Immersive Learning: How Truist Is Elevating Innovation From the Inside Out

This story was originally published on the Truist Newsroom.

At Truist, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a mindset. And that mindset was on full display during a recent summit hosted as part of the Truist Immersive Learning Program, which brought together teammates from across the enterprise to explore the future of banking, technology, and client experience.

The session was more than a workshop; it was a hands-on, minds-on journey into the heart of Truist’s innovation strategy. Participants didn’t just learn about emerging technologies and design thinking—they lived it. Through interactive simulations, collaborative problem-solving, and real-time feedback, teammates were challenged to think differently, act boldly, and reimagine what’s possible for our clients and communities.

This immersive experience welcomed a dynamic group of students from UNC Charlotte, who brought fresh perspectives and energy to the table. Their participation not only enriched the dialogue but also underscored Truist’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and community leaders.

This initiative drew support from a diverse group of local companies across the energy, healthcare, and arts and recreation industries who participated as sponsors and mentors. Their involvement brought real-world complexity to the learning experience and demonstrated the power of public-private collaboration in shaping the future of innovation in Charlotte and beyond.

The Truist Immersive Learning Program—created by the Truist Digital, Client Experience and Marketing team in partnership with Enterprise Technology—is designed to foster a culture of curiosity, creativity and ongoing improvement. Participants work together during immersive events to tackle real-world business challenges using Truist’s rapid innovation process, while participants gain insights into the latest tools, technologies, and strategies for career development.

The student-based events open doors for networking and learning about a broad range of industries. By empowering teammates and future talent with practical skills and an innovation-focused mindset, Truist is making a strategic investment in its greatest resource: people.

At Truist, we believe innovation starts with people. By investing in immersive learning, we’re not only preparing our teammates—and our communities—for what’s next, we’re empowering them to shape it,” said Sherry Graziano, head of digital, client experience, and marketing, for Truist. “Because when we learn together, we grow together. And when we grow together, we build better lives and communities.

The event also highlighted the power of cross-functional collaboration as teammates from business and technology came together to tackle challenges, share diverse perspectives, and co-create solutions that reflect the full spectrum of Truist’s expertise.

Embracing AI: Learning to Lead in the Digital Future

As part of Truist’s broader innovation strategy, the immersive learning experience also introduced teammates and student participants to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. Through AI-focused simulations, real-world use cases, and collaborative design challenges, participants explored how emerging technologies like generative AI and machine learning are reshaping financial services.

This hands-on exposure was more than theoretical. It was practical, purposeful and deeply human-centered. Whether prototyping AI-driven client solutions or debating the ethics of automation, participants gained a clearer understanding of how to harness AI responsibly and creatively.

The program’s impact is already evident. Participants returned to their teams energized, equipped with fresh ideas, and a common approach to driving change. With seven real-world use cases from four companies plus Truist, the event accelerated the development of practical prototypes. As more immersive learning experiences roll out, this momentum promises to grow even stronger.

If you’re interested in learning more about these immersive experiences or how to get involved, reach out to Eric.Fender@Truist.com for further information.

 

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

DP World Highlights Environmental Leadership As First Supplier Invited to Sustainability Event

First Supplier Invited to Quarterly Sustainability Session

DP World recently showcased its sustainability best practices at the Mondelez WACAM (West Andean, Central America, and Caribbean) Sustainability Meet — a quarterly gathering of Mondelez’s senior logistics leadership, including warehousing and transportation executives. Typically reserved for internal discussions, the virtual event (held via Microsoft Teams) marked the first time a business partner had been invited to present, underscoring DP World’s role as a benchmark for sustainability in the region.

Focus on CO₂ Emissions and Carbon Footprints

This quarter’s theme centered on CO₂ emissions and carbon footprint reduction. Mondelez leaders were particularly interested in learning about DP World’s emissions metrics and the solutions being implemented across the WACAM region. Carmen Guerrero, Sustainability Senior Manager for the Dominican Republic, represented DP World and shared how the company is advancing sustainable operations while enabling resilient supply chains. 

Regional Best Practices in Action

Drawing from initiatives in Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, Chile, and the Dominican Republic, DP World highlighted progress under its global sustainability strategy, “Our World, Our Future:”

Tools and Initiatives Driving Impact

Beyond site-level projects, DP World also highlighted innovative tools such as its carbon emissions calculator and regional training programs for women in operational roles, alongside a notable ocean conservation project involving the reforestation of over 100 hectares of mangroves in Ecuador.

Strengthening Client Partnerships Through Sustainability

DP World’s participation demonstrates how collaboration with customers goes beyond logistics – it’s about sharing knowledge, benchmarking, and co-creating pathways to a more sustainable future. By becoming the first external company to join Mondelez’s WACAM Sustainability Meet, DP World reaffirmed that sustainability is not just a corporate value, but a shared priority with its clients and partners.

Please visit the DP World website to learn more about our global sustainability strategy. 

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

GoodLeap Expands AI-powered Virtual Power Plant Nationwide, Making Energy Plans With Home Batteries Affordable and Strengthening Grid Reliability

As part of a nationwide rollout targeting 1.5 GW over the next five years, GoodLeap’s Virtual Power Plant offering in Texas expands with its own fully integrated retail offering, powered by Light (PUCT #10340).

SAN FRANCISCO and AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GoodLeap, a leading technology and financing platform for home solutions, today announced the expansion of its GoodGrid™ Virtual Power Plant (VPP) program in Texas, which is now enabled by its own integrated retail offer. GoodLeap’s expansion into Texas, coupled with a recent partnership in Connecticut, highlights its commitment to rewarding homeowners for helping to protect the electrical grid while making home batteries more affordable.

In Texas, GoodLeap’s own integrated retail plans are already driving significant adoption. Since launching the program, GoodLeap has seen battery attachment rates double in Texas, showing the strong consumer demand for solar plus a battery. The expansion comes at a critical moment: electricity demand in Texas is forecast to climb sharply due to population growth, extreme weather, and data center expansion.

“In the face of rising demand and costs, families need affordable energy and resilience in their homes, and energy companies need solutions that stabilize the grid,” said Dan Lotano, Chief Operating and Strategy Officer at GoodLeap. “GoodGrid’s AI-powered software delivers both, giving homeowners peace of mind and deploying additional energy capacity that improves reliability for communities nationwide.”

The nationwide expansion builds on previous rapid growth for GoodGrid with Connecticut Green Bank and California’s Demand Side Grid Support (DSGS) program, demonstrating a strong track record of momentum. Collectively, these programs showcase GoodLeap’s commitment to scaling VPP solutions nationwide, with the goal of deploying at least 1.5 GW in batteries over the next five years.

Affordable Home Batteries with GoodGrid Cash Rewards

At the center of the program are GoodGrid cash rewards. These provide homeowners with monthly cash rebates that make batteries low or even no-cost when they sign up for the GoodGrid retail plan. This GoodGrid offer is powered by Light— the retail platform that enables any company to offer its own unique electricity plans, branded and integrated with their products and experiences.

AI-Powered Energy Management for National Grid Stability

GoodLeap uses its proprietary AI-powered energy management software to deploy the home batteries participating in the GoodGrid program, stabilizing grids nationwide and helping lower energy prices for consumers. By forecasting demand, analyzing grid conditions, and intelligently orchestrating distributed home batteries, GoodGrid transforms individual systems into a powerful, aggregated energy resource.

During peak demand events, GoodLeap can rapidly deploy this capacity to support local utilities, prevent blackouts, and reduce strain on infrastructure. This real-time orchestration strengthens grid reliability and helps drive down wholesale energy prices — delivering benefits that extend to all consumers, not just program participants.

About GoodLeap

GoodLeap is a technology company delivering best-in-class financing and software products for sustainable solutions, from solar panels and batteries to energy-efficient HVAC, heat pumps, roofing, windows, and more. Over 1 million homeowners have benefited from our simple, fast, and frictionless technology that makes the adoption of these products more affordable, accessible, and easier to understand. Thousands of professionals deploying home efficiency and solar solutions rely on GoodLeap’s proprietary, AI-powered applications and developer tools to drive more transparent customer communication, deeper business intelligence, and streamlined payment and operations. Our platform has led to more than $30 billion in financing for sustainable solutions since 2018. GoodLeap is also proud to support our award-winning nonprofit, GivePower, which is building and deploying life-saving water and clean electricity systems, changing the lives of more than 2 million people across Africa, Asia, and South America. To learn more about GoodLeap, visit, follow, and connect with us at goodleap.com.

Media Contact

press@goodleap.com 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/goodleap-expands-ai-powered-virtual-power-plant-nationwide-making-energy-plans-with-home-batteries-affordable-and-strengthening-grid-reliability-302550837.html

SOURCE GoodLeap, LLC.

DFW Startup Week Turns 10: The Dec Network, Mary Kay, and SMU Unite To Fuel Entrepreneurial Futures at the Women of Innovation Summit

Previously published on https://newsroom.marykay.com/

DALLAS, September 9, 2025 /3BL/ – The DEC Network, in partnership with the Southern Methodist University’s (SMU) Cox School’s Spears Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Mary Kay Inc., hosted the Women of Innovation Summit on August 6, 2025, which took place with a “base camp” at SMU’s Cox School of Business.

With 47 basecamp sessions, 4 summits, 21 Community Events, and 300+ Speakers, 2025 DFW Startup Week organized by The DEC Network and Capital One is the nation’s second largest and most diverse startup event. The free weeklong celebration of startups united nearly ten thousand entrepreneurs, investors, corporate innovation leaders, and changemakers for a high-impact lineup of speakers from all walks of life and industries.

Presented by Mary Kay, the Women of Innovation Summit focused on women entrepreneurs, offering vital pathways for economic success and a platform for networking, learning, and engaging investors. The summit culminated with a Women’s Marketplace for local women entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses. Mary Kay featured its latest beauty tech innovation, the AI Foundation Finder, an intuitive technology designed to help consumers effortlessly find their foundation match – a first in the direct selling industry1.

“For more than 60 years, Mary Kay has been empowering women to take control of their futures through entrepreneurship,” said Virginie Naigeon-Malek, with Corporate Communications and CSR at Mary Kay. “Our independent beauty consultants receive from Mary Kay not only the innovative tools to run their own businesses in person and digitally, but also world-class education to propel them to thrive in a competitive marketplace. The Women of Innovation Summit reflects that same spirit – providing a platform where women can connect, learn, and grow. When women succeed as entrepreneurs, they uplift their families, strengthen communities, and contribute to vibrant local and global economies.”

“We’re proud to partner with Mary Kay to amplify women’s entrepreneurial journeys. By cultivating opportunity and recognition through DFW Startup Week, we’re creating more equitable access to resources and networks,” said Bill Chinn, Chief Executive Officer at the DEC Network. “Empowering women to pursue entrepreneurial success stimulates innovation and fuels long-term economic impact in the U.S. and beyond. Women-owned businesses today contribute billions to our economy—highlighting why supporting their advancement isn’t just an act of equity; it’s smart economics.”

Click here to watch a recap video of the 2025 DFW Startup Week.

Did You Know? 

  • Mary Kay has been named the #1 Direct Selling Brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics in the World by Euromonitor International2 for three consecutive years in 2023, 2024, and again in 2025. This recognition reflects Mary Kay’s commitment to digital innovation, and empowering beauty entrepreneurs around the world to run their own businesses.
  • In the U.S., there are 14.5 million women-owned businesses, which account for 39.2% of all firms, employing 12.9 million people (roughly 9.6% of the workforce), and generating $3.3 trillion in revenue3.
  • If women participated equally in entrepreneurship, global GDP could increase by $2.5 to $5 trillion, while U.S. GDP could see a $1 trillion boost over the next decade by closing labor participation gaps4.

***

About Mary Kay
One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 40 markets. For over 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X.

About The DEC Network
The DEC Network is a nonprofit organization driving innovation, fueling economic growth, and championing diversity and equity within the entrepreneurial community. Through mentorship, education, and world-class programming, The DEC Network supports thousands of entrepreneurs across North Texas and beyond, empowering them to launch, grow, and scale their businesses. Our mission is to fuel innovation and foster economic growth while building a more diverse and equitable ecosystem for entrepreneurs. Learn more at thedec.co. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
marykay.com/newsroom
972.687.5332 or media@mkcorp.com
 

1Mary Kay Inc. holds the exclusive rights to the tool for the first 12 months from launch.

2 “Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2025 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2024 data”

3 Entrepreneurs HQ, Liam Austin, (June 9, 2025), 60+ Women in Business Statistics: 2025 Facts, Trends & The Future. Retrieved from https://entrepreneurshq.com/women-in-business-statistics/?utm_source

4 U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, (July 26, 2023), Women’s Small Business Ownership and Entrepreneurship Report.

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

Conagra Brands Foundation Awards Grants to 21 Local Nonprofits Through “Nourish Our Community” Program

Employee-nominated grants drive community involvement and impact during Hunger Action Month

CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Conagra Brands Foundation has announced the 2025 recipients of its “Nourish Our Community” grants, awarding $330,000 in one-year funding to 21 nonprofits across seven states. In recognition of Hunger Action Month, a time when people nationwide unite to raise awareness and take action against food insecurity, these grants reflect Conagra’s commitment to driving positive social impact in the communities where its employees live and work.

For more than 30 years, Conagra’s Nourish Our Community grant program has empowered employees to play an active role in philanthropy by nominating nonprofit organizations that tackle food insecurity, cooking skills, nutrition education, healthy lifestyles, and urban agriculture. Each application is carefully reviewed by a cross-functional employee committee that thoughtfully evaluates, discusses, and selects the final grant recipients.

“Each September, our Nourish Our Community grants give employees a hands-on way to strengthen their communities, providing significant grants to support vital nonprofits that assist neighbors who may be struggling with food insecurity,” said Robert Rizzo, Senior Director of the Conagra Brands Foundation. “The program not only brings greater awareness to this critical issue, but also channels funding to nonprofits that are driving real and lasting change.”

Hunger Action Month, a Feeding America initiative, calls on people across the country to take action against food insecurity in the United States. The Conagra Brands Foundation has a longstanding partnership with Feeding America, taking a holistic approach that combines employee volunteerism, product donations, and cash contributions to address hunger on a national scale.

Through its philanthropic efforts, Conagra supports national research that deepens the understanding of hunger and its impact on vulnerable populations and diverse communities. The Foundation also invests in capacity-building initiatives that strengthen frontline hunger-relief agencies, enabling them to provide greater access to nutritious and culturally relevant foods. Beyond funding, Conagra donates substantial amounts of food, which are distributed through Feeding America’s network of 200 food banks nationwide.

More information about each of the “Nourish Our Community” grant recipients can be found below:

AGING WITH SPIRIT (NE)
Project: Meals on Wheels and Together at the Table
The Aging with Spirit Foundation supports the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Meals on Wheel’s program, which delivers nutritious meals to food insecure older adults. This grant from the Conagra Brands Foundation will provide approximately 1,380 meals over three days of service.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employee: Susan J. – Omaha, NE

ALL PEOPLE’S PANTRY (NE)
Project: Fall/Winter Distribution
Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation will enable All People’s Pantry to provide culturally inclusive food for approximately 250 families (over 1,200 individuals) each season, sourcing items primarily from small, immigrant- or refugee-owned grocery stores. This funding will help alleviate hunger while also supporting local businesses and fostering a welcoming community.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employees: Marci A. – Omaha, NE & Russell V. – Omaha, NE

AREA NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICE CENTER (MN)
Project: Ready to Nourish Our Friends and Neighbors
Funds provided by the Conagra Brands Foundation support the Area Neighborhood Service Center’s effort to replenish its pantry with nourishing foods and stock its freezer with protein to meet growing community demand. This initiative ensures that individuals and families facing food insecurity have reliable access to a variety of nutritious options when they need them most.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employee: Laurie S. – Waseca, MN 

BELLEVUE TOGETHER (NE)
Project: Holiday Food Boxes
Bellevue Together provides food access for students and families during the two-week holiday school break. The program serves approximately 165 families (475 students) identified through referrals from school counselors and social workers across 21 Bellevue Public Schools. Conagra Brands Foundation funding will help provide two to three food boxes for each family, ensuring these students and their families have nutritious meals when school is not in session.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employee: Tracy S. – Omaha, NE

BENSENVILLE WOOD DALE FOOD PANTRY (IL)
Project: Nourish with Dignity
The Bensenville Wood Dale Pantry serves as a key hunger relief source for DuPage County, providing fresh produce, dairy, meat, and shelf-stable items weekly to more than 200 families, with attention to cultural and medical dietary needs. Funding from the Conagra Brands Foundation will help provide approximately 26,000 meals.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employee: Lizette A. – Chicago, IL

CARE FOR FRIENDS (IL)
Project: Tri-Campus Food Support
The Conagra Brands Foundation grant supports Care for Friends’ mission to support food programs for individuals in Chicago experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Through nutritious on-site meals in a welcoming communal setting, a well-stocked pantry, and fresh grocery deliveries to low-income families, Care for Friends ensures consistent access to food and dignity for those most in need.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employee: Madison S. – Chicago, IL

CIRCLE URBAN MINISTIRES (IL)
Project: Rooted in Equity: Hydroponic Garden
Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation supports the Seed 2 Success program, in which youth learn hydroponic farming, culinary skills, and environmental stewardship, producing fresh food for distribution at the food pantry and community meals, linking urgent hunger relief with long-term food justice.
Nominated by Conagra Brand employee: Tim W. – Chicago, IL

CONSCIOUS ALLIANCE (CO)
Project: Feed Kids, Not Landfills
Funding from the Conagra Brands Foundation helps Conscious Alliance rescue and redistribute nutritious meals and snacks to children in the Denver metro area. By reducing food waste and ensuring healthy food reaches those in need, the organization strengthens both the physical and emotional well-being of local children.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Kimmee H. – Denver, CO

FEEDING OUR COMMUNITIES PARTNERS (MN)
Project: Youth Hunger Relief
Feeding Our Communities Partners combats food insecurity among K-12 students by providing nutritious, child-friendly meals during weekends, school breaks, and summer months, serving 35 schools across 7 districts. All food is vetted by a nutrition committee to meet USDA guidelines, ensuring both quality and health. Funding from the Conagra Brands Foundation supports its efforts to reduce youth hunger, helping students arrive at school nourished and ready to learn.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Brittany R. – Mankato, MN

MACOMB FOSTER CLOSET (MI)
Project: Nourish and Sustain: Essential Needs Support
Macomb Foster Closet provides urgent access to food and basic necessities for children in foster care across Michigan, serving more than 2,000 children annually. Funding from the Conagra Brands Foundation strengthens the Nourish & Sustain program, which delivers age-appropriate, culturally relevant food within 24-72 hours of request, easing the burden on caregivers and ensuring children enter care safe, nourished, and supported.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Krystal K. – Macomb, MI

MARIE WILKINSON FOOD PANTRY (IL)
Project: Emergency Food Boxes
Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation will support Emergency Food Boxes, which provides individuals and families in crisis with discreet online ordering of healthy, shelf-stable groceries. Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry partners with schools to ensure timely pickup or delivery for families lacking transportation, alleviating food insecurity and allowing students to focus on learning.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Brenda J. – Chicago, IL

NEW VISIONS HOMELESS SERVICES (IA)
Project: New Visions Food Security Programs
New Visions Homeless Service provides year-round access to nutritious meals through its Community Meal Site, food pantries, mobile food truck, and veteran meal programs, serving more than 16,000 individuals annually across Council Bluffs, IA and Omaha, NE. Support from Conagra Brands Foundation sustains these food security programs, which provide more than 230,000 meals each year.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Eric J. – Omaha, NE

NOURISH MEALS ON WHEELS (CO)
Project: Nourish Meals on Wheels
Funds from the Conagra Brands Foundation will provide approximately 5,000 meals to approximately 50 new clients. Nourish Meals on Wheels enriches the lives of older adults and homebound individuals in South Metro Denver by offering homemade meals tailored to medical needs, paired with wellness checks that promote dignity, health, and independence.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Shirley E. – Chicago, IL

NOURISHING GREATNESS (IL)
Project: Nourishing Greatness
Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation supports Nourishing Greatness’ weekend bag program for students experiencing food insecurity. Each week, the program provides approximately 120 students with bags containing four meals and three to four snacks, ensuring consistent nourishment outside of school.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: John K. – St. Elmo, IL

OMAHA FORUS (NE)
Project: Pride Pantry: Healthy Futures
Omaha ForUs addresses the disproportionate effects of poverty and food insecurity on LGBTQ+ individuals and families throughout Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa, building an inclusive and equitable community space. Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation will improve food security and nutrition for LGBTQ+ youth and families by funding the Center’s food pantry, providing healthy snacks, promoting urban gardening, and developing essential kitchen skills.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employees: Jason H. – Omaha, NE & Emily U. – Omaha, NE

SAVING GRACE PERISHABLE FOOD RESCUE (NE)
Project: Nourishing People, Nurturing the Planet
Saving Grace rescues surplus perishable food from grocery stores, caterers, restaurants, and event venues, then delivers it the same day to hunger relief agencies, keeping nutritious food out of landfills and onto the tables of those in need. Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation strengthens its Nourishing People, Nurturing the Planet initiative, which combines food rescue logistics with community education and their 24/7 Community Fridges which expand access, reduce waste, and promote equity.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Kerstin O. – Omaha, NE

STANDUP FOR KIDS (CA)
Project: Homeless Youth Food Assistance (Orange County, CA)
StandUp for Kids is dedicated to ending the cycle of youth homelessness in local communities across the country. Funding supports the Homeless Youth Food Assistance project, which provides consistent access to nutritious food for youth ages 12-24 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The program offers groceries, emergency kits, pantry access, grocery delivery, and meals and snacks through Youth Center programs.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Kelly B. – Irvine, CA

TABLE GRACE CAFE (NE)
Project: Feed the Community with Dignity
The Conagra Brands Foundation grant supports Table Grace Cafe’s Feed the Community with Dignity initiative, which combines hunger relief with workforce development. Operating as a pay-what-you-can cafe, Table Grace will serve approximately 2,500 meals with dignity and provide job experience training for four individuals, ensuring every participant contributes while building skills for long-term stability.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Ben S. – Omaha, NE

THE NIGHT MINISTRY (IL)
Project: Outreach Health Ministry
The Night Ministry delivers free healthcare alongside essential resources such as food, clothing, and survival supplies through its mobile health units, street medicine teams and outreach in Chicago. Support from the Nourish Our Community grant ensures that at least 95% of clients receive a nutritious meal during outreach, addressing immediate hunger while building trust that connects individuals experiencing homelessness to long-term housing, healthcare, and supportive services.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Erin D. – Chicago, IL 

THE TEEN CENTER (NE)
Project: Healthy Food for Teens
The Teen Center’s mission is to promote opportunities for students through in-school, after-school and out-of-school programming that provides education, exposure, and mentorship. With support from the Nourish Our Community grant, the Healthy Food for Teens initiative will provide a rotating menu of nutritious snacks and eight nutrition education workshops, engaging youth in menu design and health tracking to address food insecurity, combat obesity, and foster lifelong healthy habits.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Kristi R. – Omaha, NE

THRIVING TITANS (NE)
Project: Food Pantry
Support from the Conagra Brands Foundation helps strengthen the Food Pantry program at Lewis Central Community Schools, which provides bi-monthly food boxes to approximately 25 families, distributing approximately 700 boxes annually. Each box contains nonperishable items and bread, with grant funding helping to sustain access to fresh meat, milk and eggs, ensuring students and families have the nutrition and stability to thrive academically and personally.
Nominated by Conagra Brands employee: Jana S. – Omaha, NE

About Conagra Brands
Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG), is one of North America’s leading branded food companies. We combine a 100-year history of making quality food with agility and a relentless focus on collaboration and innovation. The company’s portfolio is continuously evolving to satisfy consumers’ ever-changing food preferences. Conagra’s brands include Birds Eye®, Duncan Hines®, Healthy Choice®, Marie Callender’s®, Reddi-wip®, Slim Jim®, Angie’s® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, and many more. As a corporate citizen, we aim to do what’s right for our business, our employees, our communities and the world. Headquartered in Chicago, Conagra Brands generated fiscal 2025 net sales of nearly $12 billion. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.

About Conagra Brands Foundation
Conagra Brands Foundation believes everyone has a right to healthy and nutritious food knowing that food insecurity exists in every U.S. county. The Foundation partners with exceptional national and local nonprofits with high-impact programs located in the communities where we live and work. By focusing our efforts within five areas: Direct Food Access, Cooking Skills, Nutrition Education, Healthy and Active Lifestyles and Urban Agriculture, we are able to be a leader in the fight against food insecurity in North America.

For all media inquiries, please contact:
media@conagra.com 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/conagra-brands-foundation-awards-grants-to-21-local-nonprofits-through-nourish-our-community-program-302549452.html

SOURCE Conagra Brands, Inc.

Insect Pest Control Market Size Is Expected to Reach US$ 21.33 Billion By 2031 at A CAGR Of 5.4% | The Insight Partners

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — According to the latest insect pest control market report published by The Insight Partners, the global market is witnessing robust expansion, primarily fueled by the health risk awareness and public health concerns, particularly due to the rising incidence of vector-borne diseases and infestations across residential, commercial, and public spaces, drive the insect pest control market.

The_Insight_Partners_Logo

International health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have intensified efforts to combat the spread of diseases transmitted by insects, including malaria, dengue, Zika virus, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus, among others. These diseases have seen a concerning rise in cases across globe. For instance, the WHO reported in 2023 that dengue cases have surged globally, with over 5 million cases recorded, marking an eight-fold increase compared to two decades ago.

Similarly, the ECDC noted a steady rise in Lyme disease cases across Europe, while parts of Asia and Africa continue to face persistent malaria threats, despite progress in control measures. These trends have prompted governments and public health agencies to invest in integrated pest management (IPM) programs, public awareness campaigns, and stricter regulatory frameworks to ensure safe and effective pest control solutions.

Check valuable insights in the Insect Pest Control Market report. You can easily get a sample PDF of the report – https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00040469 

Overview of Report Findings

1. Insect Pest Control Market Growth: The rapid urbanization and increasing population density across the globe are primary factors contributing to the growth of the insect pest control market. As cities expand and populations concentrate in urban areas, pest infestations are becoming more prevalent.

According to the United Nations, over 56% of the global population now resides in urban areas, with projections indicating this figure will rise to 68% by 2050. As waste generation and infrastructure development intensify, urban living provides ideal environments for pests such as mosquitoes, rodents, cockroaches, and bed bugs to thrive.

Major metropolitan areas across regions like Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and Africa are reporting increased pest outbreaks, often linked to overcrowded housing, poor sanitation, and expanding informal settlements. Thus these regions experienced a surge in rodent and bed bug infestations, prompting health departments and municipal governments to implement aggressive pest management policies. Global initiatives in sustainable urban planning are fostering the development and adoption of eco-friendly and biological pest control solutions. For example, urban cities such as San Francisco and Vancouver have launched their municipal pest control programs aimed at decreasing infestations through sustainable means, while minimizing environmental disruption. These programs often emphasize nontoxic treatments and integrated pest management (IPM) techniques. As urbanization continues to accelerate worldwide and governments prioritize cleaner, healthier urban ecosystems, the global insect pest control market is expected to see substantial growth in the coming year.

2. Empowering Global Insect Pest Control Through Innovative Solutions: This driver emphasizes the development and application of cutting-edge technologies and strategies to combat insect pests that threaten agriculture, public health, and ecosystems. It highlights the need for sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly solutions, such as biopesticides, precision pest monitoring, and integrated pest management systems.

By focusing on innovation, it aims to reduce reliance on harmful chemical pesticides, minimizing ecological damage and promoting biodiversity. The term “empowering” underscores the goal of equipping farmers, communities, and industries with tools and knowledge to effectively manage pest issues. “Global” reflects the universal scope, addressing diverse pest challenges across different climates and regions. This driver encourages collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and businesses to create scalable, adaptable solutions. Ultimately, it envisions a future where innovative pest control enhances food security, protects health, and supports sustainable development worldwide.

3. Advancing Sustainable Global Insect Pest Control Through Smart Technologies: This driver focuses on leveraging advanced tools like artificial intelligence, IoT-enabled sensors, and data analytics to revolutionize pest control. Smart technologies enable real-time monitoring of pest populations, allowing for precise, targeted interventions that reduce unnecessary pesticide use.

By integrating drones, automated traps, and predictive modeling, this approach enhances efficiency and minimizes environmental impact. “Sustainable” emphasizes eco-friendly methods, such as biological controls and organic repellents, to preserve ecosystems and soil health.

The “global” aspect recognizes the need for adaptable solutions tailored to diverse agricultural and urban environments across continents. This driver promotes collaboration between tech innovators, farmers, and governments to deploy scalable, cost-effective systems. It also supports training programs to empower communities with the knowledge to use these technologies effectively. By reducing crop losses and health risks caused by pests, this driver aims to bolster food security and public well-being. Ultimately, it envisions a future where smart, sustainable pest control drives resilience and prosperity worldwide.

4. Geographical Insights: In 2024, Asia Pacific led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by North America and Europe. Middle East and Africa is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific insect pest control market is witnessing steady growth, driven by a most populous region, with over 4.7 billion people driving immense demand for food production and urban living spaces.

Rapid urbanization in countries like China, India, and Indonesia has led to dense population centers, high-rise constructions, and expanded infrastructure, creating ideal breeding grounds for pests such as mosquitoes, cockroaches, and termites. The region’s subtropical and tropical climates, exacerbated by rising global temperatures and climate change, foster prolific insect proliferation, increasing the incidence of vector-borne diseases like dengue, malaria, and Zika, which heighten public health awareness and regulatory mandates for pest management.

Agriculture dominates the economy, with vast farmlands in nations like India and China requiring extensive insecticide use to protect crops from pests, minimizing losses that could disrupt global food supply chains. Government initiatives promoting integrated pest management (IPM) and bio-based solutions, alongside growing disposable incomes, enable households and businesses to invest in professional services, further boosting adoption.

Get Research Sample Copy of the Insect Pest Control Market: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00040469 

Market Segmentation

  • Based on insect type, the market is segmented into termite, cockroaches, bedbugs, mosquitoes, ants, flies, and others. In 2024, the insect pest control market share was predominantly held by the termite segment.
  • By form, the market is segmented into dry and liquid. The dry segment accounted for the largest insect pest control market share in 2024.
  • By control method, the market is segmented into chemical, biological and physical. The chemical segment accounted for the largest insect pest control market share in 2024.
  • The insect pest control market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America.

Competitive Strategy and Development

  • Key Players: Major companies influencing the insect pest control market are Arkion Life Sciences, Thermacell, SC Johnson and Son Inc., Eleeo Brands, Intec Pharmacal Inc., 3M Co., Rentokil Initial Plc, EarthKind, Spectrum Brands, Inc., Henkel AG and Co. KGaA, Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc, BASF SE, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., Rollins Inc., and Jesmond BioScience GesmbH.
  • Trending Topics: Eco-friendly pest control solutions, smart pest control technology, integrated pest management (IPM), biological pest control agents, automation & robotics, rise of subscription & on-demand services, data analystics & predictive modeling, climate-adapted pest control, and regulatory and consumer push for sustainable practices are the trending topics that are expected to shape the insect pest control market forecast.

Global Headlines on Insect Pest Control

  • Indian Agricultural Scientists Develop Innovative Wind-Operated Insect Trap for Sustainable Pest Management
  • FMC Launches Coragen eVo Insect Control: Advanced Formulation for Long-Lasting, Low-Rate Crop Protection
  • Genetic Discovery Advances Insect Pest Control Worldwide, Expanding Use of Genetic Sexing Systems
  • AI-Powered Smart Traps and IoT Solutions Revolutionize Real-Time Pest Detection and Management
  • Drones and Biocontrol Agents Enable Precision, Eco-Friendly Pest Management in Modern Agriculture

Get Premium Copy of Insect Pest Control Market Size and Growth Report by 2031 at:  https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPRE00040469

Conclusion

The insect pest control landscape is evolving towards more environmentally friendly, sustainable, and health-conscious approaches. Increasing awareness of the harmful impacts of chemical pesticides on human health and ecosystems drives the adoption of greener alternatives such as biological control agents, natural repellents, and integrated pest management (IPM) techniques. These eco-friendly methods use beneficial insects, plant-based substances like neem oil, microbial biopesticides, and cultural practices like crop rotation and companion planting to manage pests effectively while preserving biodiversity and soil health.

Additionally, advancements in technology, such as smart traps and AI-enabled monitoring, are complementing these natural solutions by enhancing precision and reducing resource use. Emphasizing sanitation, habitat management, and targeted interventions, modern pest control aims to balance efficacy with environmental responsibility, offering safer options for consumers and long-term sustainability for agriculture and communities. Organizations that prioritize innovation, ecological balance, and user safety will lead this growing trend toward greener pest management solutions.

The report from The Insight Partners provides several stakeholders—including insect pest control products providers and manufacturers—with valuable insights into navigating this evolving market landscape and unlocking new opportunities.

Trending Related Reports:

About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in semiconductor and electronics, aerospace and defense, automotive and transportation, biotechnology, healthcare IT, manufacturing and construction, medical devices, technology, media and telecommunications, and chemicals and materials.

Contact Us:

If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please get in touch with us:

Contact Person: Ankit Mathur
E-mail: ankit.mathur@theinsightpartners.com
Phone
: +1-646-491-9876
Also Available in : 한국어 | Deutsch | 日本 | Français | لعربية | 中文 | Italiano | Español

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1586348/5449703/The_Insight_Partners_Logo.jpg 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/insect-pest-control-market-size-is-expected-to-reach-us-21-33-billion-by-2031-at-a-cagr-of-5-4–the-insight-partners-302550651.html

SOURCE The Insight Partners

DAHON TECH Celebrates Its Listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange: Unfolding a New Chapter Marked with Innovation

HONG KONG, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DAHON TECH (Stock Code: 02543.HK), a subsidiary company of the brand DAHON, the global leader in folding bicycles, officially debuted on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange today, garnering the attention of the Hong Kong capital market as a “Star Stock” of 2025.

During the listing ceremony at the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Dr. HON, David Tak Wei, Chairman of DAHON TECH, rang the opening bell in the presence of shareholders, partners, and media representatives, marking this exciting historical milestone.

Dr. HON, David Tak Wei, Chairman of DAHON TECH, rang the opening bell.

Dr. Hon’s Address: A New Chapter Defined by Innovation

As world’s largest folding bicycle manufacturer, the brand DAHON has built a distinguished reputation over 40 years for its technological prowess, innovative spirit, and commitment to product quality.

In his speech at the event, Dr. Hon stated, “As this new chapter unfolds, we will leverage this listing as an opportunity to seize trends, deepen our presence in  the Chinese and International markets, and deliver sustainable returns to our investors.”

Dr. Hon announced a new chapter defined by innovation in his speech.

Highlights of DAHON

1. Hot Subscription: 

Public subscriptions were oversubscribed by more than 7558 times, reflecting strong investor enthusiasm. Multiple brokerages reported that DAHON TECH’s IPO ranked among Hong Kong’s “super subscription” listings, signaling high investor confidence.

2. Cornerstone Support: Staunch Support by four cornerstone investors

Investors including Allianz Global Investors Asia Pacific, Greater Bay Area Development Fund Management, Harvest, and VEKEN Hong Kong have collectively invested 127.6 million USD (approximately 989 million HKD), providing robust support for DAHON’s long-term value growth.

3. Unified Efforts: Joint forces of employees building a strong foundation for listing.

With over 100 employee shareholders, DAHON has a committed workforce driving the company’s long-term development. The successful listing marks the beginning of a new fast track for all DAHON personnel, with dividends exceeding 60 million HKD during the reporting period.

4. Resilient Growth: DAHON’s performance shows strong growth.

DAHON folding bikes combine the speed of a road bike with the convenience of easy folding and portability.

In 2024, the company achieved a leap in development, with sales exceeding 229,000 units, a year-on-year increase of approximately 46%; revenue rose to about 450 million RMB, marking an approximately 50% increase; net profit also grew to approximately 52.3 million RMB.

From January to April 2025, the company achieved remarkable growth, with revenue surging 69.3% year-over-year to RMB 21.5 million, up from RMB 12.7 million during the same period in 2024.

5. Industry Leadership: A dual champion in the folding bicycle market.

According to 2024 data from China Insights Consultancy (CIC), DAHON holds a remarkable 26.3% retail volume and 36.5% retail value share in China’s folding bicycle market, establishing itself as the undeniable dual champion.

6. Technological Innovation: Industry leader in patented technology

Since its inception, DAHON has focused on technology and user experience, with 135 effective patents, including 19 invention patents, making it the brand with the most patents in the folding bicycle industry.

These patented achievements not only demonstrate DAHON’s technological strength but also serve as key factors that set the company apart in a highly competitive market.

7. Resilience and Growth: Patent protection fortifies brand influence.

With national emphasis on innovation and intellectual property protection, DAHON gained momentum.

By implementing the “DAHON-V” bike tech suite, DAHON enhances the efficiency of all bicycle categories, with its fastest folding bikes outperforming some high-end carbon road bikes, attracting multiple corporate partnerships.

As of April 30, 2025, DAHON has provided brand licensing to 16 companies and patented components to 18 industry peers, empowering the industry with cutting-edge innovation while driving mutual success.

8. Diverse Product Offerings: A rich product line and robust sales distribution network

As of April 30, 2025, the brand DAHON currently covers more than 70 models, continuously upgrading its products. The advent of DAHON’s road bikes designed with the “DAHON-V” bike tech suite in 2024 signifies the brand’s expansion beyond folding bikes, creating a comprehensive product matrix for various scenarios.

The company is also expanding into the electric-assisted bicycle and electric motorcycle markets, redefining travel boundaries with dual innovations of “folding + electric.”

DAHON has established a comprehensive online and offline sales system, with 38 dealers and over 680 retail outlets in mainland China as of April 30, 2025. The e-commerce channel has seen a remarkable compound annual growth rate of 166.1% from 2022 to 2024, and products are now available in 28 countries and regions through 35 dealers.

9. Promising Future: Using capital as wings to chart the new course of green mobility

DAHON is embarking on a new chapter of “technology + brand + capital.”

The company plans to allocate a significant portion of the raised funds for capacity expansion, research and development upgrades, and brand building. The newly established production base in Tianjin has commenced operations, utilizing regional cost advantages to increase entry-level product line capacity.

A new factory will be built near the Huizhou facility to integrate resources with long-term supportive supplier partners, establishing specialized profit centers for components, frame welding, painting, and assembly.

The new factory is expected to begin production in Q1 2027, with an annual capacity of 200,000 units.

As production increases, DAHON will maintain its commitment to R&D investment to enhance its research capabilities.

Market forecasts indicate that the size of China’s folding bicycle market will grow from 1.8 billion RMB in 2024 to 4.6 billion RMB by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate of 21.2%. With capacity expansion and R&D upgrades, DAHON is poised to achieve breakthroughs in product innovation, supply capability, and technological leadership, showcasing clear strategic thinking and execution capabilities for future growth.

For overseas inquiries: DAHON TECH plans to use a portion of the raised funds to aggressively develop its overseas market. The company invites wholesalers, sales representatives, and large-scale agents in the industry to contact DAHON. For more details, please visit our official website [ www.dahon.com ].

For more information, please contact: marketing@dahon.com 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dahon-tech-celebrates-its-listing-on-the-hong-kong-stock-exchange-unfolding-a-new-chapter-marked-with-innovation-302550562.html

SOURCE DAHON

Swedish GreenTech can meet AI’s global energy needs – with waste gas

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AI is growing at record speed – but it consumes enormous amounts of electricity. At the same time, even greater amounts of energy are wasted when landfill and other gas sources are burned off in open flames – a process known as flaring. Now, Swedish-American tech company TEXEL is launching a solution that delivers reliable green AI by harnessing energy from these untapped resources. The first European commercial pre-launch will take place in Sweden on September 17.

AI is often described as the great technological shift of the future, but its rapid growth comes with a serious downside – skyrocketing electricity consumption. Data centers already account for nearly 1.5 percent of global electricity use, a share that is projected to multiply in the coming years. Without new solutions, power grids risk becoming overloaded, AI development could stall, and greenhouse gas emissions will rise. This is where the technology from the Swedish-American company TEXEL can play a decisive role.

AI’s enormous energy demands risk overloading our already strained power grids. By harnessing local energy that would otherwise go to waste, we can provide a greener and more stable energy supply, says Lars Jacobsson, CEO and founder of TEXEL, and expert advisor to the EU Energy Commission.

On September 17, TEXEL will pre-launch its technology in Europe, showcasing the first commercial installation – built and designed for the U.S. market – at a landfill site in Gothenburg, Sweden, where waste has been decomposing for decades. Normally, the methane gas released from this process must be flared to reduce its climate impact, converting it into the less harmful greenhouse gas CO₂. With TEXEL’s technology, however, that combustion is instead harnessed to generate AI – directly on site.

What we are showcasing in Sweden now is just a demonstration of the possibilities – but the potential is global. In the U.S. alone, gas equivalent to the electricity output of 14 nuclear reactors is flared – enough to power the country’s rapidly growing AI demand for many years to come. Due to ongoing tariff turbulence between Europe and the U.S., the American launch has been delayed, making this European sneak peek of the technology possible, says Lars Jacobsson.

At the core of TEXEL’s technology is the ability to convert heat into electricity through a proven solution that is becoming increasingly attractive as energy prices rise and demand for green alternatives grows. The technology can be applied to a wide range of energy solutions – from storing energy in thermal batteries that can later be converted into electricity, to harnessing biofuels and flared gases.

To accelerate its growth, TEXEL acquired the Nasdaq-listed company Swedish Stirling and its existing production facilities in Sibbhult, Sweden. For some time, the company has been evaluating various establishment options in Sweden, including Malmö and Gothenburg, but is now prioritizing a U.S. launch. TEXEL’s expansion in the U.S. will also create many new job opportunities as the technology is rolled out – along with a growing demand for both manufacturing and service.

Since 2010, TEXEL has been developing its technology with a strong focus on large-scale energy storage – and now finds itself in the right place, at the right time, with the right technology as AI suddenly surges onto the market. Our main focus right now is the U.S., but Europe is also a key future market for the company, and we are of course open to all dialogues regarding an establishment here,concludes Lars Jacobsson.

CONTACT: 
Daniel Wilke
TEXEL Energy
daniel@texeles.com
+4673 632 98 27

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com.

https://news.cision.com/texel-energy/r/swedish-greentech-can-meet-ai-s-global-energy-needs—with-waste-gas,c4231767

The following files are available for download:

https://news.cision.com/texel-energy/i/texel,c3468060

texel

https://news.cision.com/texel-energy/i/texel-2,c3468061

Texel 2

https://news.cision.com/texel-energy/i/texel-3,c3468062

Texel 3

https://news.cision.com/texel-energy/i/texel-4,c3468063

Texel 4

 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/swedish-greentech-can-meet-ais-global-energy-needs–with-waste-gas-302550491.html

SOURCE TEXEL Energy

Bayer Foundation Backs 15 Women Entrepreneurs Scaling Urgent Healthcare and Food Solutions

LEVERKUSEN, Germany, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Bayer Foundation Women Entrepreneurs Award (BFWEA), powered by the Impact Hub Network, honours 15 women from Latin America, Africa & the Middle East, and Asia Pacific who are addressing critical challenges in healthcare and food security.

Winners of the 2025 Bayer Foundation Women Entrepreneurs Awards

According to reports by the United Nations and World Health Organisation, nearly 295 million people globally face acute hunger and 2.33 billion live with food insecurity.  Against this backdrop, practical, scalable solutions are needed more urgently than ever.

Selected from 1,763 applicants across 117 countries, the 2025 winners are advancing innovations from AI-powered health diagnostics and climate-resilient farming to community-led nutrition models and circular economy approaches.

Since 2021, the Award has supported women entrepreneurs driving scalable solutions in these areas. Collectively, the 2024 and 2025 winner cohorts reached 3.68 million people with better healthcare, supported more than 69,000 smallholder farmers, and generated $3.93 million in additional rural income.

Chitkala Kalidas, Executive Director of Bayer Foundation, said, “We believe in the transformative power of social entrepreneurs to drive systemic change. To support their journey, we offer a multifaceted approach that includes funding, knowledge-sharing, strategic connections, and increased visibility.”

Beyond recognition: A platform for growth

Despite contributing 30% of GDP in emerging markets and influencing 70% of global consumption decisions, women entrepreneurs struggle to access capital, mentorship, and visibility, according to the World Economic Forum.

The Award addresses these gaps by providing each awardee a €25,000 cash prize, a six-month Accelerator Program, strategic mentorship, and entry into a global network through the Impact Hub Network.

Kalidas added, “Through our partnership with Impact Hub, we connect entrepreneurs to resources and networks that help scale their impact. This strengthens locally-driven responses to health and food challenges, while building sustainable innovation ecosystems.”

Proven results at scale

Since its launch in 2021, the Award has supported 55 women entrepreneurs whose ventures have created measurable impact in health and food security. In 2024, winners achieved an average revenue growth of 84% within six months, a testament to what’s possible when women entrepreneurs have the resources, networks, and visibility they need to lead change.

The 2025 cohort builds on this track record, addressing systemic challenges with solutions designed for global impact. All profiles of the 15 winners can be found on bayerfoundation-wea.com

Each year, Bayer Foundation publishes a white paper on the challenges of women entrepreneurs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), highlighting areas where greater support is needed. The 2025 Bayer Foundation White Paper offers actionable insights.  

About Bayer Foundation
Bayer Foundation drives social innovation by supporting entrepreneurs and organisations focused on health and food security, creating impactful ecosystems for underserved communities.

About Impact Hub Network
Impact Hub is a global network in 120+ locations, empowering 500,000+ Impact Makers to build inclusive and sustainable businesses for people and the planet.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bayer-foundation-backs-15-women-entrepreneurs-scaling-urgent-healthcare-and-food-solutions-302546448.html

SOURCE Bayer Foundation Women Entrepreneurs Award

Honda Prize 2025 Awarded to Dr. Kenichi Iga of Japan

– For Pioneering Contributions to Conception and Development of Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) and Leadership in Its Practical Application –

TOKYO, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Honda Foundation has selected Dr. Kenichi Iga (honorary professor at the Institute of Science Tokyo and 18th president of former Tokyo Institute of Technology), as the recipient of the 2025 Honda Prize. The international award in science and technology honors his pioneering work in conceiving the Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) and his contributions to advancing fundamental research and practical applications. The foundation is a public interest incorporated foundation established by Soichiro Honda, founder of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and his younger brother Benjiro.

Image 1:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108819/202509034541/_prw_PI1fl_mU6cH3th.jpg 

In 1980, the Honda Foundation established the Honda Prize to acknowledge research achievements that contribute to “the creation of a truly humane civilization.” Foreseeing the new potential of ecotechnology,*1 the Honda Prize is Japan’s first international award for scientific and technological achievements across a wide range of academic fields, encompassing the entire research process from discovery and invention to application and widespread usage.

In 2025, the 46th Honda Prize will be awarded to Dr. Iga for his conception of VCSEL in 1977 and his pioneering contributions to its development and practical applications. The award ceremony will take place at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, Japan, on November 17, 2025. In addition to the prize medal and diploma, Dr. Iga will receive 10 million yen in prize money.

*1 Ecotechnology: Human-friendly philosophy founded on science and technology and designed to harmonize the natural and human environments and find resolutions to social issues, adopting a methodology that implies something more than just “being friendly to the Earth,” which is the meaning usually associated with the word “ecology.”

Image2:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108819/202509034541/_prw_PI2fl_ru2TeeqC.jpg 

What is VCSEL

VCSEL, with a vertical resonator, is more compact than conventional Edge Emitting Laser (EEL), allowing dense integration, stable single-wavelength oscillation, mass production, continuous wavelength tuning and low power consumption. These features drive innovations in optoelectronics, including high-speed data communication, fiber optics, 3D facial recognition, computer mouses and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) systems for autonomous vehicles.

When Dr. Iga first proposed VCSEL, his concept was met with skepticism from both academia and industry due to concerns about its feasibility. However, through persistent research and continuous advocacy, Dr. Iga and his team gradually established global recognition for this innovative technology. In 1988, his collaborator, Dr. Fumio Koyama, later a professor at former Tokyo Institute of Technology (now the Institute of Science Tokyo), achieved the first room-temperature continuous-wave operation of a VCSEL—a decisive step toward its commercialization. Since the late 1990s, VCSELs have been industrialized worldwide, transforming modern optoelectronics and shaping numerous industries.

– Details of achievement commentaries and past Honda Prize laureates
Please see the Honda Foundation official website.
Official Website: https://www.hondafoundation.jp/en/index.html
Achievement Commentary:
https://www.hondafoundation.jp/commemoration/index_en/285/year:2025
Honda Prize Laureates: https://www.hondafoundation.jp/en/winner.html 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/honda-prize-2025-awarded-to-dr-kenichi-iga-of-japan-302550038.html

SOURCE Honda Foundation