Southern Careers Institute Pharr Branch Campus Launches Free Weekly Community Workshops
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 16:01 EDT
Southern Careers Institute (SCI) Pharr Branch Campus is opening its doors to the community by offering a series of free weekly workshops designed to support individuals in their career, financial, and educational journeys. Beginning the week of June 22, community members are invited to attend these no-cost workshops led by SCI team members. The workshops are open to the public and provide practical resources, guidance, and support for those looking to advance their personal and professional goals. Job Prep Wednesdays Wednesdays | 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hosted by SCI's Career Services team, Job Prep Wednesdays helps participants strengthen their job search efforts through: Resume reviews Mock interviews Job search assistance LinkedIn and professional profile support Interview preparation Financial Prep Thursdays Thursdays | 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hosted by SCI's Financial Aid team, these community-focused sessions will cover important financial topics, including: Budgeting basics Understanding credit and credit scores FAFSA fundamentals Financial aid education Planning for career training and educational opportunities Education Prep Fridays Fridays | 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Hosted by SCI's Admissions team, Education Prep Fridays will provide guidance and support for individuals working toward completing their high school education, including: Assistance in preparing for the GED Help with the GED application process Support in earning a high school diploma through Broady Academy Guidance on educational pathways and next steps toward career training opportunities "At Southern Careers Institute, we believe education and career resources should be accessible to everyone," said George Garza, SCI Pharr Branch Campus Director. "These workshops are an opportunity for us to support our community by providing practical tools and guidance that can help individuals move toward their goals." All workshops are free and open to the public. For questions or additional information, community members may contact Julissa Leal-Underwood at julissa.leal-underwood@scitexas.edu. About Southern Careers Institute Founded in 1960, Southern Careers Institute (SCI) has been dedicated to empowering Texas students through career-focused education. With eight campuses conveniently located in Austin, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Pharr, San Antonio North, San Antonio South, and Waco, SCI offers a diverse array of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers and meaningful community contributions. Our training programs encompass various fields, including Business, Beauty, Allied Health, Technology, and Trades, with options for hybrid and online learning to accommodate different learning styles. Please note that not all programs are available at every campus. The Southern Careers Institute Austin Main campus is located at 1701 W Ben White Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704. Phone: 512-432-1400 Website: scitexas.edu
Invest Atlanta Receives 4th Consecutive International Economic Development Council Accreditation
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 13:32 EDT
Invest Atlanta, the official economic development authority for the City of Atlanta, is proud to announce the organization has once again been recognized as one of 99 economic development organizations accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Originally accredited on October 5, 2015, Invest Atlanta successfully achieved reaccreditation in 2019, 2022, and 2026 by demonstrating and maintaining excellence in the profession. The IEDC includes more than 4,500 members. "Invest Atlanta displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor," said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. The Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an onsite visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, program, and staff of the candidate economic development organization. "As Invest Atlanta grows, our commitment remains focused on delivering meaningful, lasting impact in our communities by supporting small businesses, expanding access to affordable housing, and advancing strategies that create opportunity," said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. "This accreditation reflects the real impact we're seeing in neighborhoods across Atlanta and the innovative ways we're working alongside our community to ensure these efforts lead to lasting, equitable growth." Earning the AEDO accreditation demonstrates that Invest Atlanta has attained and maintained a measure of excellence, showing the community and business prospects that they are represented by a leading economic development organization. Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years and is accomplished through documentation submission and/or onsite visits by a team of the AEDO Review Board. A few highlights from the reaccreditation report include the following: Invest Atlanta's Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program and the advances it has made since the last accreditation are best practices that are being implemented statewide and can be replicated in other states/cities. The Affordable Housing Model established by Invest Atlanta is a best-in-class practice to meet the needs of the city. It too can be replicated across the nation's largest cities where affordable housing is a critical need. The report noted that Invest Atlanta is well on its way to reaching and passing the City of Atlanta's goal of creating or preserving 20,000 affordable housing units by 2030. The 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, developed by Invest Atlanta in conjunction with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and EY, is one of the most comprehensive and well-structured economic and community development plans the Review Team has seen. It is supported by challenging but attainable goals and objectives and a committed team to lead implementation. Invest Atlanta remains within an elite group of economic development organizations across North America that have earned and maintained AEDO status through IEDC's comprehensive review process. For more information on the AEDO program visit IEDC's website at http://www.iedconline.org/AEDO . For more information about Invest Atlanta click here.
Partnership with WGU Expands Flexible Degree Pathways for Working Adults
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 13:16 EDT
St. Petersburg College and Western Governors University formalized a new partnership at SPC's Clearwater Campus, expanding transfer and workforce pathways for Florida students, especially working adults and other nontraditional learners. The agreement creates streamlined transfer options for SPC graduates who want to continue into WGU's online, competency-based bachelor's and graduate programs in business, technology, health and education. Leaders from both institutions say the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to flexibility, affordability and student success. Through the agreement, SPC graduates and employees are eligible to apply for the $3,500 WGU Community College Partner Scholarship, receive a free WGU application and benefit from streamlined transcript services. Empowering Adult Learners WGU, a private, online university known for serving adult learners, enrolls students with an average age of 37. Its flat-rate, six-month tuition model allows students to complete as many courses as they can during a term, giving them greater control over both pace and cost. Many students who transfer with an associate degree complete their bachelor's degree within a year. Mary Hendrick, WGU's Director of Transfer Partnerships, said her own educational journey shapes her commitment to students whose goals were delayed by life circumstances. After starting college in a traditional setting, Hendrick returned years later as a working mother to complete her degree. "There are so many students with big dreams who, for whatever reason, life derailed," said Hendrick. "We are an institution of second chances. We exist to help students finish what they started." Strengthening Access and Opportunities for SPC Students SPC leaders say the partnership strengthens the College's long-standing focus on access and community connection while opening additional doors for graduates. "This partnership creates another intentional pathway for our students to continue their education, particularly at the bachelor's and graduate levels," said Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth, SPC Vice President for Academic Affairs. "Together, we are expanding opportunity and making it easier for learners to advance their careers without barriers." The collaboration underscores both institutions' shared mission: providing flexible, affordable education that meets students where they are and empowers them to take the next step.
Tampa Bay Wave Partners with SPC to Expand Innovation and Career Pathways
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 13:15 EDT
St. Petersburg College has announced a partnership with Tampa Bay Wave to strengthen the region's innovation ecosystem and create new pathways for students to enter high-growth technology careers. The collaboration connects SPC students, faculty and programs with Tampa Bay Wave's nationally recognized accelerator, providing access to mentorship, entrepreneurial resources, and real-world startup experience across sectors such as fintech, cybersecurity and healthtech. The partnership comes as Tampa Bay Wave continues to expand its impact through support from Bank of America, which recently awarded the organization an Economic Mobility Grant to fuel tech innovation, job creation and economic growth across the region. Expanding Opportunity Through Innovation Through this partnership, SPC students will have opportunities to engage directly with startup founders, participate in innovation-driven programming and gain exposure to emerging technologies shaping the future workforce. Tampa Bay Wave has played a key role in building the region's tech economy, supporting more than 570 startups, helping companies raise $1.1 billion in capital and contributing to the creation of nearly 6,000 high-wage jobs. The collaboration aligns with SPC's mission to connect education with business needs while expanding opportunities in high-demand industries. "This partnership allows us to connect our students to the innovation economy in a meaningful way," said Dr. Emmanuel Hernandez-Agosto, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs at SPC. "By working with Tampa Bay Wave, we are creating opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience, build networks and step into careers that are shaping the future of our region." Strengthening Tampa Bay's Tech Workforce Tampa Bay Wave's accelerator programs provide entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship and a strong support network, helping transform ideas into scalable businesses that drive economic impact. Leaders from both organizations say the partnership will help bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring students are prepared for careers in rapidly evolving fields while supporting continued growth in the Tampa Bay tech sector. "As we continue to grow Tampa Bay's innovation ecosystem, partnerships with institutions like SPC are essential," said Linda Olson, President/CEO of Tampa Bay Wave. "Together, we can expand access to opportunity, support diverse talent and strengthen the pipeline of future entrepreneurs and technology leaders." Looking ahead As SPC approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, the College continues to invest in partnerships that drive economic mobility and community impact. By connecting students to organizations like Tampa Bay Wave, SPC is helping ensure graduates are not only workforce-ready but positioned to lead in the region's growing innovation economy. ABOUT TAMPA BAY WAVE Tampa Bay Wave, Florida's #1 Accelerator, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to accelerate Florida's Innovation Ecosystem by helping entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into real-world solutions and scalable businesses. Since 2013, we've nurtured more than 650 startups that have raised more than $1.7 billion in investor capital and created more than 7,100 jobs. We are building a dynamic innovation ecosystem of startups, mentors, and investors. Our efforts have been a catalyst for economic prosperity, impacting local, national and global communities. Bolstered by a robust network of community partners, and sustained through sponsorships, grants and passionate community backing, we are "built for founders, fueled by community." Tampa Bay Wave also receives financial support from our economic development partners: the U.S. Economic Development Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Hillsborough County, and the City of Tampa, as well as from academia, corporations and foundations, including: A-LIGN, Appspace, Bank of America, Celestar, Clifton Larson, Allen, Delta Air Lines/Virgin Atlantic Airlines, Florida High Tech Corridor, Foley & Lardner, Kuducom, Nielsen Foundation, NextPath Workforce Solutions, Regions Foundation, St. Petersburg College, TECO, and the University of South Florida, among others. Learn more at tampabaywave.org.
SPC Leadership Meets with Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 11:25 EDT
St. Petersburg College leadership had the opportunity to meet with Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling to discuss workforce development, economic opportunity and the future of higher education. The conversation focused on several key priorities that align closely with SPC's mission of preparing students for meaningful careers and supporting the evolving needs of employers throughout the Tampa Bay region. Topics included economic mobility, the impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the workforce, employer partnerships, regional workforce demands and Workforce Pell initiatives that help expand access to high-quality, short-term training programs leading to in-demand careers. The discussion comes as Florida continues to strengthen its position as a national leader in workforce development. Earlier this year, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that Florida was ranked No. 1 in the nation for workforce education, fulfilling a key workforce goal years ahead of schedule. The achievement reflects the state's continued investment in career and technical education, workforce training and apprenticeship opportunities designed to prepare students for high-demand careers and support long-term economic growth. SPC leaders also shared updates on the College's upcoming 100th anniversary and the Pathway to Better Centennial Campaign, highlighting the institution's century-long commitment to student success, workforce development and community impact. "As workforce needs continue to evolve, partnerships and conversations like these are critical to ensuring students have access to the education, training and support needed to thrive in today's economy," said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams. Dean Belinthia Berry, SPC's Dean of Workforce Development, emphasized the importance of aligning education with the needs of today's employers. "Strong workforce partnerships are essential to creating opportunities for our students and meeting the talent needs of our region," said Berry. "These conversations help ensure SPC continues to deliver relevant, high-quality training and education that leads to meaningful careers, economic mobility and long-term success for the communities we serve." The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange ideas on strengthening pathways between education and employment while exploring innovative approaches to workforce development that benefit both students and employers. SPC appreciates Secretary Sonderling's time and insights as the College continues working to serve the community and help students prepare for meaningful careers and brighter futures.
Registration now open for Junior League of New Orleans Safe Sitter® summer program
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 11:22 EDT
Registration is now open for the Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) Safe Sitter® summer program . As part of a nationwide network of certified instructors, JLNO offers this essential program to equip children in grades 6-8 with home alone safety skills and babysitting training. Building on a tradition spanning nearly 50 years, this long-standing community program prepares thousands of local pre-teens by teaching childcare basics, CPR and first aid. The Safe Sitter® curriculum is both medically accurate and developmentally appropriate, providing students with critical skills, including safety precautions to prevent accidents, guidance on how and when to call for help, tips on basic childcare and introductory employment and entrepreneurship skills. "We are incredibly proud to hold a Gold Status with Safe Sitter® after training nearly 200 children last year," said JLNO President Shelby Wynne. "This year, we are also excited to announce a partnership with the Golden Goddess Golf Group, whose support covers the cost of participation for six local children to complete this essential course." Classes feature engaging, hands-on learning, including role-playing exercises and practice sessions with CPR mannequins to master infant and child choking rescue techniques. The courses take place at JLNO headquarters, located at 4319 Carondelet St. in New Orleans, from 9:45 a.m. until 4 p.m. Upcoming class dates: Saturday, June 27 Sunday, June 28 Saturday, July 11 Sunday, July 12 Sunday, July 19 Saturday, July 25 Saturday, Aug. 8 Sunday, Aug. 9 Saturday, Aug. 29 Sunday, Aug. 30 Due to the hands-on nature of the training, participation is limited to 32 students per class, and advance registration is required. The cost to participate is $90 per person. For more information or to register visit www.jlno.org.
SOMERSET CYBER SECURITY SPECIALIST LAUNCHES NEW BUSINESS TO HELP ORGANISATIONS STAY SAFE ONLINE
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 10:12 EDT
A Somerset IT and cyber security specialist has launched a new business aimed at helping organisations strengthen their digital security and make better use of technology. Tony Morledge, from Lympsham near Burnham-on-Sea, has launched Tony Morledge IT Services to provide practical IT support, cyber security advice and network consultancy to businesses, charities and home users across Somerset and the wider South West. Tony launched the business after identifying growing demand from local organisations for practical, affordable IT support and cyber security advice. The launch comes at a time when cyber threats continue to pose a significant risk to organisations of all sizes. According to the UK Government's latest Cyber Security Breaches Survey, 43% of UK businesses reported experiencing a cyber security breach or attack during the past 12 months. With more than 30 years' experience in IT and technology, Tony has worked across education, business and technical environments, helping organisations improve their networks, protect sensitive data and resolve everyday IT challenges. He is also a qualified Cyber Essentials Assessor with extensive experience in networking, infrastructure, cyber security, systems support and IT troubleshooting. Tony said: "Many business owners are surprised to learn just how common cyber attacks have become and how vulnerable even smaller organisations can be. "Smaller businesses are often particularly vulnerable because they may not have dedicated IT support or formal cyber security procedures in place. "My aim is to provide straightforward, practical advice that helps people improve their security, understand their technology and reduce risk without unnecessary jargon or expensive solutions." Services offered by Tony Morledge IT Services include: - IT support and troubleshooting - Home and business Wi-Fi and networking - Cyber security reviews and advice - Network documentation and audits - Cyber Essentials guidance - Technology planning and consultancy - PC and device support Tony launched the business after recognising a growing demand for accessible, affordable IT support from organisations and individuals who often struggle to access specialist advice. He added: "Technology should help people work more efficiently and confidently, not create frustration or uncertainty. Whether it's improving a home Wi-Fi network, reviewing cyber security arrangements or helping a business understand its IT infrastructure, I enjoy finding practical solutions that make a real difference. "Good cyber security doesn't have to be complicated. Small changes can often make a significant difference." Tony Morledge IT Services works with clients across Somerset and the surrounding area, providing flexible support tailored to individual requirements. For more information, visit www.tonymorledgeit.co.uk . Five simple steps to improve cyber security As part of the launch, Tony is encouraging businesses and individuals to take a few simple precautions to reduce their risk of cyber crime: Use strong, unique passwords for every account. Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible. Keep software and devices updated. Back up important files regularly. Be cautious of unexpected emails, links and attachments. - ENDS - NOTES TO EDITORS For further information including hi-res images and interview opportunities please contact: Morledge & Co. Karen Morledge karen@morledgeandco.com / 07717 756644 Vicky Banham vicky@morledgeandco.com / 07540 495441 Source: UK Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025 - 43% of UK businesses reported experiencing a cyber security breach or attack during the previous 12 months. Image: Tony Morledge, founder of Tony Morledge IT Services, which provides IT support, networking expertise and cyber security advice to businesses and individuals across Somerset and the wider South West. Image credit: Tony Morledge IT Services High-resolution images: Google Drive folder
2027 AMA Winter Academic Conference Call for Proposals Now Open
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 10:12 EDT
Contact: Amy Gwiazdowski, agwiazdowski@ama.org 2027 AMA Winter Academic Conference Call for Proposals Now Open Conference theme: Marketing in Flux: Reimagining Marketing amid Technological and Geopolitical Transformation Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) officially opens the call for proposals for speakers at the 2027 Winter Academic Conference . The event will take place at the Sheraton in New Orleans, LA, February 12-14, 2027. Join the AMA as a conference presenter to share content that examines advances in artificial intelligence, automation, digital platforms, and data infrastructures and discusses how geopolitical tensions and conflicts are altering the broader environments in which markets operate. Submissions are open through August 19, 2026. Submit here . By bringing together scholars with diverse, interdisciplinary perspectives, the conference aims to foster fresh thinking on the questions that matter most now and in the years ahead. AMA's hope is that these conversations will not only deepen our understanding of contemporary marketing challenges but also inspire new research agendas, collaborations, and ideas that shape the future of the marketing discipline. Proposal timeline: Call for Papers Due: August 19, 2026 Accept/Reject Notifications Sent: Early November Event Early-Bird Registration: January 6, 2027 Speakers must be available to present during the event dates: February 12-14, 2027. Suggested topics for this year's conference include: Advertising and Marketing Communication Artificial Intelligence B2B Marketing and Interorganizational Issues Branding Consumer Behavior and Well-Being Digital Marketing and Social Media Emerging Markets and International Marketing Marketing Strategy and Organization New Products and Innovation Retailing, Sales Management, and Personal Selling Services and Customer Experience Sustainability and Social Responsibility All speakers will need to register for the conference. One complimentary speaker registration is provided per session, and additional speakers are required to register through the AMA website. Additional information and requirements can be found on AMA's call for proposals page . ###
The Rise of Concierge Culture Among Luxury Travellers
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 09:39 EDT
Something has changed in luxury travel. Villas still get booked, yachts still depart, restaurants still fill up. Yet behind the scenes, the way these trips are organised has changed almost completely. According to Mykonos-based luxury travel company The Ace VIP, concierge services are no longer an extra perk that is good to have but overall, far from vital: they are now the starting point of the entire journey. In the past, even high-end travellers would piece parts of their holiday together - a driver here, a restaurant booking there, a yacht arranged through a contact. That approach is fading fast. Today's guests are far more likely to arrive with everything already structured in advance, often without ever seeing a booking confirmation. The Ace VIP describes this as a shift towards what many clients now call "frictionless travel". People simply do not want to deal with logistics when they are away. That expectation is strongest among repeat luxury travellers, particularly those splitting time between destinations like Mykonos, Ibiza, St Tropez and Dubai. Many are travelling with family groups, assistants or security teams, which makes coordination more complex - and makes delegation essential. A typical request is no longer just "book a villa and a yacht". Instead, it might include airport arrival coordination, multiple private transfers running on different schedules, a yacht available on standby depending on weather, restaurant access secured without waiting lists, and in-villa staff already briefed before the guests land. This is where the real change lies. Mane Teovanovic, CEO & Founder at The Ace Vip, said, "Most of the planning now happens before guests even ask. By the time they arrive, the structure is already in place. "What they want from us is judgement, speed and access - not back-and-forth decisions. What was once a support service has now become the framework around luxury travel itself. "The Ace VIP has responded by strengthening its on-the-ground network in Mykonos and refining its response systems so clients can adjust plans quickly, often in real time." For more information visit www.theacevip.com
Why Your Sleep Routine Feels Off in Spring - and What Your Body Might Be Missing
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 06:53 EDT
For many people, spring is supposed to bring better energy. The days are longer, the weather improves - surely, all this should give us an energy boost, right? And yet, this is the time of the year when people often realise their sleep is no longer as restful as it was before. Bedtimes drift later, lighter evenings make it harder to properly wind down, and busy schedules begin replacing the slower routines of winter. The result? People wake up feeling slightly less rested, rely more heavily on caffeine or find themselves feeling strangely tired despite sleeping for a reasonable number of hours. According to The Moss Way, spring can disrupt sleep patterns more than people realise, particularly when changing routines, stress and nutrition all start shifting at the same time. Harry Morgan, founder of The Moss Way, said many people expect their body to naturally adjust as soon as the seasons change, but that is not always what happens in practice. "People tend to think winter is the difficult season for sleep, but spring can be surprisingly disruptive," he said. "The evenings get lighter, routines become less consistent and people start doing more socially. Sleep often becomes lighter or more broken without people really noticing why." Rather than relying on highly stimulating products during the day and struggling to unwind later, Morgan believes more people are starting to look for calmer, more sustainable ways to support energy and rest together. Irish Sea Moss is the perfect natural solution: testing carried out on The Moss Way's Irish Sea Moss found naturally high levels of magnesium, potassium, iodine and B vitamins - all nutrients involved in nervous system support, energy metabolism and overall balance within the body. Irish Sea Moss also contains soluble fibres that help support digestive health, which has a huge impact on our health and energy levels. "There is definitely a shift away from the idea of forcing energy through caffeine and quick fixes," he said. "Feeling rested is connected to everything else: digestion, stress, hydration, nutrition and routine. And people are beginning to realise that." Simple evening rituals, such as reducing overstimulation before bed, eating more consistently and supporting the body nutritionally, can help create a steadier transition into the lighter months. For more information, visit www.themossway.co.uk .
SGS invites energy professionals to explore global grid code compliance solutions
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 04:47 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to host a live webinar, 'Global Grid Code Solutions for Power Conversion Systems and Power Plants,' on July 7, 2026. As electrical grids evolve to accommodate higher shares of renewable energy, grid operators are introducing increasingly complex requirements to ensure system stability and reliability. Power conversion systems (PCS) and power plants must now meet advanced performance criteria, including voltage and frequency control, Fault Ride-Through (FRT) and emerging grid-forming (GFM) capabilities. At the same time, grid codes across Europe, North America and other global markets continue to diverge, creating a fragmented regulatory landscape. This presents significant challenges for manufacturers and developers, including duplicated testing, increased certification costs and extended time to market. Staying aligned with these evolving requirements is critical to ensuring successful project deployment and access to international markets. In this webinar, SGS experts Omar Kalim and Roger Hu will provide a comprehensive overview of global grid code frameworks, covering key requirements across major markets and the latest technical developments. They will also demonstrate how an integrated approach combining testing, simulation and certification can streamline compliance, reduce project risk and accelerate time to market. The session will explore topics such as international grid compliance, model validation, power plant simulation and future trends, including the transition toward GFM technologies. It is aimed at energy sector professionals, including compliance managers, electrical engineers and project developers, as well as PCS manufacturers and independent power producers operating in highly regulated markets. Stakeholders should register now to ensure access to this informative session.
Bullwaves Prime Gains Full Acuity Intelligence Access in New Prop Trading Partnership
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 03:00 EDT
Acuity Trading, the AI-driven market intelligence provider for brokers, platforms and financial institutions, has announced a new partnership with Bullwaves Prime, the proprietary trading entity within the Bullwaves group. Through the partnership, Bullwaves Prime will integrate the full Acuity Intelligence software suite, giving its trader community access to a broader layer of structured market, event and trade intelligence within its proprietary trading environment. The integration will support Bullwaves Prime's ambition to provide traders with clearer market context, stronger decision-support tools and a more connected intelligence experience. Acuity Intelligence brings together market intelligence, event intelligence and trade intelligence, helping platforms present timely, structured and easy-to-understand market information inside their own trading ecosystems. Acuity positions its platform as white-labelled, multi-language intelligence designed to help brokers and trading platforms keep users informed, confident and engaged. The Bullwaves Prime partnership follows a period of product expansion for Acuity Trading, including the recent launch of Pattern Recognition within AnalysisIQ. The new capability automatically identifies recognised chart patterns and converts them into market analysis. Acuity states that Pattern Recognition is available across web, MT4, MT5, cTrader and proprietary environments. The announcement also follows Acuity Trading's recent investment in MarketReader, an AI-powered financial intelligence platform focused on explaining the drivers behind market movements in real time. The investment forms part of Acuity's wider strategy to expand the depth of market intelligence available to financial institutions and trading platforms. Bullwaves Prime operates as the prop trading arm of the Bullwaves Group and describes its model as a regulated prop trading environment with access to market liquidity and trader evaluation programmes. Paolo Vullo, Head of Operations at Bullwaves Group: "Bullwaves Prime has been built around the idea that serious traders need more than access to markets. They need structure, context and tools that help them understand what is happening and why it matters. Partnering with Acuity Trading allows us to bring a full intelligence layer into the Bullwaves Prime environment, supporting our focus on building a more informed and professional prop trading experience." Andrew Lane, CEO of Acuity Trading: "Bullwaves Prime is an exciting partner because its focus is on building a more intelligent trading environment, not simply adding more tools for the sake of it. By integrating the full Acuity Intelligence suite, Bullwaves Prime can provide traders with clearer market context across news, events, sentiment, technical analysis and structured trade ideas. This is exactly where we see the industry moving: towards connected intelligence that supports more informed decision-making inside the platforms traders already use." The integration will give Bullwaves Prime access to Acuity's broader intelligence ecosystem, including AnalysisIQ and its recently expanded pattern-recognition capability. The software is designed to support trader analysis and decision-making while allowing platforms to retain control over how insights are presented, governed and delivered to users. Acuity's approach combines AI-supported data processing with analyst-led market expertise. Its tools are used by brokers and trading platforms to deliver structured market intelligence across multiple channels, including web platforms, MT4, MT5, cTrader, APIs and communication platforms. ENDS Notes to editors: Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation to trade. Trading involves risks, and individuals should conduct thorough research and seek professional guidance before making any trading decisions. Any market intelligence, analytics, signals or AI-generated content referenced in this announcement are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute investment research, investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any financial instrument. Users should not rely solely upon such information when making trading or investment decisions. Material posted here is solely for information purposes and reliance on this may lead to losses. Past performances are not a reliable indicator of future results. Please read our full disclaimer. About Bullwaves Prime Bullwaves Prime is the proprietary trading entity within the Bullwaves group. It provides a prop trading environment for traders, supported by technology, market access and evaluation-based trading programmes. Regulatory note This announcement is intended for a B2B audience and relates to technology, analytics and trader intelligence services provided to Bullwaves Prime. It is not intended as an invitation, inducement or recommendation to trade, invest, open an account or participate in any trading programme. Trading and prop trading involve risk. Market intelligence and trade ideas are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to trade. About Acuity Acuity Trading, an Acuity Analytics company, brings together the strengths of PIA First and Signal Centre to deliver a broad suite of market intelligence, analytics and trader engagement tools for brokers, platforms and institutional partners worldwide. Since pioneering visual market insight and sentiment tools in 2013, Acuity Trading has continued to expand its capabilities through advanced analytics, alternative data, AI-driven insight and trading technology. By combining research expertise with scalable technology, Acuity supports brokers and trading platforms in delivering structured market context within their existing environments. Acuity's team of academics, scientists, market analysts and technology specialists is dedicated to developing high-impact data products designed to support traders. Solutions are available through flexible delivery options including APIs, MT4/MT5, plug-and-play widgets and third-party automation services. For further information or to request a demo, please visit www.acuitytrading.com or contact: Meredyth Grant Email:meredyth.grant@acuitytrading.com Tel: +44 (0) 7496 725286 Follow Acuity Trading on social: Twitter: @acuitytrading LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acuity-trading Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acuitytradingltd/
Why Nearshoring Is Increasing Demand for Higher-Cycle Manual Handling Equipment
Tue, Jun 16, 2026 02:58 EDT
As more manufacturers shift production closer to the UK and wider European markets, warehouses are beginning to feel the operational consequences of nearshoring. Instead of receiving large, infrequent shipments from further afield, many facilities are now handling smaller, more regular inbound flows. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, this change is increasing the intensity of daily warehouse operations - particularly in how often materials handling equipment is used across a typical shift. Nearshoring is often discussed in terms of supply chain resilience and reduced lead times. However, its impact on warehouse activity patterns is just as significant. With production located closer to end markets, stock is arriving more frequently, but in smaller, more continuous batches. That is changing how warehouses operate at a fundamental level. Instead of short bursts of heavy activity followed by quieter periods, many sites are now experiencing steadier, higher-cycle usage throughout the day. Pallet trucks and other manual handling equipment are being used more continuously, with fewer natural pauses between inbound and internal movement tasks. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said this is changing expectations around equipment durability and performance. "When you move from bulk deliveries to more frequent, smaller flows, the warehouse never really switches off in the same way," he explained. "Equipment - such as pallet trucks , stacker trucks and lift tables - is being used more consistently across the day, so reliability and smooth operation become even more important." This can place additional strain on equipment that was previously used in more intermittent patterns. Rather than dealing with occasional peaks, pallet trucks are now required to perform repeated movements at a steady pace, often across longer operating hours. In many warehouses, this is also changing how labour is organised. Staff are less likely to focus on large, discrete inbound processing tasks and more likely to move continuously between receiving, staging and storage areas. That creates a more fluid operating environment, where equipment performance directly influences how efficiently teams can maintain flow. "It changes the rhythm of the warehouse," Chesworth said. "You are dealing with more frequent movement, tighter cycles and less downtime between tasks. That means equipment needs to keep pace without creating friction in the process." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
Wave of support for East Anglian Air Ambulance as Cambridge turns yellow in support of Air Base Appeal
Mon, Jun 15, 2026 11:23 EDT
East Anglian Air Ambulance experienced a wave of support over the weekend from retailers, local businesses, and members of the public, as its team and volunteers hit the streets to raise awareness of the Cambridge Air Base Appeal. With the charity's fundraising team participating in the Town & Country Fair on Parker's Piece, shops across the city put on a yellow display of support, with staff creating colourful window dressings, wearing appeal t-shirts, putting up posters, and even selling yellow ice creams! Participating businesses included Ark, BrewBoard, Byard Art, Cambridge Building Society, Cambridge University Press Bookshop, Cambridge University Museums Shop, Campkins, Downing Place Church, Fitzbillies, Grand Arcade, Jacks Gelato, Troon Clothing, Podarok, Ryder & Amies and Spoonstruck Ice Creams. While over at Parker's Piece, there was a flyover by East Anglian Air Ambulance's Anglia Two helicopter, which is based in the city, at Cambridge Airport. Two months ago, East Anglian Air Ambulance launched an urgent fundraising appeal - calling on members of the public and businesses to help raise £8.2 million to relocate and build a new air base on the outskirts of Cambridge and protect the lifesaving care it delivers across the region. The impending closure of Cambridge Airport - home of one of the charity's two operating bases - threatens to cut the air ambulance's lifesaving service in half, putting lives at risk. The charity has been given planning permission to build a new base on the outskirts of Fulbourn at Shardelowes Farm on Balsham Road - but now needs to raise the money required to relocate and safeguard its operations in the city. Stuart Wyle, Director of Fundraising and Supporters at East Anglian Air Ambulance, said: "Our fundraising appeal has got off to a great start, and we have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from people and businesses across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. We would like to thank everyone who has donated, fundraised and championed our cause so far - including those that supported us this past weekend. Together, you are keeping our mission moving forward. However, we are still a very long way from our target and need more people to join us on this journey. Whether it's making a donation, organising a fundraiser or spreading the word, every contribution helps bring us closer to a new air base, which will help save lives for many years to come." East Anglian Air Ambulance has made it easy for people and businesses to support the appeal: Text BASE10 or BASE20 to 70480 to donate £10 or £20 (Texts cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate. Donors will opt in to hear more from the charity; to donate without receiving further information, text BASENOINFO.) Call the donation hotline on 03450 669 999 (Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm) Donate online at eaaa.org.uk/base Donations of £175 or more will be recognised by adding a supporter's chosen name to one of the charity's helicopters Supporters can also fundraise by hosting events or taking on challenges - from bake sales and charity balls, to fundraising walks, marathons, skydives and other adventurous activities. Schools, businesses, sports clubs and community groups are also being encouraged to make East Anglian Air Ambulance their chosen charity and fundraise together in ways that work for them. East Anglian Air Ambulance estimates that if every household across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk gave just £10, its appeal target would be exceeded immediately. Working alongside the emergency services, East Anglian Air Ambulance responds to the most serious one per cent of emergency calls. In 2025 alone, its crews provided critical care to 1,845 people, including 151 children. From its Cambridge base, the Anglia Two helicopter can reach approximately 1.2 million people within just ten minutes. For more information or to donate, visit eaaa.org.uk/base. (ends) Retailer quotes Oliver Pugh, Founder, BrewBoard "As a Cambridge-based brewery, we're proud to be supporting the Cambridge Air Base Appeal. East Anglian Air Ambulance provides a vital service that is there for people during the most critical moments of their lives. Their work positively impacts communities across our region every day, and we're delighted to play a small part in helping to raise awareness of the fundraising appeal. We'd encourage local businesses and residents alike to contribute to the charity if they can. Together, we can help ensure this lifesaving service has a base in Cambridge and is available for everyone who may need it in the future." Rhys Taylor, Social Media Manager, Campkins Cameras "As a third-generation family-run business in the heart of Cambridge, Campkins Cameras has always been proud to support the local community that has supported us for generations. That is why we are delighted to be supporting East Anglian Air Ambulance and its Cambridge Air Base Appeal. Every day, the charity provides a vital lifesaving service across the East of England, delivering critical care to patients when every second counts. Their crews make an extraordinary difference to people and families facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives. The Cambridge Air Base Appeal is particularly important as East Anglian Air Ambulance works to create a new purpose-built base for its Cambridge operations. This investment will help ensure the charity can continue delivering the highest standard of emergency care across our region for many years to come. As a local business, we recognise how important it is to support organisations that have such a direct impact on our community. We are honoured to play a small part in helping East Anglian Air Ambulance achieve its goal and secure the future of this essential service. We would encourage anyone who is able to support the appeal to consider making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure that this incredible charity can continue saving lives across East Anglia." Jeremy Kay, Co-Owner, Podarok "As independent shop owners in Cambridge, supporting our local community is incredibly important to us. East Anglian Air Ambulance provides a vital service for the people of Cambridge and across the region. Knowing that they rely heavily on charitable donations makes us even more committed to helping. By supporting East Anglian Air Ambulance, we are giving something back to a charity that makes a real difference to families and communities across East Anglia."
Tax and Estate Litigation Attorney Genevieve Redd Joins Steptoe & Johnson's Pittsburgh Office
Mon, Jun 15, 2026 09:17 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is pleased to welcome Genevieve Redd to the Pittsburgh office as a Member in the firm's Business department. Redd focuses her practice on complex tax, trust, fiduciary, and estate litigation, as well as large business and international tax strategies. She is a seasoned trial lawyer dedicated to safeguarding family businesses and their assets in probate court, the U.S. Tax Court, and before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). "We are pleased to welcome Genevieve to our team in Pittsburgh," said Christopher L. Slaughter, CEO of Steptoe & Johnson. "Her experience in complex tax and estate litigation, combined with her background at the IRS, gives her a unique perspective on navigating federal tax matters and protecting family businesses, offering valuable benefits to our clients across Pennsylvania and beyond." Redd holds certificates of advanced study in Civil Litigation and Tax Law from the University of Pittsburgh. She focuses on protection planning, corporate and partnership taxation, income tax challenges, and succession planning for both individuals and businesses. Beyond her role at the firm, Redd serves as a faculty member for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute, the National Business Institute, and the Chicago Bar Association. She teaches on topics such as long-term care planning, estate planning and administration, special needs trusts, and federal tax laws and regulations. Previously, Redd was a senior attorney at the IRS Office of Chief Counsel, where she handled federal tax cases in the U.S. Tax Court and worked alongside Assistant U.S. Attorneys and the Department of Justice (DOJ) on civil federal tax matters. Redd earned her bachelor's degree and her law degree from the University of Pittsburgh. She is licensed to practice in Pennsylvania, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey.
Paxton Solo training available to security installers
Mon, Jun 15, 2026 07:07 EDT
Following the success of Paxton's fully booked UK Tech Tour for Solo, Paxton is now rolling out dedicated Solo training sessions across the UK to support security installers working with the system. As part of the Solo launch campaign, Paxton is giving away 10,000 one-door starter kits to installation companies. Any company that has not yet received a kit will be able to take one away at the end of their training session. Solo is Paxton's new phone-based, cloud-hosted access control technology, where the phone is the system, and the key. Installers use a smartphone to create and manage the system directly through the Paxton Solo app. System users then use the same app on their own phones to access their premises. There is no on-site data network required, making installation simple and infrastructure-free. Security installer Aaron Bonshor, from Access Control Solutions UK, attended Paxton's Tech Tour. He said: "This is a fantastic bit of technology that I think could be very powerful and simple at the same time." Eamonn O'hArtghaile from Manguard Plus, another attendee, said: "It looks very impressive. Simple and easy to set up in seconds - this is a gamechanger." The free Solo training course takes just two hours and is delivered by Paxton's expert training team at range of locations across the UK, including installers' own premises. The training includes demonstrations and hands-on exercises that explore system setup, configuration, user management, and commissioning. Installers will also learn how Solo differs from traditional access control systems. Steve Woodbridge, Global Training Manager at Paxton, said: "Solo training is a hands-on session designed to give installers practical experience with the system. It focuses on how Solo works, where it fits, and how it is installed with real world use cases, helping installers understand the system before they quote jobs and install it on customer sites. "The training is also about giving installers an opportunity to discuss potential Solo projects, as well as tips and tricks, so they can deliver an installation effectively from day one and understand how the system can be positioned alongside existing Paxton solutions." Solo is unlike any other access control system. Being cloud-hosted and managed through the Paxton Solo app, as well as game-changingly affordable, Solo supports flexible ways for installers to structure their offerings to customers. It enables them to build ongoing service relationships, creating opportunities for recurring revenue, depending on how they choose to deliver and support a Solo system. Training across Paxton systems Paxton's training options are designed to support installers across their full product range, with Solo forming the latest addition to the security manufacturers' hands-on workshops. Alongside Solo Training, installers can access: Net2 Installation Training Paxton10 Installation Training Entry Masterclass Each course has been recently updated for 2026. Steve Woodbridge concludes: "This year, we've refined our training approach to bring greater clarity to the options available across our product range. The course content on all systems is more flexible and relevant to each trainee than ever before, ensuring they get more practical time with the systems and build confidence to deliver solutions effectively on site."
German engineer Rainer Marquardt earns Lifetime Achievement for pioneering power-conversion technology
Mon, Jun 15, 2026 06:25 EDT
The European Patent Office is recognising Professor Rainer Marquardt for developing the Modular Multilevel Converter, a breakthrough in power electronics His inventions opened the high-power range up to the gigawatts level for electronically controllable power conversion combined with highest efficiency and reliability This technology is now the global standard, used in modern electricity grids, offshore wind integration and long-distance power transmission For his outstanding career in power electronics and grid infrastructure, the European Patent Office (EPO) has announced that Rainer Marquardt is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement distinction for the European Inventor Award 2026 . The EPO will honour his work during the ceremony livestreamed from Berlin on 2 July 2026, at which the winners of the Industry, Non-EPO Countries, Research and SMEs categories will also be announced. Powering the transition to flexible and reliable electricity systems The necessary transition from fossil energy sources to clean electrical energy requires the introduction of electric systems with efficient controllability and seamless power conversion. For the electricity grid, this means controllable reactive power (STATCOMs), controllable real power (battery storage) and large, controllable direct-current (DC) networks. In the first century of electrification, many potential applications were limited by rudimentary control methods as electronic power converters-which enable efficient control and conversion of electricity -were unknown or unfeasible. This began to change in the 1980s, when advances in semiconductor technology and electronic systems engineering made it possible to build power converters for many applications, such as electric trains and cars, industrial drives, and power supplies for computers. However, the technical feasibility of future applications in the high-power range remained out of reach -until Professor Marquardt developed his Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) in 2001. Until then, combining very high-power levels (up to gigawatts) with the stringent requirements for reliability, functional safety and efficiency demanded by grid applications had proven extraordinarily difficult. These challenges were especially acute in grid applications. Professor Marquardt understood these future requirements early on and made them the focus of his work at the university. Modern electricity systems require a high degree of flexibility and reliability, yet existing grid infrastructure has struggled to keep pace. To address this, Professor Marquardt spent his career developing power-conversion technologies to transmit electricity more efficiently, reliably and flexibly across modern grids. His MMC concept has become the foundation for voltage-source-controlled high-voltage direct current transmission systems used worldwide. A milestone in modern power conversion Around 2000, when Professor Marquardt had conceived the idea for the MMC, power electronics had matured considerably and were suitable for many applications. Digital control systems had been introduced successfully, providing high flexibility and the ability to connect to superordinated computers. Standard topologies and control methods were known and well established, and worked well across a wide power range, from a few kilowatts up to several megawatts. For applications demanding higher power, the solution was to connect multiple standard converters, each with its own grid-side transformer. Professor Marquardt was convinced that a better solution was possible. It had to be a freely scalable concept without the need for transformers and that imposed no restrictions on power, voltage or functionality. Further, for easy industrial production and real-world requirements, the solution would have to be based on a new type of building block, which he named "submodules". While modular approaches had been considered before 2000, these resulted in technically complex interfaces between the building blocks, losing any practical advantage. The submodule interface had to be minimal and simple: the final MMC comprised only a fibre optic cable for communication and two electric power cables carrying low frequency currents. This brought an additional advantage-the MMC's submodules can be arranged freely and in almost any geometric configuration. Functionally, the submodules act as controlled voltage sources. Because the converter arms in a high-voltage MMC are configured from several series-connected submodules that switch independently, the waveform is high-quality and the system can readily tolerate single submodule failures. Distributed switching also keeps the switching frequency per submodule very low, the main reason the MMC achieves efficiencies above 99%. Engineering the backbone of future energy systems Rainer Marquardt studied electronic communication at the University of Hannover before working as a research assistant at the Institute of Power Electronics, where he graduated with honours and earned his doctorate in engineering. He later joined Siemens AG, Erlangen, where he worked in research and development of advanced AC-drives and power electronics. In 2000, he moved to the University of the Bundeswehr Munich as a full professor, leading the Institute of Power Electronics and Control. There, he directed research towards the future demands of power electronics in high-power and grid applications. In 2001, he filed the first MMC patent. Early on, Professor Marquardt had recognised both the technology's enormous potential and the substantial obstacles that had to be overcome before MMCs could be deployed. He spent several years consulting on and supporting the first industrial applications. The MMC achieved a major milestone with the Trans Bay Cable Project in California. A 400-megawatt direct current link was installed undersea between Pittsburg and San Francisco, enabling controllable power transfer while replacing a coal fired power plant. A series of successful projects followed, including the Nan'ao multiterminal network in China, and the France-Spain INELFE interconnection, which added two gigawatts of controllable, bidirectional power transfer between France and Spain. Today, MMC technology is essential for modern energy systems and increasingly important for supporting fast-growing infrastructure, including data centres. "Creating a new idea is one thing. Transforming it into real applications requires far more work, far more persistence and far more patience," says Rainer Marquardt. " If success does not seem guaranteed, many people will not invest their time. Real progress often depends on those people who are able to see the potential of new ideas." Find more information about the inventor's story and the impact of his work here. Media contacts European Patent Office Roberta Romano-Götsch EPO spokesperson EPO press desk press@epo.org Tel.: +49 89 2399-1833 About the European Inventor Award The European Inventor Award is one of Europe's most prestigious innovation prizes. Launched by the EPO in 2006, the award honours individuals and teams, who have come up with solutions to some of the biggest challenges of our time. The European Inventor Award jury consists of inventors who are all former finalists. To judge proposals, the independent panel draws on their wealth of technical, business, and intellectual property expertise. All inventors must have been granted a European patent for their invention. Read more here on the various categories, prizes, selection criteria and livestream ceremony to be held on 2 July in Berlin. About the EPO With 6,300 staff members, the European Patent Office (EPO) is one of the largest public service institutions in Europe. Headquartered in Munich with offices in Berlin, Brussels, The Hague and Vienna, the EPO was founded with the aim of strengthening co-operation on patents in Europe. Through the EPO's centralised patent granting procedure, inventors are able to obtain high-quality patent protection in up to 46 countries, covering a market of some 700 million people. The EPO is also the world's leading authority in patent information and patent searching.
SGS boosts support for dietary supplement brands facing Amazon's stricter seller requirements
Mon, Jun 15, 2026 05:20 EDT
With Amazon's dietary supplement verification requirements continuing to impact sellers across the US and Canada, SGS is responding to increased demand from dietary supplement brands seeking its world-leading testing, inspection and certification (TIC) services through Amazon Seller Central. The e-commerce giant requires all dietary supplements sold on its platform to undergo third-party verification through an approved third-party TIC provider, such as SGS, to demonstrate compliance with requirements covering product safety, quality and label accuracy. These services are fulfilled by SGS Nutrasource, an SGS affiliate with specialized expertise across clinical research, regulatory strategy, claims substantiation, product testing and certification. SGS Nutrasource now supports an increasing number of sellers to navigate Amazon's verification process - from documentation and testing to review and submission. Through Amazon Seller Central, the dietary supplement specialist can submit compliance documentation directly to Amazon, reducing administrative burden on sellers and streamlining approval workflows. In addition, with Amazon typically allowing limited timelines for compliance, SGS Nutrasource has introduced an accelerated service model, with verification reviews typically completed within approximately 5 to 7 business days following receipt of all required documentation and final laboratory test results. Josh Baisley, SGS Nutrasource, said: "Dietary supplement sellers are operating in a marketplace where compliance expectations continue to evolve, especially across major retail platforms. As brands adjust to the new compliance landscape, we are seeing an increasing number selecting SGS through Amazon Seller Central and benefiting from our team's unparalleled expertise and experience." Beyond Amazon verification, SGS Nutrasource provides a broader service ecosystem for dietary supplement brands, including US FDA and Health Canada regulatory support, label review, claims substantiation, clinical trial services, product quality testing and third-party certification programs. This integrated model allows brands to address immediate marketplace compliance needs while strengthening long-term product quality, market access and consumer trust. Josh added: "Amazon verification may be the immediate need, but it often connects to broader questions around claims, labels, substantiation, manufacturing documentation and regulatory readiness. That is where SGS Nutrasource brings a distinct advantage. Our team understands the full supplement product journey, from clinical evidence and regulatory strategy to testing, certification and market positioning." Support through the Amazon compliance process The updated Amazon policy requires sellers to demonstrate that dietary supplement products are: Manufactured in facilities compliant with current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) Supported by validated product testing and certificates of analysis (CoAs) Accurately labelled, with declared ingredients matching product contents Verification, which must be conducted through an approved third-party provider with submissions managed via Amazon Seller Central, is particularly relevant for supplement categories prioritized under Amazon's dietary supplement policy, including weight management, bodybuilding and sports nutrition, joint health and sexual enhancement products. SGS also supports verification of other Amazon categories, including OTC and skin lightening products. "With timelines tightening and customer and consumer expectations continuing to grow, the dedicated team at SGS Nutrasource and their collaboration with Vox Nutrition have been vital to ensuring we meet Amazon requirements, maintain listings, and compete effectively in an increasingly regulated e-commerce environment." Charlie Estes, CEO of Vox Nutrition. Why choose dietary supplement verification from SGS? Ensure GMP compliance - confirm supplements are manufactured in facilities that meet U.S. FDA cGMP (21 CFR 111/117) or equivalent standards Verify product safety - test for harmful contaminants and undeclared active pharmaceuticals to protect consumers and safeguard brands Confirm label accuracy - validate that product labels match ingredient content and contain no illegal or disease claims Seamless Amazon Seller Central integration - full process guidance from testing to final reporting Protect high-risk categories - specialized support for categories prioritized by Amazon: Sexual enhancement; Weight management; Bodybuilding and sports nutrition To begin Amazon dietary supplement verification, sellers should log in to Amazon Seller Central and select SGS on the 'Manage Your Compliance' dashboard. To find out more, visit: Dietary Supplements | SGS
SGS to host webinar on integrating in vitro assays and clinical testing for cosmetic safety and efficacy
Mon, Jun 15, 2026 05:05 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to host a complimentary webinar, 'Integrating In Vitro Assays and Clinical Testing for Cosmetic Safety and Efficacy', on July 8, 2026. Traditional methods for the testing and verification of new cosmetic and personal care products are being transformed by emerging in vitro models, imaging technologies and biomarker-based methods. For businesses seeking to demonstrate function and safety, these new approaches can enhance testing capabilities, enabling more predictive insights at a time when product innovation is both consumer-driven and closely regulated. In this webinar, Dr. Ethan Yang provides an overview of industry trends in functional in vitro testing, followed by insights into emerging methodologies and integrated evaluation strategies that can guide ingredient innovation and product development. With function and safety as the twin pillars of cosmetic product design, this webinar highlights the possibilities of integrating in vitro assays with clinical testing to support product development, safety and efficacy evaluation and cosmetic innovation in an increasingly competitive market. This webinar takes place on July 8, 2026, at 10:00 am (Eastern Daylight Time) and will be of interest to cosmetics and personal care professionals across R&D, product development, regulatory and marketing/claims. It is ideal for global brands seeking advanced testing strategies to drive innovation and accelerate market access in China and Asia. Stakeholders are encouraged to register now to ensure their place at this informative session. For further information, contact: Jennifer Buckley Senior Global Marketing Manager Food, Cosmetics & Personal Care Tel: +1 973 461 1498
Wells Fargo Foundation Provides $1 Million Grant to Ascendus to Expand Capital Access for Broward County Entrepreneurs
Fri, Jun 12, 2026 11:00 EDT
Ascendus to deploy $900,000 in loans and pair every dollar with hands-on coaching, supporting an estimated 160 local jobs across 36 Broward small businesses Today at the 2026 Broward & Beyond Business Conference, the Wells Fargo Foundation announced a $1 million philanthropic investment in Ascendus to launch BRIDGE Broward - Broward Resources for Inclusive Development & Growth for Entrepreneurs - a program designed to close the access-to-capital gap that has long held back small business owners in Broward County. The initiative will deploy $900,000 in loans to an estimated 36 entrepreneurs across the county, pair every borrower with personalized financial coaching, and create or retain an estimated 160 local jobs over the grant period. Loans will be delivered by Ascendus, the nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) lender, and supported by three Broward-based community partners - Prospera, Hispanic Unity of Florida, and Urban League Central County Community Development Corporation - who will provide tailored technical assistance to participants. For many Broward small business owners traditional bank financing remains out of reach. BRIDGE Broward was built to change that. "Capital alone is not enough. Real ascension happens when capital meets coaching and collaboration. With this Wells Fargo Foundation grant and our Broward partners, we are not just lending money, we are building a system that helps entrepreneurs grow stronger businesses, healthier finances, and more resilient livelihoods. We are proud to bring this to Broward County, where the talent and ambition of small business owners deserve a partner that meets them where they are." Paul Quintero, CEO, Ascendus "Small businesses are the heartbeat of Broward County, and we're committed to helping them grow and thrive. With this $1 million grant to help launch BRIDGE Broward, we're bringing together capital, local expertise, and strong community partnerships to expand access and create real opportunity for entrepreneurs who have too often been overlooked. We're proud to work alongside Ascendus and our local nonprofits to support the talent and ambition driving this community forward." Hector J. Ponte, South Florida Region Executive, Wells Fargo The announcement comes at a moment when small business owners across South Florida are navigating rising costs, tighter credit markets, and growing uncertainty. BRIDGE Broward responds with a model already proven across Florida: in over 20 years operating in the state, Ascendus has deployed more than $63 million in small business loans, serving more than 3,000 entrepreneurs. About the Program Through BRIDGE Broward , eligible Broward County small business owners can access: Microloans from $500 to $100,000, designed for entrepreneurs who cannot qualify for traditional bank financing. Lines of credit up to $50,000 at a fixed 13.99% rate, supporting recurring cash flow needs. Personalized financial coaching delivered with every loan - focused on credit health, business stability, and long-term financial confidence - and technical assistance from Broward community partners Prospera, Hispanic Unity of Florida, and Urban League Central County Community Development Corporation. "We are delighted to partner with Ascendus and Wells Fargo to help small business owners conquer one of their most significant barriers to success-the ability to access capital in a timely and effective manner-in addition to providing trusted and integral guidance to maximize its impact." Myrna Sonora, South Florida Vice President, Prospera "Every entrepreneur deserves a real shot at building something lasting. With this funding, HUF will take a holistic approach to closing the gap, making access to capital possible where it once felt out of reach by pairing every loan with personalized financial coaching and technical assistance that strengthens credit health, business stability, and long-term financial confidence. Partnerships like this multiply what any single organization can achieve alone, connecting our entrepreneurs to the capital, knowledge, and relationships that turn ambition into lasting success. Sharing resources builds collective strength." Felipe Pinzón - President & CEO, Hispanic Unity of Florida "Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, yet too many entrepreneurs continue to face barriers to accessing capital. BRIDGE Broward is about creating opportunity, strengthening businesses, and driving inclusive economic growth. We are proud to partner with Wells Fargo Foundation, Ascendus, Prospera, and Hispanic Unity of Florida to help more Broward entrepreneurs access the resources they need to succeed." Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh, Chairperson, Central County Community Development Corporation
