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Telos' Decentralization Rivals that of Bitcoin and Ethereum

Telos Foundation

Telos Blockchain (ticker: TLOS), the world’s most robust and decentralized ESG compliant layer 1 platform and home to the world's fastest, highest capacity EVM (tEVM), derives credible neutrality and decentralization from at least 42 equally distinct validating nodes compared to the much smaller number of major mining pools securing Bitcoin and Ethereum. After a thorough competitive analysis comparing Telos’ decentralization to the decentralization of many of the other top Layer 1 chains, the Foundation has confirmed its assumptions. Based on validator equality and crucial factors regarding architecture and finances, the team confirmed that Telos is indeed one of the leading chains regarding credible neutrality and decentralization. As mining pools lack equality, massive node counts become irrelevant: As depicted in the pie charts above, Telos, via its governance, has maintained an equitable distribution amongst all its active validators and Bitcoin and Ethereum have not. Instead, the mining pools of both Bitcoin and Ethereum have now become centralized. The hypothesis is that over the years the well-funded pools have overtaken the little ones. Despite the substantial number of nodes, to be a credibly neutral peer-to-peer network, the network must also sustain even splits in validator power / responsibilities. Without this equality, the insulating strengths of decentralized peer-to-peer networking becomes significantly degraded. A decentralized network made up of equitable validators adds a powerful layer of insulation against multiple scenarios. For example, a multi-government coalition could potentially implement disruptive regulations or restrictions on blockchain. If only a handful of validators / mining pools need to be targeted, it becomes much easier for those governments to impose their will and degrade the insulation that a peer-to-peer network is supposed to provide. In fact, an event far smaller than this could instantly interrupt some chains from operating as they intended. However, the problem is not just limited to government interference. It is also the potential of a coalition amongst the validator majority that threatens the decentralization and stability of a chain. Despite having many nodes, it appears that for Bitcoin it would take only ~5 large mining pools to form a majority, only ~4 for Ethereum and 22 for Telos (as depicted in the pie charts above). Aside from this significant (4x to 5x) difference, it is also worth noting that the community fairly votes the Telos validators into active slots vs Bitcoin / Ethereum in which the mining pool’s principles are anonymous and can simply buy their way into a majority position. Hence, the centralization and lack of credible neutrality that has now formed. Credible neutrality cannot exist in an environment in which control and influence is exerted by small groups of well-funded people. This move towards validator centralization also leads to neutrality questions that are impossible to answer. For example, are the validator majorities' ambitions in line with what is best for the chain or themselves? To put the potential gravity of this into perspective one needs to understand that the principal/s of a majority sized mining pool can easily be a crime syndicate, and no one would know about it due to the anonymity. In fact, all the major mining pools can hypothetically be owned by crime syndicates, and no one would ever know. In contrast to this, with chain-governed validator equality and ongoing fair community voting, these credibility and neutrality questions are simply non-existing issues. In fact, all these chain degrading scenarios are exactly what the Telos architecture and governance have insulated against. As a chain’s validator network becomes unequal in size; the more it will move towards centralization, the more its neutrality will become biased and the more these chain breakdown scenarios may become a reality. Insider allocation cost blockchain’s their credible neutrality: Being that Telos was a 100% bootstrap project (95% of the coins airdropped to the community, 5% were used as equal pay to the almost 150 contributors, no insider handouts, and no ICO), the team already knew that its insider allocation was at the same level as Bitcoin’s beginnings, zero. Telos is the only L1 chain besides Bitcoin to have ever reached this stage of maturity while still maintaining zero insider allocation. All the other L1 chains are believed to be centralized and unable to become credibly neutral public infrastructure due to their insider allocation (click here to see). With this being noted, these chains will most likely never be utilized by governments as a legal tender and dApps depending on this infrastructure will never be 100% insulated by the full power of credible neutrality and decentralization. Telos Decentralization: Since its inception, the validators of the Telos Blockchain are both equally sized and regionally / globally diversified. Plus, no ungoverned wallet is known to hold more than 2% of the chain. From chain architecture to finances, decentralization and neutrality are of the highest priority for the chain. Over the last 4 years, Telos has grown into a truly utopian blockchain option for both private and public infrastructure. It is ludicrously fast, very inexpensive, extremely energy efficient, credibly neutral, non-congested, super easy to deploy on and the only chain that fully insulates the public from the front running / MEV that is plaguing Ethereum. Decentralization Highlights: Telos is the only third generation layer 1 blockchain to have never done an ICO [initial coin offering] and this non-action alone insulates the chain greatly regarding insider collusion and the SEC security law suits. Telos, at its inception, electively chose to stay a bootstrap project and rise in the same fashion as Bitcoin. All other third generation layer 1 chains (including Ethereum) have done ICOs and will more than likely be forced to file with the SEC as securities. The former and current SEC Chairman have both expressed that every ICO [initial coin offering] they have seen are indeed securities, that they have jurisdiction, and that federal securities laws apply. The validating architecture of other networks might be structured via peer-to-peer architecture, but they are not credibly decentralized due to the distribution of monetary / voting / validating power. Again, insider allocation is non-existent and as you can see above in the pie charts depicting validator decentralization, Telos Validators are proportionally equal. Telos governance has the fairest voting system in existence, called Telos Decide. It is tamper-proof and secured by the Tlos coins that investors own. A coin holder can vote on behalf of the coins they hold and rely on outcomes that do not require any further human involvement. No other Layer 1 offers this level of automated community fairness. Especially because the Telos governance documents may be dynamically amended by the votes of the coin holders in a process that is entirely controlled by on-chain smart contracts. Governments, investors, dApp creators, and end users need not forget that the fundamental features which bring the most value to blockchain are credible neutrality and decentralization. With credible neutrality and decentralization the following attributes are all significantly enhanced: Utility Redundancy Security / Trust Individual Financial Independence dApp Sovereignty Fair Voting Legal Tender The actions and inactions of Telos are driven by the belief that the public and private sectors require credibly neutral blockchain infrastructure in a third-generation capable format. Credible neutrality, ludicrously fast speeds, energy efficiency, and super low-cost transactions make Telos the perfect crypto currency for the global internet and for the people. About Telos Live since 2018, Telos Blockchain (ticker: Tlos) is a third-generation smart contract platform that offers compatibility with Solidity, Vyper and Native C++ smart contracts. Telos provides full EVM/Solidity support with fixed low-cost gas fees and no front running. Uniquely, Telos also offers a path to fee-less transactions via its robust native C++ smart contract support. Utilizing less than 0.000002 kWh per transaction, the chain can sustainably support hundreds of millions of transactions per day, produce blocks in 0.5 second intervals on a first-in-first-out basis (eliminating front running on the network) and securely validate transactions via a credibly neutral and globally decentralized block producer network. The Telos Blockchain has the throughput needed to facilitate and scale the thriving Metaverse / Web 3.0 better than any other blockchain. Its performance is unrivaled in the industry and was purpose-built to offer speed, scalability, cost-effectiveness, credible decentralization, and end-user fairness. Telos, harnesses its power by utilizing tight C++ on the frontend and a custom WASM runtime environment on the backend. About The Foundation The Telos Foundation is a Decentralized Autonomous Organization established as a promotional and funding body to advance the Telos Blockchain Network and provide support to network applications. Contact Details The Team hello@telosfoundation.io Company Website https://www.telos.net/

April 20, 2022 10:07 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Five Pittsburgh-area Founders Pitch for Investments

Chloe Capital

Invest In Women x Pittsburgh, Founder Showcase scheduled for April 27, 2022 Chloe Capital, a Movement-driven venture capital firm, has selected five women-led technology companies to participate in INVEST IN WOMEN x PITTSBURGH ( chloecapital.com/pittsburgh ) this Spring. This unique fundraising experience for underrepresented founders is in partnership with Ascender, a nonprofit incubator for Pittsburgh’s entrepreneurs, and supported by the Richard King Mellon Foundation. Despite recent progress, a study by Boston Consulting Group shows that if men and women around the world were treated equally as entrepreneurs, our global economy would experience a $5 trillion boost. To help move the needle, five women entrepreneurs from the Pittsburgh area have now been chosen to participate in INVEST IN WOMEN x PITTSBURGH. Each receives the opportunity to connect with leaders across industries, hear critical feedback on how to grow their businesses, and pitch for investments from Chloe Capital and the Firm’s community of impact investors. By the end of the program, Chloe Capital will make at least one investment in a company located in, or willing to relocate to, Allegheny or Westmoreland counties. Investors and community members are invited to the Founder Showcase, which will take place April 27, 2022 at 5 p.m. (et) at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, located at 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA. Space is limited. RSVP > InvestInWomenPittsburgh.eventbrite.com In addition to Chloe Capital, featured investors for INVEST IN WOMEN x PITTSBURGH include Silvia Mah (Stella Impact Capital), Gabriela Isturiz (The Fund XX), Brandon Greer (Hubspot Ventures), Matt Harbaugh (Mountain State Capital), and Lu Zhang (Fusion Fund). “Each investor has joined our Movement to Invest In Women by meeting the founders and exploring the investment potential of each company,” said Chloe Capital co-founder and partner, Kathryn Cartini. “On average, participants in a Chloe Capital program each go on to raise $2,000,000 within the year, catalyzed by visibility and introductions to our firm’s world-wide network.” The founders selected to participate in INVEST IN WOMEN x PITTSBURGH are: ALISON ALVAREZ, CEO & Co-Founder, BlastPoint BlastPoint.com Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, PA BlastPoint builds AI platforms for highly regulated industries so that they can better understand their customers and how to talk to them. HOLLY ADAMS, CEO, Go Well Benefits GoWellBenefits.com Philadelphia County, Philadelphia, PA Go Well Benefits makes health insurance enrollment and underwriting faster and easier with an end-to-end solution that links employee, employer, broker and insurance carrier. NEHAL BHOJAK, President & CEO, Lumis Corp. LumisCorp.com Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, PA Lumis is committed to democratizing healthcare education, and disrupting traditional clinical training through its immersive AR-based platform. JJ XU, CEO, TalkMeUp TalkMeUp.co Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, PA TalkMeUp uses AI to aid workforce communication development at the enterprise level. Employees use their mobile devices. Managers get measurable insights. LAUREN GOLEMBIEWSKI, CEO & Co-Founder, Voxable Voxable.io Westmoreland County, New Kensington, PA Voxable helps enterprise teams create and manage AI experiences at scale by automating conversational content creation, and streamlining collaboration. “Each year Ascender impacts hundreds of entrepreneurs across many industries,” said Nadyli Nuñez, executive director at Ascender. “Now with the help of Chloe Capital and the Richard King Mellon Foundation we’re highlighting some of our region’s top performing, technology companies, that are also women-led. The talent is impressive.” On top of hearing from the founders, INVEST IN WOMEN x PITTSBURGH will feature speaker Gabriella Gonzalez, program officer from the Richard King Mellon Foundation. Gonzalez is a senior thought leader in the future of work, workforce development, and economic development. SaLisa Berrien, trustee and graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, and founder of COI Energy, will also share insight on being a Chloe Capital portfolio company. Berrien participated in INVEST IN WOMEN x CLIMATETECH in October 2021. She received a Chloe Capital investment following that program. Berrien has over 25 years of experience in the energy industry assisting clients with process improvements, energy efficiency, grid reliability, clean technology, and big data analytics. Economic development has been a primary focus of the Richard King Mellon Foundation since its founding, and the Foundation’s new Strategic Plan includes a specific focus on entrepreneurship, as an essential pillar of its economic-development efforts. The Foundation’s plan notes that “small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” and the “Foundation’s investments aim to support efforts to allow entrepreneurship to thrive, to build the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and to support efforts for under-represented groups to jumpstart or grow entrepreneurship efforts.” The Foundation’s funding of Chloe Capital’s “Invest in Women x Pittsburgh” initiative fits squarely within that plan. Investors and community members are invited to the Founder Showcase, which will take place April 27, 2022 at 5 p.m. (et) at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater in Pittsburgh. Space is limited. RSVP > InvestInWomenPittsburgh.eventbrite.com Contact Kathryn Cartini Partner, Chloe Capital kathryn@chloecapital.com About Chloe Capital Chloe Capital is a venture capital firm that invests in women-led technology companies. In addition to investing with a gender and diversity lens, Chloe Capital partners with universities, foundations and corporations to host programs that help catalyze fundraising efforts for underrepresented founders. This collaborative approach to early-stage investing has resulted in millions raised. Today, more than 20,000 people around the world have joined Chloe Capital’s Movement to #InvestInWomen. ChloeCapital.com About Ascender About Ascender: Ascender, a 501(c)3 and vibrant community of innovators located in East Liberty, helps entrepreneurs start and build their companies by offering educational programming, mentorship, expert coaching, incubation, and a collaborative coworking space. Annually Ascender touches 500 entrepreneurs across many industries and works with both venture track and small businesses. Ascenderpgh.com About the Richard King Mellon Foundation Founded in 1947, the Richard King Mellon Foundation is the largest foundation in Southwestern Pennsylvania, and one of the 50 largest in the world. The Foundation’s 2020 year-end endowment was $3.1 billion, and its Trustees in 2021 disbursed $152 million in grants and Program Related Investments. The Foundation launched a new ten-year Strategic plan in 2021, focusing funding on six primary program areas: conversation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investing. RKMF.org Contact Details Chloe Capital Kathryn Cartini kathryn@chloecapital.com Company Website https://chloecapital.com/

April 19, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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38-Year Printing Business Avante Print Center Converts to International Minute Press Franchise in Mesa, Arizona

Minuteman Press International Inc

For nearly 38 years, Carl Denti and his family operated their independent print shop Avante Print Center. In Feb. 2022, Carl sold the business to new owners Devin and John Weiss through Minuteman Press International’s conversion program, which connects sellers with qualified buyers. Carl says, “It was time for me to join my wife Patricia in retirement and I think the transition to International Minute Press has gone very well. I needed to like the people who bought the business and Devin and John are great. My daughter Renee has stayed on working in the business and we also have employees with 25 years of tenure, so it was important for us to be comfortable with everything.” Devin and John have rebranded as International Minute Press in Mesa, AZ, and are operating out of the same location at 218 West Hampton Avenue, Unit 13 that was home to Avante Print Center. Devin says, “We believe owning a business gives us a real sense of pride. By purchasing this established business, we strive to honor our clients, our community, and our staff with continued personalized service and outstanding support.” History of the Business On March 27 th, 1984, Carl Denti and his wife Patricia opened Avante Print Center in Mesa. Carl shares, “I had owned a previous business in Kansas City that I sold. We moved to Arizona and at that time I decided to invest in another business. I told my accountant I didn’t want anything in credit collections (which I did for 15 years) and I didn’t want to own a food-related business. One of the things he came up with was printing.” He adds, “Patricia was very influential in having us go into the printing industry as well. She previously had worked for Hallmark in Kansas City doing calligraphy, and she wanted something we could do together. In our first full year in business together, we made a 39.8% profit.” While printing proved to be a viable business for Carl and Patricia, he also appreciated the freedom it afforded him to pursue other passions. Carl says, “From 1992 – 2021, I also served as the pastor of a church in Arizona, which I never really considered to be work plus it didn’t really pay the bills. Printing was an easy business to market and sell, and I felt it had easier customer acquisition than other industries.” Over the years, Avante Print Center became a second-generation family business. Carl explains, “Patricia and I worked together in the business until she retired a few years ago, and my daughter Renee also worked with us and is still working in the business today even after it was sold.” Growing the Business For the 37-plus years he was in business, Carl operated on four key principles. He says, “No matter what business you own, for me the principles never change. We built Avante Print Center following these principles: Customer service was the apex. We decided that no one would out-service us. When we said we were going to do something, we did it. My goal was to get at least 98% (if not 100%) of all jobs out on time and done right. My definition of quality is that the job has to be accepted by the customer, that they will be happy with it and order it again, and that they will tell someone about the work that we did and refer our business. You have to be able to go after the market and you have to sell. One of the problems people run into when starting a business is that their goal is to simply unlock their doors. Instead, your goal needs to be to make a profit, which takes a lot more than turning the key and turning on lights. Know your numbers and live by your numbers. It’s as simple as that.” Selling the Business While Carl was thinking of retiring at some point, he actually wasn’t actively pursuing a sale of his printing business. He explains, “I did not have the business listed for sale but I’ve known Jack Panzer (Minuteman Press International Regional Vice President) for approximately eight years. When I received a letter and flyer in the mail that Jack could help sell my business, I thought that was very smart of Minuteman Press International do reach out. Jack was very laid back whenever we spoke, and he was always open and honest along with being knowledgeable about the industry.” At the beginning of 2021, the timing was right. Carl shares, “In January 2021, Jack approached me with a qualified buyer that he thought could be a fit for my shop. I told him what it would cost if someone wants to buy our business. I also consulted with my daughter Renee, who decided she didn’t want to take over the business. We started the sales process in March 2021 and it was finished by Feb. 2022.” As for the transition to the new owners, Carl says, “I think the transition has gone very well. I needed to like the people who bought the business and Devin and John Weiss are great. Renee has stayed on working in the business and we also have employees with 25 years of tenure, so it was important for us to be comfortable with everything.” “Jack Panzer is a terrific guy from top to bottom. He’s very transparent and open as is the team at Minuteman Press International. I don’t think there’s a better way to sell your business and here’s why: 1. You’re not paying any commission; 2. You’re working with a well-established 45-year company in Minuteman Press International; and 3. Your buyer is going to have a much better chance of succeeding with the support they are getting. If they succeed, then your employees will be taken care of… and that really means a lot to us.” -Carl Denti, Retiring Owner, Avante Print Center (now International Minute Press, Mesa, AZ Meet the New Owners Devin and John Weiss are no strangers to owning a business. Devin says, “ John and I have owned several diverse businesses but most recently I owned a dance studio for 25 years. When John and I met approximately 10 years ago, we started a business together shortly after, that we continue to operate.” When the opportunity came to buy an established business while also receiving additional support, Devin says, “Honestly, it was a no brainer. We had planned to open an International Minute Press in the area in 2020, just before the pandemic hit. A year and a half later, our Regional VP Jack Panzer, reached out with this opportunity to buy Avante Print Center and convert it to International Minute Press. It was such a great opportunity that we couldn’t pass it up!” When asked why they chose franchising, Devin answers, “We have looked at other businesses and franchises, and were completely impressed with Minuteman Press International by comparison. The amount of hands-on guidance and support are second-to-none. In the past, we have always done businesses independently, and having the support of this franchise in particular was a great draw.” “Jack Panzer and his team were with us every step of the way; they made the sale as easy as it could be. Since buying the business, the support has been great. From the training to the in-store training with the local field staff, it has superseded our expectations in every way. Their patience and knowledge gave us the confidence we needed to enter a new industry for us.” -Devin Weiss, Owner, International Minute Press, Mesa, AZ (formerly Avante Print Center) Entering the Printing Industry Now that Devin and John are operating their business, they are excited to hit the ground running and continue the legacy that Carl and family started. Devin says, “We believe owning a business gives you a sense of pride. By purchasing an established business, we strive to honor our clients, our community, and our staff with continued outstanding service and support.” As a full-service printing and marketing services provider, Devin and John are excited to help other local businesses and organizations with virtually everything they need to operate and promote themselves. Devin says, “Wide format printing is especially exciting right now. There is such a wide variety of custom printed products that we can provide to our clients – we haven’t found anything we can’t do yet in-house or with the help of our franchisor and vendors.” As she reflects on owning a business vs. having a job, one word comes to mind for Devin: “Freedom!” She elaborates, While you have to put in many hours as the owner of a business, they are on your own schedule and with your own priorities. You decide what your life entails every day, and we wouldn’t trade that for the world! We love to travel and the freedom makes that possible.” Advice for Others Devin shares this advice for others who are looking to buy a business right now: “Do your due diligence. A positive attitude is a must. Survey other business owners about their experiences, both good and bad. There is a lot of preparation that goes into buying a business, and having a successful franchise to guide you is a great option. Ultimately, no matter how prepared you are, it is a learning experience!” International Minute Press is located at 218 West Hampton Avenue, Unit 13; Mesa, AZ 85210. For more information, call 480-969-4888 or visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/az/mesa21. Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press International franchise opportunities at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. To find out how to sell your printing business through Minuteman Press International, visit https://bit.ly/minutemanpressconversions. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

April 19, 2022 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Genomic Life to Present at Business Group on Health’s Annual Conference

Genomic Life

Genomic Life, a leading genome benefit management company with a mission of providing innovative benefit services to employers, will present at the Business Group on Health’s annual conference. The Business Group on Health’s annual conference brings together experts and employers related to health benefits and health care policies. This year’s theme is “Collaborating on the Future of Health and Well-Being,” and will be held between April 19-21, 2022 at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel. The company has an over-arching goal of making affordable clinical-grade genetic testing available to everyone, genetic testing plays an essential role in managing proactive health, informing individuals of their health risks and pre-existing conditions they would not have known about otherwise. Genomic Life helps facilitate the most appropriate testing at the highest quality labs with access to clear results and expert genetic counseling. These services help patients and their physicians turn those genetic insights into precise and timely actions. On Tuesday, April 19, 2022, from 9 – 11 a.m. CDT, Genomic Life will host an invite-only breakfast event panel at the nearby historic Union Station Nashville Hotel. Guests can also join virtually via Zoom. The panel will be focused on the future of proactive health and the power of genetic testing, hosted and moderated by WKRN-TV News anchor Nikki Burdine of “Good Morning Nashville,” and will feature Genomic Life executives, Karen Ferrell, MBA (Chief Executive Officer); Randy Scott, PhD (Executive Co-Chairman); Tod Klingler, PhD (Head of Product and Innovation); Robert Green, MD, MPH (Medical and Clinical Advisor); and Noël Rihm Obourn (Chief Commercial Officer). “Health technology is accelerating at a rapid pace and employers are looking for innovative ways to keep their employees healthy and engaged,” said Genomic Life CEO Karen Ferrell. “We are working with employers to take the guesswork out of genetic testing and services and help individuals and their own physicians be proactive and precise about their health and well-being.” On Wednesday, April 20, 2022 from 2-2:30 p.m. CDT, Genomic Life Executive Co-Chair Randy Scott, PhD will present a breakout session titled “Innovations in Cancer Screening and Genetic Testing” at the Business Group on Health’s annual conference. The discussion will cover how employers can leverage the power of genetic testing, precision medicine and clinical policy to strengthen their overall benefit strategy. Dr. Scott will be joined by Scott Osler, Vice President of Employer Partnerships at Grail, Inc. “Being in the field of genomics for more than 30 years, including leading the development of two revolutionary cancer diagnostic tests, I have learned a lot about how a preventive approach to healthcare can truly make a difference,” said Dr. Scott. “Our team at Genomic Life is hard at work offering comprehensive genetic testing services that span a lifetime of health benefits. We look forward to helping anyone and everyone we can make proactive, personalized and precise healthcare choices that positively impact their lives.” Genomic Life currently offers three types of genetic screenings to unlock precise and relevant healthcare insights, before illness occurs: Genetic Health Screen (GHS): A 147 gene panel that includes genetic predispositions to specific serious illnesses (cancers, cardiac, neurology, and more). Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Screen: With 25 biomarkers, this screen highlights drug-gene interactions and efficacy, informing the patient and physician which prescriptions and dosages are optimal, which are harmful, and which aren’t likely to do anything at all. Carrier Screen: A 289 gene panel that identifies critical recessive traits for those who are focused on family planning. The results include details about hereditary diseases that can be passed on to offspring and may compromise pediatric health. The results are coordinated with one’s OB-GYN to help take actions to understand and mitigate risks. Additionally, genomic insights are pivotal in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer; Genomic Life’s Cancer Guardian solution works with cancer patients and their own oncology team to facilitate best practices, ensuring that cancer patients benefit from the most precise, genomically-informed treatments. To learn more about Genomic Life and these events, please visit: https://info.genomiclife.com/lp/nbgh/. ### About Genomic Life Founded in 2017, Genomic Life is a leading genome benefit management company making affordable, clinical-grade genetic testing available to everyone, with a mission to provide innovative benefit services to employers. Genomic Life is helping close the gap in healthcare by working directly with employers to provide access to affordable genetic testing services that will enable them to seek better medical care and fill in the technology, innovation and healthcare gaps missed by health insurance companies.For more information, visit https://genomiclife.com. About Business Group on Health Business Group on Health is the leading non-profit organization representing large employers’ perspectives on optimizing workforce strategy through innovative health, benefits and well-being solutions and on health policy issues. The Business Group keeps its membership informed of leading-edge thinking and action on health care cost and delivery, financing, affordability and experience with the health care system. Business Group members include 72 Fortune 100 companies as well as large public-sector employers, who collectively provide health and well-being programs for more than 60 million individuals in 200 countries. For more information, visit www.businessgrouphealth.org. Contact Details The Hoyt Organization Cinnamon Thompson +1 310-373-0103 cthompson@hoytorg.com Company Website https://genomiclife.com/

April 19, 2022 09:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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Maple Bridging Digital Divide For Students And Educators

Maple

Maple, a provider of reliable, remote online access for students and educators, announced its fully portable and pocket-sized WiFi hotspot connectivity solution will be available to schools and libraries as a new Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) application window opens. The Federal Communications Commission's ECF program provides more than $7 billion to meet remote learning needs. Maple leaders encourage schools to obtain their learning solutions by utilizing the third ECF opportunity launching on April 28, 2022. Maple technology provides students and educators with online connection by utilizing a pocket-sized router with a fast and reliable network connection. The ease of use, superior connectivity, security, and 24/7 bilingual technical support, make Maple a well-received partner of school systems in the United States and globally. "Maple provides a safe and reliable solution that unlocks opportunities and bridges the digital divide for students. Our technology solutions support learning in the classroom, at home, and in the community, giving students safe access to the internet," explained Michelle Mirshokri, Vice President at Maple. "Our school partners appreciate the customized settings available that include restrictions on web surfing, geolocation, and verification options that ensure students have safe experiences learning online." Conventional and “legacy” hotspots lack features school districts need, creating logistical challenges and added costs. Maple technologies are superior, providing unique benefits more desirable for schools in managing and students in utilizing. The cloud management capabilities allow for ease of tracking (making it nearly impossible to lose devices). The remote monitoring and shutdown features ensure students use the technology properly and lost/stolen equipment is promptly deactivated (messages on how to return devices are also displayed on the hostspot’s digital screen). Most importantly, Maple hotspots feature a proprietary and patented SIM management technology, that prevents disruptions in service as devices can switch seamlessly between mobile carrier networks to provide an optimal signal at all times. There are no SIMs in devices to remove or lose, saving schools time and money associated with the management and logistics of their fleets. Any changes to access or service, including website restrictions, are implemented remotely. The security, quality of connection, and cloud management are unparalleled. Schools may use the funds they secure through the ECF program to procure Maple's technology. A new application window opens from April 28 through May 13, where schools may request 100% funding for student connectivity needs. Maple also provides schools with a white-glove service, with end-to-end assistance on everything from government funding applications to hardware setup and device deployment. "We are proud to play a role in supporting students as virtual learning continues to open doors for more opportunities and experiences," Mirshokri continued. "We hope to help thousands more access a reliable, high-speed connection suitable for online learning.” Representatives from Beth Rivkah Colleges described their experience with Maple stating, "With Maple devices, we're able to provide portable internet devices to all of our students in need. This aids us in ensuring that no child falls behind and misses out on vital learning with their teachers and peers and allows them to remain connected." "The Maple team is pleased to assist schools with the ECF application process. The opportunity to provide internet access to all students is too important to pass up," Mirshokri said. "Remote and hybrid learning is here to stay, and Maple hotspots are the great equalizer in bridging access for so many." About Maple Maple provides trusted technology solutions for schools, students, and libraries that close the bridge divide by delivering high-quality internet access that unlocks valuable educational experiences for students. Please visit https://www.mapleconnect.co/. ### For more information or to schedule an interview with a Maple spokesperson please contact Dan Rene of kglobal, at daniel.rene@kglobal.com or 202-329-8357. Contact Details kglobal Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 daniel.rene@kglobal.com Company Website https://www.mapleconnect.co/

April 18, 2022 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Velocity Global adds tech revenue and marketing leaders Wade Burgess and Greg Brauner to drive continued growth

Velocity Global

Burgess joins as Chief Revenue Officer Brauner serves as Chief Marketing Officer Adds 35 years of combined experience growing tech companies Velocity Global, the leading provider of global talent solutions to work with anyone, anywhere, announced today it bolstered its leadership team with the addition of two experienced tech growth executives. Wade Burgess serves as chief revenue officer and brings more than 20 years of experience driving growth at digital and Software as a Service (SaaS) platforms. Greg Brauner joins the company as chief marketing officer to apply his 15 years of tech marketing leadership experience. “Our growth hits new scale coming off a triple-digit jump over the past year, and Wade and Greg bring experience and knowledge to take us to the next level,” said Ben Wright, Velocity Global founder and CEO. “They have experience scaling businesses and their significant contributions led to the successful IPO and ultimate sale of LinkedIn. Wade and Greg bring to the company significant domain expertise in the Future of Work industry. They’ve done it before, know what success looks like, and I’m ecstatic they saw our trajectory and want to go for that ride again.” Burgess joins Velocity Global to lead the worldwide Sales organization. He spent a decade at LinkedIn and was the global leader of LinkedIn Talent Solutions, growing the segment’s revenue from less than $50 million to $3 billion. He most recently served as chief revenue officer at Rev.com, and is an investor and advisor at several future of work and fintech startups including Karat, Gig Wage, and Wedge. "The results this team has delivered, and the pace at which it’s currently adding value caught my attention quickly,” said Burgess. “I’m inspired by the opportunity to accelerate that pace and scope to meet the demands of a truly global economy to work with anyone, anywhere." Brauner leads Velocity Global’s Marketing team and joins from the digital marketing company, Emotive. His career includes revenue leadership roles at successful SaaS and digital platforms including LinkedIn and Twilio, both of which he helped to take public. “Velocity Global is at the forefront of changing how the world works. The team is focused on building world-class solutions for employers and talent,” said Brauner.” I am extremely impressed by the team we have at Velocity Global and I’m excited to continue the mission of enabling employers and talent to connect and work from anywhere.” The company’s Global Work Platform TM seamlessly connects employers and talent worldwide through proprietary cloud-based talent management technology, personalized expertise, and unmatched global scale. Clients use its global Employer of Record (EoR) and Contractor Management solutions to onboard, manage, and pay talent with in-country and in-state compliance, payroll, and benefits. Both Burgess and Brauner are based in Austin, Texas as part of Velocity Global’s work from anywhere culture with employees in almost 50 countries across six continents. View Velocity Global’s leadership team here. About Velocity Global Velocity Global accelerates the future of work for anyone, anywhere, anyhow. Its Global Work PlatformTM simplifies the employer and talent experience through its proprietary cloud-based talent management technology, backed by personalized expertise and unmatched global scale. With talent solutions in more than 185 countries and all 50 United States, the platform combines global Employer of Record and Contractor Management to onboard, manage, and pay talent worldwide. Thousands of brands rely on Velocity Global to build global teams without the cost or complexity of setting up foreign legal entities or state registrations. Velocity Global was named a “Leader” in Global Employer of Record services by prominent analyst firm NelsonHall. Founded in 2014, the company has hundreds of employees across six continents. For more information visit velocityglobal.com. Contact Details Velocity Global John Hall +1 720-650-4348 news@velocityglobal.com Company Website https://velocityglobal.com/

April 14, 2022 07:01 AM Mountain Daylight Time

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Air pollution levels crank up in March 2022 across European cities, reveals Airly insights

Airly

Air pollution levels recorded across major European cities in March 2022 made for grim reading. Scientists at cleantech Airly reported on NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) and PM10 (particulate matter) elements of air pollution across European cities (full tables further below). The highest concentration of NO2 was recorded in Newcastle upon Tyne, a city in the north of England. And the highest concentrations of PM10 occurred in Spain (Malaga and Seville). The rise in air pollution was significantly influenced by a Sahara desert dust storm that traveled across Europe. The dust and other factors such as high pressure and lack of wind, meant that air pollution in southern and western Europe was slightly higher than in central Europe. Notably, the air in Portugal or Belgium was worse than the air in Poland or Romania. The new WHO standards are often exceeded In September 2021, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced stricter standards on NO2 and PM10 levels. The new 24-hour PM10 norms were changed from 50µg / m3 to 45µg / m3 and NO2 levels were confirmed as 25µg / m3, previously as advisory level. There were several cities falling short of the new levels but two Spanish cities at the top of the list (Malaga and Seville) were above the daily safe levels of PM10 (45 µg / m3). Meanwhile, every city exceeded the safe daily average of NO2 levels (25 µg / m3). Effect on health Long term exposure to PM10 may lead to reduced lung function, the development of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and increased rate of disease progression. Long-term exposure to Nitrogen dioxide may contribute to the development of asthma and increase susceptibility to respiratory diseases. Marcin Gnat, spokesperson at Airly commented: “This study confirms others which suggest that almost the entire global population (99%) breathes air that exceeds WHO air quality limits, and threatens their health. Although the number of countries and cities where air quality is monitored continuously is increasing, there is still a lack of such information in a great number of vulnerable sites. By knowing the exact pollution situation in their surroundings, local governments and communities are able to take appropriate steps to improve air quality, and then monitor the effectiveness of the actions taken”. NO2 Ranking: Newcastle upon Tyne - 44,6 µg/m3 (179% of WHO safe norm, 25 µg / m3) Naples - 42,4 (170%) Paris - 41,2 (165%) Antwerp - 35,9 (144%) Dortmund - 35,6 (142%) Zurich - 34,9 (140%) Stuttgart - 34,1 (137%) Munich - 33,5 (134%) Frankfurt am Main - 32,6 (130%) Hamburg - 32,0 (128%) Rotterdam [The Hague] - 31,8 (127%) Brussels - 31,2 (125%) Oslo - 30,5 (122%) Athens - 30,5 (122%) Sofia - 30,0 (120%) London - 29,4 (118%) Lyon - 29,2 (117%) Katowice - 29,1 (116%) Manchester - 28,9 (116%) Prague 29,7 (115%) PM10 Ranking: Malaga 56,1 µg/m3 (125% of WHO safe norm, 45 µg / m3) Seville 46,5 (103%) Belgrade 40,9 (91%) Katowice 40,5 (90%) Antwerp 38,3 (85%) Stockholm 37,2 (83%) Kraków 36,8 (82%) Stuttgart 35,4 (79%) Oslo 35,1 (78%) Wrocław 34,7 (77%) Leeds 34,3 (76%) Lisbon 34,0 (76%) Paris 33,9 (75%) Łódź 33,8 (75%) Poznań 33,7 (75%) Sofia 32,8 (73%) Zagreb 32,8 (73%) Thessaloniki 32,4 (72%) Rotterdam [The Hague] 31,8 (71%) Madrid 30,8 (68%) About Airly Using sensors, Airly provides accurate, ultra-local, predictive data for governments, media and businesses to tackle the issue of air pollution head-on. Airly’s platform acts as a warning system for pollution at street level and in real time with greater accuracy and at lower cost for cities & enterprises. Local councils and municipalities can start by monitoring air quality in real-time on an ongoing basis, locating sources of pollution and bringing forward policy that targets local pollution by reducing road traffic in the busiest, polluted places. Similarly, people need to make lifestyle choices that will benefit their air quality and environment. By choosing carsharing, cycling or electric scooters instead of cars will make a significant impact. Airly provides actionable insights about air quality with its AI-driven algorithms that predict air pollution for the next 24 hours with a verifiability of up to 95%. Airly gives customers across the globe an environmental intelligence platform by installing networks of sensors that track all the key pollution markers - particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) and gases (NO2, O3, SO2 and CO). Contact Details Airly Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://airly.org/en/

April 14, 2022 07:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NCMA’s CFCM™ Certification Achieves ANSI Accreditation

National Contract Management Association

The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) announced today they have been granted accreditation from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for the Certified Federal Contract Manager™ (CFCM™) certification. “This is a powerful acknowledgement of our community’s dedication to the workforce with the third NCMA certification to receive this honor,” said Kraig Conrad, CEO. “Accreditation from an internationally-recognized third-party demonstrates the extraordinarily high quality of the CFCM™ and provides a competitive advantage to contracting professionals who hold the CFCM™ and to the organizations that employ them.” The ANSI accreditation process is based on the ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 standard. It provides a global benchmark for certification programs to ensure they operate in a consistent, comparable, and reliable manner worldwide. ANSI accreditation signifies that the holder has attained a certification designed to the highest industry requirements and that NCMA has met, and continues to meet expectations for quality, emphasizing the validity and integrity of the CFCM™ program as a critical step in the career journey of government-focused contracting professionals. The CFCM™ assesses the knowledge of contracting professionals from the perspective of the federal environment, which is heavily focused on the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). For more information about the CFCM™ certification visit www.ncmahq.org/certification. ### The National Contract Management Association (NCMA), which was founded in 1959 and is the world’s leading association in the field of contract management. The organization, which has over 18,000 members, is dedicated to the professional growth and educational advancement of procurement and acquisition personnel worldwide. NCMA strives to serve and inform the profession and industry it represents and to offer opportunities for the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. To find out more, please visit www.ncmahq.org. Contact Details Jennifer Knowlton +1 571-382-1127 jennifer.knowlton@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org/

April 13, 2022 02:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Performance Management SaaS Platform Mesh secures $11m funding round

Mesh

Employee performance management startup Mesh, today announced a $11m series A funding round led by RTP Global. The HR tech company co-founded by Gaurav Chaubey, Saurabh Nangia and Rahul Singh in 2020 is in full scale mode with revenues increasing 16-fold in just 2 years. Mesh, a performance management platform that makes it easy for employees to manage goals, share feedback, and run one-on-ones. Companies globally are forced to administer traditional performance reviews that rely heavily on top-down feedback. Mesh replaces this unhelpful archaic process by enabling transparency around goals, continuous feedback, and coaching conversations. “Traditional performance management tools were built for an era where companies were slow moving pyramids. Today, if you continue to drive only top-down performance reviews, your top talent will leave and as a business you’re likely to get disrupted very soon! Mesh helps modern companies scale a culture of real time performance and growth conversations across peers, managers and teams. Our vision is to enable 30 million people to achieve their full potential at work by 2030” remarked Gaurav Chaubey, Co-founder and CRO, Mesh. Recent studies* have shown that performance management is by far the most despised people process in companies (with an net promoter score of -60). A 2021 study revealed transforming and reinventing performance management as one of the 10 most impactful practices. However, a staggering 83% of companies admit they don’t use advanced people analytics from processes such as continuous performance management and employee experience effectively. Interestingly, those companies that leverage advanced people analytics are: more than 4 times likely to engage and retain employees than those who don’t, almost 8 times more likely to innovate effectively and more than 2 times likely to exceed financial targets. “When it’s done well, a continuous performance management approach motivates employees to not only accomplish their goals, but also to develop better relationships with their managers, grow and develop within the company, and excel at work that is most meaningful to them” commented Saurabh Nangia, Co-founder and CEO, Mesh. “In short, it can support a more human experience and we are here to enable this”. This funding round comes less than a year after its $5.1m seed round, taking the total funds raised to $16.1m. The new capital raised will primarily enable Mesh to focus on building a global team for further expansion in the US and APAC markets. Mesh is already working with a range of unicorn startups including Pipefy, Drip Capital, Groww, CRED and others. Madhur Makkar, RTP Global said, “Last year, we backed Mesh based on the strength and the vision of the team. Since then, the team has executed really well to not only onboard stellar customers but also delight users. Leading this round was a no-brainer for us and we are thrilled for this continued partnership as Mesh builds a distinctive brand around the future of work.” Mesh is a remote-first company that is committed to being that model organization, which its product helps its customers build. The US headquartered HRTech startup has grown to a team of almost 50 employees spread across four countries. In addition to benefits and offerings like equity ownership, unlimited and no questions asked time offs, learning allowances etc., all decisions and actions at Mesh are driven by their core values, L.O.V.E. - act with Love, nurture Openness, drive Velocity and think Exponential. Equipped with a multi-layered tech stack, the company has gained prominence across industries in Southeast Asia and the US, with upcoming plans to further expand in APAC and the US. Saurabh Nangia added: “We are delighted with the consistent support and appreciation we have received from our investors and early customers. Last year we solved for the key unmet needs of our customers. This year we’re excited to double down on enhancing user love and expanding further in global markets. We're building a truly multi-generational company that will continue to reimagine how people perform and grow in the ever-changing future of work.” Ends * Deloitte High-Impact Performance Management research study, 2018 * Josh Bersin Company About Mesh Mesh is an all-encompassing platform for performance management and employee engagement needs, making it easy for employees to actively collaborate with their employer in managing goals, receiving timely feedback, and advancing their careers. It was founded in May 2020 by Gaurav Chaubey, Rahul Singh, and Saurabh Nangia, with an extensive experience in human capital advisory and entrepreneurship. Currently, Mesh is used by 1,000+ teams across five continents, with clients including ShareChat, CRED, Groww, and Pipefy. Contact Details Mesh Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://www.mesh.ai/

April 13, 2022 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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