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BioLumic Launches World's First Commercial Light-Activated Seed Traits

BioLumic

BioLumic, the world’s only company programming seed traits with light, has launched its first commercial Trait Activation System at Gro Alliance’s seed production facility in Cuba City, Wisconsin. This milestone brings the BioLumic proprietary light-based Genetic Expression Trait (xTrait™) technology to the global seed industry, enabling new opportunities for enhanced crop performance. With this launch, BioLumic delivers a breakthrough in crop science—introducing a novel, natural approach to trait innovation that is faster, more scalable, and more cost-effective than traditional biotech traits. For the first time, seed companies can integrate light-programmed traits that enhance genetic expression into elite inbreds and hybrids, unlocking a new frontier in crop improvement without the constraints of genetic modification. Following third-party field validation and demonstration of trans-generational trait inheritance to hybrid progeny, BioLumic light-activated traits are now being integrated into a broad portfolio of partner inbred corn lines. Multiple seed companies are licensing this novel technology, with commercial hybrid traits anticipated for the 2026 planting season. “This launch represents a major step forward for seed companies seeking a new category of traits – traits that enhance natural genetic expression rather than altering the genome,” said Steve Sibulkin, CEO of BioLumic. “We’re delivering an entirely new way to program crop traits and accelerate breeding cycles—traits that are fast, economical, and scalable.” A New Model for Seed Innovation The BioLumic xTrait™ platform uses UV light to regulate genetic expression—without genetic modification. This scalable, chemical-free approach enhances growth, vigor, composition, and resilience while eliminating the costly regulatory hurdles of GM traits. Seed companies can license BioLumic Genetic Expression Traits that are matched to their genetics and integrated into parent lines. As the first commercial partner of BioLumic, Gro Alliance will execute the trait activation process. It offers a full suite of seed cleaning, treating, and packaging capabilities, allowing Gro Alliance to receive seed as bulk or cleaned seed. Breeder Direct is commercializing xTraits for several inbred lines in its expanding portfolio, with commercial hybrid traits anticipated to become available later this year. “We see this as a leap forward in seed innovation,” said Marc Neuman, Director of Sales and Product Development at Breeder Direct. “BioLumic’s technology enhances yield and beneficial characteristics in our latest germplasm, which unlocks new value for seed companies and farmers alike.” Field Trials Confirm Significant Yield Gains and Trait Heritability BioLumic light-activated traits have been validated across a diverse range of partner genetics in over 6,000 plots, consistently demonstrating: • More than 20% avg yield gain in multiple untreated hybrid lines (trait pass-through from activated parent lines) • +6.1 bushels per acre yield increase (+8.2%) in more than a dozen activated inbreds • Increased establishment traits such as germination, seedling vigor, and uniformity Unlike traditional GM and gene-editing approaches, the BioLumic’s platform bypasses long development and regulatory timelines and high costs, cutting trait commercialization time from 10+ years to just 3 years, while reducing costs by up to 90%. Expanding the Future of Crop Innovation While corn represents the first commercial launch, the xTrait Platform is already expanding into rice, ryegrass, and soybeans through funded partnerships. Beyond these crops, over 10 new traits are in the discovery phase, advancing the next frontier of light-activated xTraits. This expansion unlocks opportunities to enhance yield stability, stress resilience, and crop nutrition in markets that increasingly demand non-GM, climate-smart solutions. “This technology is designed for speed, scalability, and impact,” added Sibulkin. “By unlocking new genetic expression potential, we’re ensuring a future where adaptable, high-performing traits are not just widely accessible but ready to tackle today’s challenges—without waiting a decade for solutions.” Founded in 2013, BioLumic is a New Zealand and U.S.-based agricultural biotech company that programs plants and seeds with light to unlock growth, quality and health. The company's Light Signal Recipe™ platform combines biological data, plant science, and genetic marker knowledge to mediate genetic expression with a one-time application of light signals. BioLumic's Light Treatments are scalable and require no chemical application, genetic modification, facility expansion or large input costs. Programming Plants with Light. Contact us at www.biolumic.com or email to info@biolumic.com. Contact Details AgTech PR Jennifer Goldston jennifer@agtechpr.com Company Website https://www.biolumic.com

March 06, 2025 01:00 PM Central Standard Time

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Centre for Neuro Skills Launches the “Neuro Skills Podcast,” Focused on Brain Injury Rehabilitation

Centre for Neuro Skills

The Centre for Neuro Skills (CNS) has launched the “Neuro Skills Podcast,” a new series that delves into the latest trends, research and inspiring stories behind the transformative power of brain injury rehabilitation. Debuting on YouTube and Spotify on Monday, March 3, in recognition of Brain Injury Awareness Month, this weekly video series features real-life recovery stories and expert insights on cutting-edge brain injury therapies. The podcast aims to deepen understanding of brain injury rehabilitation and its life-changing possibilities. Hosted by CNS CEO and President David Harrington—a licensed occupational therapist and Certified Brain Injury Specialist with more than 30 years of experience—the podcast will feature conversations with industry leaders, brain injury survivors and experts in post-acute rehabilitation. Notable guests include CNS founder Dr. Mark Ashley and key figures in neurorehabilitation, who will share their expertise and personal experiences. “Brain injury rehabilitation is a journey of resilience, innovation and hope. Through the ‘Neuro Skills Podcast,’ we aim to shed light on groundbreaking therapies, share real recovery stories and provide valuable insights from experts in the field,” says David Harrington, President and CEO of Centre for Neuro Skills and podcast host. “Our goal is to empower patients, families and healthcare professionals with the knowledge and inspiration they need to navigate the path to healing.” Episodes: Episode 1 (available now): A Place of Healing: The Story of CNS When Dr. Mark Ashley’s brother, Steve, became disabled after a devastating event in 1972, conventional rehabilitation therapy gave no hope for recovery. Dr. Ashley, Founder of CNS, made it his mission to find a way for Steve to regain his independence through post-acute rehabilitative care. His recovery became the model for CNS’ ongoing philosophy of practice and our belief that patients don’t plateau, and every brain injury survivor deserves a place to heal and regain independence. Episode 2 (March 10, 2025): Heart Health is Brain Health Pt. 1 Most people don’t know that strokes are brain injuries. This episode explores the connection between heart health and brain health – an often-overlooked aspect of stroke prevention and recovery. Tune in as David Harrington, President and Chief Executive Officer of CNS, and Chris Persel, Regional Director of Clinical Services, Director of Behavior Programming at CNS, dive into key statistics, discuss stroke prevention methods, and explain treatment options that help stroke survivors rebuild their lives and regain independence. Episode 3 (March 17, 2025): Heart Health is Brain Health Pt. 2 Recovery from a brain injury is a lifelong personal journey. David Harrington, President and Chief Executive Officer of CNS, and Chris Persel, Regional Director of Clinical Services, Director of Behavior Programming at CNS, continue their discussion on the importance of engaging patients in rehabilitation through individualized treatments and enriched environments. Episode 4 (March 24): Resilience and Renewal After a Brain Injury How do emotions impact recovery? David Harrington, President and Chief Executive Officer of CNS, and Dr. Gary Seale, Regional Director of Clinical Services at CNS, talk about the significant role that positive emotions play in patient recovery. This episode explores the benefits of being in a positive emotional state: ability to process information quickly and accurately, boost to the immune system, and there’s a less likely chance to trigger the flight or fight response that can lead to risk factors for stroke. Episode 5 (March 31): A Doctor Becomes the Patient: Stroke Survivor Story An unexpected stroke not only impacted Dr. Petersen’s motor skills, but it also changed the way he views the patient experience. A loving father with a background in pediatric emergency medicine, Dr. Petersen overcame physical, emotional, and cognitive deficits during his stroke rehabilitation journey, finding a renewed sense of purpose when he returned to work. In this episode, Dr. Petersen shares his journey from physician to patient and sheds light on the transformative power of rehabilitation. Produced in collaboration with the American Heart Association (AHA) as part of its “Live Fierce campaign,” the “Neuro Skills Podcast” reflects CNS’s commitment to advancing neurorehabilitation and heart health. Through this partnership, CNS and the AHA aim to provide critical information to stroke patients and the broader community, reinforcing the connection between brain health and cardiovascular well-being. *** About Centre for Neuro Skills Centre for Neuro Skills is an experienced and respected world leader in providing intensive rehabilitation and medical programs for those recovering from all types of brain injury. CNS covers a full spectrum of advanced care from residential and assisted living to outpatient/day treatment. Founded by Dr. Mark Ashley in 1980, CNS has seven locations in California and Texas. For more information about Centre for Neuro Skills, visit: www.neuroskills.com, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube. Media, please note: Visual assets, including photos, are available. To request an interview with CNS leadership or clinical staff, please contact Robin Carr at 415.766.0927 or CNS@landispr.com. # # # Contact Details Landis Communications Inc. Robin Carr +1 415-766-0927 cns@landispr.com Company Website https://www.neuroskills.com/

March 06, 2025 08:01 AM Pacific Standard Time

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BridgeFT Wins Best WealthTech Solution Overall at the 2025 Global Private Banker WealthTech Awards

BridgeFT

BridgeFT, a cloud-native, API-first wealth infrastructure software company that enables enterprise wealth management firms, registered investment advisors (RIAs), turnkey asset management platforms (TAMPs), and Fintech innovators to deliver better, data-driven outcomes for their clients, announced today that it has been awarded the Best WealthTech Solution Overall award at the Global Private Banker WealthTech Awards 2025. The Global Private Banking Innovation Awards, organized by Global Private Banker, exist to identify, honor, and celebrate the world’s pre-eminent private banks, family offices, and wealth managers that demonstrate elite levels of advisory, unbiased research, and bespoke solutions and their distinguished individuals’ contribution to client service and strategic wealth preservation and growth capabilities. These awards are accolades of excellence and distinction, attributed to outstanding players and providing unbiased and objective benchmarks for the global industry. The Global Private Banking Innovation Awards 2025 are the world’s most authoritative and transparently judged private wealth awards recognizing the most innovative products and services, cutting-edge technological and digital capabilities, scalable customizations and rapid integration of ESG considerations across the global private banking landscape. “We are honored to be recognized by Global Private Banker this year for the impact our WealthTech API platform makes on a wide variety of financial institutions," said Joe Stensland, Chief Executive Officer of BridgeFT. “We are off to an amazing start in 2025,d and awards like this further validate our commitment to empowering wealth management firms and wealthtechs with modern technology that makes it easier to access total wealth data aggregation to power next generation applications and advanced analytics.” BridgeFT’s WealthTech API offers a single, open API to trade-ready, multi-custodial data, advanced analytics, and application services. WealthTech API eliminates the need for individual data feeds from a range of custodians and back-office providers, enabling wealth management firms and wealthtech application providers to create differentiated, client-advisor experiences. BridgeFT is the wealth management industry’s only source for total wealth data. Global Private Banker states several key factors which led to their selection of BridgeFT as the winner for Best WealthTech Solution Overall. BridgeFT’s WealthTech-as-a-Service (WtaaS) platform is API-first and cloud-native. It revolutionizes wealth management applications by streamlining access to high-quality, multi-custodial total wealth data. With seamless integration, enriched analytics, and composable application services, BridgeFT empowers financial institutions and wealthtechs to build innovative, scalable solutions that enhance client experiences and drive personalized interactions. About BridgeFT BridgeFT is a cloud-native, API-first wealth infrastructure software company that enables financial institutions, FinTech innovators, TAMPs, and registered investment advisors to deliver better, data-driven outcomes for their clients. Our WealthTech-as-a-Service platform, WealthTech API, makes wealth management technology better by accelerating, simplifying and reducing the cost of app development and maintenance, so our clients can focus on delivering next generation wealth management applications and unique digital experiences that amplify their differentiators. Leading financial services firms and technology companies trust BridgeFT to power their digital wealth management ecosystems and automate critical back-office operations — seamlessly aligning multi-custodial data aggregation, advanced analytics and reporting, and application services to deliver truly personalized client experiences. For more information, visit bridgeft.com. Contact Details For BridgeFT Peter Page, Vocatus ppage@vocatusllc.com Company Website https://www.bridgeft.com/

March 06, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

FTN Network Partners with Yahoo Sports to Deliver Simulation-Based Fantasy Insights

FTN Network

FTN Network, a leader in betting, fantasy sports, and DFS insights powered by advanced data, is partnering with Yahoo Sports to provide cutting-edge fantasy projections for baseball, basketball, and football ahead of the 2025 MLB season. Through this collaboration, Yahoo will feature FTN’s simulation-driven player projections, giving fantasy users, from casual players to seasoned experts, access to some of the most advanced lineup strategies and player evaluations available today. FTN’s proprietary model runs 10,000 simulations per game, factoring in matchups, player trends, injuries, and deep statistical analysis to provide unmatched predictive accuracy. By moving beyond traditional box score stats and static rankings, Yahoo fantasy users will gain access to advanced, data-driven insights that enhance decision-making in real time. “The continuous growth of fantasy sports demands fresh, innovative approaches that give users a true competitive edge,” said Frank Brank, Chief Data Officer at FTN. “By integrating our predictive simulation technology with Yahoo Sports, one of the largest fantasy platforms in the world, we’re elevating player evaluations and lineup strategies in ways that haven’t been done before.” This partnership extends FTN’s industry-leading data capabilities across MLB, NBA, and NFL fantasy sports, ensuring Yahoo Sports users benefit from year-round insights. FTN’s proprietary simulations give Yahoo a distinct advantage in an evolving fantasy landscape where data-driven decision-making is more valuable than ever. “Joining Yahoo’s aggregate projection system further cements FTN as a leader in sports analytics,” said Perry Gershon, CEO at FTN. “Our simulation-driven insights will continue to push the fantasy sports industry forward, helping fans and media companies make the most accurate, data-backed decisions possible. As analytics-based fantasy sports rise in popularity, FTN remains at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge player and team projections.” For more details on this partnership, click here. About FTN Network FTN Network is a premier sports data and fantasy sports media company, offering cutting-edge analytics and customizable tools for fantasy sports and sports betting enthusiasts. Since its founding in 2020, FTN has built a unique data ecosystem that transforms raw numbers into actionable insights, helping users make the smartest decisions possible in their fantasy leagues and wagers. Contact Details Sterling A. Randle +1 801-319-6153 srandle@hotpaperlantern.com

March 06, 2025 08:03 AM Eastern Standard Time

Uno Pizzeria and Grill Introduces The “Shenanigan Shake”

UNO Pizzeria & Grill

To celebrate the month of March and the festivities associated with it, Uno Pizzeria and Grill is introducing the Shenanigan Shake. The Shenanigan Shake will come in two versions – a boozy version and a non-alcohol version. Both versions will capture the minty creaminess of a traditional green mint milkshake often seen in March at various food establishments. The “Boozy” Shenanigan Shake will feature Stoli Vanil Vodka and Crème de Menthe blended into a creamy green “adult” milkshake. It will be topped with whipped cream, a cherry and a chocolate gold coin (for a kiss of luck). The non-alcohol Shenanigan Shake will combine velvety ice cream with a burst of refreshing mint flavor. It will also be topped with whipped cream, a cherry and a chocolate gold coin but with an added drizzle of chocolate. Both will offer a cool burst of fun for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day all month long. Edgar Cruz, Director of Beverage for the restaurant chain, boasted that the Shenanigan Shake will resonate with adults and kids alike. “No matter your age, all can enjoy our newest offering, the Shenanigan Shake. Whether you have enjoyed other mint shakes in the past or are new to the product, we know that you’ll will be thrilled with our new refreshing and creamy green mint milkshake.” Both the boozy and non-alcohol versions are currently available in most Uno Pizzeria and Grill locations in the US and will be available through the end of the month on March. About UNO Pizzeria & Grill Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation includes approximately 80 company-owned and franchised UNO Pizzeria & Grill restaurants located in 18 states, and the District of Columbia, India, and Saudi Arabia. UNO is all about connecting people over pizza – from its famous Chicago Deep Dish, which UNO invented in 1943, to its Chicago Thin Crust, to its gluten-free and vegan pizzas. The Company also operates Uno Foods, a consumer packaged-foods business which supplies supermarkets, airlines, movie theaters, hotels, airports, travel plazas, and schools, with both frozen and refrigerated UNO branded products. For more information, visit www.unos.com. Contact Details Chris Dellamarggio +1 339-613-7641 cdellamarggio@unos.com Company Website https://www.unos.com/

March 05, 2025 03:14 PM Eastern Standard Time

Congressman Anthony D’Esposito Joins Modern Fortis as Special Advisor

Modern Fortis

Modern Fortis, a leading firm specializing in federal and state governmental affairs, is proud to welcome former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04) as a Special Advisor. Mr. D’Esposito will provide strategic guidance to the Modern Fortis team, supporting our public safety clients, law enforcement technology partners, and nationwide initiatives focused on enhancing safety and security. As a retired NYPD Detective, local elected official, member of Congress, and House Homeland Security Committee, Rep. D’Esposito brings a wealth of experience to Modern Fortis, having dedicated his life to public service and public safety. He has been a consistent advocate for the public good, advancing policies that support law enforcement, public safety, and community-driven solutions. His unique experience will be instrumental in shaping Modern Fortis’ strategies to integrate efficient, cutting-edge technologies that drive meaningful change in public safety nationwide. "We are honored to have Anthony D’Esposito join Modern Fortis as a Special Advisor," said Joseph Cameron, CEO of Modern Fortis. "His deep understanding of law enforcement, coupled with his experience in government and public policy, will be invaluable as we continue to expand our government relations work focused on public safety and law enforcement innovation." Before serving in Congress, D’Esposito had a distinguished career in law enforcement with the New York City Police Department, where he worked to keep communities safe through proactive policing strategies. He later transitioned into public office, serving as a Town of Hempstead Councilman before representing New York’s 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout his tenure, he championed policies supporting first responders, crime prevention initiatives, and the integration of technology to enhance public safety. Together, we are committed to advancing innovative solutions that address the evolving challenges in public safety, ensuring safer communities nationwide. Contact Details Modern Fortis Braden Frame +1 202-800-1015 braden@modernfortis.com

March 05, 2025 01:32 PM Eastern Standard Time

Avrio Acquires TokenSphere to Deliver Tokenized Real-World Assets To The Market

Fintech.TV

In a strategic move to transform the future of fund management and real-world asset tokenization, Avrio Worldwide PBC (Avrio), a leading financial technology and data group, has acquired TokenSphere, a pioneering digital platform built by Consilience Group Ltd (Consilience) to automate fund management and unlock the full potential of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs). This acquisition marks a major milestone in the evolution of digital financial market infrastructure, as institutional and private capital markets increasingly shift towards tokenization to enhance liquidity, transparency, and efficiency. With the U.S. private capital market surpassing $3.4 trillion in assets under management, and the tokenization market projected to exceed $10 trillion by 2030, TokenSphere’s cutting-edge technology positions Avrio at the forefront of this emerging financial transformation. TokenSphere, developed by Consilience, is a one-of-a-kind platform designed to automate fund management and simplify the tokenization of RWAs. By integrating smart contracts, automated compliance, and streamlined investor onboarding, TokenSphere eliminates the complexity of fund administration while enabling frictionless digital asset issuance and trading. As part of the transaction, Consilience receives an equity stake in Avrio. Avrio will establish an operating company to deploy the TokenSphere software and IP through market channels and integration with its core ATS technology platform, AvrioT. The Consilience technology team and CEO Kevin Monserrat will join Avrio to deliver the platform’s transition and go-to-market. Kevin Monserrat, CEO of Consilience commented, "TokenSphere was built to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the new digital asset economy. The financial world is at an inflection point, and Avrio is perfectly positioned to lead the charge in transforming how private capital markets operate. This acquisition ensures that our technology will continue to evolve and scale within a world-class financial infrastructure ecosystem." Avrio Worldwide Expands Its Capability for the Future of Digital Market Infrastructure Avrio Worldwide is an innovator in digital financial market infrastructure, providing a core technology stack that enables institutional investors to efficiently deploy capital, and now, in a world rapidly tokenizing RWAs, through integrating TokenSphere into the Avrio core stack. Avrio aims to accelerate the mass adoption of digital assets across capital markets, unlocking unprecedented liquidity and investment opportunities for all segments of investors. Lawrence Wintermeyer, CEO of Avrio said, "Tokenization is the future of financial markets, and with TokenSphere, Avrio is taking a decisive step in making RWA tokenization accessible, scalable, compliant, and secure. This acquisition strengthens our ability to provide best-in-class solutions to institutional investors navigating the shift towards new digital financial market infrastructure." The Future of Digital Financial Market Infrastructure is Here With over $838.5 billion in private equity deal activity in 2024, and the RWA tokenization market on track to exceed $2 trillion in the coming years, the need for institutional-grade digital financial market infrastructure has never been greater. The integration of TokenSphere into Avrio’s core AvrioT platform will drive new efficiencies, improve liquidity, and greatly enhanced investment opportunities across global markets for all segments of investors. This is just the beginning. The Avrio TokenSphere team is committed to pushing the boundaries of financial innovation, ushering in a new era of tokenized private capital markets where efficiency, transparency, accessibility, and security are the norm. About AVRIO Worldwide PBC AVRIO is a registered market infrastructure provider with a full technology stack. Avrio is the parent company of: Arkonis is the operator of a broker dealer and Alternative Trading System (ATS) in the United States. Arkonis Capital, LLC, a US broker dealer (BD) and market infrastructure, services, and data provider with an institutional grade full technology stack, AvrioT, transacting equities and debt Trading engine (ATS), qualified matching services (QMS), and quotation bureau (QB) for transacting in unregistered securities and private markets Exchange management (EMS), order management (OMS), portfolio management (PMS) and client management (CMS) for transacting in registered securities, ETFs, and funds in public markets. The technology enables clients and partners to create, manage, and trade any product on a global platform, and is blockchain agnostic. This enables clients to capture and scale market opportunities while creating standardization and best practices designed to prevent fraud, protect investors, and comply with know-your-customer and anti-money laundering compliance laws. Arkonis Capital LLC is a member of the FINRA and SIPC. https://avriotech.io About Consilience Group Limited Consilience Group is an innovator in alternative fund management and digital asset technology, best known for creating TokenSphere—a breakthrough platform simplifying the tokenization of real-world assets. https://www.tokensphere.io/ Contact Details Avrio Worldwide PBC Vince Molinari vince@avriotech.io Company Website https://avriotech.io

March 05, 2025 09:43 AM Eastern Standard Time

Mariner Creates Unique Pathway for Advisory Firm Succession and Seamless Client Experience with Ocean Heights Advisors Transition

Mariner

Mariner, a privately held national financial services firm, today announced a strategic transition that underscores its commitment to providing financial advisors with a clear and seamless succession pathway. Ocean Heights Advisors, a Newport Beach, Calif.-based wealth management firm with $730 million in assets under advisement, will transition from the Mariner Independent platform fully to Mariner, exemplifying the firm’s approach to long-term business continuity and client service. “Transitioning Ocean Heights represents a pivotal milestone in our growth journey and clearly signals to our independent partners that exciting opportunities lie ahead,” said Marty Bicknell, CEO and president of Mariner. “This shift improves team collaboration, provides expanded benefits to associates and reinforces our commitment to delivering best-in-class financial advisory services.” Mariner offers advisors the ability to maintain their independence and receive operational support through its Mariner Independent offering. Then, well in advance of a planned transition, advisors can integrate fully into Mariner, ensuring the future seamless transfer of client relationships and allowing advisors to continue to serve their clients. The Ocean Heights transition highlights this strategy in action, showcasing how advisors can evolve their practice while securing the founder’s legacy, providing ownership opportunities to the next generation and ensuring long-term, uninterrupted service and added resources for clients under one roof. Ocean Heights first partnered with Mariner’s independent platform in 2022, which allowed the firm to maintain its independence while leveraging Mariner’s extensive operational, compliance and marketing support. Over the past three years, this partnership has enabled Ocean Heights to scale its offerings and expand its client services, nearly doubling its assets under advisement in the process. Now, as the firm transitions completely into Mariner, it will benefit from expanded growth channels and more robust infrastructure, while clients gain increased security and long-term continuity. “Our partnership with Mariner has been instrumental in accelerating our growth,” said Kevin Barlow, managing partner of Ocean Heights Advisors. “After three years of successfully working together, fully integrating with Mariner is a natural evolution and will allow our team to provide even greater value to our clients while devoting more time to the personal relationships that have always been our hallmark.” All members of Ocean Heights team, including Founders Kevin O’Grady and Nella Webster, will continue in their roles as part of a long-term, multi-generational succession plan. Current Ocean Heights partners Kevin Barlow, Danielle Bronner and Kara Devar will become shareholders in Mariner. Barlow will lead Mariner’s expanded Newport Beach footprint. The agreement was signed in December of 2024, with the transition becoming effective on April 1, 2025. About Mariner Mariner is a privately held national financial services firm equipped with the experience to meet your modern wealth needs. Our advisors have access to in-house expertise covering everything from tax, estate, trust, and insurance to investment banking and valuation, so they can maximize time spent creating unified wealth plans with clients. By opening more windows of wealth, we can create opportunities to positively impact the lives of many. With this purpose, we intend to raise the bar for the entire industry. Founded in 2006 with $300 million in assets under advisement, Mariner and its affiliates now advise on over $560 billion in assets as of 1/3/25. Figures include assets from Cardinal Investment Advisors, currently undergoing acquisition by Mariner Institutional and slated to operationally close by 3/31/2025. Learn more at www.mariner.com. About Ocean Heights Advisors Ocean Heights Advisors is a privately held wealth management firm providing customized investment solutions and financial planning for high-net-worth families, executives, and entrepreneurs. Founded in 2005 as Palo Capital, the firm has grown to manage $730 million in assets as of January 2025. In 2022, Ocean Heights transitioned to an employee-owned firm and partnered with Mariner to enhance its service offerings. Beginning April 1, 2025, Ocean Heights will fully integrate into Mariner, continuing its tradition of high-touch client service under the Mariner brand. Learn more at www.oceanheightsadvisors.com. Contact Details Remi Yuter mariner@hotpaperlantern.com Company Website https://www.mariner.com/

March 05, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Lisk Incubation Hub Completes First African Cohort, Opens Applications for Batch 2 with Up to $200,000 in Grants

Lisk

Lisk, the Layer 2 Ethereum blockchain committed to advancing Web3 adoption in high-growth markets, is proud to announce the successful completion of the first cohort of the Lisk Blockchain Incubation Hub. Powered by CV Labs, the Lisk Blockchain Incubation Hub is a six-month program designed for African startups eager to build on the Lisk protocol. After an impactful six-month program, the incubator has helped 23 startups refine their ideas, develop go-to-market strategies, and access valuable financial support. Applications for Batch 2 of the Lisk Incubation Hub are now open, offering exciting new opportunities for Web3 builders in Africa. The program will provide up to $20,000 per project in grants by graduation, as well as ongoing mentorship, a structured curriculum, and a robust network to help startups succeed. Startups will also benefit from continued support from Lisk and the chance to secure up to $100,000 in additional funding to scale their ventures. This new cohort is set to begin on May 19, 2025, with applications closing on April 12, 2025. “The first inning of blockchain technology was cryptocurrency, and African nations are among the fastest adopters of such digital value,” said Brenton Naicker, Principal & Head of Growth at CV VC. “Beyond crypto, Africa is proving how the technology itself is driving necessary change, addressing inefficiencies and financial exclusion. These brilliant innovators showcase how blockchain fosters trust, streamlines processes, and unlocks new economic opportunities across the continent.” The first cohort has already made a significant impact across Africa, with standout graduates driving real change in sectors such as agriculture, finance, and entertainment. These innovators are harnessing the power of blockchain to tackle pressing challenges within their communities and industries. With $196,000 in grants awarded at various stages of the program, startups have gained strong market traction, onboarding over 26,000 users, tokenizing $1.8 million in assets, and processing more than 20,000 blockchain transactions. Tata-iMali (South Africa) – Providing a fiat-backed stablecoin to connect South Africa’s informal and formal economies, enabling seamless transactions for small businesses and individuals. TrendX (Nigeria) – A tokenization platform integrating DAOs, token management, and compliance solutions for blockchain-based businesses. Pokecoin (South Africa) – A blockchain-based NFT marketplace for secure Pokémon card trading, verifying authenticity and quality through smart contracts. Nomachain (Kenya) – Enabling homeownership in Africa through a blockchain-powered rent-to-own model, with $1.8 million tokenized in property plans. Jamit (Nigeria) – A decentralized podcast platform offering NFT-driven monetization and audience engagement tools for storytellers. Afrikabal (Rwanda) – Transforming agriculture by connecting farmers with wholesalers and providing blockchain-backed trade finance for sustainable growth. The Lisk Blockchain Incubation Hub is at the heart of Lisk's mission to support founders in high-growth markets who often face significant challenges in securing early-stage funding. To help overcome these obstacles, they need access to grants, investment pathways, and an ecosystem prioritizing long-term growth. By connecting builders with the right resources and support, Lisk enables them to turn their ideas into impactful projects and thrive in the Web3 space. “For a long time, Web3 companies have not prioritized builders in high-growth markets like Africa, limiting their access to capital, mentorship, and support despite the abundance of talent,” said Dominic Schwenter, COO of Lisk. “This is now changing with the launch of more incubation hubs and grant programs. I’m more confident than ever that Africa and other high-growth markets will drive innovation and scale blockchain solutions, benefiting their communities and the world at large.” About Lisk Lisk is a Layer 2 blockchain dedicated to bringing Web3 adoption in emerging markets back to Ethereum. By leveraging cost-efficient, scalable, and innovative Layer 2 technology, Lisk enables real-world applications in emerging markets to operate efficiently on Ethereum for the first time. Lisk's founder-focused approach provides a comprehensive ecosystem of startup programs, tooling, seed liquidity, and knowledge bases to support local founders from inception to success.As a long-standing Web3 infrastructure project, Lisk has been contributing towards democratizing blockchain accessibility for developers globally since 2016. As an original member of the Optimism Superchain, Lisk also plays a pivotal role in building the industry’s first truly interoperable supernetwork alongside Optimism, Base, Mode, and Worldchain.For more information, visit us on X and join our network of builders to start building for the real world. About CV VC & CV Labs CV VC is a private blockchain venture capital firm driving the adoption of transformative technologies worldwide. At the heart of CV VC is CV Labs, its ecosystem business pillar, operating across Switzerland, Liechtenstein, South Africa, Germany, and Portugal. Through its accelerator programs, global hubs, industry-leading events, co-working spaces, and research, CV Labs connects startups, corporates, and investors, enabling them to harness blockchain technology’s full potential. Together, CV VC and CV Labs embody venture, ecosystem development and entrepreneurial excellence. With 75 investments in blockchain startups, it has a visionary leadership team led by industrialist Alex Wassmer as Chairman, Yvonne Bettkober of Volkswagen Group, Philipp Rösler, former Vice-Chancellor of Germany, founder & CEO Mathias Ruch, and co-founder & CIO Olaf Hannemann. Contact Details Wahaj Khan wahaj@serotonin.co CV Labs Triona Mc Hale triona@ignitecomms.com Company Website https://lisk.com/

March 05, 2025 08:56 AM Eastern Standard Time

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