of Korean-Style Chicken in the U.S. and Canada
Foodrella has announced the launch of a new line of sauces specifically crafted for Korean-style chicken, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion into the North American market. With K-food gaining popularity globally, particularly in the U.S. and Canada, Foodrella's new products allow consumers to easily recreate the iconic flavors of Korean fried chicken at home.
At the forefront of this launch is Foodrella’s sweet and spicy fried chicken sauce, designed to complement crispy fried chicken while authentically replicating the signature Korean flavors. This versatile sauce can be used not only for chicken but also for a variety of dishes, including barbecues, stir-fries, and even unconventional pairings like pasta, tacos, and sandwiches. By introducing this product line, Foodrella continues to drive the international rise of K-chicken while making it more accessible to consumers across the globe.
Foodrella’s crispy batter mix also helps in preparing perfect Korean-style chicken. It creates crispy, golden-brown chicken without being greasy, and with the pre-seasoned batter mix, you can easily enjoy various styles of Korean chicken such as fried chicken, gangjeong chicken, green onion fried chicken, and spicy chicken.
Founded in 1987, Hanmi F3 Co., Ltd., the manufacturer of Foodrella, produces a wide range of products including sauces, seasonings, food coatings, beverage bases, bakery & dessert mixes, and pickles, catering to the needs of the restaurant and cafe franchise industries. Hanmi F3 prioritizes quality and safety, continuously improving and innovating to expand its presence in the global market.
Using only premium ingredients, Hanmi F3 offers unique culinary experiences with efficient processes that add value to its customers' businesses. The company is committed to providing customized solutions that meet diverse customer needs and consistently strives to maintain top-tier quality through ongoing product innovation.
A representative from Foodrella stated, "We will continue to focus on developing products that cater to the diverse tastes of the global market, aiming to position our product like chicken mix and sauces not merely as ingredients but as key items that enable consumers worldwide to easily experience the appeal of Korean cuisine."
The representative added, "We plan to strengthen our localization strategies by reflecting each region's culinary cultures and preferences and will continue to introduce our new products that can be applied to a variety of dishes."
The representative added, "We plan to strengthen our localization strategies by reflecting each region's culinary cultures and preferences and will continue to introduce our new products that can be applied to a variety of dishes."
About Foodrella
A trusted partner in Korea since 1987, Hanmi F3 Co., Ltd., the manufacturer of Foodrella, specializes in the production of sauces, seasonings, food coatings, beverage bases, bakery & dessert mixes, and pickles for the food service industry. Serving individual cafes and restaurants to international chains, Hanmi F3 is dedicated to quality and safety, earning recognition as a leading domestic food manufacturer, with growing attention in international markets. For more information, visit https://foodrella.com or related links below:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/foodrella
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodrella.official/
Kakao: https://pf.kakao.com/_thqNC
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foodrella
Media Contact
Jason Shin
ssw@foodrella.com
October 30, 2024 4:17 PM
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NEW YORK, NY
BBG Ventures Announces $60 Million Fund II and Unveils New Research: Investing in the Polycultural Future of America
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
October 30, 2024 8:00 AM
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Lake Oswego, OR
How Two Wedding Planners Are Disrupting the CRM Industry, Attracting 55% of New Clients from Billion-Dollar Competitors
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.
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
October 30, 2024 7:00 AM
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LONDON, United Kingdom
AI Platform Haiper Launches Powerful 2.0 Video Model for Increased Realism and Faster Generations
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.
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
October 29, 2024 12:05 PM
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA
HomeBoost Launches BoostBox, a DIY Solution That Empowers Homeowners to Save on Their Energy Bills and Live Comfortably
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
October 29, 2024 11:07 AM
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London, England
New White Paper on Navigating the Rapidly Evolving Landscape of Pandemic Preparedness and Response (PPR)
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.
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
October 29, 2024 9:06 AM
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KYIV, Ukraine
A Key to Ukraine’s Sustainable Future
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
October 29, 2024 9:03 AM
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TALLINN, Estonia
2,230 Billion Euros as a Quarter Turnover: The Results of CryptoProcessing in Q3 2024
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
October 29, 2024 6:11 AM
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GIBRALTAR, United Kingdom
DrinksWorld.com: A New Online Hub for Cocktail Enthusiasts and Bartenders, Introduced by European Bartending School Founders
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.
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
October 28, 2024 7:09 PM
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Miami, FL
SugarMD Unveils a New Amazon-Like Web Experience, Enhancing Diabetes Care with Seamless Shopping and Delivery
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
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
October 28, 2024 6:35 PM
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MIAMI, FL
SugarMD Partners with St. Jude Children’s Hospital to Advance Health Equity and Combat Diabetes
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
October 28, 2024 2:55 PM
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Marietta, GA
The National CIO Review Predicts Expansion of IT Leadership Hiring in 2025
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.
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
October 28, 2024 9:58 AM
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NEW YORK, NY
Murphy Media Partners’ SIGHT Lines Event Convenes High-Level Business Leaders to Break Down Investment Barriers in Women’s Sports
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.
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.
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
October 25, 2024 6:41 PM
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TORONTO, Canada
Expanding IoT Innovation and Market Reach
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
October 25, 2024 1:33 PM
EDT
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LOS ANGELES, CA
Rainbow Labs Honored LGBTQ+ Leaders VINCINT and Ashlee Marie Preston at Inaugural Violet Visionary Awards
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.
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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
October 25, 2024 12:32 PM
EDT
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MARIETTA, GA
The National CIO Review Reports on the Rise of Agentic AI
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.
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
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