Category Archives: Society

The Latest news about what is effecting Society in North America, These PR articles, bring the newest technologies, initiatives and helpful tools to those who need them.

Best Consulting Firm for Family Offices and Women in Wealth Advocate of the Year


This is the 12th consecutive selection of Mack International on the shortlist in the category of Best Business Consulting Firm for Family Offices—an award Mack International has won several times in the past. This year, Mack is one of four firms shortlisted for Best Consulting Firm. “It is a privilege to be part of the PAM awards and applaud the outstanding achievements of so many esteemed colleagues in the industry. We are honored to be recognized for sharing our insights and ideas as consultants.”

Firmly established in a crucial niche of the executive search market, Linda Mack is a highly sought-after speaker at Family Office and Family Investment conferences on a global basis. “Today’s market is ultra-competitive, and families are looking for guidance. We consider it a privilege to be a client’s trusted advisor,” said Linda. “We help our clients execute their strategic vision by delivering exceptional counsel regarding their human capital needs. To us, a “search” is an intimate consulting relationship, not a transaction. We work with families in the context of the next 15+ years, not simply the position as it is defined/designed today. Our consulting goes beyond the “search” to include strategic planning, organization design/structure, succession, governance, onboarding, performance management, executive compensation, and retention strategies for C-suite executives.”

“Leading Woman’s Advocate” is a category that Linda Mack was awarded in 2022, and this year she has again been shortlisted as an individual finalist for 2023. She is one of three nominees. The award recognizes individuals and firms in the industry who are an inspiration to both female clients and colleagues. “Mentoring women who are starting or continuing to build their own businesses as well as those aspiring to leadership roles within the family office, is a priority for me,” said Linda. “I remember the challenges I faced in starting my own business. I am happy to help pave the way for other women and pay it forward. Being nominated in this category is truly special.”

Linda acknowledges that being nominated for a PAM Award is a genuine recognition from the private wealth community to one of its own. “I am deeply grateful for this tribute. Having our work recognized in these two categories is particularly meaningful as they represent our ongoing dedication to serving families at the highest level.” 

A black-tie awards dinner celebrating the top-performing elite of the private wealth community will take place on February 8, 2024, at the extraordinary 583 Park Avenue, in New York City.

About Mack International LLC
Mack International is the premier boutique firm that specializes in providing retained C-suite executive search and strategic human capital consulting solutions to family office, investment firm and enterprise clients on a national and international basis. Clients range from first generation business enterprise owning wealth creators through multi-generational families of six or more generations. Headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, clients also include multi-client family offices and select investment and wealth management firms that serve family office and ultra-high net worth clients. In addition to its executive search services, Mack International provides customized strategic human capital/talent management consulting solutions. The scope of consulting services includes succession planning, governance, next generation engagement,, compensation practices, and performance metrics.

About the PAM Awards
PAM Awards are designed for investment advisors and wealth professionals, operating within the private asset management industry, who have proven to be the best and most knowledgeable in the industry. The judging process, using an independent panel made up of wealth industry experts, is based on a mixture of qualitative and quantitative performance indicators. Successful candidates have demonstrated exemplary performance in four critical categories: Financial Progress, Growth, Client Satisfaction, and Product Innovation.

Media Contact

isabel bolt, Mack International, 8173015461, [email protected], www.mackinternational.com

LinkedIn

SOURCE Mack International

Kal Plastics is Officially Certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council


Leading Custom Thermoforming and Contract Manufacturing Services Provider Earns Women’s Business Enterprise Status

VERNON, Calif., Dec. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Kal Plastics, an industry leader in custom, heavy gauge, cut-sheet Thermoforming, has been certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

WBENC is the gold standard for women-owned business certification in the United States. Kal Plastic’s certification was conducted and approved by the WBE Council-West, WBENC’s regional certifying partner. Attaining the certification is a meticulous process, including an in-depth review of the business’ history, current operations, a comprehensive legal and financial document review, and a site inspection. The certification process confirms that the business is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a woman or women and that the business has appropriate structure and strategic business planning and implementation in place.

“Receiving WBENC certification is a significant achievement for Kal Plastics,” says Juliet Goff, President and CEO of Kal Plastics. “We are honored to be acknowledged as a women-owned and women-led enterprise. This certification celebrates the influential role of women in leadership, not only within our industry but across the broader business landscape.”

About WBENC:
WBENC is the leading U.S. women’s business development and third-party certifier of women-owned and operated businesses. WBENC includes more than 18,000 certified WBEs, 14 national RPOs, and more than 500 corporate members, most of which are Fortune 500 entities. Thousands of corporations as well as states, cities, the federal government, and other entities seek suppliers with WBENC certification. For more information, visit http://www.wbenc.org and http://www.buywomenowned.com.

About Kal Plastics:
Proud to be WBENC-certified, Kal Plastics is a Kal Plastics is a leading custom thermoforming and contract manufacturing service provider.

Kal Plastics brings over 70 years of expertise to the plastics industry, specializing in the development of high-quality products and components tailored to diverse utilization purposes and markets. As a woman-owned business in Vernon, California, their commitment to client satisfaction and clear communication sets them apart. They strive to build long-lasting relationships with our clients, ensuring their specific needs are met with custom solutions. To learn more about Kal Plastics, visit kal-plastics.com or contact us.

Media Contact

Frank Tortorici, Marketing Maven, 908-875-8908, frank@marketingmaven.com

SOURCE Kal Plastics

Labor and Employment Firms Zakay Law Group APLC & JCL Law Firm APC File Class Action Lawsuit Against Neighborhood House Association Alleging Failure to Pay Overtime Wages


As a result of their rigorous work schedules, Neighborhood House Association’s employees were allegedly unable to take off duty rest breaks and were not fully relieved of duty for rest periods. Specifically, the lawsuit alleges employees were required from time-to-time to work in excess of four (4) hours without being provided ten (10) minute rest periods as a result of their overburdened work requirements and inadequate staffing. Further, the lawsuit alleges these employees were denied their first rest periods of at least ten (10) minutes for some shifts worked of at least two (2) to four (4) hours from time to time, a first and second rest period of at least ten (10) minutes for some shifts worked of between six (6) and eight (8) hours from time to time, and a first, second and third rest period of at least ten (10) minutes for some shifts worked of ten (10) hours or more from time to time. Additionally, Neighborhood House Association’s employees were also allegedly not provided with one-hour wages in lieu thereof. As a result of their allegedly rigorous work schedules and inadequate staffing, Neighborhood House Association’s employees were from time to time allegedly denied their proper rest periods by Neighborhood House Association.

If you would like to know more about the Neighborhood House Association lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047.

Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC are labor and employment law firms with offices located in California that dedicate their practices to fighting for employees who have been wronged by their employers due to unfair employment practices. Contact one of their attorneys today if you need help with workplace issues regarding wage and hour, wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination, and harassment.

-THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT (Rules Prof. Conduct, rule 7.2)-

Media Contact

Jackland Hom, Zakay Law Group, APLC, (619) 255-9047, [email protected], https://zakaylaw.com/ 

SOURCE Zakay Law Group, APLC

City of Baltimore, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Henson Development Company, The NHP Foundation Break Ground on Park Heights Senior Apartments


The event marks the creation of NHPF’s fourth affordable housing property in Baltimore and was attended by speakers, pictured above, including:

  • Justin Williams, Deputy Mayor for Community and Economic Development, Baltimore
  • Yolanda Jiggetts, CEO Park Heights Renaissance
  • Sharon Green Middleton, Councilwoman
  • Alice Kennedy, Housing Commissioner Baltimore City Department of Housing and

Community Development

  • Gregory Hare, DHCD Assistant Secretary of the Community Development Administration
  • Sandy Rosenberg, Delegate
  • Angelo Edge, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Maryland

Commenting on the tax credit investment, Angelo Edge, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Maryland, a CVS Health company, said “We recognize the important changes that Park Heights Renaissance will bring to the city, and we are incredibly proud to be part of this pivotal rejuvenation. We’re grateful to the other funding partners of this future community and we look forward to using our combined resources to make a significant impact on health issues individuals face here in Park Heights.”
Local elected officials and community leaders hailed the groundbreaking as a much-needed development to address the housing shortage in Baltimore and support growth in the city.

“This partnership with NHPF and Henson Development Company represents the strength of collaboration over competition and what can be accomplished together to rebuild community,” remarked Yolanda Jiggetts, CEO, Park Heights Renaissance, the Baltimore organization that fosters social and economic opportunities to support the community. “We commend the partnerships’ commitment over the past few years to the community during the predevelopment phases that have led to this momentous day.”
The new construction is a first phase of the Park Heights Major Development area that will also include a multifamily rental apartment building adjacent to the senior building, 17 for sale homes, and brand new infrastructure including new water, sewer, stormwater facilities, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and widening Virginia Avenue to make for a better traffic pattern.
Councilwoman Sharon Green Middleton, an ardent supporter of the project since its inception, added “More than a construction project or physical building, this chapter of Park Heights development is a commitment to pushing forward and I want to thank everyone for their role in affirming that the seniors of our community will have a place to call home.”
Justin Williams, Deputy Mayor for Community and Economic Development noted “As we turn the soil today, we are planting more than just the physical foundations of a building. We are reaffirming our commitment to the seniors of Baltimore, ensuring they have access to affordable, dignified, and comfortable living spaces. He added, “This project is also a beacon of economic revitalization for Park Heights, promising not just homes for our seniors, but also jobs and further development for the community. It’s about building a stronger, more inclusive Baltimore, where everyone, regardless of age or background, has a place to call home.”

The Park Heights Senior property will include community amenities such as a dedicated resident service coordinator, a fitness center, a library, a computer center, a coffee bar, several lounge areas, and a kitchen area for seniors to hold events.
“With Park Heights Senior Apartments, NHPF and its partners plan a transformative new chapter that will turn a once blighted area into a vibrant place with stable housing and other amenities that will give residents opportunities,” commented Park Heights Senior lead developer Mansur Abdul-Malik, “And today’s ceremony provides an opportunity to thank all the partners for making long-held dream come true.”

Notable features of Park Heights Senior apartments include rooftop, carport, and gazebo mounted solar panels, battery storage, and meeting the National Green Building Standards for energy efficiency. This combination means clean energy to power the building, battery storage to ensure in case of an emergency the building always has power, and using building materials and practices that reduce energy usage, pollution, and waste. The features dovetail with a bill recently signed by Mayor Scott requiring 100% zero emissions for the city’s administrative fleet.

Media Contact

marijane funess, nhpf, 19148303754, [email protected]www.nhpfoundation.org 

SOURCE nhpf

Friends of the California State Fair Celebrates 30th Year of Scholarship Program


Program awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors and current college students in California

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Dec. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Friends of the California State Fair this week opened the online application for their annual scholarship program that awards more than $40,000 to California students pursuing post-secondary education.

For the 2024-25 academic year, Friends of the California State Fair will award $1,000 to $2,500 scholarships to graduating high school seniors and students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines.

Applicants may apply to one of twelve scholarship categories including agriculture, art, business, teaching, wine making/grape growing and more. Applications are evaluated based on academics, community involvement, volunteerism and a personal essay.

Top winners in select categories may be invited to compete for the $5,000 Ironstone Concours Foundation/Friends of the California State Fair Scholarship, an award that recognizes one outstanding candidate. Molly Terpstra, now a first-year student at Modesto Junior College studying Agricultural Business and Management, garnered the honor for 2023.

“Agriculture has always been a priority in my life. With both parents working in the Ag industry and raising livestock at home, 4-H and FFA was the foundation of my youth. Now as high school graduation grows near, I look forward to college as an Ag major and more importantly, a career in agriculture,” said Terpstra in her scholarship acceptance. “This scholarship will make my future possible.”

The 2024-25 scholarship application deadline is March 8, 2024. For more information about the program and to begin the application process, visit calexpostatefair.com/participate/friends-of-the-ca-state-fair/scholarship.

The Friends of the California State Fair Scholarship Program is a collaborative effort between the Friends of the California State Fair, the California Agricultural Advisory Council and the State Fair Gala Committee.

About the Friends of the California State Fair
The Friends of the California State Fair is a charitable, nonprofit, volunteer organization that
supports programs and education initiatives at the California Exposition State Fair. Since 1993, the Friends of the California State Fair have supported California students through their scholarship program.

About the California State Fair
Established in 1854, the California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate California’s achievements, industries, agriculture, and diversity of its people, traditions and trends that shape the Golden State’s future.

Media Contact

Carissa Willcoxon, International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS), 615-777-3735, [email protected], https://www.applyISTS.com

SOURCE Friends of the California State Fair

Grammy Nominee Gavin DeGraw to Hold Special Performance Benefiting Paws of War


DeGraw is hosting the private event to benefit the mission of Paws of War at The Wilson restaurant, who has generously donated their space to use as the venue. DeGraw, who recently released his new album A Classic Christmas, will be performing a few songs live in addition to presenting a few surprises.

“Paws of War is a great organization and this is for a wonderful cause,” says DeGraw. “I’m happy to be able to give back to our veterans, especially around the holidays. My dog, Buddy, is my best friend, so I understand the bond and comfort animals bring us. With numerous veterans in my family, supporting them has always been incredibly important to me and I’m honored to be a part of this event.”

Paws of War also focuses on giving back to veterans in various ways. They have helped veterans with numerous issues, including suicide prevention, service and support dogs, companion cats and dogs, food insecurity, veterinary care, etc. Paws of War has a large loyal following of supporters and looks forward to working with new corporate sponsors to support these life-saving programs. To donate to support their mission, visit its site at https://pawsofwar.org/?form=DeGraw

About Paws of War

Paws of War is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that assists military members and their pets, rescues and trains dogs to be service dogs, and provides companion animals to veterans and first responders. To learn more about Paws of War and the programs provided or donate, visit its site at http://pawsofwar.org.

About Gavin DeGraw

GRAMMY® Award-nominated multiplatinum singer and songwriter Gavin DeGraw’s inimitable voice and soulful style boldly bloomed on his 2003 platinum-certified full-length debut, Chariot. It included the gold single “Follow Through,” as well as both platinum hits, “Chariot,” and “I Don’t Want To Be.” In 2008, his self-titled second album, Gavin DeGraw, bowed in the Top 10 of the Billboard Top 200, powered by the platinum-selling single “In Love With a Girl.” 2011’s gold-certified Sweeter saw him return to the Top 10 as the single “Not Over You” went four times platinum. Meanwhile, his 2013 duet with Colbie Caillat, “We Both Know,” garnered a GRAMMY® Award nomination in the category of “Best Song Written For Visual Media” for Safe Haven. He’s the rare talent who could seamlessly share the stage with Billy Joel and The Allman Brothers or Maroon 5 and Shania Twain. In 2016, Something Worth Saving incited widespread critical applause from USA Today, Billboard, Entertainment Tonight, and Huffington Post. With a front row seat to this wonderfully wild life led by his late parents Lynne and John Wayne, Gavin DeGraw recounts his most meaningful memories and valuable lessons on his seventh full-length offering, Face The River. Now, he stitches together a timeless tale of his own soundtracked by a signature fusion of pop, soul, country, folk, and funk.

About The Wilson Cocktails & Seafood

Owned and operated by IGC Hospitality and located in the heart of Manhattan’s NoMad, The Wilson Cocktails & Seafood is a coastal-inspired restaurant showcasing the freshest seafood, craft cocktails, and comforting dishes in a convivial, upscale-casual atmosphere. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, the Wilson is a dog-friendly restaurant from its inception, offering a dedicated dog menu for four-legged friends, and welcoming them at the restaurant’s open-air patio and in the “Rose Garden,” a whimsical outdoor space with “floating” umbrellas overhead. For more information about the restaurant, please visit EatAtTheWilson.com or follow the restaurant on Instagram at @EatAtTheWilson.

Media Contact

Cher Murphy, Paws of War, 1 571-263-2128, [email protected], http://pawsofwar.org

SOURCE Paws of War



Newark’s BrownMill Company Awarded Matching Grants by Newark Alliance and the Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Impact Fund


“We are immensely grateful for the support the Newark community, JLH and Newark Alliance have shown towards BrownMill’s growth over the last few years,” said Justis Pitt-Goodson, co-founder and CEO of BrownMill Company. “We are excited for this crowdfunding campaign to continue our momentum and strengthen the impact our sustainable legacy will have on Halsey Street, Newark and beyond.”

BrownMill is a dedicated lifestyle brand, crafting high-quality, ethically conscious and environmentally friendly clothing that empowers men and women. The company is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint and employs ethical and eco-friendly production methods, source materials from trusted suppliers, and energy-efficient techniques. BrownMill also prioritizes community engagement and strives to make a positive global impact.

“The JLH Social Impact Fund is thrilled to support BrownMill Company’s continued growth and success through our dollar-for-dollar matching program,” said Lauren Holiday, co-founder of the Jrue and Lauren Holiday Fund. “JLH was formed with the mindset of paying it forward, and the community effort that has gone into this crowdfunding campaign has perfectly exemplified what we aim to do. With Newark Alliance’s additional support, BrownMill will be better positioned to reach their goal of raising $100,000 by the end of this year.”

Jrue and Lauren Holiday launched their Social Impact Fund in 2020 following the disruptions of the global COVID-19 pandemic and protests over the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers. Its mission is to combat systemic racism and socioeconomic inequality holding back Black communities. JLH supports local Black-led non-profit organizations, city-wide initiatives seeking equitable outcomes for Black and Brown communities, and historically Black colleges and universities in New Orleans, the Los Angeles area and Indianapolis.

“Newark Alliance is thrilled to be contributing $40,000 to the crowdfunding campaign through a dollar-for-dollar match” said Ashley Mays, Chief of Place and Real Estate for the Newark Alliance. “Halsey Street is a cultural and small business hub and BrownMill has made a tremendous positive impact on the community since its opening on Halsey Street two years ago. We are excited to be part of what’s to come for its continued growth and standing as a leading clothing brand in Newark and beyond.”

Halsey Street is a shopping and entertainment hub located in the heart of downtown Newark’s Arts and Education District. BrownMill Atelier became an anchor tenant of the street in June 2021 when it opened its first storefront. Since then, the company has been supported by NBA players, including Holiday, Dwayne Wade and Carmelo Anthony.

Shoppers can participate in BrownMill’s crowdfunding campaign by purchasing items on http://www.brownmill.co or visiting the store at 49 Halsey Street, Newark, N.J., throughout December.

About BrownMill Company

BrownMill is an innovative lifestyle brand of luxury clothing touted as a combination of bespoke tailoring and streetwear. All of BrownMill’s clothes are produced using recycled textile material from clothing waste, donations, imports, and thrift stores, driven by a strategy of Urban Upcycling. http://www.brownmill.co

About The JLH Social Impact Fund

The 2020-launched Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Impact Fund, led by NBA champion Jrue Holiday and two-time Olympic gold medalist Lauren Holiday, is dedicated to dismantling systemic racism and socioeconomic barriers. The initiative supports local Black-led nonprofits, Black-owned businesses, city-wide initiatives for equitable outcomes, and historically Black colleges and universities in New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Indianapolis. With a focus on cities close to the Holidays’ hearts, the Fund demonstrates a steadfast commitment to fostering positive change where needed most.

About Newark Alliance

The Newark Alliance, through the combined strength and collaboration of its members, drives inclusive economic growth for all of Newark, N.J. Our members comprise Newark’s premier businesses, anchor institutions, and community partners, including Fortune 100 and 500 companies and several of the country’s top universities, developers, hospitals, and arts institutions. United by a shared vision, the Alliance and its Members work collaboratively to cement Newark’s status as one of America’s most diverse, prosperous, exciting, and equitable cities. Visit us at http://www.newark-alliance.org.

Media Contact
Sam Brancato, Violet PR, 862.754.3332, [email protected], https://www.violetpr.com/

SOURCE BrownMill Company

Fusion Academy Celebrates Expansion in Westlake Village, California, Elevating Education Standards in Ventura County


A fully accredited middle and high school, Fusion Academy’s Westlake Village campus will expand to serve more local families in January 2024.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Dec. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Fusion Academy, the world’s most personalized school, with one-to-one classes to match students’ pace and preference, announces the expansion of its Westlake Village campus opening its new doors in January 2024. Fusion Academy Westlake Village, formerly Futures Academy, is now expanding to a renovated location that will provide full amenities including a music studio, yoga studio, art studio, and all one-to-one classes. The expanded campus will provide even more opportunities for parents to enroll their children in a one-to-one format to help them thrive and succeed with personalized learning. Open enrollment is available.

For families and students who feel unseen, underserved, or unchallenged in the traditional classroom, Fusion Academy’s expanded Westlake Village campus offers a one-to-one model personalized classroom to match the student’s ambition, provide a better, deeper dive than a traditional classroom, and set the pace for their education success. With boundless opportunities for children to pursue or excel in their passions, whether it be acting, sports, or the arts, students and families are afforded the option to follow those dreams and most importantly, maintain a strong academic performance with Fusion Academy.

“Our son began attending at the start of 6th grade, is now in 8th grade, and we plan on keeping him there through high school,” said Deana Crown. “Each year that he attends is better than the last, and with the small campus and 1:1 teaching, he’s learning so much more and growing in confidence and ability… he actually enjoys his time there. We also really love the flexibility in schedule.”

From October to December of the 2022-2023 school year, the National Center for Education Statistics administered the NAEP long-term trend reading and mathematics assessment to 13-year-old students and recognized a 4-point decline in reading and a 9-point decrease in mathematics compared to a previous assessment administered during the 2019-2020 school year. With one-to-one classroom instruction, students can expect a safe and supportive learning space, a learning cadence set by them, and daily instructor feedback. In particular, Fusion Academy students have a 65 percent higher growth rate in math than the national average.

“Fusion offers incredible one-on-one education,” shared Kimberly Ashton. “My daughter started in Pre-Algebra last year and went from someone who didn’t like math, wasn’t engaged in math, and, quite frankly, wasn’t showing any real promise with math to the opposite. She is now in Algebra 1 and has become someone who loves math, understands the concepts, and is doing incredibly well.”

“We are providing students the foundation and confidence to appreciate their own potential,” said Laura France, Westlake Village Head of School. “When parents choose Fusion Academy, we recognize they are focused on the child’s best interest and we are here to support them in their learning experience.”

The expansion of Fusion Academy Westlake Village campus provides fuller amenities in direct access to Conejo Valley, Thousand Oaks, and the Malibu Hills communities. Join our Coffee Chat Thursday, Dec 14, 11am-12:30pm to learn how one-to-one learning provides personalization without sacrificing socialization.

Fusion Academy offers:

  • One-to-one classrooms that match your student’s pace
  • Flexible school schedule to fit family lifestyle
  • Daily feedback from each instructor
  • Safe and supportive learning community
  • Coursework completed at school supported by two Homework Café spaces: one quiet and one social
  • Social opportunities include: volunteering, field trips, clubs, prom, and graduation
  • Fully accredited for grades 6-12

“By reinventing the way students learn, their academic potential can accelerate in a more supportive one-to-one learning environment,” said Senior Vice President of Education, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian of Fusion Academy. “When a teacher can personalize the curriculum to a student’s love of a certain book series, passion for the arts, or even a video game, the opportunity to connect to their interests sparks a love of learning. “

Parents looking for a personalized learning solution for their children are encouraged to reach out to learn more, please call 805-852-1695 or visit the Fusion Academy, Westlake Village website.

About Fusion Academy:

Fusion Academy is the world’s most personalized private middle and high school, with 1-to-1 classes that match a student’s pace and preferences, so they can learn better, dive deeper and never get left behind. To learn more about Fusion Academy, please visit https://www.fusionacademy.com/.

Media Contact

Fusion Academy, Fusion Academy, 1 (608) 216 7300 107, [email protected], https://www.fusionacademy.com/

SOURCE Fusion Academy

Femovate Announces 30 New Early-Stage Femtech Startups for Its 2024 UX Design Sponsorship Program


Experts in UX design and product strategy from Guidea will work closely with the 2024 Femovate companies to help them improve and accelerate the efficiency, usability and accessibility of their products. The complimentary services provided by Guidea will help burnish the credibility of the 2024 Femovate companies, putting them in a far stronger position to acquire new funding and media opportunities. UX design support may include researching and testing digital designs, identifying areas for differentiation in the market and collaborating with industrial designers and engineering teams to create user-centric products that exceed expectations, as well as delving deeply into the patient, provider and customer journey.

“Femtech is the industry that will change the world,” says Guidea CEO and co-founder Theresa Neil. “We see incredible promise with the startups we’re sponsoring while understanding the challenges they face bringing innovation to generally taboo health topics. Femovate can provide a small but powerful boost for these companies to jump to the forefront of femtech and bring solutions to millions of women globally.”

The 30 companies selected for the 2024 Femovate program include:

BREAST HEALTH

  • Deeplook Medical: Revolutionizing radiology for cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, with their FDA-approved, patent-protected software. The shape recognition software accurately measures, segments, and displays the density of soft tumor masses in Mammograms, Ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRI images — with just one click.
  • iSono Health: Transforms breast cancer screening by combining automated ultrasound and artificial intelligence (AI) to empower women and physicians with accessible and personalized breast health monitoring.
  • KnowBra: Uses AI and computer vision for post-mastectomy bra fitting. The platform automates insurance claims and offers zero-touch fittings. KnowBra’s solution reduces discomfort, boosts confidence, and guarantees a proper fit.

CARDIOVASCULAR

  • Armor Medical: A biomedical device company that dares to innovate better health for all. The company’s groundbreaking wearable device, Maternal aRMOR, is revolutionizing early obstetric hemorrhage detection – offering objective, real-time monitoring to enhance patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

CHRONIC CONDITIONS

  • Afynia Labs: Developer of an at-home screening test that will shorten the path to diagnosis and treatment for endometriosis.

FERTILITY

  • PherDal Fertility Science: Stands at the forefront of innovative reproductive healthcare, dedicated to transforming fertility assistance with groundbreaking and accessible solutions. The company’s flagship product, the PherDal Kit, is a patented, sterile, FDA-cleared over-the-counter option, meticulously designed to empower individuals on their path to parenthood.
  • Plan Your Baby: A global fertility and pregnancy telehealth clinic providing end-to-end clinical, digital, affordable, effective, personalized and fast solutions for fertility and pregnancy-related problems.

HORMONE HEALTH

  • Iameno: An end-to-end hormonal health management platform leveraging AI, data and sciences to provide daily step-by-step personalized guidance and action plans to women going through hormonal changes impacting their physical, emotional and cognitive health. Our mission is to create a new generation of women who are smarter about their health.
  • Impli: Developer of subdermal implants that monitor fertility hormone levels frequently and in real-time so that clinicians can make better decisions during the IVF treatment. Clinicians need more data points to deliver precision care to move the dial on success rates and also increase the safety of women.
  • Proov: A proactive fertility testing platform that helps couples identify the leading causes of infertility at home. Proov is the only FDA-cleared test to confirm ovulation at home. It combines simple urine-based diagnostics with an easy-to-use app to give women a clear view of their menstrual cycles and fertility status.

MATERNAL HEALTH

  • BB Imaging: A telesonography® provider that connects healthcare facilities and their patients with remote, expert sonographers. By combining a facility’s existing resources with FDA-cleared and HIPAA-compliant technology, TeleScan can bring high-quality prenatal ultrasound care to all patients.
  • Ciconia: The first AI-based medical device that allows clinicians to base critical labor decisions on accurate and user-independent measurements, providing a safe and gentle process for both mom and baby.
  • EXO: A company battling disparities in women’s health research and treatment while enhancing the standard of care for maternal health.
  • Health Evolve: Brings care delivery closer to home and is the creator of LAUREN, a digital health platform to help pregnant and postpartum women manage their health, while receiving support from a personalized care village outside of the walls of the clinic.
  • Partum: A hybrid clinic delivering the best of online and offline care to women and families through the fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey.
  • riskLD: A clinician-facing perinatal patient safety software platform that has been developed to elevate situational awareness of inpatient obstetric units and to improve outcomes for pregnant patients and their newborns.
  • Villie: A platform that connects expecting parents with support from loved ones through cash, gifts, and services while also helping brands target moms by placing products in front of their villagers to drive revenue.

MENSTRUATION

  • Joni: A menstrual care brand that’s making organic and sustainable products mainstream to make period care accessible for everyone.

ONCOLOGY

  • Cacta: Creator of MyLymphCare, a research-based home-monitoring solution for early detection of lymphedema, one of the major side-effects of breast cancer treatment. We empower women to monitor at home to catch symptoms before they are visible, enabling early treatment that results in a dramatically lower risk of chronic lymphedema.
  • Prosoma: A global medical company delivering digital healthcare solutions for oncology, with a product portfolio that supports the patient’s mental and behavioral health.
  • Thyia: A digital health platform providing women with access to at-home cervical cancer screening tests making cervical cancer a thing of the past.

PELVIC FLOOR HEALTH

  • HyIvy: Provides data-driven medical devices that facilitate the rehabilitation of the pelvic floor.

SAFETY AND PRIVACY

  • Epowar: A wearable technology to make women safer. The company recently launched the first safety app that detects if the user is physically attacked, alerting their chosen contacts, sharing live location data and storing valuable evidence in the cloud.

UTERINE HEALTH

  • Nesa Medtech: A leading deep-tech medtech startup that specializes in developing patented, scarless image-guided surgical solutions in the field of women’s health using advanced technology.

WOMEN’S WELLNESS

  • Bloomful: A diagnostic solution delivering streamlined, accessible gynecological care to underserved women globally.
  • Celeste: Celeste’s ExactRx is a medication diagnostic tool that transforms traditionally diagnostic lab panels into actionable medication safety and efficacy insights. Using AI-powered precision medicine, it enables healthcare providers and payers to pre-emptively assess how a patient will respond to medications and subsequently create personalized adherence plans.
  • Girls First Finance: Girls First Finance (GFF) promotes equitable access to education and financial services for vulnerable young women starting in Africa who are otherwise at risk of exploitation to cover their education expenses. Through its mobile super app platform, GFF provides access to student loans along with tools focused on safeguarding, financial literacy, career development and community support across over a dozen features.
  • Health in Her Hue: A digital health platform dedicated to connecting Black women and women of color to culturally sensitive healthcare providers, evidence-based, culturally-tailored health content, and community support.
  • Incora: Empowers women to meet their fertility and wellness goals by providing actionable health insights using the Incora smart earrings.
  • NAWAT Health: A digital platform that provides Arab women access to sexual and reproductive health educational programs and judgment-free and pleasure-positive online care with diverse, trusted, and trained sexual and reproductive health experts.

“The world is finally waking up to the staggering data that shows both the investment gap into women-led companies, women-centric innovation, and the huge untapped potential of both — and some are taking real tangible action,” said Ida Tin, CEO and founder of the women’s menstruation-tracking app, Clue, who is also credited with coining the term ‘femtech.’ “I’m impressed with the caliber of the femtech companies I’ve been part of selecting for the 2024 Femovate cohort and the practical support they receive from Femovate.”

Access the Femovate press kit here.

About Femovate

Femovate is a UX sponsorship program for early-stage femtech startups. Launched in 2022 by Guidea, acclaimed for their expertise in UX design and product strategy, Femovate is aimed at lifting up femtech founders who work in a sector that has been woefully underfunded. Femovate has already contributed over $1 million of UX and product services to more than 30 early-stage startups since its inception. Learn more at https://www.femovate.com.

About Guidea

Guidea is an award-winning, women-led UX consultancy with extensive product and design strategy expertise in medtech, IoT, wearables, population health insights, digital therapeutics, healthcare software and femtech. The team is a trusted partner to 20 Fortune 100 companies and dozens of innovative startups. Products designed by Guidea are used by more than one billion people worldwide, and more than 660 million users globally use innovative health products designed by Guidea. Learn more at https://guidea.com.

Media Contact

Mindy M. Hull, Mercury Global Partners for Femovate by Guidea, 1 415 889 9977, [email protected], https://www.femovate.com

Allie Gavan, Mercury Global Partners for Femovate by Guidea, 1 415 9877147, [email protected], https://www.femovate.com

SOURCE Femovate by Guidea

TROY Group Demonstrates Commitment to Community with Yearly Donations


Throughout December, TROY Group is actively seeking donations for The Salvation Army, the global force that serves our local communities with unwavering dedication. From food distribution to emergency shelter and social services, they bring relief to those in crisis. To donate to this fundraiser, visit TROY Group’s virtual kettle here:
https://give.virginiasalvationarmy.org/fundraiser/5105746

The following other organizations have received generous contributions from TROY Group in 2023:

Youth Services Systems, Inc: Youth Services Systems, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive services to at-risk youth and their families. Their programs focus on areas such as counseling, education, and community engagement to empower young individuals and foster positive development.

Catholic Charities, West Virginia: Catholic Charities is a well-established organization that works to alleviate poverty and aid individuals and families in need. Their services often include food assistance, housing support, and various social services to promote a better quality of life for vulnerable populations.

The Children’s Home of Wheeling: The Children’s Home of Wheeling is a residential facility and community-based service provider that focuses on the well-being of children and families. They offer a range of programs aimed at ensuring the safety, stability, and healthy development of children facing adversity.

Augusta Levy Learning Center: Augusta Levy Learning Center is dedicated to providing educational services for children with autism spectrum disorders. Their programs emphasize early intervention, individualized education, and support for families, helping children with autism reach their full potential.

St. John’s Home for Children: St. John’s Home for Children is a refuge for children facing challenging circumstances, providing a safe and nurturing environment. They offer residential care, counseling, and support services to help children overcome difficulties and build a foundation for a brighter future.

YMCA, Wheeling: The YMCA in Wheeling is a community-focused organization that provides a range of programs and services, including fitness and recreation, childcare, and community development. The YMCA plays a vital role in promoting health and well-being for individuals and families in the local area.

“These donations reflect our dedication to creating a positive and lasting change in the areas where we live and work,” said Aimee Orum, Vice President of Human Resources at TROY Group. “We are thrilled to extend our support to these outstanding organizations that work tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in our community.”

About TROY Group:
TROY Group, Inc., an HP OEM Partner, is a worldwide leader of MICR and document security solutions. TROY offers software, secure MICR Printers, and specialized MICR inks and toners along with all components needed to print secure checks in-house. TROY is the only manufacturer of MICR Toner Secure, the World’s Most Fraud Resistant MICR Toner™, which protects checks from fraud with an anti-tamper security feature. Customers include the top U.S. banks, key government and insurance accounts, and businesses of all sizes.

Contact:

Nathan Cross
TROY Group
304-232-0899
[email protected]

Media Contact

Nathan Cross, TROY Group, (304) 907-1938, [email protected], https://www.troygroup.com/

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SOURCE TROY Group