News Hub | News Direct

Brand Engagement Network (NASDAQ: BNAI) Expands Global Footprint As It Secures $5.9M in Private Placement Financing And Enters $50M Standby Equity Purchase Agreement

Benzinga

By Anthony Termini, Benzinga Brand Engagement Network (NASDAQ: BNAI) (BEN), which creates artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for consumer engagement using human-like avatars as the interface to communicate with customers, hit multiple milestones recently Early in September, the company entered into an agreement with IntelliTek Health. IntelliTek Health is a subsidiary of SmarTek21 and creates solutions for virtual assistants that interact with medical patients. It develops clinical and patient-facing tools and focuses exclusively on bringing AI-enabled productivity and services to the healthcare industry. What The IntelliTek Deal Means For BEN The agreement grants BEN a worldwide license to provide AI-driven solutions to support healthcare operations and optimize patient engagement throughout the United States, Australia, New Zealand, India and Europe. Together, BEN and IntelliTek will offer a suite of AI-driven healthcare solutions to support and execute a broad range of tasks and operations that serve both medical professionals and patients. The agreement is intended to seek synergies in the strengths and solutions of both companies. Brand Engagement Network will combine its Healthcare AI Assistant, Sandy – which serves as a direct interface resource for patients – with IntelliTek’s Personal Virtual Assistant (PVA). Sandy can help patients schedule appointments and obtain up-to-date information on prescription drugs. The IntelliTek PVA is part of a collaboration with Samsung Mobile Solutions and other leading U.S. and multinational telecommunications companies. The deal also combines BEN’s AI technology with IntelliTek’s Clinical Virtual Assistant (CVA). The CVA is specifically designed for clinical teams looking to reduce their administrative burden. BEN reports that it has been shown to improve administrative efficiency by up to 50%, creating the opportunity to improve patient throughput by up to 17%. Another solution rolled into the agreement is IntelliTek’s hands-free and voice-enabled Document Search AI. This device-agnostic tool can quickly and securely search for and retrieve specific medical information in real time from many different document formats sourced from a wide variety of different repositories. Martyn Molnar, Chief Executive of Products at Intellitek Health, says that the “cooperation with BEN will enable both companies to offer a comprehensive suite of AI solutions for the healthcare industry, which is experiencing critical challenges surrounding workforce and resource availability.” “We’re proud to have found a like-minded ally in IntelliTek, as we both strive to elevate patient experiences and healthcare professional productivity with innovative AI technology,” added Paul Chang, BEN’s CEO. The two executives believe that together the platforms can serve as an end-to-end suite of solutions that offers continuous support to improve healthcare access and outcomes. They believe the collaboration will help each company broaden its customer base. It is expected that the agreement will expand the reach of both companies’ solutions to a larger number of healthcare providers and patients and increase access to life-saving AI technology. IntelliTek delivers highly curated products that automate over 2 billion interactions reaching more than 600 million global users, reports the company. The company and its parent, SmarTek21, ensure seamless connectivity of more than 100 pre-built integrations to support AI-driven solutions. Together they provide intelligent workflow automation across healthcare, telecommunications, aviation, finance and global eCommerce platforms. The healthcare industry represents one of BEN’s primary target markets. The company’s full-stack platform includes front-end, middleware and back-end functionality through scalable, customizable solutions that it says are fully optimized to deliver superior customer experiences, productivity and performance. New Financing Transactions Prior to the IntelliTek Health announcement, BEN completed two investment transactions that provide the company with increased financial flexibility and access to capital to support its ongoing strategic growth initiatives. In August, BEN closed a $5.9 million private placement, which will provide funding to the company on a monthly basis through the first quarter of 2025. The investment was supported by a group of BEN’s existing stockholders, who agreed to purchase nearly 1.2 million shares of common stock. The transaction was consummated at a price per share that was materially above the trading price of the company’s common stock at the time. For each share purchased, investors received an additional share of common stock from certain other existing stockholders. In exchange for transferring those shares, certain transferring stockholders received an aggregate of 960,000 warrants to purchase shares of BEN’s common stock at $5.00 per share. Concurrent with the private placement, BEN also entered into a Standby Equity Purchase Agreement (SEPA) with Yorkville Advisors. The SEPA provides BEN with the ability, but not the obligation, to cause Yorkville to purchase up to the aggregate amount of $50 million of BEN common stock. The SEPA is intended to provide BEN with access to capital on an as-needed basis to fund its business plan as it seeks to execute its growth and revenue strategies. The SEPA cannot be used until a registration statement is declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission. These two transactions are intended to help the company expand market validation and scale production of its human-like conversational AI assistants. For more information about BEN, please visit www.beninc.ai. Featured photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

September 10, 2024 08:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

VOESH New York Launches New 28 oz. Vegan Hand & Body Crème Collection

VOESH New York

VOESH New York is debuting a new 28 oz. Vegan Hand & Body Crème Collection, created to provide salon clients with a luxurious and healthier hydration experience. These larger bottles offer the same high-quality, vegan-friendly ingredients that have established VOESH as a leader in the body care industry. “We’re thrilled about the addition of these generously sized lotions to VOESH’s product line,” said Tom Harrison, Principal of Coleman Harrison. “VOESH consistently outshines the competition with expert formulas. This new size will undoubtedly enhance manicure and pedicure services, delivering superior results for both clients and technicians.” “As a bonus, technicians can pair these lotions with VOESH’s best-selling Pedi in a Box products,” added Kendall Stone, Principal of Jay Stone Sales. Enriched with 94+% natural-origin ingredients, VOESH’s 28 oz. crèmes are formulated with organic virgin olive oil and natural extracts. They are infused with 100% vegan, clean, and certified organic components and are free from parabens, phthalates, gluten, mineral oil, and more than 1,680 other potentially harmful substances. The velvety texture provides long-lasting moisture and a radiant glow without a greasy feel. These larger bottles not only provide a superior experience but also ensure lasting hydration and value. “Our lotions have always been a best-seller, so we’ve brought them back in a more convenient size for salons,” said Joseph Choi, Co-Founder of VOESH New York. “Salon owners have been asking for our popular massage butter in a bottle, and we’re ecstatic to fulfill this request.” The new collection is available in five delightful scents: Olive Sensation, Lavender Relieve, Vitamin Recharge, Jasmine Soothe, and Green Tea Detox. Each scent is made with premium, IFRA-certified fragrances that pair perfectly with VOESH’s best-selling Pedi in a Box Deluxe 4 Step pedicure kits. This allows for a cohesive pampering experience that caters to clients’ preferences. With a transparent ingredient list, dermatologist testing, and U.S. FDA registration, VOESH’s new 28 oz. Vegan Hand & Body Crèmes are the best addition to guarantee clients and technicians feel good about what goes on their skin. For more information about VOESH’s new 28 oz. Vegan Hand & Body Crèmes, please visit voeshpro.com. About VOESH New York: Founded in 2013, VOESH New York has emerged as a premier destination for clean and efficacious body care solutions catering to head-to-toe wellness. Noteworthy products include Pedi in a Box, Mani in a Box, the award-winning Shower & Empower Vitamin C Shower Filter, and Collagen Gloves and Socks. VOESH New York is committed to providing 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable products because every body deserves better beauty! All VOESH New York products are certified by PETA and registered with the US Mocra, EU CPNP and UK SCPN, maintaining vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested standards. VOESH New York proudly excludes all 1,680+ EU-banned ingredients and an additional 400+ potentially harmful ingredients. For more information, visit VOESH New York’s website at Voesh.com or contact press@voesh.com. All VOESH New York products are certified by PETA and registered with the EU CPNP, and UK SCPN. Always vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested, VOESH New York proudly excludes all 1,680+ EU-banned ingredients and an additional 400+ potentially harmful ingredients. Contact Details Colleen Mathis +1 917-690-5560 Colleen@absoluterrelations.com Company Website https://voesh.com/

September 06, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Goodway Group Secures Meta Media Certification: Elevating Expertise, Enhancing Efficiency, and Maximizing Media Investments as Meta Drives 21% of U.S. Ad Spend in 2024

Goodway Group

Goodway Group, a leading digital marketing agency, proudly announces that we have achieved Meta Media Certification. This prestigious recognition from Meta confirms our proven digital expertise and solidifies our position as an industry leader, enhancing our ability to deliver more efficient, effective campaigns that maximize our clients’ media investments for better outcomes. As reported by eMarketer, Meta—the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and more—is a dominant force in the U.S. and global advertising landscape. With a projected $64.63 billion in U.S. ad revenues in 2024, Meta is expected to account for 21.3% of U.S. digital ad spend and 74.5% of U.S. social network ad spend, according to a March 2024 eMarketer forecast. To achieve this top-tier certification, agencies must meet stringent standards, including maintaining a minimum of 20 active certifications or 20% of the team being certified, whichever is higher. Goodway Group has now met and exceeded these criteria with 73% of eligible team members being certified, earning recognition from Meta for our exceptional digital expertise. Our certified team members possess deep knowledge of Meta’s platforms, which is crucial for driving greater buying efficiency and ensuring that every dollar our clients invest is optimized for maximum return. Goodway Group is uniquely positioned to leverage Meta’s advanced tools and insights, enabling us to deliver exceptional value through our Outcome Engineering approach. Meta's platforms are a core component in holistic omni-channel marketing for a more connected online customer journey, with Meta apps boasting 3 billion people using their products. This certification is validation that Goodway Group is better equipped to harness Meta’s full potential, ensuring that our clients’ media investments are fully maximized to yield the best possible outcomes. Our relationship with Meta has already delivered significant results. For instance, in a recently published joint case study, Goodway Group: Meta Business Partner Conversions API Success Story, we detailed our collaboration with Tacori, a leading jewelry brand. Tacori aimed to improve overall campaign performance by achieving more granular tracking of conversion events across their websites and eCommerce platforms. By utilizing Meta’s Conversions API (CAPI) Gateway, we helped Tacori increase bookings to view jewelry for purchase by 18% and reduce costs with a 27% decrease in CPMs. This case study highlights the tangible benefits of our Meta Media Certification and how it directly contributes to our clients' success. You can view the full case study here. “Being recognized as a Meta Media Certified Company is a significant milestone for Goodway Group,” said Stephani Estes, Chief Media Officer at Goodway Group. “This certification not only validates the exceptional talent of our team but also strengthens our ability to deliver top-tier results for our clients. As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of digital marketing, our partnership with Meta will be instrumental in helping us achieve new heights of success.” Goodway Group's Meta Media Certification provides our clients with the assurance that their campaigns are managed by experts who have been rigorously tested and certified by one of the world's leading digital platforms. This recognition solidifies our standing in the marketplace and further positions us as a leader in delivering innovative, outcome-driven digital marketing solutions that maximize buying efficiency and protect our clients’ investments. About Goodway Group Goodway Group is a leading independent digital marketing agency fueled by data, technology and a dedicated purpose of making your media investment perform. Goodway Groupâs Outcome Engineeringâ¢ powers our full ecosystem, a proprietary philosophy that connects strategy, analytics and precise execution for measurable growth. Goodway Group ranks among the top North American agencies, earning prestigious awards for innovative marketing technology, impactful work and fostering inclusive, remote-first workplaces. We've been honored as a multiyear Ad Age Best Places to Work and received AdExchangerâs Best Use of Technology by an Agency award among other accolades. Our collective media buying power has led to industry-renowned partnerships. We hold certifications and are recognized with preferred partner status across the Triopoly and all major marketing and media platforms. This ensures that our clients' media investments are optimally managed, minimizing fraud and waste, and maximizing effectiveness and value. Our company encompasses five distinct divisions: CvE, a marketing advisory firm; G-Comm, a retail media accelerator; TUFF, a performance marketing agency; Goodway, a managed service media and analytics partner; and GRADIANT, a modern funnel digital media agency. Together, we make up Goodway Group, the marketing engine that unlocks measurable growth for the world's most progressive brands. Facebook® is a registered trademark of Meta Inc. Contact Details Kite Hill PR for Goodway Group +1 973-722-7881 goodway@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://www.goodwaygroup.com/

September 05, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

News Release

Introducing Brick Media: A New Force in Media Management and Innovation

Full Scope PR

Brick Media announces its powerful entrance into the media landscape, asserting itself as a catalyst for transformation. With a bold vision for content innovation and unparalleled management expertise, Brick Media is set to redefine and lead the charge in shaping the future of media. As a full-service media management firm at the intersection of content strategy and business execution, Brick Media is committed to nurturing the growth and monetization of its clients' careers across the digital media landscape. With a multifaceted approach, the company aims to elevate brands and voices across sports, entertainment, and beyond. Drawing from over a decade of unparalleled success in sports and entertainment management, Aaron & André Eanes of A&A Management bring their strategic expertise and deep industry insights to position Brick Media as a transformative force in the media sector. Leading this ambitious venture alongside them is CEO of Brick Media, Maggie Clifton. Formerly with Blue Wire and Wasserman, Maggie brings a wealth of experience and a visionary outlook to the company. Under her guidance, a team of highly skilled media professionals will spearhead the optimization of innovative and compelling content. Together, they stand ready to redefine the boundaries of the industry, heralding a new era of influence. "We founded Brick Media with the strategic vision of being a vital resource in the media industry for those seeking to elevate their clients' success to new levels. When we helped with the launch of New Heights, it revealed a critical need for an independent partner adept at steering through the intricacies of advertising, ancillary revenue streams, digital creation, and social growth. Brick Media fulfills that role, offering expert guidance and the best-in-class resources to empower achieving maximum value." says Aaron & Andre Eanes of A&A Management Group. "Brick Media is here to support our partners’ media businesses via strategy, monetization, distribution, marketing, and all other opportunities for growth. We’ve been building quietly all year and are excited to finally launch publicly.” says CEO of Brick Media, Maggie Clifton. In a remarkable inaugural achievement, Aaron Eanes of A&A Management Group and Maggie Clifton of Brick Media led negotiations a ground-breaking deal between the leading podcast studio Wondery and the widely acclaimed show, "New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce," alongside Andre Eanes of A&A Management Group and Jason Bernstein of Clarity Football. This marks the beginning of Brick Media's mission to forge impactful partnerships and deliver unparalleled growth across the digital media landscape. Brick Media is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of creativity and strategic content development. As the company continues to forge influential partnerships and manage transformative projects, Brick Media is poised to become a leader in the digital media ecosystem. About Brick Media Brick Media is a media management firm specializing in content strategy and business development. Dedicated to fostering client growth and monetization across diverse media landscapes, including sports, entertainment, and news, Brick Media is set to make its mark on the future of media. Contact Details Alessandra Chisolm alessandra@fullscopepr.com

September 05, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Broadband Leaders Publish Permitting Success Strategies for ISPs and Local Governments

Benton Institute for Broadband & Society

Today, a group of leading broadband organizations published a strategic paper titled “ Permitting Success: Closing the Digital Divide Through Local Broadband Permitting. ” The paper will help local governments and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) navigate broadband network construction challenges and maximize investments in broadband connectivity for all Americans. The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, in partnership with the Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy, the American Association for Public Broadband, Fiber Broadband Association, Brightspeed, and GFiber, wrote the Permitting Success paper. The paper publishes at a critical moment when broadband infrastructure funding is at an all-time high due to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program—the single largest broadband program in U.S. history. This historic level of funding creates an opportunity to bring high-speed internet access to every community in America and close the digital divide. Historic levels of funding will accelerate broadband network construction, putting enormous pressure on local governments responsible for permitting infrastructure construction within municipal boundaries. These processes take time and resources, and not every government is equipped for the coming wave of construction. This is especially true in rural areas, where municipal resources are lowest and BEAD activity will be highest. Effective and efficient permitting processes are critical for ISPs and local governments to successfully deploy broadband networks that will give every American community modern connectivity. The Permitting Success paper includes case studies; strategic checklists for ISPs, local governments, and state and federal agencies; and outlines three main categories for permitting success: Fostering partnerships between the permit seeker and the permitting authority Maximizing resources available to the permitting authority Ensuring transparency and consistency in the permitting process The paper’s findings were identified during a collaborative national summit on local permitting processes convened by Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy, which was attended by more than 30 permitting leaders representing local, state, and federal governments; ISPs; civil society organizations; philanthropies; and other key stakeholders. The paper will be explored during an episode of FBA’s Fiber for Breakfast on September 25, at 10:00am EDT. Register here to watch the episode live. Supporting Quotes: Drew Garner, Director of Policy Engagement, Benton Institute for Broadband & Society: “Broadband is fundamental to modern life. Yet, for millions of Americans, broadband is unavailable. To correct this, the U.S. has launched a historic effort to bring broadband to every household in the country. But such extensive broadband construction will require extensive construction permitting, and construction permitting often happens at the local level. Thus, the historic effort to close the digital divide will ultimately flow through the permitting offices of our local governments. This paper is intended to help those offices and their applicants operate at maximum efficiency.” Natalie Roisman, Executive Director, Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy: “The Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy seeks to be a convener for conversations that are necessary, challenging, and will move the needle on urgent technology policy issues. We were pleased to host the permitting summit that sought input from a wide range of expert private and public sector perspectives, culminating in this thoughtful paper, and hope this process will get us closer to the critical goal of broadband for every American." Gigi Sohn, American Association for Public Broadband Executive Director: “The permitting paper being released today was made possible by a unique collaboration among representatives from across the broadband ecosystem—local, state and federal government officials, civil society, philanthropy and diverse segments of the industry. While there was not always unanimity on every finding, there was complete agreement that everyone benefits when all US households are connected to robust, affordable high-speed broadband. The result is a common sense guide that seeks to ensure that everyone in that ecosystem contributes to a successful local permitting process.” Fiber Broadband Association President and CEO Gary Bolton: “There is tremendous opportunity ahead to connect every American to reliable, high-speed broadband and to the economic benefits that come with high-quality connectivity. But every player across the broadband ecosystem needs to develop their best strategy to ensure network construction is safe and efficient and broadband deployment is effective and successful. The Fiber Broadband Association offers a growing library of research and resources to help the industry develop successful strategies for fiber broadband deployment, and we believe this paper is a valuable addition that will help ensure these networks are built right the first time.” Brightspeed: Tom Dailey, senior vice president, Public Policy, Government Affairs and Regulatory, Brightspeed “Brightspeed is actively building our state-of-the-art fiber network across 17 states mostly in rural and suburban communities, and positive and timely engagement with permitting authorities is critical. This is especially true when permitting requirements vary from state to state and jurisdiction to jurisdiction. By creating more streamlined, consistent and transparent permitting processes, we can ultimately reach more homes and businesses more efficiently. We very much appreciate the opportunity to engage with the many permissions and policy professionals who contributed their time, energy and most of all their expertise to developing this paper, which will facilitate the successful deployment of broadband networks across the nation.” GFiber: Darrel Hegar, Head of Market Operations, GFiber “Everyone deserves access to high-quality broadband internet. Communities and providers must work together to speed up network construction and service delivery. The policies and procedures laid out in this paper provide a clear roadmap for how we can make real, tangible progress to bringing the promise of next-generation internet to reality for all Americans.” ### Press Contacts: Benton Institute for Broadband & Society: Drew Garner, dgarner@benton.org Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy: Samantha Simonsen, sas497@georgetown.edu American Association for Public Broadband: Aaron Alberico, alberico@raynoravenue.com Brightspeed: Gene Rodriguez Miller, pr@brightspeed.com Fiber Broadband Association: Autumn Minnich, FBA@connect2comm.com GFiber: gfiber-pr@google.com About the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society’s primary mission is to bring open, affordable, high-capacity and competitive broadband to all people in the U.S. to ensure a thriving democracy. For over 40 years Benton has provided information and analysis about communications policy, including universal service. In recent years, Benton’s activities strengthened local, state, and national leadership by providing the timely information, rigorous evidence, practical guidance, and advocacy support needed to articulate and implement a broadband for all agenda. Benton has long advocated for universal, affordable telecommunications access for everyone living in the United States. About Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy The Institute for Technology Law and Policy is a hub at the Georgetown University Law Center for policymakers, academics, advocates, and technologists to study and discuss the most pressing issues in technology law and policy. With the leading academic program for law and technology in the U.S., the Tech Institute supports faculty research initiatives and trains the next generation of tech lawyers and policymakers through an unmatched combination of up-to-the-minute curriculum, world-class faculty, and impactful experiential and career development opportunities. In addition, the Tech Institute convenes public and private discussions on urgent and cutting-edge policy issues, conducts workshops for government staff, and works to identify and create opportunities for technology to improve access to justice. About the American Association for Public Broadband The American Association for Public Broadband proudly represents community-owned broadband networks and co-ops that are fueling the nation's economic future through reliable high-speed internet access. With more than 650+ networks across 33 states, public––or municipal broadband––is answering America's call for reliable, affordable, and accessible internet for all. Learn more at aapb.us. About the Fiber Broadband Association The Fiber Broadband Association is the largest and only trade association that represents the complete fiber ecosystem of service providers, manufacturers, industry experts, and deployment specialists dedicated to the advancement of fiber broadband deployment and the pursuit of a world where communications are limitless, advancing quality of life and digital equity anywhere and everywhere. The Fiber Broadband Association helps providers, communities, and policymakers make informed decisions about how, where, and why to build better fiber broadband networks. Since 2001, these companies, organizations, and members have worked with communities and consumers in mind to build the critical infrastructure that provides the economic and societal benefits that only fiber can deliver. The Fiber Broadband Association is part of the Fibre Council Global Alliance, which is a platform of six global FTTH Councils in North America, LATAM, Europe, MEA, APAC, and South Africa. Learn more at fiberbroadband.org or subscribe to FBA’s Fiber Forward Weekly newsletter here. About Brightspeed Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., and with assets and associated operations in 20 states, Brightspeed provides broadband and telecommunications services through a network platform capable of serving more than 6.5 million homes and businesses. Our 4,000 employees are committed to building a future where more communities benefit from a more connected life, deploying a state-of-the-art fiber network and a customer experience that makes being connected as simple as it should be. For more information, please visit brightspeed.com. About GFiber GFiber delivers fast, reliable, fairly-priced and open fiber internet service, prioritizing customer service and speed. GFiber started in 2010 as a Google-driven experiment to catalyze the gigabit internet ecosystem, and has since pioneered the gigabit and multigig internet future. For more than a decade, GFiber has maintained its $70/1 Gig base internet plan without any rate increases, and remains committed to bringing the best internet experience to customers in nearly 20 states with plans to further expand. GFiber was awarded PC Mag Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Overall and Fiber ISP in 2024, Best Fiber Internet Provider by Forbes in 2024 and Best Fiber Provider for Gig Internet by CNET in 2024, in addition to top recognitions from J.D. Power, HighSpeedInternet.com and many more. You can find more information, check availability in your area and compare plans at fiber.google.com. Contact Details Benton Institute for Broadband & Society Drew Garner dgarner@benton.org Company Website https://www.benton.org/

September 04, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

What If Your Most Profitable Strategy Also Made the World a Better Place?

Fordham Gabelli

As the world grapples with complex challenges such as climate change, poverty, and human rights issues, organizations are uniquely positioned to drive positive change. A new study titled “Social Profit Orientation: Lessons from Organizations Committed to Building a Better World,” recently published in the Journal of Marketing, explores how companies can simultaneously generate profit and foster societal well-being. The research, conducted by a team of esteemed academics, including Leonard L. Berry (Texas A&M), Tracey S. Danaher (Monash University), Timothy Keiningham (St. John's University), Lerzan Aksoy (Fordham University), and Tor W. Andreassen (Norwegian School of Economics), examines the benefits of adopting a social profit orientation to benefit both the organization and society. This approach encourages organizations to invest resources purposefully to enhance the common good. The study, based on 62 in-depth executive interviews across 21 organizations worldwide, reveals the significant benefits of embracing a social profit orientation. These organizations develop new approaches and strategies that address critical problems, thereby driving business innovation and improving societal outcomes. What is Social Profit Orientation? Social Profit Orientation is an organization-wide perspective where organizations embrace in their core mission the creation of sustainable, positive social and environmental impacts on individuals, communities, and society at large. Organizations with this orientation proactively invest resources such as knowledge, infrastructure, labor, reputation, money, and time to enhance the common good, especially improving the well-being of people and safeguarding the health of the planet. It reflects a deliberate, conscious effort to address systemic social or environmental challenges, rather than being merely a by-product of making financial profits. Examples from the Study Oportun tackles financial exclusion by providing affordable credit to underserved communities, offering an alternative to payday lenders. With significant investments in technology, Oportun has successfully issued millions of loans, enabling its customers to avoid exorbitant interest rates and fees. CEO Raul Vazquez highlights their challenge: “50% of customers who come to us have no FICO [credit] score, and other folks we serve may have a score based on limited history.” Despite these obstacles, Oportun has managed to provide more than $18.2 billion in credit by year-end 2023, saving its customers $2.4 billion in interest and fees. Gundersen Health System (renamed Emplify Health) exemplifies how a holistic approach to sustainability can be woven into the fabric of an organization. Under the leadership of Dr. Jeff Thompson, Gundersen became the first U.S. health system to offset 100% of its fossil-fuel use with self-produced energy. Their initiatives include harnessing solar and wind power and transforming landfill biogas into electricity and heat. Dr. Thompson remarks, “We are not just a ‘fix-it’ shop. Our mindset was: how do we protect the environment so it is a part of how we work, how we live, and how we work with our communities.” By adopting a social profit orientation, organizations not only drive meaningful societal impact but also experience enhanced legitimacy, stronger stakeholder relationships, improved employee engagement, and increased innovation. These benefits contribute to long-term business success and sustainability. Best Practices for Building a Social Profit Orientation Align employee and organizational values to create a unified mission. Ensure organizational resources and governance structures maximize societal benefits. Inspire executive and board leadership to deeply commit to social profit goals. Make informed investment decisions that focus on initiatives with the greatest social impact. Measure and evaluate social impact rigorously to ensure meaningful contributions. Foster external partnerships and communicate purpose through compelling storytelling. “Organizations today are at a crossroads where they can choose to be mere profit-generating entities or become catalysts for global change. Our study shows that the most profitable strategy might also be the one that makes the world a better place. By embracing a social profit orientation, organizations can lead their sectors, drive innovation, and make significant societal impacts,” said Lerzan Aksoy, Dean at Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business. To attain a full copy of the research and download the associated teaching guides click here. To interview any of the authors of the paper, please reach out to the press contacts above. About Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business Founded in 1920, the mission of Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business is to inspire and empower positive global change, developing students into compassionate business leaders and supporting faculty members and students in the ongoing generation of new knowledge. The Gabelli School has become a driver of social innovation by equipping graduates to be business leaders who understand and meet the need for sustainability in business and who are able to harness the power of social responsibility for both financial success and societal impact. Through its many graduate and undergraduate degree programs and a diverse range of faculty research initiatives, the Gabelli School of Business works collectively to redesign business as a sustainable force for prosperity. Contact Details Fordham Gabelli School of Business Paola Curcio-Kleinman +1 212-636-6311 pcurciokleinman@fordham.edu Marino Taryn Schofield +1 973-919-4377 fordhamgabelli@marinopr.com Company Website https://www.fordham.edu/gabelli-school-of-business/

September 04, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

NAVEX Announces 2024 Excellence Awards Finalists

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, a leading provider of integrated risk and compliance management software, announces today the 2024 NAVEX Excellence Awards finalists. Now in its fourth year, the awards celebrate organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to corporate governance, risk mitigation, and ethical practices. Each year, the NAVEX Excellence Awards highlight how robust governance, risk and compliance (GRC) programs can strengthen corporate culture and meaningfully impact business outcomes that matter. The 2024 finalists exemplify how effective GRC initiatives can proactively manage and mitigate risks when woven into the organizational fabric. "Congratulations to this year’s nominees and finalists for their outstanding achievements," said NAVEX Chief Customer Officer, Steve Chapman. "We are proud to partner with customers who are dedicated to advancing their GRC efforts. These awards shine a spotlight on some of the most innovative and effective programs in the industry, and we applaud the compliance teams at these companies for their ongoing efforts to build highly ethical, risk-aware organizations." The winners will be honored in several categories, including Ethics & Compliance, Risk Management, and Risk and Compliance Program of the Year. Selected from a highly competitive pool of nominations, this year’s finalists include: As in previous years, the judging panel brings together a mix of NAVEX leaders and seasoned GRC professionals. This year’s esteemed panel features: Barbara Boehler, Senior Director, Program on Corporate Compliance and Ethics, Fordham Law Bill Cameron, Founder and Principal, Cameron Advisory Services Carol Williams, CEO and Enterprise Risk Management Consultant, Strategic Decision Solutions Carrie Penman, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, NAVEX Kyle Brasseur, Former Editor in Chief, Compliance Week Kyle Martin, Vice President of GRC Solutions, NAVEX Matt Kelly, Editor and CEO, Radical Compliance LLC Stephen Chapman, Chief Customer Officer, NAVEX Vera Cherepanova, Ethics Advocate, Consultant, Author, Studio Etica Award recipients will be announced after to the 2024 NAVEX Next Virtual Conference on October 1. NAVEX is trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help them achieve the business outcomes that matter most. As the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software and services, we deliver solutions through the NAVEX One platform, the industry’s most comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) information system. For more information, visit NAVEX.com and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Contact Details Navex Global +1 617-388-5773 scott.levesque@navex.com Company Website https://navex.com

September 03, 2024 08:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Get Ready to Win Big—LHUNT Token Presale Now Live!

Spark Metro

The Crypto world never fails to amaze us in all new different ways. It has a new addition named LuckHunter with its ticker LHUNT. The presale of this LHUNT token is live, which is one of the game changing opportunities for the gamers and enthusiastic crypto investors. LuckHunter is an innovative online casino and gambling platform set to disrupt the online gambling industry. With a bag full of benefits, exclusively for the presale participants, don't wait and think much, grab the big opportunity now in this gaming industry. Exclusive Benefits for Early Adopters The LHUNT token is not just the regular crypto token, but it is a gateway to the world of rewards. The unique benefits it provides are as follows. 1. Up to 100% Worth of Presale Purchase Credits in Casino Imagine stepping into the world of Luckhunter.com with the presale purchase instantly transformed into casino credits. That’s right—participants in the LHUNT presale can receive up to 100% of their purchase value as casino credits, giving anyone a head start on the platform from day one. Whether being an experienced gambler or new to the scene, these credits allow gamblers to explore, play, and win big as soon as the platform goes live. 2. Huge Giveaways As a token of appreciation for your early support, presale.luckhunter.com is offering massive giveaways exclusively for presale participants. Expect a treasure trove of rewards, including crypto prizes, exclusive merchandise, and more. These giveaways aren’t just about luck—they’re designed to enhance user experience and keep the excitement going. 3. Staking Rewards The LHUNT presale isn’t just about buying tokens—it’s about investing in the future. Early participants will have access to enhanced staking rewards, allowing them to earn more LHUNT tokens simply by holding and staking their initial purchase. This is the only chance to maximize the investment while enjoying the perks of being an early adopter. 4. VIP Access Presale participants will be among the first to experience new games and features on Luckhunter.com. With VIP access, the buyers will have the inside track on the latest innovations, ensuring that they're always at the forefront of the gaming experience. This exclusive access is reserved only for those who believe in the platform from the start. 5. Exclusive Community Membership Joining the LHUNT presale means more than just buying tokens—it’s about becoming part of a community. Presale participants will gain access to a private community group where buyers can connect with like-minded individuals, share strategies, and engage directly with the Luckhunter.com team. This membership comes with special offers, insider information, and the chance to shape the future of the platform. A New Era in Crypto Gaming The LHUNT token presale represents more than just an investment—it’s the ticket to the next level of online gaming. By participating in this presale, investors not only secure their future in the crypto world but also gain access to a groundbreaking platform designed to reward its most loyal supporters. presale.luckhunter.com is set to redefine the casino and gambling experience, merging cutting-edge blockchain technology with the excitement of online gaming. Don’t miss this chance to be part of this revolution. The LHUNT token presale is live now, but it won’t last forever. Act Now—Secure Your LHUNT Tokens Today! This is your moment to step into the future of gaming. The LHUNT token presale is the chance to secure a piece of the action, enjoy unmatched benefits, and position yourself for massive rewards. Don’t wait—join the presale today and get ready to hunt for luck like never before. For more information and to participate in the LHUNT token presale, visit presale.luckhunter.com Or contact Telegram - https://t.me/LuckHunterCasino Twitter - https://x.com/LuckhuntrCasino Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@LuckHunterCasino Email - team@luckhunter.com Contact Details Alex +1 302-497-6769 Apexreviews56@gmail.com

August 30, 2024 11:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

PRSA Colorado Chapter Announces Winners of the 2024 Gold Picks Awards

PRSA Colorado

The Colorado Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA Colorado) hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Gold Picks Awards Ceremony last night at Stick and Feather in Denver, Colo. The event, which has become a cornerstone of the Colorado public relations community, celebrated the outstanding achievements of professionals and organizations in the field of public relations and corporate communications. Honoring Two Pioneers A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Special Awards, including the Jane Dvorak Mentor of the Year Award and the Sharon Linhart PR Person of the Year Award. These awards were renamed at the event in honor of two trailblazers in the Colorado PR community, recognizing their extraordinary contributions to the industry. The 2024 Special Awards winners are: Joe Fuentes Rookie of the Year: Caroline Campbell, VISIT DENVER Jane Dvorak Mentor of the Year Award: Shawna Seldon McGregor, Maverick Public Relations Media Person of the Year: Greg Avery, Denver Business Journal Business Person of the Year: Doyle Albee, Comprise PR Team of the Year: Gomez Howard Group Ayers Chapter Service Award: Liz Viscardi, APR, LV Events and PR Sharon Linhart PR Person of the Year Award: Merideth Hartung, B Public Relations Rising Stars and Industry Leaders The event also shone a spotlight on the next generation of PR professionals. Members of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) from the University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University were acknowledged for their contributions to the event and their dedication to the profession. The PRSSA's efforts in fundraising and their anticipated participation in the ICON conference in Anaheim, Calif. this fall were particularly commended. 2024 Gold Picks Award Winners All award winners are listed below under their corresponding category. Gold Picks are the highest-scoring awards based on a specific scoring system but each award is judged individually instead of against the other submittals within that category, meaning multiple organizations can win a Gold Pick within the same category. All awards are judged anonymously by another chapter of PRSA. Gold and Silver Pick Awards: Integrated Communications: Consumer Products: Gold: SchroderHaus – "Justin’s Nuts About Bees" Silver: SchroderHaus – "Justin’s #JustinMyLunch Hunger Relief Program" Government: Gold: CIG Public Relations – "Express Lanes Safety Enforcement" Silver: CIG Public Relations – "CDOT’s Cannabis-Impaired Driving Campaign" Associations/Nonprofits/Educational Institutions: Silver: SchroderHaus – "Fairtrade America’s 'We Are Fairtrade.' Awareness Campaign" Events and Observances - Seven or Fewer Days: Government: Gold: National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic – "Miracles on a Mountainside" Silver: National Renewable Energy Laboratory – "NREL Welcomes Neighbors Back to Campus During Community Open House" Associations/Nonprofits/Educational Institutions: Gold: Meadows PR and Visit Golden – "Goldens in Golden" Silver: CU Boulder Office of Strategic Relations & Communications – "ScienceWriters2023 at CU Boulder" Silver: Metropolitan State University of Denver – "9News Denver Mayoral Debate hosted by MSU Denver" Content Marketing: Government: Silver: CIG Public Relations – "CDOT Motorcycle Safety campaign" Business to Business: Silver: Graebel Companies with Linhart Public Relations – "Amplifying Thought Leadership and Demonstrating Value through Creative Storytelling" Silver: BOK Financial – "Healthcare Cyberattacks Hurt Providers and Patients Alike" Community Relations: Associations/Nonprofits/Educational Institutions: Silver: JKD & Company and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – "11th Hour Push - Denver’s Giving Machines" Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability: Silver: SideCar Public Relations – "Seizing Streets for Community Not Cars: ¡Viva! Streets Denver Brings a Global Phenomenon to the Mile High City" Influencer Marketing: Micro-Influencers: Silver: SchroderHaus – "Increasing Reach and Credibility through Influencer Partnerships for Clipper Tea" Organizational Awards: Best Agency - Midsize: Gold: B Public Relations – "From Local to Global: B Public Relations Elevates Hospitality Brands and Experiences" Component Awards: Annual Reports: Gold: Western Resource Advocates – "WRA’s 2022 Impact Report - Building a Better West" Gold: JKD & Company – "Native American Bank - Honoring Community" Social Media: Gold: CU Boulder Office of Strategic Relations & Communications – "CU in 60" Gold: SchroderHaus – "Leveraging Social Media for Awareness and Engagement for Clipper Tea" Branded Content: Gold: BOK Financial – "Healthcare Cyberattacks White Paper" Feature Stories: Gold: Linhart Public Relations with Spire Midstream – "Contributed Content Highlights Need for Natural Gas Storage" Gold: CU Boulder Office of Strategic Relations & Communications – "How Animals Get their Stripes and Spots" Gold: Metropolitan State University of Denver – "Call Me Mister" Newsletters/Magazines: Gold: Metropolitan State University of Denver – "RED Newsfeed" Gold: Western Resource Advocates – "Field Notes" Best Use of Generative AI - Direct Audience Engagement: Gold: CIG Public Relations – "CDOT Impaired Driving Holiday Mug Shot Campaign" Data Insights: Gold: Hensel Phelps Marketing Communications Team & Swing Strategic Communication – "Hensel Phelps 2023 Communications Audit" Influencer Marketing: Gold: Linhart Public Relations with Chocolove – "Sweet Success: Activating Existing Brand Fans on Instagram by Showing the Chocolove" Gold: SchroderHaus – "Justin’s #JustinMyLunch Influencer Marketing" Gold: SchroderHaus – "Earth Month Goes Regenerative for Artisan Tropic" Videos: Silver: Metropolitan State University of Denver – "Art of Dueling" Websites: Gold: Western Resource Advocates – "A New Website for Western Resource Advocates’ Future" Podcasts: Silver: National Renewable Energy Laboratory – "NREL Reaches New Audiences with Launch of Science News Podcast" Media Relations: Gold: JKD & Company and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – "11th Hour Push - Denver’s Giving Machines" Gold: Linhart Public Relations – "Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Combines Bench of Culinary Experts and Creative Media Strategy to Garner Year-Round National Media Coverage" Silver: CU Boulder Office of Strategic Relations & Communications – "Full Triceratops Skeleton Now Calls Boulder Home" Silver: SideCar Public Relations – "¡Viva! Streets Denver Drives Sustainability and Community Engagement Through Car-Free Streets" Silver: Barefoot PR – "Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation Invests in Oral Health Equity" Silver: Elasticity on behalf of Elevate Quantum – "A Mountain of Opportunity" Silver: Root Marketing & PR on behalf of Bubbies Fine Foods – "Making a Big Dill Out of Bubbies" Grand Gold Picks: The Grand Bold Pick is awarded to the "Best of Show" for the campaign with the highest overall score. This years, two organizations took home a Grand Gold Pick: Meadows PR and Visit Golden – "Goldens in Golden" National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic – "Miracles on a Mountainside" PRSA Colorado congratulates all winners for their exemplary work and contributions to the public relations industry in Colorado. The Public Relations Society of America ( www.prsa.org ) is the nation’s largest association for the professional practice of public relations. The Colorado Chapter ( www.prsacolorado.org ), headquartered in Westminster, is consistently one of the largest chapters in the country. The chapter provides timely and profession-specific educational programs, information and networking opportunities to all of its members, which include professionals at all levels working at corporations, local and national public relations agencies, government offices, universities, nonprofits and independent PR practitioners. Contact Details PRSA Colorado Chapter Alicia Nieva-Woodgate +1 415-515-0866 info@prsacolorado.org Company Website https://prsacolorado.org/

August 29, 2024 04:24 PM Eastern Daylight Time