CAMARILLO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Semtech Corporation (Nasdaq: SMTC), a leading provider of high-performance semiconductor, Internet of Things (IoT) systems and cloud connectivity service solutions, today released its 2025 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, highlighting meaningful progress across environmental, social and governance initiatives that strengthen the company’s competitive position while advancing sustainable innovation. The technology industry continues to balance rapid gro

After winning the 2025 ESG Award in the “Technological Innovation in ESG” category, CNH brand, New Holland’s T6.180 Methane Power tractor – the world’s first agricultural tractor powered by biomethane gas – also recently won the traditional ECO Innovation and Sustainability Award, in São Paulo, Brazil.

From 2006, when it launched the alternative fuels leadership strategy, New Holland developed tractors powered primarily by biodiesel, as well as hydrogen, until the launch in 2013 of the first methane-powered T6 series tractor prototype, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to meeting its environmental goals and contributing to CO2 reduction.

Environmental advantages

Launched as a commercial product in 2022, the T6.180 Methane Power is available to Brazilian producers. Biomethane propulsion technology offers numerous environmental advantages, including up to 80% reduction in regulated pollutant emissions and 84% in CO2 compared to a standard diesel engine. By using biomethane, a cost reduction of between 25% and 40% can be achieved when compared to conventional fuels. And the tractor has the same performance and autonomy as a diesel tractor of the same size.

In 2023, the brand also presented the concept of the energy-independent farm, in partnership with the main companies in the biomethane sector to create an innovative ecosystem for the production of gas generated from the decomposition of animal waste. Composed of a biodigester, biogas purification system, generator, tractors and heavy trucks, this ecosystem is a pioneer in Brazil and revolutionizes the country’s biogas market.

This type of solution gives the producer the possibility of using the biogas generated within the property (from animal waste, for example) to supply the equipment, taking advantage of the so-called virtuous cycle of the farm, which becomes increasingly self-sufficient from an energy and environmentally correct point of view. In addition, there is a reduction in operating costs and greater peace of mind in the management of activities, as it becomes self-sufficient in fuel production and use, being free from all the uncertainties of the fossil fuel market.

After winning the 2025 ESG Award in the “Technological Innovation in ESG” category, CNH brand, New Holland’s T6.180 Methane Power tractor – the world’s first agricultural tractor powered by biomethane gas – also recently won the traditional ECO Innovation and Sustainability Award, in São Paulo, Brazil.

From 2006, when it launched the alternative fuels leadership strategy, New Holland developed tractors powered primarily by biodiesel, as well as hydrogen, until the launch in 2013 of the first methane-powered T6 series tractor prototype, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to meeting its environmental goals and contributing to CO2 reduction.

Environmental advantages

Launched as a commercial product in 2022, the T6.180 Methane Power is available to Brazilian producers. Biomethane propulsion technology offers numerous environmental advantages, including up to 80% reduction in regulated pollutant emissions and 84% in CO2 compared to a standard diesel engine. By using biomethane, a cost reduction of between 25% and 40% can be achieved when compared to conventional fuels. And the tractor has the same performance and autonomy as a diesel tractor of the same size.

In 2023, the brand also presented the concept of the energy-independent farm, in partnership with the main companies in the biomethane sector to create an innovative ecosystem for the production of gas generated from the decomposition of animal waste. Composed of a biodigester, biogas purification system, generator, tractors and heavy trucks, this ecosystem is a pioneer in Brazil and revolutionizes the country’s biogas market.

This type of solution gives the producer the possibility of using the biogas generated within the property (from animal waste, for example) to supply the equipment, taking advantage of the so-called virtuous cycle of the farm, which becomes increasingly self-sufficient from an energy and environmentally correct point of view. In addition, there is a reduction in operating costs and greater peace of mind in the management of activities, as it becomes self-sufficient in fuel production and use, being free from all the uncertainties of the fossil fuel market.

December 11, 2025 /3BL/ – LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation) Upstate South Carolina and AIM (Accept. Inspire. Minister) celebrated the grand opening of South Carolina’s first Financial Opportunity Center® (FOC) program—a powerful, evidence-based model proven to help individuals and families achieve lasting financial success. This program expansion was made possible in part by a new national $1.5 million Wells Fargo Foundation grant to LISC.

Located at AIM, 1202 S. Murray Avenue, the center will connect residents with bundled employment services, one-on-one financial coaching, and income support navigation so they can achieve greater financial resiliency and mobility. The launch event included remarks from local leaders, representatives from Wells Fargo leadership, a ribbon-cutting, and tours of the space where FOC services will be delivered.

LISC operates a growing network of more than 120 FOC partner organizations nationwide, each rooted in trusted, community-based partner organizations like AIM. These centers serve individuals and families living on low to moderate incomes by helping them build effective money habits, strengthen their financial bottom line, and pursue long-term career and financial goals.

“As LISC brings the Financial Opportunity Center® model to South Carolina for the first time, we are proud to demonstrate what national expertise paired with local partnership can achieve,” said Dawn Deck, LISC Upstate SC Executive Director. “LISC has spent decades refining this integrated coaching approach because we know it works—families increase income, build credit, gain financial stability, and achieve their goals. Partnering with AIM allows us to anchor this proven model in a trusted community organization so that Upstate South Carolina residents can access the tools and supports they need to thrive.”

What sets the FOC model apart is its bundled service approach. Rather than offering these services separately, FOC staff integrate each service through a long-term coaching relationship. National studies show that clients who receive bundled services experience stronger job placement outcomes, better job retention, higher net income, and measurable improvements in financial health.

FOC services include:

  • Employment and career counseling
  • One-on-one financial coaching and education
  • Low-cost financial products that safely build credit, savings, and assets
  • Connections to income supports, such as SNAP, utility assistance, and affordable health insurance

We at AIM are honored to be the first Financial Opportunity Center in the state of South Carolina. We are very excited about this partnership and the opportunity to take our current work to the next level by incorporating this financial wellness piece into all of our programs at AIM,” said Kristi King-Brock, CEO of AIM.

AIM’s FOC program is supported in part by Wells Fargo, which was recently awarded a $1.5 million national grant to support LISC bringing FOC services to communities across the country. This commitment strengthens efforts to build financial security and advance wealth creation for local families and residents who are working hard to build brighter futures.

“Through our philanthropic investments, we are committed to creating pathways to economic mobility and wealth-building for communities across the country,” said Pam Bryant, vice president, Wells Fargo Philanthropy and Community Impact. “We can help more people gain the tools and resources they need to achieve lasting financial success through close collaboration with trusted local organizations, like LISC Upstate South Carolina.”

By launching South Carolina’s first FOC program, AIM and LISC are forging a new pathway for families in the Upstate to improve household stability, overcome financial barriers, and build long-term wealth.

FOC coaches will work directly with residents to map out employment goals, create personalized financial action plans, access benefits, and build the kind of strong financial habits that support lasting success.

About LISC

LISC is one of the country’s largest nonprofit community development organizations, helping forge vibrant, resilient communities across America. LISC works with residents and partners to close gaps in health, wealth, and opportunity so that people and places can thrive. Since its founding in 1979, LISC has invested $35.1 billion to create more than 530,457 affordable homes and apartments, develop 83.5 million square feet of retail, community, and educational space, and help tens of thousands of people find employment and improve their finances. Learn more at www.lisc.org.

About AIM

AIM is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating poverty, restoring hope, and strengthening families throughout Anderson County. Through a broad range of programs, AIM provides immediate support and long-term solutions to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency. www.aimcharity.org

 

Media Contact

Kamilla Johnson
Program Officer for Asset Building, Income & Wealth Building
LISC Upstate South Carolina
kjohnson2@lisc.org

Entergy is dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities we serve. This November, we launched a “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” campaign, focusing on community assistance and food drives aimed at alleviating food insecurity for our most vulnerable neighbors across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. 

The Thanksgiving holiday has long been a meaningful time for addressing food insecurity and offering support to those in need. This year, many families are facing unprecedented challenges, with rising costs straining their resources. In response, Entergy employees partnered with local organizations to lend a helping hand to our neighbors. 

“At Entergy, we believe that our greatest strength lies in our commitment to the communities where we work, live and serve,” said Patty Riddlebarger, vice president of corporate social responsibility. “This campaign is not just about providing food; it’s about fostering hope and ensuring that our neighbors have a place at the table, especially during the holiday season.” 

Throughout November, our dedicated employees organized a variety of initiatives, including fundraising, canned food drives, turkey distribution events, and contributions to food banks, all designed to help customers in need during the holiday season.  

Key highlights of our efforts included:

  • Entergy Corporation, Entergy Louisiana and Entergy New Orleans: Collaborated with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Second Harvest Food Bank, Northshore Food Bank, Our Daily Bread, Community Center of St. Bernard, Giving Hope, and the Junior League of New Orleans to collect nonperishable food items and diapers for our communities. Entergy New Orleans also partnered with Einstein Charter School Turkey Drive for the 6th year, feeding over 100 families.  
  • Entergy Arkansas: Donated $40,000 to Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, The Salvation Army and local pantries, and hosted successful food drives to gather essential supplies. Employees also volunteered at local food bank distributions, including those specifically for federal employees impacted by the recent government shutdown, and rang bells for the Red Kettle Campaign.
  • Entergy Mississippi: Joined forces with Extra Table for the “Give ‘Em a Bird” fundraiser, distributing over 9,000 chickens and raising vital funds to support local families.
  • Entergy Texas: Contributed $30,000 to aid local food banks in their efforts to combat food insecurity within vulnerable communities. 

Through these collective efforts, we remain committed to supporting our neighbors and strengthening our communities year-round, especially during these challenging times. Learn more at Entergy.com/communities.  

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  • Grants will help small businesses expand – lifting economic activity and creating jobs.

  • Twenty nonprofit organizations selected to receive grants of $25,000 to distribute to local small businesses.

RALEIGH, N.C., Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Duke Energy Foundation today announced the recipients for $500,000 in grants designed to boost local economies by supporting small businesses in communities across North Carolina.

How it works: Twenty nonprofit organizations have been selected to receive $25,000 grants, which will then fund awards of up to $5,000 to individual small businesses. Funds can be used by local businesses like restaurants and retail stores to complete renovations, buy equipment or technology, purchase inventory or meet other business needs.

The impact: Small businesses employ nearly half of North Carolina’s workforce and play a critical role in driving economic activity. Duke Energy Foundation has provided over $2.4 million to small business support initiatives since 2020.

What they’re saying:

  • Kendal Bowman, North Carolina state president for Duke Energy: “Supporting small businesses boosts local economic activity, which has a positive impact on the communities and customers we serve. We’re proud to work alongside our community partners to help entrepreneurs and local businesses make their dreams a reality.”
  • Nicole J. Thompson, President and CEO of Downtown Durham, Inc.: “With Duke Energy’s support, DDI will turn business-led ideas into practical improvements that elevate safety, visibility and vitality. Upgrading the alleys that connect parking to Main Street will help storefronts shine, help create an engaging environment and attract more customers to discover all that downtown has to offer.”
  • Catherine Glover, Executive Director for Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation: “With support from the Duke Energy Foundation, ten Beaufort County small businesses will each receive a $2,500 grant to make meaningful improvements that strengthen their operations, expand their reach, and enhance their customer experience. Small businesses are the backbone of Eastern North Carolina, and this funding will help ten outstanding local businesses continue to grow and thrive.”

Leading the charge:

The following organizations have been selected to distribute funds to small businesses in their local communities.

  • Beaufort Business Association
  • Chimney Rock Economic Development and Investment Team
  • Downtown Salisbury Inc.
  • Fuquay Varina Downtown Association
  • Greater Eden Chamber Foundation
  • Launchhollysprings Inc.
  • McDowell Chamber Community and Business Impact
  • Mitchell Community College Foundation
  • Mitchell County Development Foundation
  • Montcross Area Chamber
  • Moore County Economic Development Partnership
  • Partnership For a Sustainable Community
  • Person County Business & Industrial Center
  • Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation
  • Region A Council
  • Renaissance Downtown Durham
  • Rolesville Downtown Development Association
  • Stokes County Arts Council
  • The Surry County Economic Development Foundation Inc
  • Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation

Duke Energy Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.

Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. The company’s electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.

Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.

More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on XLinkedInInstagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.

Contact: Garrett Poorman
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Twitter: @DukeEnergyNC

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SOURCE Duke Energy

UBCF’s November Pink Bag Shopping event provided essential support and holiday-season relief to 91 women managing the impacts of breast cancer

HUNTINGTON STATION, N.Y., Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) proudly announces the success of its multi-day, holiday themed Pink Bag Event, held November 10–22, with several additional bonus days due to high demand. More than 90 breast cancer patients and survivors received support, with UBCF distributing over $860,000 in high-quality, donated goods – a meaningful boost as families prepared for the holiday season.

The event, free for all qualified and approved attendees, offered a thoughtful and expansive shopping experience. Guests were offered a comprehensive selection of donated goods, including home essentials, bedding and mattresses, clothing, shoes, toys, beauty products, and personal care products – supporting families in preparation for the holiday season. Thanks to UBCF and the generosity of its supporters, dozens of families will enter the holiday season with greater stability, comfort, and joy.

“UBCF Pink Bag Events are designed to ease burdens and spread hope,” said Stephanie Mastroianni, UBCF’s President and Executive Director. “Seeing our inspiring and brave breast cancer clients walk away with not only essential goods but also renewed confidence and joy reminds us why our mission matters. We are grateful to our supporters and honored to stand with every patient, survivor, and family we serve.”

Client Stories of Impact

One attendee, Tracy, described how profoundly the event touched her family. She shared that the toys she received for her grandchildren “touched [her] heart,” especially because she had nothing to give them this Christmas. “Now I will be able to see their little faces light up with joy,” she said. She also expressed her gratitude for the mattress she received for herself and her daughter, calling it “an absolute blessing.” “I am blessed, grateful, and truly touched by your kindness,” she said, reflecting the relief and hope the event brought her household.”

Another participant, Lillian, emphasized the emotional support she feels as part of the UBCF community. She described UBCF as her “family,” sharing that the care and stability provided during her cancer journey “kept [her] together.” The event, she explained, wasn’t just about receiving items—it was about receiving hope. “It’s not just things or gifts—it’s more meaningful. It makes me feel hope,” she said.

For Ameeta, the kindness she encountered throughout the event was what stood out the most. She expressed heartfelt appreciation for every person involved, saying, “My family and I appreciate your kindness… Everyone was so kind and humble.” She called the event “special” and offered warm holiday blessings in gratitude. 

These powerful reflections highlight the deep emotional and practical impact of UBCF’s support during a critical time of year.

Next Event: February 10–21 in Huntington Station, NY

UBCF is excited to announce that the next Pink Bag Event in New York is taking place February 10–21, 2025, in Huntington Station, NY. The event will celebrate love, Valentine’s Day, and the strength of community care.

Participants do not need to be New York residents to attend. The event will again be free for all qualified and approved breast cancer patients and survivors. Learn more: https://ubcf.org/ny-pink-bag-shopping/

About United Breast Cancer Foundation

United Breast Cancer Foundation is a non-profit founded in 2000 with a mission to make a positive difference in the lives of those impacted by breast cancer. UBCF is committed to gifting helpful and supportive donated items, providing financial grants to those in need, and funding breast health and wellness services focused on education, screening, treatment, recovery, overall wellness, and beyond. The platinum rated, 4-star charity offers numerous life-supporting patient and family programs available to women, men, and families nationwide. Tax-deductible contributions (consult your tax advisor) may be made towards UBCF’s programs. UBCF accepts contributions through Donor Advised Funds as well as vehicle and property donations. Learn more https://ubcf.org/

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/united-breast-cancer-foundation-celebrates-the-success-of-its-new-york-pink-bag-event-supporting-patients-and-survivors-ahead-of-the-holidays-302639495.html

SOURCE United Breast Cancer Foundation

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pathways LA proudly hosted its annual Winter Wonderland Toy & Book Celebration on Saturday, December 6th, transforming the Westin Bonaventure into a festive gathering place for families across Los Angeles. The event brought together community partners, generous donors, and Pathways LA supporters for a day dedicated to uplifting families during the holiday season.

This year’s celebration welcomed 240 families, totaling 930 attendees, including 394 adults and 536 children. Pathways LA was also honored to welcome representatives from six community-based organizations whose participation strengthened the experience for attendees and highlighted the collective commitment to family well-being. Participating organizations included:

  • L.A. Care Community Resource Center Metro L.A.
  • Los Angeles Public Library
  • Clinica M Oscar A. Romero
  • Bright life Kids
  • St. Anne’s Family Services
  • Karsh Center

“Winter Wonderland is one of the most meaningful moments of the year for our organization,” said Tamika Farr, CEO of Pathways LA. “It reflects our commitment to supporting families and making sure every child experiences joy, connection, and care during the holidays.”

The heart of Winter Wonderland is giving — and this year, Pathways LA provided hundreds of children with brand-new toys and books, along with essential household items that support family stability. Families received diapers, wipes, hygiene products, and much-needed clothing.

Pathways LA extends its deepest gratitude to the donors whose generosity made this support possible:

  • Baby2Baby
  • FAT Brands
  • Social media influencer Francisco Carrillo (@kennalovescisco)

Their contributions ensured children received high-quality gifts and families left with resources that carry them beyond the holiday season.

Families enjoyed a variety of holiday activities, including:

  • Photos and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus
  • Face painting featuring playful seasonal designs
  • Arts and crafts stations for creating festive keepsakes
  • Hot chocolate and cookies adding warmth and sweetness to the day

For decades, Pathways LA has provided early childhood education programs, family services, and essential resources to low-income working families. The Winter Wonderland Toy & Book Celebration continues that tradition, bringing hope, support, and joy to the community every holiday season.

About Pathways LA:

About Pathways LA: Pathways LA is committed to the healthy development and school readiness of young children from disadvantaged communities. Driven by data and innovation, our experts support the continuum of care that includes parents, childcare providers, community partners, and policymakers. Learn more at: https://pathwaysla.org.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pathways-la-welcomes-more-than-900-attendees-at-annual-winter-wonderland-toy–book-celebration-302639538.html

SOURCE Pathways LA

December 11, 2025 /3BL/ – The O2 and Music Venue Trust (MVT), the charity which represents hundreds of grassroots music venues across the UK, have announced a groundbreaking new commitment that formally recognizes the essential role of the grassroots circuit in creating the future headliners for the UK’s world-leading live music scene.

The pioneering initiative will see The O2 make a direct donation to Music Venue Trust each time a new artist headlines the arena for the first time as part of a wider three-year commitment. This ensures that the grassroots ecosystem, which nurtures artists in the early stages of their careers, receives tangible, ongoing support from the very venues that later host their success.

This year alone, The O2 has hosted over 50 first-time performers and is making an initial six-figure donation to Music Venue Trust in celebration of this record milestone. This single donation underscores the volume of talent flowing from small stages to the arena and highlights the critical need for a sustainable pipeline.

Artists who have graduated from the grassroots network to make their debut at The O2 in the last year include Gracie Abrams, Pulp, Architects and Wolf Alice, all of whom honed their craft on stages at venues within the Music Venues Alliance.

Ben Lovett, Mumford & Sons, said: “This week we will play two shows at The O2. Whilst this might not be the first time we’re headlining the arena, it doesn’t make it any less special to be able to come to our hometown and headline a couple of nights in one of the best arenas in the world. Our first time taking to this iconic stage was in 2012, back when many of the venues where we had cut our teeth, including the Luminaire in Kilburn where we played our first headline show, had started closing down. This trend has only continued, in London and across the country, and we have done everything we can to protect the essential grassroots scene; lobbying various sitting governments, trying to educate anyone who’d listen to the fact that artists don’t just arrive in these arenas from nowhere. We’ve played countless shows in these smaller rooms ever since, encouraged our fans to support and actioned the £1 per ticket levy on this current tour, generously supported by our audience.”

Emma Bownes, Senior Vice President, Venue Programming at AEG Europe, added: “The O2 is proud to support the UK’s live music ecosystem, starting with the small stages in local communities. Every artist who headlines The O2 for the first time reflects the strength of that grassroots network. By partnering with Music Venue Trust, we’re investing in the pipeline that nurtures the next generation of breakthrough artists and ensures they have a place to start.”

Mark Davyd, CEO of Music Venue Trust, said: “This is a hugely significant and welcome move from The O2. The success of our arenas is directly connected to the health of the grassroots venues where so many of those headliners began their journey. This partnership sets a powerful new benchmark for the industry, proving that major venues can actively participate in securing the future of the talent pipeline. Our challenge to every other arena in the UK is simple: The O2 has taken a lead, now it’s your chance to follow.”

Ben Lovett continued:I’ve personally invested into the Music Venue Properties initiative as well as continuing to support Music Venue Trust and a host of similar organisations over recent years. I have even built and operated venues around London and further afield in an effort to brace against the rising tide of the issue. All to say, we couldn’t care more about the essential work of small venues up and down the country and we think it’s brilliant that a venue like The O2 is making a meaningful donation, tied to their “first-time headliner” model to contribute, as we all should, towards a more sustainable ecosystem within live music in the future.”

The commitment represents a major step forward in uniting the live music industry, from the smallest stages to the largest, to create a more resilient and sustainable future for UK music.

December 11, 2025 /3BL/ – The O2 and Music Venue Trust (MVT), the charity which represents hundreds of grassroots music venues across the UK, have announced a groundbreaking new commitment that formally recognizes the essential role of the grassroots circuit in creating the future headliners for the UK’s world-leading live music scene.

The pioneering initiative will see The O2 make a direct donation to Music Venue Trust each time a new artist headlines the arena for the first time as part of a wider three-year commitment. This ensures that the grassroots ecosystem, which nurtures artists in the early stages of their careers, receives tangible, ongoing support from the very venues that later host their success.

This year alone, The O2 has hosted over 50 first-time performers and is making an initial six-figure donation to Music Venue Trust in celebration of this record milestone. This single donation underscores the volume of talent flowing from small stages to the arena and highlights the critical need for a sustainable pipeline.

Artists who have graduated from the grassroots network to make their debut at The O2 in the last year include Gracie Abrams, Pulp, Architects and Wolf Alice, all of whom honed their craft on stages at venues within the Music Venues Alliance.

Ben Lovett, Mumford & Sons, said: “This week we will play two shows at The O2. Whilst this might not be the first time we’re headlining the arena, it doesn’t make it any less special to be able to come to our hometown and headline a couple of nights in one of the best arenas in the world. Our first time taking to this iconic stage was in 2012, back when many of the venues where we had cut our teeth, including the Luminaire in Kilburn where we played our first headline show, had started closing down. This trend has only continued, in London and across the country, and we have done everything we can to protect the essential grassroots scene; lobbying various sitting governments, trying to educate anyone who’d listen to the fact that artists don’t just arrive in these arenas from nowhere. We’ve played countless shows in these smaller rooms ever since, encouraged our fans to support and actioned the £1 per ticket levy on this current tour, generously supported by our audience.”

Emma Bownes, Senior Vice President, Venue Programming at AEG Europe, added: “The O2 is proud to support the UK’s live music ecosystem, starting with the small stages in local communities. Every artist who headlines The O2 for the first time reflects the strength of that grassroots network. By partnering with Music Venue Trust, we’re investing in the pipeline that nurtures the next generation of breakthrough artists and ensures they have a place to start.”

Mark Davyd, CEO of Music Venue Trust, said: “This is a hugely significant and welcome move from The O2. The success of our arenas is directly connected to the health of the grassroots venues where so many of those headliners began their journey. This partnership sets a powerful new benchmark for the industry, proving that major venues can actively participate in securing the future of the talent pipeline. Our challenge to every other arena in the UK is simple: The O2 has taken a lead, now it’s your chance to follow.”

Ben Lovett continued:I’ve personally invested into the Music Venue Properties initiative as well as continuing to support Music Venue Trust and a host of similar organisations over recent years. I have even built and operated venues around London and further afield in an effort to brace against the rising tide of the issue. All to say, we couldn’t care more about the essential work of small venues up and down the country and we think it’s brilliant that a venue like The O2 is making a meaningful donation, tied to their “first-time headliner” model to contribute, as we all should, towards a more sustainable ecosystem within live music in the future.”

The commitment represents a major step forward in uniting the live music industry, from the smallest stages to the largest, to create a more resilient and sustainable future for UK music.

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