Tag: PR Newswire

CHIFENG, China, July 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Envision Energy, a global leader in green technology, announced that its Chifeng Hydrogen Net Zero Industrial Park has been officially awarded the ISCC Plus certification, becoming the first project worldwide to receive the designation for green ammonia with a verified greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint. This landmark achievement underscores Envision’s world-leading capabilities in lifecycle carbon management across green hydrogen and ammonia production, marking a major breakthrough for the sector and setting a new global benchmark for sustainable development.

ISCC is a globally recognized sustainability certification system that covers all types of sustainable feedstocks. Its Plus certification sets strict evaluation criteria across raw material traceability, GHG accounting, and social responsibility. Successfully passing this rigorous audit demonstrates that the green ammonia produced at Chifeng Industrial Park meets world-class benchmarks for emissions control and environmental sustainability. The milestone significantly enhances the global competitiveness of Envision’s green ammonia products in global market – especially in Europe, where environmental regulations are becoming increasingly stringent.

Frank Yu, VP of Envision Energy said: “Green ammonia is a key enabler of decarbonization across shipping, agriculture, and energy storage. This certification is a powerful testament to our leadership in the green hydrogen and ammonia sector. By rigorously managing and reducing GHG emissions, Chifeng project offers a scalable model for global climate governance and drives green transformation across the entire value chain, accelerating the global transition toward a sustainable future.”

As the pioneer of the net zero industrial park model and a leader in full-stack green hydrogen technology, Envision has built in Chifeng the world’s largest and most cost-effective green hydrogen-ammonia project. It is also the first of its kind to reach commercial operation. Leveraging cutting-edge innovations in renewable energy system, the project enables real-time integration of wind, solar, energy storage, and hydrogen-ammonia-methanol production, addressing one of the biggest technical challenges in green hydrogen development. Powered entirely by renewable electricity, the plant produces liquid ammonia for both domestic and international markets, offering globally competitive green hydrogen solutions and delivering solid support for the global energy transition.

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SOURCE Envision Energy

SÃO PAULO, July 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Arctech, a global leader in solar tracker and smart structure solutions, announces that its Brazilian subsidiary has been officially approved under the FINAME program, managed by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). This certification marks a decisive step for Arctech’s positioning in Brazil, consolidating its strategic presence throughout Latin America.

The FINAME endorsement allows Arctech’s 1P solar tracker to be financed under highly competitive conditions in the Brazilian market. This access not only drives the development of local projects but also strengthens Arctech’s regional supply chain and market reach.

Equipped with advanced smart backtracking and control algorithms, Arctech’s 1P solar trackers can be deployed on challenging terrains and adapted to meet complex structural requirements. This enables project optimization both in design and cost.

Arctech has been committed to delivering high-efficiency tracker-centric solutions since entering the LATAM market. With FINAME certification, it further strengthens Arctech’s value proposition for developers in Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru and Central America, making it easier to access competitive financing to drive new solar projects.

“Obtaining FINAME is a key milestone for our expansion strategy in Brazil and LATAM, recognizing our local industrial commitment. Also, it creates new opportunities throughout the region.” said Alejandro Silva Zamora – Director of LATAM South & Brazil.

The local supply chain not only ensures reliability for customers but also serves as a critical factor in FINAME’s assessment process. With operations across Latin America, Arctech has demonstrated its local adaptability and technological leadership. This new chapter in Brazil, backed by FINAME, underscored the industrial localization efforts that Arctech has made in Brazil and enhanced its value proposition for projects that demand high performance, reliability, and local technical support.

Arctech is a global provider of smart solar solutions with more than 60 GW delivered across over 40 countries. Its portfolio includes trackers, solar structures, and BIPV systems.

In Latin America, Arctech positions itself as a strategic partner in the energy transformation, driven by innovation, efficiency, and a strong commitment to regional development, with more than 60 professionals distributed throughout LATAM.

In the future, Arctech will still actively boost its expansion across the region and help with the government’s goals to strengthen supply chain and promote sustainable energy.

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SOURCE Arctech Solar

Part of Larger Fundraising Effort to Support Wildfire Resiliency and Response in the Region

ASPEN, Colo., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Aspen Wildfire Foundation is proud to announce the donation of a new Type 3 wildland fire engine to Aspen Fire Protection District—its largest gift to date and the first major milestone in this year’s wildfire preparedness fundraising campaign. The engine, which arrived in Aspen in late June 2025, was made possible by a leadership gift from the JP Conte Family Foundation. It will be placed into service this wildfire season.

“We are deeply grateful for the Conte family’s leadership and support,” said Rick Balentine, Aspen Fire Chief and Chair of the Aspen Wildfire Foundation. “This gift significantly strengthens our local response capabilities—and it’s just one piece of a broader, community-led push to invest in wildfire resilience. We hope it inspires others to step up and support this critical work.”

The Foundation works year-round to fund and implement strategies that protect people and ecosystems—from fuels reduction and home hardening to fire-adapted landscapes and firefighter readiness. In the face of increasing wildfire threats, community support has never been more essential.

Aspen local JP Conte is an investor, through his family office, Lupine Crest Capital, and a private equity veteran, serving as chairman and managing partner of Genstar Capital. As a longtime California resident, he has advocated for prescribed fire and landscape resilience through his work with the Pepperwood Preserve in Northern California.

“Aspen is an incredibly beautiful place that I am thankful to call home,” said Conte. “For a long time, I’ve known the kinds of impact wildfire can have on our communities. I am proud to be working with the talented team at the Aspen Wildfire Foundation to help launch this fundraising push and ensure that we have the adequate resources and education to protect the place we all know and love.”

Aspen Wildfire Foundation works to protect people, restore landscapes, and prepare the community for the future across the Aspen Fire Protection District and connected landscapes. The announcement comes as the Foundation prepares for its second annual Evening of Embers and Elegance fundraiser, to be held July 18 at the Aspen Fire Station. This signature event gathers community members, partners, and supporters to help fund critical wildfire preparedness measures, including fuels reduction, home hardening, and firefighter readiness.

Tickets for the event can be purchased here: https://givebutter.com/4onfFV

Media Contact: Ali Hammond, ali.hammond@aspenfire.com

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SOURCE Aspen Wildfire Foundation

All 25 Texas locations now accepting register donations to aid flood-affected communities

LAKEWOOD, Colo., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Natural Grocers^®, the leading family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer in the U.S., is collecting donations at all 25 Texas locations to support the American Red Cross and its efforts to aid communities affected by the recent catastrophic flooding in Central Texas.

HOW & WHERE TO GIVE 
Customers can donate $1, $5 or $10 at the register at the following Natural Grocers stores: 

• Abilene
• Amarillo
• Austin – Arbor Walk
• Austin – North Lamar Blvd
• Austin – Cedar Park
• Austin – Georgetown
• Brownsville
• Corpus Christi
• Dallas – Casa Linda
• Dallas – Preston and Forest
• Dallas – Richardson
• Denton
• Fort Worth – 7^th St
• Fredericksburg
• Hurst
• Keller
• Longview
• Lubbock
• Midland
• San Antonio – Alamo Heights
• San Antonio – NW Military Hwy
• Temple
• Tyler
• Waco
• Wichita Falls

Funds collected will go to the American Red Cross and its ongoing regional flood relief efforts.

COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
One of Natural Grocers’ Five Founding Principles is a “Commitment to Community.” This principle takes on special meaning in the wake of the catastrophic flooding in Central Texas, including devastating losses in Kerr County. The scale of destruction and heartbreaking loss of life have deeply affected many of the towns and neighborhoods the company serves.

“Natural Grocers considers our customers and community members family. When disaster strikes, we believe in showing up with compassion and action,” said Raquel Isely, vice president of marketing for Natural Grocers. “This campaign is about standing with our neighbors during an incredibly difficult time. We’re grateful to our local good4u^SM Crew for recognizing the need and helping us act quickly to support relief efforts.”

• For more information on flood relief with the American Red Cross, click here.
• Learn more about Natural Grocers’ Five Founding Principles.
• For press inquiries, please contact media@naturalgrocers.com. 

ABOUT NATURAL GROCERS BY VITAMIN COTTAGE
Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. (NYSE: NGVC) is an expanding specialty retailer of natural and organic groceries, body care products, and dietary supplements. The grocery products sold by Natural Grocers must meet strict quality guidelines and may not contain artificial flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners (as defined by its standards), synthetic colors, or partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils. The Company sells only USDA-certified organic produce and exclusively pasture-raised, non-confinement dairy products, and free-range eggs. Natural Grocers’ flexible smaller-store format allows it to offer affordable prices in a shopper-friendly, clean, and convenient retail environment. The Company also provides extensive free science-based Nutrition Education programs to help customers and Crew make informed health and nutrition choices. Natural Grocers is committed to its Five Founding Principles—including its “Commitment to Community” and “Commitment to Crew”. In fiscal year 2024, the Company invested more than $15 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for Crew. Headquartered in the Union Square neighborhood of Lakewood, CO, Natural Grocers has 169 stores in 21 states. Visit www.naturalgrocers.com for more information and store locations. 

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SOURCE Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc.

–  Acquisition advances Toyota Tsusho’s circular economy initiatives, solidifies Radius Recycling’s leadership position

–  Radius to continue operating as standalone business, leveraging Toyota Tsusho’s capabilities and resources

NEW YORK and PORTLAND, Ore., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Toyota Tsusho America, Inc. (“TAI”), a subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho Corporation (“Toyota Tsusho”), today completed the acquisition of Radius Recycling, Inc. (“Radius”), a leading North American recycling company with a network of over 100 locations.  

The transaction advances key Toyota Tsusho strategic goals, including its commitment to building a circular economy focused on recycling throughout the automobile lifecycle, as well as accelerating progress towards carbon neutrality, and delivering long-term value to employees, customers, suppliers, and communities.

“We are delighted to welcome Radius into the Toyota Tsusho family,” said Naoyuki Hata, TAI President & CEO. “Radius’ proven track record and strong presence in the North American recycling industry closely reflect our shared mission to create Better Solutions for a Better Future. Building on our longstanding relationship, this acquisition will help expand our circular economy initiatives, enhance the supply of high-quality recycled resources, and deliver better solutions for our customers and our planet.”

“Joining forces with Toyota Tsusho opens new doors for Radius, our employees, and our valued customers and suppliers,” said Tamara Lundgren, Radius CEO. “Drawing from the combined strengths of both organizations, this is an opportunity to accelerate Radius’ strategic priorities, access new growth opportunities, and further solidify our position as a leader in North American recycling.”

Radius will continue to operate from its current headquarters in Portland, Oregon, following the close of the transaction, with its management, employees, operating facilities, strategy, and brand retained.

In connection with the completion of the transaction, Radius common shares will be delisted from the Nasdaq Capital Market.

Media contacts: Ross Lovern / Simone Leung, Kekst CNC, ross.lovern@kekstcnc.com / simone.leung@kekstcnc.com

About Toyota Tsusho America, Inc.

For over 60 years, TAI has been at the forefront of innovation, creating value through exporting, importing, supply chain management, and logistics across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. With a dedicated team of more than 9,300 employees, TAI provides value-added services at every level, addressing business and societal challenges with creative, solutions-oriented approaches. We support 10 major automotive companies across North America, including manufacturers from the U.S., Japan, and Europe. TAI’s extensive supply chain network and expertise powers the automotive industry, connecting diverse brands, building efficiency, and driving excellence.

At TAI, our mission is clear: to build better solutions for a better future. We are deeply committed to a circular economy, promoting renewable energy, and leveraging resource recycling and waste management strategies to minimize environmental impact while maximizing value. For more information, please visit our website at www.taiamerica.com.

About Radius Recycling, Inc.

Radius is a leading North American recycler of ferrous and nonferrous metals with 54 operating facilities across 25 states, Puerto Rico, and Western Canada. The Company sells its products to U.S. and export customers from its locations on both the East and West Coasts of the U.S., the Southeast, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Radius’ integrated operating platform also includes 50 stores operating across the U.S. and Western Canada under its Pick-N-Pull brand which sell serviceable used auto parts from salvaged vehicles and receive over 4 million annual retail visits. The Company’s electric arc furnace and rolling mill located in McMinnville, Oregon is vertically integrated with its Pacific Northwest metals recycling operations and produces rebar, wire rod, and other specialty products that are sold to customers primarily in the Western U.S. and Western Canada. Radius began operations in 1906 in Portland, Oregon, where it remains headquartered.

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SOURCE Toyota Tsusho America, Inc.

IRVING, Calif., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CloudCover, a leading provider of third-party maintenance (TPM) and IT lifecycle management solutions powered by its cloud-based CoverIT^™ platform, announced yesterday a growth investment from Argentum, a New York-based growth equity firm that partners with founder-led B2B software and technology-enabled services companies. The investment will support CloudCover’s continued expansion into global markets and accelerate the development of its platform, CoverIT^™—a purpose-built service operations platform that enables more efficient and scalable TPM delivery across the IT ecosystem.

“CloudCover has reached a pivotal point in its growth journey,” said Jeff Huggins, founder and CEO of CloudCover. “The opportunity to lead the TPM and IT lifecycle management markets through technology innovation is massive—and accelerating. Argentum is the right partner to help us scale, without compromising the culture, vision, or execution that got us here. We’re incredibly proud of the team we’ve built and energized by the road ahead,” Mr. Huggins will continue to lead the Company as Chairman and CEO and remain the majority shareholder after the investment.

CloudCover’s platform and services are used by major IT channel partners to deliver flexible, cost-effective infrastructure support and field services around the globe. The company’s differentiated platform model and partner-first approach have fueled rapid growth in both North America and international markets.

“We’ve earned the trust of some of the biggest names in the channel by delivering reliability, responsiveness, and the flexibility they need to win,” said Robert Kenney, Chief Revenue Officer at CloudCover. “This partnership with Argentum allows us to invest further in our partner ecosystem, continue our international expansion, and deliver an even higher standard of support.”

“CloudCover’s purpose-built platform coupled with its global service capabilities offers its channel partners the opportunity to participate in the lucrative TPM market in a frictionless way with limited investment and under their own brand. We believe this “channel-first” strategy represents a highly differentiated approach to the TPM market that positions CloudCover to continue its rapid growth, said Daniel Raynor, Managing Partner at Argentum. “We’re excited to support CloudCover’s experienced leadership team during the Company’s next phase of growth and innovation.”

CloudCover joins a portfolio of founder-led companies backed by Argentum that are transforming their industries through innovation, customer focus, and operational excellence.

About CloudCover
CloudCover is a leading provider of third-party maintenance (TPM) and IT lifecycle management solutions for the global IT channel. Powered by its purpose-built CoverIT^™ platform, CloudCover enables partners to deliver efficient, flexible infrastructure support at scale. With a global footprint and a partner-first mindset, CloudCover is transforming how IT services are delivered and managed worldwide, from desktop to data center. Learn more at www.cloudcover.it.

About Argentum
Argentum is a New York-based growth equity firm that helps scale bootstrapped, capital efficient B2B software, technology-enabled, and business services companies. The firm provides capital to accelerate growth, fund acquisitions, and generate shareholder liquidity. Over its 30+ year history, Argentum has invested in over 100 companies, supported more than 200 add-on acquisitions, and been named to Inc’s list of Top Founder Friendly Investors for five consecutive years. Argentum fills the growing gap between venture capital funds and later stage PE firms by targeting capital-efficient companies that are not seeking a change in control. Learn more at www.argentumgroup.com.

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SOURCE CloudCover IoT, Inc.

A Smarter, Longer-Lasting Way to Cruise

AUGUSTA, Ga., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Club Car ^®, a global leader in personal and commercial mobility solutions, today announced the launch of its all-new CRU Lithium option, bringing next-level performance, convenience, and sustainability to its award-winning, street legal CRU Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV).

Designed for customers who want more freedom and limitless fun, the CRU Lithium NEV features an advanced lithium-ion battery that delivers faster charging, lighter weight, longer range, and improved power —so owners can spend more time enjoying the ride.

“CRU Lithium is a game changer. It’s everything our customers love about the street legal CRU—style, comfort, social design—with the added power of lithium performance. It charges faster, goes farther, and is low maintenance,” said Brant Mitchell, Senior Director of Product Management of Club Car. “This solution gives our customers a smarter, longer-lasting power solution that fits their lifestyle and extends the fun.”

Key Benefits of the CRU Lithium NEV :

• Faster Charging: Get back on the road quickly with rapid recharge capabilities.
• Extended Range: Go three times further with more efficient energy use and consistent performance.
• Lightweight Design: Improved handling and acceleration with reduced battery weight.
• Low Maintenance: Say goodbye to watering and corrosion—lithium technology means worry-free ownership.
• Safe and Reliable: Lithium-Ion Batteries are individually encased and tested to applicable standards to ensure peace of mind.

With its automotive-inspired design and social seating layout, CRU already stands out as the most premium and stylish street legal NEV in its class. Now, whether cruising the neighborhood, the beach, or the resort, CRU Lithium delivers enhanced performance with the same head-turning design.

CRU Lithium NEV is available now through authorized Club Car dealers. For more information about CRU, visit www.clubcar.com/cru.

About Club Car: With a history of superior design and performance that spans over six decades, Club Car is the leader in the clubhouse and the gold standard for small-wheel vehicles. Proudly headquartered in Augusta, Georgia, Club Car is known for quality craftmanship which ensures long-term reliability and customer satisfaction. Though its legacy is rooted in golf fleet and golf operations, the Club Car product portfolio has grown to include vehicles for commercial, personal and street-legal low speed use. The Club Car Vehicle Group also includes the luxury electric vehicle brand, Garia, and lightweight electric utility vehicle brand, Melex. To learn more, visit www.clubcar.com.

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SOURCE Club Car, LLC

Partnership Extended Through 2028 to Inspire More Children Through Soccer and Sustainability, as Told Through an Inspiring New Film

WILLEMSTAD, Curaçao, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AFC Ajax, Sandals Resorts and the Sandals Foundation today announced a renewed commitment of their impactful Future Goals program in Curaçao, continuing their partnership through June 2028. This commitment will open the door for even more schoolchildren to benefit from Future Goals – a transformative program that uses soccer as a gateway to teach environmental responsibility, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.

To mark this milestone, Ajax and Sandals have unveiled a heartfelt new film that captures the transformative spirit of the program, spotlighting the joy of play, the power of purpose, and the promise of a cleaner future for Curaçao’s next generation.

A Winning Play for Kids and the Caribbean
Launched in 2022, Future Goals is a unique initiative by Netherlands soccer club AFC Ajax, Sandals Resorts and its philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation. The program takes an inventive approach to youth engagement: tapping local Curaçao company Limpi Recycling to turn plastic waste from the ocean into sustainably produced soccer goals for primary schools.

Beyond gear, the program also implements an annual eight-week curriculum that blends in-class learning with on-the-field training, all centered around the game of soccer. Sessions are delivered by local “Future Coaches” who are trained by AFC Ajax, and are designed to promote physical activity while teaching important life skills.

To date, the impact of the Future Goals program has been both wide-reaching and deeply meaningful. More than 1.4 million plastic bottles and caps have been removed from local communities, alongside over 3,000 square feet of discarded fishing nets pulled from the sea. More than 70 soccer goalposts have been creatively recycled from these materials and delivered to schools across Curaçao. In addition, sustainable soccer gear and educational kits have been distributed to the majority of the island’s primary schools, equipping students with the tools to learn, play, and grow.

These numbers are set to grow as the program reaches even more students and schools across the island. The expanded initiative will also feature more annual events for students like the Plastic Art Challenge, inter-school tournaments, and island-wide clean-up days, through which 743 children from 21 schools recently collected litter across local communities to close out the 2024-2025 year.

“This partnership gives children the opportunity to play, to lead, and to connect with the environment in ways that truly matter,” said Patrice Gilpin, PR Manager of the Sandals Foundation. “It’s proof that when we invest in children, we invest in a stronger, more sustainable future for the Caribbean.”

“Together with Sandals Resorts, we’re showing the impact Ajax can have on the other side of the world,” said Cas Biesta, Commercial Director of AFC Ajax. “It is wonderful to see that the Future Goals program has been running non-stop in Curaçao for three years now. The basis is ‘love for soccer,’ but it also teaches children about teamwork, creativity, resilience, and caring for the environment. We are very proud to be working together toward more Future Goals.”

To learn more about Future Goals, visit: https://www.sandals.com/futuregoals/.

About Sandals® Resorts:
Family-owned Sandals Resorts offers some of the best adults-only all-inclusive resorts that bring guests closer to the vibrancy, authenticity and spirit of the Caribbean. Pioneers of the all-inclusive vacation experience in the region, Sandals has 17 beachfront all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Curaçao, Grenada, and Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, each reflecting the genuine vibe of its island home. From local food favorites and global flavors to butler service and signature suites, including the Caribbean’s first Overwater Villas, Sandals makes it easy for guests to go all in on vacation mode. Beyond the resort gates, immersive destination experiences, like a newly piloted Island Inclusive dining program and MINI Coopers for island exploration, raise the bar on the all-inclusive vacation. Championing the region it calls home, Sandals demonstrates the transformative power of tourism and its impact on lives through its philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation. For more information, visit www.sandals.com.

About The Sandals Foundation:
The Sandals Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States, a CTA registered charity in Canada and registered charity – Charity Commission England & Wales that was created to continue and expand upon the philanthropic work that Sandals Resorts International has undertaken. It is the culmination of over four decades of dedication to playing a meaningful role in the lives of the communities where the resorts operate across the Caribbean. The Sandals Foundation funds projects in three core areas: education, community and the environment. One hundred percent of the monies contributed to the Sandals Foundation go directly to programs benefiting the Caribbean community. To learn more about the Sandals Foundation, visit online at www.sandalsfoundation.org or follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About AFC Ajax:
Soccer Club AFC Ajax was founded in Amsterdam on March 18, 1900. Ajax aims to entertain and inspire people worldwide with attacking and creative soccer. Ajax has grown to become the most successful soccer club in the Netherlands, with international appeal and one of the world’s most renowned youth academies. Ajax’s trophy cabinet is filled with, among other things, 36 national titles, 20 domestic cups, 1 European Cup II, 1 UEFA Cup, 2 World Cups, and 4 Champions Leagues.

Media Contact:
mediarelations@uvi.sandals.com 

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SOURCE Sandals Resorts International

Wells Fargo, Methodist Healthcare Ministries, and H-E-B fund urgent recovery programs

SAN ANTONIO, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The recent flooding in Kerrville and surrounding areas led to mass devastation and tragic loss of life. And many of those affected are small business owners who are navigating the aftermath of unimaginable loss.

“When small businesses suffer, so does the entire community,” said Amy Hereford, President and CEO of LiftFund. “Recovery of these businesses keeps families in their homes, meals on tables, and it gives people a sense of strength reclaimed.”

Now, thanks to over $1 million in emergency funding – from Wells Fargo, Methodist Healthcare Ministries, and H-E-B, LiftFund is delivering immediate disaster relief through small business grants and interest-free loans.

“It’s the incredible support from our partners that makes it possible to deliver immediate financial relief to entrepreneurs facing the heartbreak of personal and community loss on top of economic uncertainty,” Hereford said.

Together, LiftFund and its partners will launch two new relief programs under the Hill Country Disaster Recovery Initiative.

“In responding to this tragic event, we recognize the needs of those impacted will go beyond meeting their immediate survival needs but also beginning the process of rebuilding lives and communities that were devastated,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries.  “We are proud to support critical organizations doing important disaster relief and recovery work, such as those included in this first phase, as they spearhead the work to address these needs. We pledge our commitment to support their ongoing efforts and, together, we can help advance the recovery for the people and places that are grieving and beginning the journey to rebuild a brighter future.” 

The Hill Country Emergency Grant Program will provide grant funding up to $10,000 to eligible small businesses and employees located in affected areas, as well as business owners outside the affected areas whose businesses have been severely impacted by flood-related tragedies, such as the loss of a loved one or significant property damage.

The Hill Country Disaster Relief Loan Program offers zero-interest loans with flexible repayment terms to help small businesses recover and rebuild. Eligible applicants include businesses located in affected areas that have experienced operational disruption due to the disaster.

Both grant and loan funds may be used to replace lost inventory, cover expenses resulting from temporary closures, support flood-related cleanup, and maintain essential business functions during the recovery period.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of a community,” said Darlene Goins, president of the Wells Fargo Foundation. “It’s important to shore up resources during difficult times to facilitate small businesses staying open or rebuilding in the aftermath of a disaster, and LiftFund has decades of experience to lean on in serving those impacted small business owners.”

LiftFund has administered hundreds of millions in funding nationwide to support small businesses impacted disasters such as Hurricanes Katrina, Beryl and Harvey, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Los Angeles wildfires.

Small business owners affected by the Hill Country floods are encouraged to visit the program website at https://www.liftfund.com/hill-country-relief/ to apply or call 888-215-2372 for assistance.

About LiftFund
LiftFund is one of the nation’s most trusted and experienced nonprofit small business lenders, dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and advancing economic prosperity. For over 30 years, LiftFund has driven billions in economic impact by providing responsible loans, managing impactful grant programs, and delivering accessible financial education. With a commitment to listening, partnering, and offering flexible, mission-driven support, LiftFund helps entrepreneurs build strong businesses and resilient communities. For more information, visit LiftFund.com and follow us on social media or @LiftFundUS.

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SOURCE LiftFund

Applebee’s Franchise Partner Continues Neighborhood Philanthropic Efforts
through its Annual ‘Stuff the Bus’ School Supply Drive and Fundraiser

DALLAS and ROANOKE, Va. and SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SSCP Management, an Applebee’s franchise partner that owns and operates 71 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar restaurants in California, Texas, and Virginia, recently raised $62,346 for local elementary and middle schools through its ‘Stuff the Bus’ Neighborhood School Supply Drive and Fundraiser.

Throughout June, each participating restaurant adopted a neighborhood school as its recipient of their ‘Stuff the Bus’ Neighborhood School Supply Drive and Fundraiser. The philanthropic donations will benefit communities and local schools for the next school year and beyond. In addition to monetary contributions, participating SSCP-owned Applebee’s locations collected school supplies from guests, team members and neighbors. The neighborhood-centric effort assists students as they head back to school in the fall with necessary school supplies.

“When SSCP-owned Applebee’s says ‘neighborhood,’ we mean it,” said Blake Roe, SSCP’s Senior Director of Marketing. “We have always been a steward in all of our neighborhoods and our ‘Stuff the Bus’ initiative, through the collective efforts of our valued stakeholders, allows us to make a big difference where it truly matters – investing in our children’s future with tools for their education now.”

In 2024, SSCP was Applebee’s recipient of its coveted Bill Palmer Heart of Applebee’s award, named after the founder of the Applebee’s brand. It recognizes a franchisee who has shown the most significant commitment to a specific cause or organization over the past year. SSCP was recognized for its outstanding work with local schools through the respective Stuff the Bus programs in California, Texas, and Virginia. Since launching the campaign in 2022, SSCP Management has donated $170,701, along with an abundance of school supplies.

About SSCP
SSCP Management is a family-owned and operated, award-winning restaurant leader. The company was founded in Dallas, Texas, by owner and CEO Sunil Dharod, a renowned businessman and philanthropist. He now leads the company’s future alongside his son, Chris Dharod, SSCP President, and his daughter, Puja Dharod, Vice President of Investments at SSCP, who are both determined to continue the legacy started and continued by their father. SSCP consistently strives to deliver the best experience for its guests through exceptional service. We are an award-winning restaurant leader with over 500 restaurants nationwide, operating under five category-leading concepts, including Cicis Pizza Buffet, Corner Bakery, Sonic Drive-In, Applebee’s, and Roy’s. SSCP strives to provide memorable guest experiences through superior service and outstanding food. Our Team Members are family, and we support them personally and professionally. We invest in the communities we serve by giving back to those in need and working with various charitable organizations to strengthen our neighborhoods. Through the Puja Foundation, we provide financial support to SSCP restaurant Team Members Who are affected by unforeseen, catastrophic life events. SSCP’s real estate portfolio is diverse, comprising over 75 assets spanning 1,000 acres and 1,000,000 square feet. Our practice focuses on portfolio and individual purchases, multi-family investments, and retail properties. For more details, visit sscp.com or LinkedIn.

About Applebee’s^®
As one of the world’s largest casual dining brands, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar serves as America’s kitchen table, offering guests a lively dining experience that combines simple, craveable American fare with classic drinks and local drafts. Applebee’s makes it easy for family and friends to connect, whether it’s in a dining room or the comfort of a living room. Eatin’ Good in the Neighborhood™ is a familiar and affordable escape from the everyday. Applebee’s restaurants are owned and operated by entrepreneurs dedicated to more than serving great food; they also build up the communities that we call home. From raising money for local charities to hosting community fundraisers, Applebee’s is always Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood^®. Applebee’s and its franchise operations consisted of 1,594 Applebee’s restaurants in the United States, two U.S. territories, and 15 countries outside the United States as of March 30, 2025. This number does not include one domestic Applebee’s ghost kitchen (a small kitchen with no storefront presence, used to fill off-premise orders) and six Applebee’s international ghost kitchens. Applebee’s is franchised by subsidiaries of Dine Brands Global Inc. [NYSE: DIN], which is one of the world’s largest full-service restaurant companies.

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SOURCE SSCP Management