Tag Archives: Funding and Investment

Beach Lovers: a NYC Summer Love Story Fundraiser Goes Live

BROOKLYN, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Photographer Erica Reade announced today the kickoff of her fundraiser campaign "Beach Lover: a NYC Summer Love Story." The photographic series about love and intimacy will be turned into a book that will offer nostalgic and candid images of the love shared between couples at the beaches of New York City.

"I have spent years photographing beach-goers and the intimate gestures of couples; some tender, rubbing sunscreen on a partner's back; others lustful, a deep kiss in the water. Being on the beach emboldens couples to enjoy more affectionate freedom, their inhibitions less hidden than anywhere else I've observed in the city. I capture these tender moments that would otherwise be lost or overlooked," says the Brooklyn-based photographer.

New York is home to a one-of-a-kind beach culture that is diverse, time-limited, and low-profile. After six years of documenting this subject, Erica is ready to publish her first book and needs the community's support. The funds will help cover production costs and allow Beach Lovers to reach a broader audience.

About Erica Reade:

Erica is a Brooklyn-based freelance photographer originally from Montreal. She is drawn to the ocean and is fascinated by the juxtaposition of beach culture and landscape in the midst of NYC's urban chaos. Her Beach Lovers series has been featured in numerous publications, including: C-41, Ain't Bad, Feature Shoot, Medium, Lomography, La Repubblica Italy, Women in Street, and Flavorwire.

The Beach Lovers photo 'The Couple Next Door' was a winning image in the 2020 Women Street Photographers' Exhibition and was exhibited in December 2020 Artspace PS 109.

The series has also been exhibited at Ground Floor Gallery and Picture Farm Gallery in Brooklyn, and Studio Galerie B & B in Paris, France. Beach Lover's prints are held in permanent collection and display at The Rockaway Hotel in Queens, NYC.

Links to the campaign and social media:

Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/beachlovers/beach-lovers-a-nyc-summer-love-story

Instagram: @ericareadeimages

Website: http://www.ericareadeimages.com/

Fundraiser hashtags: #beachloversnyc #anycsummerlovestory

MEDIA CONTACT:
Erica Reade Images
ericareade@gmail.com
(646) 379 - 3013

Photographer Erica Reade announced today the kickoff of her fundraiser campaign "Beach Lover: a NYC Summer Love Story." The photographic series about love and intimacy will be turned into a book that will offer nostalgic and candid images of the love shared between couples at the beaches of New York City.

Related link: http://www.ericareadeimages.com/

Approximately $100 Million Available for Wildlife Habitat Grants

SAINT PAUL, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) last week issued its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $100 million will be available for both metro and statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, preservation and enhancement.

Requests are due to the LSOHC Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 4 p.m. The funds for approved programs signed into law during the 2022 legislative session will be available Thursday, July 1, 2022.

Since the Outdoor Heritage Fund's creation in 2008, $1.2 billion in on-the-ground habitat programs has been recommended and over 1 million acres of Minnesota forests, prairies and wetlands have been restored, protected and/or enhanced. The latest set of recommendations for $127.8 million is currently before the Minnesota legislature.

The process is competitive and open to all who wish to apply. "These grants are focused on restoring, protecting and enhancing habitat for fish, game and wildlife," said Mark Johnson, LSOHC Executive Director. "This beneficially impacts our natural resources of course, but it also enriches the lives of Minnesotans through a healthier, more accessible environment."

Proposal requirements and terms of funding are outlined in the Call for Funding Request. To view details or learn more, visit: http://www.lsohc.leg.mn/. For answers to specific questions, contact LSOHC Staff: http://www.lsohc.leg.mn/staff.

About Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council

The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council is composed of eight citizens and four legislators and makes annual recommendations to the legislature for use of the Outdoor Heritage Fund. The Outdoor Heritage Fund is one of four funds established as a result of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy amendment, passed by Minnesota voters in November of 2008. The amendment established a dedicated sales tax increase of three-eighths of 1%. One-third of the dollars raised are deposited in the Outdoor Heritage Fund and expenditures must be used to restore, protect and enhance Minnesota's wetlands, prairies, forests and habitat for fish, game and wildlife. Current LSOHC members are listed on the LSOHC website members page: https://www.lsohc.leg.mn/Member/index.

The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) last week issued its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $100 million will be available for both metro and statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, preservation and enhancement.

Related link: https://www.lsohc.leg.mn/

South Bay Credit Union announces limited time offer on their HELOC (home equity line of credit) Loan Product

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- South Bay Credit Union - Member-owned not-for-profit financial cooperative, today announced the launch of a limited time offer on their Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) program to homeowners in the South Bay Los Angeles Area.

Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000! (or 80% of appraised value, less 1st Trust Deed, owner-occupied). Borrow what you need when you need it, and as you repay your principle that money becomes available to borrow over and over again. The interest on a HELOC may even be tax deductible (check with your tax advisor for details).

"The goal with our HELOC program is to help our members access funds through equity available in their property," says David Ellings, CLO. "With mortgage rates steadily increasing, and it is becoming more difficult for homeowners to refinance due to outcomes from the Pandemic and other life circumstances, a HELOC could really help our members pay off high-rate interest credit cards or other loans, buy a car, take a well needed vacation, or just gain peace of mind with funds available for a rainy day."

This limited time offer is available from April 1 through July 31, 2021 and includes:
* NO interest for 6 months
* Low Rates
* One-time fee of $300
* NO annual maintenance fee
* 10-year interest-only payments (draw period)
* Terms up to 25 years

To learn more visit: https://www.southbaycu.com/heloc/.

About South Bay Credit Union:

Established in 1953, South Bay Credit Union is a member-owned not-for-profit financial cooperative proudly serving anyone who lives, regularly works, attends school or worships in the area known as South Bay in Los Angeles County, California. Their mission is to uplift communities by empowering their members to live better and do better. Members own the Credit Union, not shareholders. That means, all the profits that they bring in go right back out to their members in the form of dividends, rebates and lowered interest rates. And they do it with a warm smile and a happy heart.

VIDEO "Do you know what a HELOC is" - https://youtu.be/L0XUzB-c5Jk

MEDIA CONTACT:
David Ellings, CLO
South Bay Credit Union - NMLS # 449361
P: 424-327-9790
E: dellings@southbaycu.com

South Bay Credit Union - Member-owned not-for-profit financial cooperative, today announced the launch of a limited time offer on their Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) program to homeowners in the South Bay Los Angeles Area.

Related link: https://www.southbaycu.com/

The Mortgage Collaborative’s Emerging Technology Fund Announces Investment in Maxwell

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative, the nation's largest independent cooperative network in the mortgage industry, announced today the first investment of its recently launched TMC Emerging Technology Fund LP ("TMC Fund"). The venture capital program is funded by a self-selected segment of TMC members to capture opportunities driven by the rapid pace of technological change in the mortgage sector.

The investment is a participation in Maxwell's Series B Preferred Share financing which was led by Fin Venture Capital and TTV Capital. TMC's Executive Chairman, Jim Park, remarked that TMC was fortunate to be invited into this over-subscribed round because of Maxwell's recognition of the potential strategic value TMC's Emerging Tech Fund could bring to Maxwell, in addition to its financial investment.

"More than the financial investment, we're looking forward to the strategic value the TMC Emerging Tech Fund's limited partners will add to Maxwell as the mortgage industry evolves," said John Paasonen, Co-founder and CEO of Maxwell. "Their investment has brought forward-looking mortgage companies around the table who will accelerate the impact our solutions will have in the market."

There are several TMC Lender Members that are finding new ways to participate in the 'Power of the Network' through TMC's Tech Fund, including Owen Lee, Co-owner of Success Mortgage Partners. "What I find so unique about being a limited partner in TMC's Emerging Tech Fund, is the opportunity to control my own investment dollars," said Lee. "Maybe more importantly, since the future-state of the mortgage industry will include more technology and not less, this role helps me stay educated and prepared as a business operator for what is coming next in our industry."

The Fund Manager of the TMC Fund, Sandy Selman from Asia West Inc., commented: "This transaction is a terrific foundational investment for the TMC Fund because of the demonstrated commercial success of Maxwell, the high caliber of their management team, and the quality and breadth of the syndicate. It puts us on the map and creates the strategic context for our deal pipeline well into 2021. We look forward to working with the Maxwell team to help them realize their commercial goals."

TMC's Emerging Technology Fund is actively looking at investment opportunities that will result in higher profitability and business process improvements for TMC members.

About The Mortgage Collaborative

Based in San Diego, Calif., The Mortgage Collaborative was founded in 2013 by four notable industry leaders and is the nations' largest independent mortgage cooperative network. TMC is singularly focused on creating an environment of collaboration and innovation for small to mid-size mortgage lenders throughout the country to reduce cost, increase profitability, and better serve the dynamic and changing consumer base in America. For more information, visit www.mortgagecollaborative.com.

The Mortgage Collaborative, the nation's largest independent cooperative network in the mortgage industry, announced today the first investment of its recently launched TMC Emerging Technology Fund LP ("TMC Fund").

Related link: https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com

Private Equity Firm CEO Co-Hosted SXSW Wealth Diversity Panels, Announces Launch of Black Angel Investors Initiative

GREENSBORO, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- BWC Capital CEO and national chair of The Links Economic Empowerment Platform (LEEP) Bridget Chisholm was selected by Opportunity Hub (OHUB), the largest minority-owned multi-campus entrepreneurship center and tech hub in the U.S., to moderate and co-host two panels on diversity, equity, and inclusion at the highly anticipated SXSW annual conference. The event marked the launch of a game-changing partnership between The Links and OHUB designed to help black communities obtain wealth independence, and equitable representation. SXSW took place virtually March 16-20, 2021.

The Links, Incorporated, a volunteer service organization comprised of over 16,000 professional women of African descent, is dedicated to ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans. Chisholm, a member of The Links, Incorporated since 1999, brings over 35 years of experience in marketing and branding, ecosystem building, private equity investment, and economic development to the organization. Since 1998, she has created and launched three high-performing companies and facilitated over $1 billion in multi-layered specialty financing transactions and investments. Chisholm is known as an innovator who uses disruptive thinking to challenge systems, advance and build wealth in historically underserved sectors, including Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), communities, people, and capital providers.

"It was exciting to have Bridget moderate one of our official SXSW sessions on the urgency of DEIS and co-host our Invest Black event with 100 Black Angels & Allies Fund portfolio companies," said Rodney Sampson, Chairman, OHUB and General Partner, 100 Black Angels and Allies Fund. "Her leadership in co-creating the game-changing investment and partnership between The Links, Incorporated, our venture fund, and ecosystem building platform, OHUB, demonstrates her experience and commitment to creating opportunity at the intersection of the culture and the ecosystem."

Joining hundreds of prominently featured speakers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers, including this year's keynotes Stacey Abrams, Willie Nelson, and Pete Buttigieg, Chisholm led a panel discussion entitled "The Urgency of DEIS in The Fourth Industrial Revolution."

To view the panel, go to https://online.sxsw.com/event/sxsw-online/planning/UGxhbm5pbmdfMzY2OTcx.

Also, Chisholm co-hosted an exclusive panel with Sampson and Kristie Goodman Davis entitled "Where the Money Reside: Investing Black." This session recognized the launch of the historical strategic partnership between The Links, Incorporated, the 100 Black Angels & Allies, and Opportunity HUB - https://mobile.twitter.com/theohubs/status/1372683574575390720?s=21

Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, National President of The Links Incorporated and The Links Foundation, Incorporated, defines the partnership, which Chisholm and the LEEP committee will lead, as a "strategic investment that will help increase the number of Black angel investors, limited partners, venture capitalists, and equity crowdfunding" opportunities. According to Leonard, the partnership's mission is to "diversify the ownership and capitalization tables of our nation's high growth Black-owned startups and venture funds while ensuring career pathways for those who are often overlooked."

This year's SXSW event included 230 sessions sourced by the SX community on topics ranging from racial injustice, poverty, nationalism, and the climate crisis amidst a global pandemic.

BWC Capital CEO and national chair of The Links Economic Empowerment Platform (LEEP) Bridget Chisholm was selected by Opportunity Hub (OHUB), the largest minority-owned multi-campus entrepreneurship center and tech hub in the U.S., to moderate and co-host two panels at the SXSW annual conference.

Related link: http://www.bwccapital.com

Keith Eckhardt Takes Over Colorado Springs Edward Jones Branch Office

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Keith Eckhardt has been named to take over the local Edward Jones office located at 1763 South 8th Street, Ste 1, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the firm announced today. Eckhardt transferred to the Cheyenne Canyon community from an Edward Jones office in the Widefield community.

Eckhardt said he is enthusiastic about taking over the branch office. "I joined this firm because I was impressed with its commitment to individual investors," he said. "Now I'm looking forward to meeting with the individuals here to help them meet their financial goals." Eckhardt said he is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

Eckhardt has four years of experience in the financial services industry.

Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in St. Louis, provides financial services in the U.S. and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the investments offered to the location of branch offices, caters to individual investors. The firm's 19,000−plus financial advisors serve more than 7 million clients with a total of $1.5 trillion in client assets under care.

Visit https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/ or the recruiting website at https://careers.edwardjones.com/. Member SIPC.

Learn more about at Keith Eckhardt: https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/keith-eckhardt

Keith Eckhardt has been named to take over the local Edward Jones office located at 1763 South 8th Street, Ste 1, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the firm announced today. Eckhardt transferred to the Cheyenne Canyon community from an Edward Jones office in the Widefield community.

Related link: https://www.edwardjones.com/

A GoFundMe Page Is Now Live to Help China Rescue Dogs with Transporting Rescue Dogs

VASS, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- China Rescue Dogs is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to rescuing and saving dogs from the slaughterhouses, meat trade, abuse and neglect in China, and finds them forever homes here in the United States.

China Rescue Dogs has two hundred forty (240) dogs that will be arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport from China over the next few months. These pups will then live the rest of their lives with their forever families, surrounded by love and affection. The first two groups of dogs are scheduled to arrive at JFK on March 18 and 20. 2021.

Once these rescue dogs arrive in the New York, they need to be transported to their forever homes across the country. Currently, China Rescue Dogs rents multiple cargo vans for this purpose. This is an enormous expense - since that money could go towards saving more dogs.

So, Sam Scaman, a small business owner and China Rescue Dogs volunteer, started a GoFundMe page to help the organization purchase a bus. According to Scaman, "Everyone in the organization is a volunteer. All the donated money goes to rescuing dogs. Crowd sourcing additional donations for a bus, only makes sense."

"Our mission is to save as many dogs as we can," said Jill Stewart, President and Founder of China Rescue Dogs. "The price of a reliable used bus is the equivalent to us saving 30 dogs. If people can help, we encourage them to go to the GoFundMe page."

LEARN MORE: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-them-deliver-rescue-dogs

The organization is interested in a used 2012 Ford F650 bus being sold by Midwest Transit Equipment in Kankakee, Illinois. It is a 41-passenger bus, but the seats would be removed to build custom shelving bins for the safe placement of the dogs in their crates.

China Recue Dogs is an organization founded by Jill Stewart, an ardent advocate of animal rights worldwide, and especially in China. Their global mission is to rescue and rehabilitate dogs from China and provide them with loving forever homes in North America. There are over a dozen other U.S. dog rescue organizations that are working with China Rescue Dogs on these rescues.

"Funding is crucial," admits Stewart. "We never say no to any dog - mixed breeds, banned breeds, disabled dogs and seniors. We try to rescue them all. Unfortunately, we cannot do that without the public's continued support."

About China Rescue Dogs

China Rescue Dogs is a 501(c)(3) rescue with the purpose of rescuing and rehabilitating dogs from the meat trade, abuse and neglect in China and providing them with loving homes in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about their work, visit https://chinarescuedogs.org/.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/2xJQuQvkjXk

Recent articles about China Rescue Dogs on People.com:

https://people.com/pets/200-dogs-saved-dog-meat-trade-flying-to-new-york/

https://people.com/pets/60-dogs-rescued-china-dog-meat-trade-need-donations/

https://people.com/pets/china-rescue-dogs-saves-dogs-china-dog-meat-trade/

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:

Picture 1: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0309-crdogs-beauty-300dpi.jpg

Caption: This beautiful dog will be the United States soon, where he can meet his forever family and live the rest of his life surrounded by love.

Picture 2: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0309-crdogs-van-300dpi.jpg

Caption: This is the bus China Rescue Dogs is looking to purchase. 2012 FORD STARTRANS COMMERCIAL CUTAWAY DRW. Capacity is 41 Passengers DIESEL fueled with HYD Brakes and a CUMMINS Engine.

China Rescue Dogs is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to rescuing and saving dogs from the slaughterhouses, meat trade, abuse and neglect in China, and finds them forever homes here in the United States. Once these rescue dogs arrive in the New York, they need to be transported to their forever homes across the country.

Related link: https://chinarescuedogs.org/

Taylor Wilshire and the Wilshire Foundation Receive Global Excellence Award While Spearheading International Change During Pandemic

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Taylor Wilshire and the Wilshire Foundation will receive the Global Excellence Award (GEA) from the Consortium of International Social and Financial Responsibility (CISFR) on February 15, 2021. This award highlights the Wilshire Foundation's outstanding achievements, advancements, and innovations in international business and global affairs.

It recognizes excellence in senior leadership and effective and responsive public administration in countries worldwide. Members of the CISFR include the World Trade Organization, the United Nations, International Conscious Capital, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

During a time when most financial institutions have been paralyzed by the COVID crisis, the Wilshire Foundation has been receiving unexpected praise and funding that will expand its sustainable, innovative, and award-winning programs and projects. Inspired by the tenets of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the foundation's cutting-edge financial structures are a byproduct of a partnership with the United Nations and have put them in the spotlight of companies to watch.

"Instead of feeling blindsided by this pandemic, we decided to roll up our sleeves, build on our formula for success. We are humbled by the generosity of our strategic partners as they generously support projects that reshape the world by focusing on real solutions," Wilshire said.

The Wilshire Foundation's sustainable development goals and financial models offer an effective and flexible way to address conflict, human rights issues, poverty, inequality, climate change and environmental degradation around the world while providing returns that are reinvested in the foundation's programs.

"Infrastructure investments will influence and benefit everyone. When we increase the wealth of the lower and middle classes, there is no need to tax and destroy the assets of the wealthy," explained Wilshire.

The Wilshire Foundation also recognizes that international trade can be an engine for inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction that contributes to sustainable development while being an important source of income for both the private and public sector in developing countries.

"Financial services markets of the future will largely be shaped by organizations that are able to anticipate tomorrow while delivering on the priorities of today. They are the ones turning the COVID-19 experience into an opportunity to build the capabilities required to thrive in the new reality," Wilshire further stated.

For more information visit http://www.wilshirefoundation.net/

Taylor Wilshire and the Wilshire Foundation will receive the Global Excellence Award (GEA) from the Consortium of International Social and Financial Responsibility (CISFR) on February 15, 2021. This award highlights the Wilshire Foundation's outstanding achievements, advancements, and innovations in international business and global affairs.

Related link: http://wilshirefoundation.net/

Online Matchmaker Carly Spindel Is Seeking an Investment Of $650,000 For 10% of Flash Match NYC

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Carly Spindel, a second-generation matchmaker, and founder of Janis Spindel Serious Matchmaking Inc., recently created the first of its kind: online dating + online matchmaking + one-on-one matchmaking = Flash Match NYC.

"Flash Match NYC is a do-it-yourself online matchmaking service where it's automated with suggested matches and Carly approves each match," says Janis Spindel. All members being matched with clients have gone through a double screening process that includes meeting Carly and Janis in person. Clients are assured the members are authentic.

"In the matchmaking and online dating industry, we have a competitive advantage, as 40 percent of my beta test clients renewed at least one time with the introductory offer of $1,000 for 3 personally vetted matches," said company CEO Carly Spindel.

As a true entrepreneur, in the words of the HBS Entrepreneur's Handbook, Carly built Flash Match NYC to "sweep away established technologies, products, and ways of doing things and replacing them with others that the market place as a whole sees representing greater value."

There are 3 plans for Flash Match NYC: $5,000 for 4 introductions, $10,000 for 10 introductions or $15,000 for 18 introductions. Carly Spindel is offering a Limited Time Valentine's Day Launch offer of $1,000 for 3 introductions. (See terms and conditions on website.)

Carly is the daughter of America's Top Matchmaker Janis Spindel and lived this business since she was 10 years old working side by side with her mother. Janis began her professional matchmaking career in 1993 and has over 4,012 marriages.

Learn more at: https://janisspindelmatchmaker.com/

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0126s2p-Spindel-Janis-Carley-300dpi.jpg

*Image Caption: Janis and Carley Spindel.

Carly Spindel, a second-generation matchmaker, and founder of Janis Spindel Serious Matchmaking Inc., recently created the first of its kind: online dating + online matchmaking + one-on-one matchmaking = Flash Match NYC.

Related link: https://janisspindelmatchmaker.com/

Awair Announces Strategic Investment from Emerson, Addition of Dustin DeVan, Founder of BuildingConnected, as new Board Member

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Awair, the San Francisco-based startup that makes Indoor Air Quality monitoring and software solutions for home and commercial spaces, has received a major strategic investment from Emerson (NYSE: EMR). Emerson is a leader in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controls industry, as well as the creator of the highly-rated smart thermostat, Emerson Sensi.

Awair has also added a key Advisor and Board Member: Dustin DeVan. Dustin founded BuildingConnected which raised $52.7M in venture capital from top tier VCs and was acquired for $275 Million by Autodesk in 2018.

When founded, BuildingConnected set out to create a network to connect every business and professional in commercial construction. Their user base has now reached over two million professionals doing over $40 Billion in construction procurement activities every month.

In combining his previous expertise with Awair, Dustin states, "Having worked in the built space environment for the last 15 years, I know that IoT helps improve the quality of our lives. With wildfires, global warming, and COVID-19, it's never been more important to monitor the air we breathe. I think Awair's platform is truly differentiated, allowing users to completely monitor their home, work, and life air quality through our network of devices."

Since its founding in 2013, Awair's mission has been to increase awareness about the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) and empower people worldwide to understand and improve IAQ via commercial and residential solutions. The company provides cutting edge technology that is easy to use, as well as an intuitive software platform with actionable data. With its continued growth, Awair will enable even more users to mitigate their indoor air for health and safety, be it at home, school, the workplace, or any other indoor space.

Learn more about Awair at https://www.getawair.com/.

About Awair

Awair is a leader in the indoor air quality monitoring space and designs smart and intuitive monitoring solutions for homes, offices, retail spaces and beyond. Their mission is twofold: to draw attention to the health impacts of poor indoor air quality and to empower users with the insight and tools they need to take control of the air they breathe. Using the Awair smartphone app and the Awair Omni Dashboard, users can view air quality data in real-time, identify indoor pollution sources, troubleshoot different solutions and browse personalized tips to improve the health of their space.

In an effort to make managing indoor air quality even more effortless, Awair offers a variety of smart home integrations. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, California and has a second office in Seoul, South Korea. To learn more about the impact of poor indoor air quality and browse Awair's solutions, visit getawair.com.

Follow on social at: Twitter: @getawair and Instagram: @getawair

About Emerson

Emerson (NYSE: EMR), headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri (USA), is a global technology and engineering company providing innovative solutions for customers in industrial, commercial and residential markets. Their Automation Solutions business helps process, hybrid, and discrete manufacturers maximize production, protect personnel and the environment while optimizing their energy and operating costs. Their Commercial & Residential Solutions business helps ensure human comfort and health, protect food quality and safety, advance energy efficiency and create sustainable infrastructure. For more information visit https://www.emerson.com/.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0105s2p-awair-inc-300dpi.jpg

Awair, the San Francisco-based startup that makes Indoor Air Quality monitoring and software solutions for home and commercial spaces, has received a major strategic investment from Emerson (NYSE: EMR). Emerson is a leader in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controls industry, as well as the creator of the highly-rated smart thermostat, Emerson Sensi.

Related link: https://www.getawair.com/

SimpleNexus Secures $108M in Series B Funding to Transform the Homeownership Journey into a Seamlessly Connected Experience

LEHI, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- SimpleNexus (https://simplenexus.com/), developer of the leading homeownership platform connecting loan officers, borrowers, real estate agents and settlement agents, has received a follow-on investment of $108 million in Series B funding led by global venture-capital and private-equity firm Insight Partners.

Founded in 2011, SimpleNexus is one of the fastest-growing technology companies in North America. Company President Cathleen Schreiner Gates credits 2020's four consecutive quarters of record-setting revenue growth to rapid, enthusiastic adoption of SimpleNexus' solutions by banks, credit unions and independent mortgage lenders across the United States. The capital infusion from Insight Partners will help SimpleNexus maintain this growth trajectory as it continues to transform the mortgage industry by seamlessly connecting the homeownership journey.

"SimpleNexus is systematically tearing down the technology barriers that gave the mortgage process a reputation for being disjointed, arduous and slow," said Schreiner Gates. "First, we created a best-in-class mobile toolset that delivers hundreds of thousands of lender referrals each year by bringing together consumers, real estate agents and loan officers from the point of thought. Then we perfected the loan application with features like our mobile mortgage disclosures, which empowers borrowers to finish in hours a task that normally takes days. With the support of Insight Partners, we will build on the momentum we received from bringing to market the best eClosing experience lenders and consumers have ever seen. Our vision is to hone the entire home buying journey from the borrower's first contact with a Realtor to the closing table and beyond."

The $108 million capital raise follows Insight Partners' initial investment of $20 million in SimpleNexus and underscores the firm's continued confidence in the Utah-based tech firm. Insight Partners has invested in more than 400 investments and has supported more than 50 software ScaleUps in the real estate and fintech verticals alone.

"SimpleNexus' innovative solutions continue to change the mortgage industry in exciting ways," said Jeff Lieberman, Managing Director at Insight Partners. "CEO Matt Hansen and the SimpleNexus team are executing at a remarkable pace on their long-term vision of streamlining the path to homeownership. The SimpleNexus platform continues to strengthen, addressing key industry pain points while preserving lender flexibility, efficiency and simplicity. We are thrilled to support the company's continued growth and excited by the partnerships they are creating to deliver a seamless homeownership journey."

SimpleNexus announced one such strategic partnership in November, a collaboration with Progressive® (NYSE: PGR) that makes it easy for borrowers to secure a home insurance policy in the same app they use to complete other loan-related tasks.

SimpleNexus' award-winning homeownership platform plays a role in 13% of all home loans originated in the U.S. SimpleNexus serves a user base of more than 29,000 loan originators and 123,000 real estate agents and more than 3 million borrowers. To date, the platform has handled over 13 million loans totaling over $3 trillion in volume.

About SimpleNexus, LLC:

SimpleNexus is a homeownership platform transforming the mortgage experience and connecting borrowers, loan officers, real estate agents and settlement service providers throughout the homebuying process. The platforms' native mobile toolset enables lenders to originate, process and close home loans from anywhere with increased efficiency and convenience. Loan officers can manage their loan pipelines, order credit, run pricing, send pre-approvals, sign disclosures and execute eClosings - all on the go. SimpleNexus provides borrowers with a single sign-on experience from home search to the application, document upload, eClose and beyond for a more streamlined homeownership journey. Learn more at: https://www.simplenexus.com/.

About Insight Partners

Insight Partners is a leading global venture capital and private equity firm investing in high-growth technology and software ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. Founded in 1995, Insight Partners has invested in more than 400 companies worldwide and has raised through a series of funds more than $30 billion in capital commitments. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with practical, hands-on software expertise to foster long-term success. Across its people and its portfolio, Insight encourages a culture around a belief that ScaleUp companies and growth create opportunity for all. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit https://www.insightpartners.com/ or follow us on Twitter @insightpartners.

Twitter: @SimpleNexus @insightpartners #digitalmortgage #mortgagetechnology #investmentnews

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0724s2p-simplenexus-300dpi.jpg

SimpleNexus, developer of the leading homeownership platform connecting loan officers, borrowers, real estate agents and settlement agents, has received a follow-on investment of $108 million in Series B funding led by global venture-capital and private-equity firm Insight Partners.

Related link: https://simplenexus.com/

Synthetic Biology for Tennessee Schools: BioBuilder Partners with Niswonger Foundation on $8.8M Federal Grant for STEM Education

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- The BioBuilder Educational Foundation announced that they are to partner with the Niswonger Foundation on their award of an "Education Innovation and Research" (EIR) Grant from the U.S. Department of Education that will focus on educational opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

BioBuilder will provide teacher professional development in the area of synthetic biology through their Essentials and Master Teacher workshops. BioBuilder's Professional Development workshops impact a teacher's understanding of biology and their approach to teaching it. Co-taught by a practicing synthetic biologist and a high school teacher, workshops combine classroom, laboratory, and design activities that are both accessible and inspiring. Participants leave with ready-to-teach lessons that bring engineering into biology classrooms, labs, and science clubs.

Aligned with both the Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards, the BioBuilder curriculum brings modern context to ideas and content traditionally taught in high school and college classes. At the high school level, BioBuilder has been used in General, Honors, and AP Biology as well as Biotechnology classes. In addition to teacher professional development, BioBuilder will support as many as 19 participating school districts with lab kits available through Carolina Biological Supply Company.

Students will participate in project-based learning through the BioBuilder Idea Accelerator, a program that teaches legitimate biotechnology skill building and data analysis through a team-based approach to creative problem solving and professional quality communication. Interested students may also elect to further pursue their biodesign projects with a dedicated mentor through BioBuilder's out-of-school-time activity, the BioBuilderClub.

This partnership builds on BioBuilder's work in recent years in the Kingsport City Schools, supported by the Eastman Foundation and Carolina Biological Supply Company. In January and July 2019, all the biology teachers at the Dobyns-Bennett High School, as well as teachers from other Kingsport schools and faculty from East Tennessee State University attended BioBuilder Professional Development workshops. Thanks to their training, teachers now plan to provide all 2,500 students at Dobyns-Bennett with hands-on training in synthetic biology over the next four years. After their pilot year, teachers have seen how their students respond to the BioBuilder labs in amazing ways.

Evie LaFollette, Secondary Science Teacher, Kingsport City Schools shared, "We've seen the full spectrum of students doing the BioBuilder labs, and they all enjoy it. They're asking, 'When do we get to do the next one?'"

The EIR grant was awarded to the Niswonger Foundation to fund the Rural Tennessee STEM.LD program. The concept of Learning Design (the "LD" in "STEM.LD") is defined as "the creative and deliberate act of devising new practices, plans of activity, resources and tools aimed at achieving particular educational results in a given context". BioBuilder joins the Niswonger Foundation in the belief that designing student-centered learning ecosystems and pathways can lead to positive student outcomes, from K-12 student achievement to meaningful employment in the workforce post-high school.

BioBuilder is one of a number of partners supporting the Rural Tennessee STEM.LD program. Other educational resources and partners will include cybersecurity experiential opportunities from the University of Alabama at Huntsville; expertise in curriculum design in engineering technology from Purdue University; East Tennessee State University's math, epidemiology, graphics design and computer science programs; the ETSU Research Corporation; and STEM project-based programs including STREAMWORKS, the Marine Advanced Technology in Education for Inspiration and Innovation; and "If I Had a Hammer."

Announcement from the U.S. Department of Education: https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-devos-announces-new-funding-accelerate-education-innovation-and-empower-teachers-professional-development-options-0

About the Niswonger Foundation

The Niswonger Foundation was established in 2001 to make a positive and sustainable difference in education in Northeast Tennessee. The Niswonger Foundation focuses on removing constraints to educational innovation and problem solving, thus allowing local school systems to better provide for student needs. By building school programs that are research-based and sustainable, the Niswonger Foundation has become a recognized voice for educational reform in the State of Tennessee, while nurturing the next generation of leaders. Learn more: https://www.niswongerfoundation.org/.

About BioBuilder Educational Foundation

Created by an award-winning team at MIT, BioBuilder offers new ways to teach, learn, and explore cutting-edge science and engineering. BioBuilder provides students the chance to integrate biology and engineering through practical, hands-on lessons, club activities, and school-to-work experiences. Teachers learn new methods of teaching that engage and inspire the young scientists in their classrooms.

Learn more: https://biobuilder.org/.

The BioBuilder Educational Foundation announced that they are to partner with the Niswonger Foundation on their award of an "Education Innovation and Research" (EIR) Grant from the U.S. Department of Education that will focus on educational opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Related link: https://biobuilder.org/

Arroyo Closes $821 Million in Global Refinancings During Pandemic

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Arroyo Energy Investors, the Houston-based, independent infrastructure investment firm with a footprint in North and Latin America, today announced it closed three large refinancings totaling $821 million during the COVID-19 pandemic. The transactions were executed with several of Arroyo's strategic lending partners and are illustrative of Arroyo's experience with such transactions refined over the team's 25+ years' experience in the power industry.

The three refinancings, which closed between March and November of this year, were preceded by the execution of value creation initiatives at each of the following portfolio companies:

* Broad River, an 878 MW dual-fuel peaking plant in South Carolina

* Pemcorp, a 142 MW gas-fired power plant in Monterrey, Mexico

* ARCO I, a 219 MW renewable utility scale portfolio in Chile

"We are pleased that during these unprecedented times, we executed on the plan of delivering key commercial value-added initiatives followed by strategic refinancings at each of these portfolio companies," said David T. Field, an Arroyo Founding Partner. "This is a testament to our significant relationships with major global project finance lenders across the United States, Mexico and Chile, as well as the strength of these assets, which are underpinned by long-dated contractual cashflows with credit-worthy offtakers."

Details on each of the three project refinancings are as follows:

Broad River

The $197 million refinancing is backed by contracted revenues with Duke Energy, one of the largest electric power companies in the United States. Prior to the refinancing, Arroyo successfully extended on behalf of Broad River its offtake agreement, securing continued gross margin. The Broad River refinancing was strengthened by an extension of the tolling contract with Duke and closed in March during the volatile period at the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. The financing was executed as an amend and extend with commercial lenders including CIT as Bookrunner, Joint Lead Arranger and Agent, Associated Bank as Joint Lead Arranger, and Siemens Financial and DZ Bank as lenders.

Pemcorp

The $195 million Pemcorp refinancing, closed in September, is one of the first visible commercial transactions that was launched, executed and closed in the project finance energy infrastructure market in Mexico since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the refinancing, Arroyo successfully restructured on behalf of Pemcorp its 20-year offtake agreement with its customers, Kia Motors Mexico and Hyundai Engineering Mexico, resulting in increased contracted gross margin throughout the term. The financing was executed solely with commercial banks without reliance on any development financing institutions (DFIs) or development banks. SMBC and Natixis acted as Joint Book-Runners and Coordinating Lead Arrangers, ING as Mandated Lead Arranger, and post-closing, Siemens Financial Services and Intesa Sampaolo came in as lenders.

ARCO I

This refinancing totaled $429 million and includes ancillary DSR LC and working capital facilities. The facilities are backed by contracted revenues with Minera los Pelambres ("MLP"), a Chilean mining operation within the Antofogasta PLC, a large international mining group. The revenues are comprised of long-term offtake agreements with MLP from ARCO I's Conejo and El Arrayan projects. Prior to the refinancing, Arroyo, on behalf of ARCO I, successfully restructured these two agreements, resulting in additional elements of downside protection for the remaining term. The financing closed in October and was led by Credit Agricole-CIB and SMBC as Joint Bookrunners, MUFG, Société Générale, as Mandated Lead Arrangers and Caixabank and Sabadell as lenders. Despite COVID-19 disruptions, market challenges in Chile and volatility around the U.S. election, the transaction was oversubscribed and was successfully distributed to a group of banks across different tiers. The financing qualifies as one of the largest green loans closed to date in Latin America.

ABOUT ARROYO ENERGY INVESTORS

Arroyo Energy Investment Partners LLC is a private equity fund manager with an investment focus in infrastructure projects throughout the Americas. Based in Houston with an office in Santiago, Chile, Arroyo is actively managing nearly $2 billion in assets.

For further information, visit https://www.arroyoenergygroup.com/.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1218s2p-arroyo-300dpi.jpg

Arroyo Energy Investors, the Houston-based, independent infrastructure investment firm with a footprint in North and Latin America, today announced it closed three large refinancings totaling $821 million during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fanplayr Partners with PFG to Enhance E-Commerce Intelligence Solutions

PALO ALTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Fanplayr, a leader in online behavioral personalization and AI for the past 10 years, recently closed a funding round from Partners for Growth (PFG) to support significant growth in its business and customer base.

PFG is pleased to announce the transaction with Fanplayr is an investment from its recently closed 6th global specialty lending fund, focused on providing growth capital solutions for emerging growth companies globally. PFG worked on the transaction from its offices in Australia and the San Francisco Bay Area, given Fanplayr's strong connections to both markets and consistent with the technology entrepreneurial activity and partnerships between businesses in Australia and San Francisco.

This financing will allow Fanplayr to continue to expand its client base as it acquires new customers as well as providing capital to invest in new growth markets such as the UK, the Netherlands, Mexico and Brazil.

Karthi Sepulohniam, Managing Director at PFG based in Sydney noted, "We are excited to have the opportunity to support Fanplayr's growth today and over the coming years, as they deliver e-commerce enablement and AI technology to global online businesses."

Fanplayr specializes in behavioral personalization and e-commerce enablement for online businesses in multiple verticals such as retail, travel, telco, entertainment, banking and B2B. Fanplayr Co-Founder and CEO Simon Yencken said of the PFG partnership, "It's exciting for Fanplayr to join forces with PFG and to add a global financing partner to the mix. PFG's funding will allow us to continue Fanplayr's growth with enterprise businesses in multiple markets and sectors."

Simon was introduced to PFG by Natasha Mandie, the managing director of EM Advisory, an advisor to technology companies throughout the world, and a resource with significant experience in the ASX IPO market. Simon was attracted to PFG's ability to structure a flexible financing package that allows Fanplayr to deploy capital to fund growth opportunities and respond to market changes and opportunities.

"During the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have made a more permanent shift to online purchasing," said Simon Yencken. "We have seen a surge of e-commerce economic activity in retail, telecommunications, car companies, gambling and entertainment, to name a few. Increasingly, businesses are looking for global technology partners who can support them in the various geographies within which they operate. PFG was a perfect partner for us as we expand existing operations in Europe and APAC, while also establishing offices to meet demand in London, Sao Paulo, and Amsterdam and elsewhere."

Karthi Sepulohniam added, "We are pleased to be working with an entrepreneur of Simon's caliber. In addition to his leadership as CEO of Fanplayr, Simon has had previous success as Chairman and Board member at Aconex and is also currently a non-executive Board Member at Damstra Technology (ASX: DTC)."

Partners for Growth Fund VI has already supported emerging growth businesses in the U.S. and Australia since the initial close in late 2019 and will continue to invest in attractive technology markets globally over the coming years. Building from its home base in the San Francisco Bay Area, PFG has structured growth capital solutions for companies across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand over the past two decades.

About Fanplayr

Fanplayr is a global leader in e-commerce behavioral data, using machine learning and AI to enable businesses to increase conversion rates and revenue, collect more leads, and retarget visitors with personalized recommendations during and after the shopping experience. Fanplayr is headquartered in Palo Alto, California with offices in New York, Buenos Aires, Mexico, Milan, London, Amsterdam, Melbourne and Tokyo.

Learn more at: https://www.fanplayr.com/

About Partners for Growth

Established in 2004, the firm's investment strategy dates to the mid-1980s when the co-founding partners managed the lending practice of technology investment bank Hambrecht & Quist, purchased by JPMorgan Chase in 1999. The PFG team provides custom debt solutions to revenue stage emerging growth companies leveraging decades of experience gained in structuring tailored debt facilities to support growth and expansion, working capital, and acquisition financing needs for over 200 portfolio companies globally since inception.

For more information, visit https://www.pfgrowth.com/.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1023s2p-fanplayr-300dpi.jpg

Fanplayr, a leader in online behavioral personalization and AI for the past 10 years, recently closed a funding round from Partners for Growth (PFG) to support significant growth in its business and customer base.

Related link: https://www.fanplayr.com/

AirDeck, Inc. Raises $3.4M to Transform Communication by Adding Voice and Video Narration to Documents and Presentations Online

MADISON, Wis. /ScoopCloud/ -- AirDeck, Inc, an online platform that helps users create narrated presentations and documents for on-demand viewing, announces the company has raised $3.4 million in venture capital funding led by Rock River Capital Partners and Cultivation Capital with participation from Rise of the Revolution's Rest Seed Fund and Winnebago Seed Fund. The new funding will be used to expand the company's sales and marketing teams and continue platform innovation.

AirDeck solves some of the biggest challenges in business communication today. Companies waste countless hours going back and forth reviewing documents, proposals, contracts, and presentations. Scheduling "live" meetings is a logistical nightmare and sending flat presentations and documents without any context is ineffective when trying to convey your message. As the world becomes more remote and distracted, effective communication is now more important than ever. AirDeck was created so users can add verbal or video recordings to increase engagement when sending documents and presentations on-demand.

Jason Weaver, founder and CEO of AirDeck said, "AirDeck has seen tremendous growth since launching the company this year. It's amazing to see immediate customer adoption within a variety of industries. This round of funding will allow us to further our platform vision and expand our team."

"We are excited to invest in such an innovative platform. AirDeck is changing document communication as we know it. Business agreements, pitch decks, webinars, and sales contracts can now all be sent with narration. It's amazing to see it in action," said Andy Walker, Partner, Rock River Capital Partners.

"Workers need a better asynchronous communication solution that also facilitates document engagement; and AirDeck is delivering it, with a cloud platform that is both powerful and easy-to-use. We're excited to help get this into the hands of more customers," said Paul Meier, Principal at Cultivation Capital.

About AirDeck, Inc.

AirDeck is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) document engagement platform that allows users to create narrated and annotated documents or presentations using voice or video. AirDeck is revolutionizing asynchronous communication by helping businesses be more effective with their time and fostering greater connection and engagement in our on-demand world. Sign up for a free trial at https://airdeck.co/.

About Rock River Capital Partners

Rock River Capital Partners invests in early stage companies whose products fit a market need and have disruptive technology with high growth potential. Typically, Rock River Capital Partners look for earlier stage companies where they can partner with entrepreneurs to best provide value to the companies and accelerate growth. Initial investments typically are between $500,000 and $1 million with additional capital reserved for follow-on rounds. Rock River Capital Partners will look to partner with other local and national venture capital firms to provide follow-on capital and expertise. For more information please see https://www.rockrivercapital.com/.

About Cultivation Capital

Founded in 2012, Cultivation Capital recognizes that promising companies are located all over the globe and that outstanding founders have a diversity of backgrounds. We are committed to building an inclusive portfolio and have invested in startups based in over 25 states or countries. Crunchbase News recently identified us as one of the 18 most active early stage venture firms in North America. They have also ranked us one of the top five recently founded lead investors in the U.S. We lead about half of the investment rounds in which we participate.

About Revolution's Rise of the Rest Seed Fund

Revolution's Rise of the Rest Seed Funds are investment funds that are part of a nationwide platform led by Steve Case focused on spotlighting regional startup hubs and investing alongside regional ecosystem leaders in early stage, high growth companies across the country. The team executes a strategy of partnering with regional ecosystem leaders and co-investors to build and scale the next wave of transformational companies.

The Rise of the Rest Seed Funds are backed by a group of iconic entrepreneurs and business leaders who believe that the next great startups are located outside of coastal tech hubs. The Rise of the Rest Seed Funds are headquartered in Washington, DC and part of Revolution's family of funds including Revolution Growth and Revolution Ventures. Visit us online at revolution.com/rotr or @RiseOfRest.

About Winnebago Seed Fund

Headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, Winnebago Seed Fund invests in talented entrepreneurs throughout the State to rapidly grow their businesses. Typical investments range from $300,000 to $1,000,000 based on a company's stage.

MEDIA CONTACT
Wade Maleck
AirDeck, Inc.
wade@airdeck.co
920-296-2280

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1201s2p-airdeck-300dpi.jpg

AirDeck, Inc, an online platform that helps users create narrated presentations and documents for on-demand viewing, announces the company has raised $3.4 million in venture capital funding led by Rock River Capital Partners and Cultivation Capital with participation from Rise of the Revolution's Rest Seed Fund and Winnebago Seed Fund.

Related link: https://airdeck.co/

Aussie CEO Damon Tindall Launches Ambitious Post-Election Black Education Plan for African-Americans

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Damon Tindall, an Australian CEO and founder of Black My Business, just announced a major Crowdfunding initiative to help fund 1,000 full tuition African-American scholarships by December 25, 2020. In the wake of the Democrats' victory, Tindall has seized the opportunity to initiate meaningful action in support of President-elect Biden's promise to help heal the nations' deep racial wounds.

Tindall says he has the answer to help bridge the economic disparity and help close the gap on black education, employment and economic outcomes by supplying significant educational and employment opportunities to African Americans funded by the #10ForChangeChallenge.

According to UNCF.org, only 45.9 percent of students of color complete their college degrees within six years - the lowest rate compared to other races and ethnicities. This high dropout rate is partially because six percent of African American college students are independent; they must balance pursuing a degree with full-time work and family responsibilities.

These numbers are staggering, but Tindall, a University of Newcastle alum says, "We can break this cycle through the #10ForChangeChallenge which aims to raise 2.6 million over the next five weeks and fund 1,000 full tuition digital marketing scholarships for African-American students."

This short-term target is part of a broader strategy to crowdfund 10,000 plus scholarships across a wide range of in-demand career paths, such as digital marketing over the next three years.

Why digital marketing? Digital marketing is expecting explosive growth in the coming decade, according to Forbes Magazine. It reports, "89 percent of all companies have already adopted a digital-first business strategy."

"African-American students educated through the Black My Business initiative will play a pivotal role in the future digital economy," Tindall explains.

Each $2,600 scholarship includes:

* A complete, one-year digital marketing course.

* A Simplilearn Professional Digital Marketing Specialist Qualification with Content Partner Harvard Business Publishing Education

* Certification alignment with Google and OMCP (Online Marketing Certified Professional)

* Opportunity to participate in a black mentoring program

* Access to career counseling

The #10ForChangeChallenge starts Tuesday, November 17. Donors are invited to give $10 or more on the #10ForChangeChallenge GoFundMe Page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/10ForChangeChallenge-African-American-Scholarships and are encouraged to invite 10 more friends to match their giving.

Leveraging the power of social media, participants are also invited to make a short video detailing their passion for this program. Black My Business will reward $1,000 to the 10 best viral videos from the #10ForChangeChallenge.

Learn more: https://blackmybusiness.com/

About Black My Business

Black My Business' mission is to educate, empower and inspire current and future generations of African-American business owners and entrepreneurs. Its collective focus is to help eliminate racism in its many forms, and to create greater educational, employment and financial opportunities for African Americans.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/NwnzazuWAoM

FOLLOW ON SOCIAL:

https://www.facebook.com/blackmybusiness

https://www.linkedin.com/company/black-my-business/

https://twitter.com/blackmybusiness

https://www.instagram.com/blackmybusinessmedia/

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:

[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1112s2p-black-my-bus-300dpi.jpg

[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1112s2p-damon-tindall-300dpi.jpg
Caption: #10ForChangeChallenge Founder Damon Tindall.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Damon Tindall
of HBH Digital Media Promotions Pty Ltd
damon@blackmybusiness.com
+1-323-694-5534

Damon Tindall, an Australian CEO and founder of Black My Business, just announced a major Crowdfunding initiative to help fund 1,000 full tuition African-American scholarships by December 25, 2020. In the wake of the Democrats' victory, Tindall has seized the opportunity to initiate meaningful action in support.

Related link: https://blackmybusiness.com/

Art of Caffeination Launches Kickstarter Campaign to Fund Clever Coffee Playing Cards

SAN ANTONIO, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Something new and exciting is brewing at Art of Caffeination, a new design business that focuses on products that are all things coffee. Its first product launch - a quick-reference deck of coffee playing cards - is designed for coffee lovers, enthusiasts and gamesters alike to not just have fun, but learn something too.

"Sip to Suit Cards About Coffee" is a handy deck of creatively crafted, quick-reference playing cards that feature coffee-making methods, drink formulas and helpful brew tips. The deck is sure to kick up any home coffee routine or game night.

The maker, Vincent Lam, tapped into his industrial design and graphic arts' expertise to create a deck of reference playing cards that eliminate the hassle and time of sorting through online resources or piles of notes. The playing cards aim to streamline brewing coffee and making drinks by presenting ingredients and brewing parameters through thoughtful visual graphics.

"Each method card has carefully researched brewing parameters and starting points, presented in easy-to-understand 'Brew Meters.' These 'Brew Meters' provide an illustrated reference for the user to adjust the brewing values to suit their taste," Lam says.

This comprehensive collection of brew methods and drink recipes will entice both coffee novices and connoisseurs. The cards feature critical brew information for 18 popular coffee-making methods, and 18 drink recipes, with 12 delightfully-designed court cards that have helpful guidance and educational tips about coffee and brewing.

The poker-size playing cards are meticulously designed and illustrated for quick-reference, and packaged in a coffee-inspired tuck box. Produced in premium black-core, linen-finish stock, the cards are suitable for exciting gameplay and collecting.

With coffee brewing tips at recipes at your fingertips, "Sip-to-Suit About Coffee Cards" are an essential part of any coffee lifestyle.

A Kickstarter campaign is in place to launch this new deck of reference playing cards, "Sip to Suit Cards About Coffee:" https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/aoc/sip-to-suit-cards-about-coffee

Instagram: @artofcaffeination - https://www.instagram.com/artofcaffeination/

Twitter: @artofcaff #coffee #coffeetime #coffeelover

About Art of Caffeination

Based in San Antonio, Texas, Art of Caffeination was founded by Vincent Lam, a professional industrial designer with 20 years' experience in consumer and medical product design. He's the recipient of multiple design awards, including Red Dot; iF (a product design award, conferred annually by the iF International Forum Design GmbH, based in Hanover, Germany); and IDEA Awards (International Design Excellence Award, a design award program held by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)). Art of Caffeination applies the form-follows-function design approach to all things caffeinated to create useful and delightful products for all ages and interests.

MULTIMEDIA:

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/9PQd_C0POrA

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1028s2p-Caffeination-300dpi.jpg
*Photo Caption: "Sip-To-Suit Cards About Coffee."

Something new and exciting is brewing at Art of Caffeination, a new design business that focuses on products that are all things coffee. Its first product launch - a quick-reference deck of coffee playing cards - is designed for coffee lovers, enthusiasts and gamesters alike to not just have fun, but learn something too.

Episcopal Diocese of New York receives $1 Million from Lilly Endowment to launch ‘Episcopal Futures: An Initiative for Collaborative Transformation’

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Episcopal Diocese of New York is pleased to announce that it has received a grant of $1 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help establish "Episcopal Futures: An Initiative for Collaborative Transformation."

The program is funded through Lilly Endowment's Thriving Congregations Initiative. The aim of the national initiative is to strengthen Christian congregations so they can help people deepen their relationships with God, build strong relationships with each other and contribute to the flourishing of local communities and the world.

Lilly Endowment is making nearly $93 million in grants through the initiative. The grants will support organizations as they work directly with congregations and help them gain clarity about their values and missions, explore and understand better the communities in which they serve, and draw upon their theological traditions as they adapt ministries to meet changing needs.

Episcopal Futures: An Initiative for Collaborative Transformation is a five-year project for congregational renewal of the Diocese of New York, developed in collaboration with General Theological Seminary. This project grows out of the recent strategic initiatives of the Diocese in church planting and congregational redevelopment as a brave and faithful response to a rapidly changing environment of mission and ministry.

Episcopal Futures envisions vibrant congregations with capacity to discern and articulate a clear mission, vision and identity, promote spiritual vitality and faith formation among its members and respond creatively and adaptively to conflict and change in their ministry contexts. In collaboration with General Theological Seminary, the Learning Communities program will be designed and developed to provide resources of training curriculum, consultants and coaches to the participants. The participating teams will practice and implement collaboration, faith renewal and radical reconciliation in their ministry contexts. Work will include continued implementation, evaluation and research. In keeping with the Reparations Resolution 9 of the Diocesan Convention 2019, Episcopal Futures is also committed to developing Learning Communities in the historically African-American communities as well as in the marginalized communities. in collaboration with General Theological Seminary.

The goal of Episcopal Futures is to (1) build a culture of collaboration and adaptive leadership in and among the congregations of the Diocese that will lead to a deeper commitment to common life and common mission, rooted in the Episcopal ethos and identity, (2) catalyze the renewal of congregations through team work and creative practices in mission and ministries, and (3) plant new and imaginative worshipping communities and outreach ministries that foster justice and reconciliation.

The Episcopal Diocese of New York is one of 92 organizations taking part in Lilly Endowment's Thriving Congregations Initiative. They represent and serve churches in a broad spectrum of Christian traditions, including Anabaptist, Baptist, Episcopal, evangelical, Lutheran, Methodist, Mennonite, Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Reformed, Restoration, Roman Catholic and Orthodox, as well as congregations that describe themselves as nondenominational. Several organizations serve congregations in Black, Hispanic and Asian-American traditions.

"In the midst of a rapidly changing world, Christian congregations are grappling with how they can best carry forward their ministries," said Christopher Coble, Lilly Endowment's vice president for religion. "These grants will help congregations assess their ministries and draw on practices in their theological traditions to address new challenges and better nurture the spiritual vitality of the people they serve."

Lilly Endowment launched the Thriving Congregations Initiative in 2019 as part of its commitment to support efforts that enhance the vitality of Christian congregations. Episcopal Diocese of New York is grateful to receive this significant grant to launch this exciting and new initiative, Episcopal Futures: An Initiative for Collaborative Transformation.

The Rt. Rev. Allen K. Shin
Bishop Suffragan of the Episcopal Diocese of New York

The Rev. Canon Victor Conrado
Canon for Congregational Vitality and Formation

Learn more at: https://dioceseny.org/

About Lilly Endowment Inc.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J. K. Lilly Sr. and sons Eli and J. K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders' wishes, the Endowment exists to support the causes of religion, education and community development. The Endowment funds significant programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion. However, it maintains a special commitment to its hometown, Indianapolis and home state, Indiana. The principal aim of the Endowment's grantmaking in religion is to deepen and enrich the lives of Christians in the United States, primarily by seeking out and supporting efforts that enhance the vitality of congregations and strengthen their pastoral and lay leadership. Learn more at: https://lillyendowment.org/thrivingcongregations/.

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The Episcopal Diocese of New York is pleased to announce that it has received a grant of $1 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help establish "Episcopal Futures: An Initiative for Collaborative Transformation."

Related link: https://dioceseny.org/

Kuni Foundation Awards $100,000 Housing Access Grant to Community Vision

PORTLAND, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- Community Vision, a leader in advancing self-advocacy and person-focused housing for people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities, received a $100,000 grant from the Kuni Foundation to enhance housing access efforts.

"Housing access is the basis of leading a self-determined life. When the individuals we work with have housing that meets their needs, the impacts reverberate to other aspects of their lives, and often the growth is nothing short of transformative. I am excited to see the advances we will make in equitable access to housing thanks to our partnership with the Kuni Foundation," says Allen Hines, Community Vision's Housing Access Director.

The region's lack of affordable housing impacts people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) especially hard, as this community is often left out of affordable housing policy discussions and planning. Yet the majority of individuals who experience I/DD are low income and increasingly face housing insecurity.

In addition to financial challenges, individuals who experience I/DD are continually isolated, due to decades of systemic barriers that prevent inclusion. Thirty years after the adoption of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), people are still grouped together outside the classroom, in specialized housing, and in certain areas of the community. Individuals often face multiple barriers to accessing safe, stable, and affordable housing such as communication challenges, lack of understanding and outright discrimination. These factors, combined with a lack of navigation conspire to limit independent and person-focused housing options for individuals who experience I/DD.

"Our goal is to transform a lack of understanding and awareness regarding the housing needs of individuals who experience I/DD into enthusiasm and action for increased options and opportunities," said Greg Goodwin, Board Chair of the Kuni Foundation. "We're excited about this initiative and proud to support the inclusive efforts of Community Vision, who work to bring the words and intentions of the ADA to life."

In response to the housing crisis faced by people who experience I/DD, the Housing Access Program will focus on three main areas: the development of new units; housing support and navigation services; and advocacy efforts.

To advance the creation of affordable, accessible units, Community Vision will partner with local housing developers and Community Development Corporations (CDCs) to set aside units in new housing projects for people who experience I/DD and think creatively about other housing options, such as ADUs. The organization will also help families and individuals navigate the complexities of accessing affordable housing, in addition to providing the support and resources people need to be successful in maintaining housing. In collaboration with activists, providers and other stakeholders, Community Vision will advocate for system change at the local and state level, including state rental assistance funding, integrated and inclusive housing models, and the development of an accessible rental registry.

About Community Vision:

Since 1989, Community Vision has worked to ensure that people with disabilities can live, work and thrive in the communities of their choice. The organization provides supported living, employment services, housing resources, financial education, advocacy, and assistive technology. To learn more, visit https://cvision.org/

About the Kuni Foundation:

Based in Vancouver, Washington, the Kuni Foundation funds cancer research and supports programs and initiatives that enhance the lives of adults who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn more at https://www.kunifoundation.org/ or via Twitter at @KuniFoundation.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0806s2p-kuni-fdn-colleen-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Colleen found housing that fits her needs and preferences thanks to the work of Community Vision. Thirty years after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, housing remains a critical need for people who experience disability as affordable housing policies and projects often exclude this community.

Media Contact:
Angela Hult
Angela.hult@kunifoundation.org

Community Vision, a leader in advancing self-advocacy and person-focused housing for people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities, received a $100,000 grant from the Kuni Foundation to enhance housing access efforts.

Related link: https://www.kunifoundation.org/

Seattle Company, Oscilla Power, Developing Breakthrough Approach to Recharging Underwater Vehicles

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Oscilla Power, Inc. is proud to announce the receipt of a $200k grant from the US DOE to further develop technology that enables autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to recharge themselves using ocean waves. In this Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) project, Oscilla Power will collaborate with Lockheed Martin, through their Rotary and Mission Systems group, to explore how this capability can be incorporated into their AUV and UUV systems.

AUVs are now seeing significant use across a wide range of marine applications and the AUV market is projected to grow rapidly at a compound annual growth rate of 20.8% to over $1.6 Billion by 2025. However, the capability of an AUV is limited by its battery capacity. An NREL report noted that there were a number of key advantages in increasing the amount of power available, particularly the ability for longer duration missions. Oscilla's technology offers the ability for the vehicle to recharge its batteries using only the environment, potentially enabling unlimited range and duration.

According to Balky Nair, President of Oscilla Power, "The development of a capability that can be integrated into commercial AUVs to provide enough power to recharge the on-board batteries could be potentially game-changing for ocean science and military operations."

Solar panels have been used previously for AUV recharging, however, this approach suffered from very low power and constrained operations to daytime only. A significant advantage of using waves for this purpose is that ocean waves are more than 100 times more energy dense than solar, allowing for much higher power to be produced. AUV's spend the majority of their time working at depth so higher power is advantageous to minimize surfacing and recharging time.

Oscilla expect to demonstrate a fully working laboratory prototype early next year. If successful, Oscilla plans to work with Lockheed Martin to progress to a full ocean demonstration shortly afterwards, with the ultimate objective of transitioning the technology to commercial and military platforms.

About Oscilla Power, Inc.:

Oscilla Power, Inc. is focused on developing advanced technology to extract energy from ocean waves.

Learn more at: https://oscillapower.com/

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0803s2p-oscilla-power-300dpi.jpg

Oscilla Power, Inc. is proud to announce the receipt of a $200k grant from the US DOE to further develop technology that enables autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to recharge themselves using ocean waves. In this Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) project, Oscilla Power will collaborate with Lockheed Martin, through their Rotary and Mission Systems group.

Related link: https://oscillapower.com/

Expetitle, a digital title company, has completed a $850,000 fundraising round

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Expetitle, a digital title company and a leader in remote real estate closings, announced today it has completed a $850,000 fundraising round. The investment brings Expetitle's total funding to over $1 million and will help the company aggressively expand its sales and marketing efforts, as well as to continue to develop additional product functionality.

This fundraising round builds on an exceptional start to the year for Expetitle which, despite COVID-19, continues to enjoy fast growth. When the virus hit the US and the real estate world needed to move online, Expetitle had already built a completely virtual remote closing process.

"Expetitle is disrupting the title insurance space from the ground up," said Sean Daly, CEO and co-founder of Expetitle. "We have brought in technologists and industry outsiders and matched them with experienced title agents to create a next generation closing experience. We're excited to be partnering with such an amazing group of real estate and venture capital veterans to grow our vision and expand our business. We believe there is an enormous opportunity to create a new-age title company that solves these problems for all parties involved in the closing."

The round was led by Chilean investment fund Beagle Ventures, who were joined by Caoba Capital, and the Arquitectonica family office. LAB Ventures is also following-on in this round after incubating Expetitle in their Startup Studio.

"We are excited to partner with Expetitle for its strong management team and the incredible market opportunity. We have been impressed with both the product and the organization so far, and know we can bring the expertise to help take Expetitle to the next level," stated Pablo Vicuna and Pedro Cabezon of Beagle Ventures.

About Expetitle:

Founded in January 2019, Expetitle was born out of the LAB Ventures startup studio. Expetitle is a Florida statewide title company that delivers fully digital and hybrid closings through one secure collaborative platform that adds transparency to the entire closing process. Expetitle's mission is to provide a better, transparent closing experience for buyers, sellers, and their agents and brokers. Today's consumer is used to doing everything on their phone in real time, why should buying a home be any different?

To learn more about Expetitle, visit https://www.expetitle.com/.

About Beagle Ventures:

Beagle Ventures invests in technology-based service companies that want to be different, generating value for their clients in a creative, responsible and permanent way.

Expetitle, a digital title company and a leader in remote real estate closings, announced today it has completed a $850,000 fundraising round. The investment brings Expetitle's total funding to over $1 million and will help the company aggressively expand its sales and marketing efforts, as well as to continue to develop additional product functionality.

Related link: https://www.expetitle.com/

Perigee Fund Invests in 2020 Mom, Executive Director Joins from Cigna

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 2020 Mom has been awarded a significant multi-year capacity investment by the Perigee Fund, a philanthropic organization focused in supporting early parenting, so families can thrive.

Effective August 1, 2020 Mom's Board of Directors is pleased to hire Joy Burkhard, MBA, the organization's founder, as its full-time Executive Director. Joy will be departing Cigna after nearly 25 years, where she has held leadership roles in supporting regulatory compliance and quality improvement efforts.

"It's been an honor to work for Cigna, where I have learned about the complex U.S. healthcare system which has enabled me to understand the gaps in our system," said Burkhard. "I'm incredibly grateful for Perigee's investment in 2020 Mom; as a mother and health and well-being change agent, I'm very much looking forward to both having more time with my family and putting 100% of my professional energy and heart into driving more change through the powerful organization, 2020 Mom."

About Perigee Fund

Perigee Fund seeks to expand access to infant and early childhood mental health care and to strengthen support for parents and caregivers who are foundational to children's development. Learn more: https://perigeefund.org/

About 2020 Mom

2020 Mom is a social change 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization driving systems and policy change to close gaps in maternal and mental health care. Learn more: https://www.2020mom.org/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0730s2p-joy-burkhard-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Joy Burkhard, MBA.

Media Contact:
Kelly Nielson
Kelly@2020Mom.org
(310) 760-1313

2020 Mom has been awarded a significant multi-year capacity investment by the Perigee Fund, a philanthropic organization focused in supporting early parenting, so families can thrive.

Related link: https://www.2020mom.org/

Registration for the National 2020 Virtual Pitch Competition for Entrepreneurs is Now Open

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- The National Entrepreneurs Association will host the 2020 Virtual Pitch Contest for Entrepreneurs Wednesday August 12, 2020 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. EDT on Zoom. The event was designed to give entrepreneurs and small business owners an opportunity to gain national exposure for their businesses as well as resources to help them grow.

10 finalists will be chosen from all applicants to pitch their business ideas to a national audience for three minutes on Zoom. A first place winner will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive a $1000 cash prize, a free Dell computer and a one-year membership to the National Entrepreneurs Association. A second place winner will be chosen by the audience and will receive a $500 cash prize, a Dell Computer and a one-year membership to the National Entrepreneurs Association. The event is open to the public and entry is free.

"At a time when people are feeling disconnected, this event is a great way for the business community to connect around a worthy cause and help entrepreneurs grow. The pitch contest will allow entrepreneurs to get some needed exposure for their businesses, obtain funds that they can use immediately and provide a brand new computer so that they can take advantage of the latest technology," said National Entrepreneurs Association President, Dr. ZaLonya Allen.

In addition, the winners will receive a free one-year membership to the National Entrepreneurs Association which includes virtual meetings and free coaching from experienced entrepreneurs.

For more information or to register visit http://www.nationalentrepreneurs.org/.

The event is sponsored by Dell Technologies, maker of laptops, workstations, monitors, servers, storage solutions and more. NEA is a 501(c)(3) member-based non-profit created to help entrepreneurs grow through networking events and training programs.

For additional comments or information please visit http://www.nationalentrepreneurs.org/ or contact NEA President, Dr. ZaLonya Allen at 248-416-7278.

National Entrepreneurs Association, 18444 W 10 Mile Rd Suite 103, Southfield, MI 48075

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/6uQmg-kBC6o

*Image link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0714s2p-nea-pitch-300dpi.jpg

The National Entrepreneurs Association will host the 2020 Virtual Pitch Contest for Entrepreneurs Wednesday August 12, 2020 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. EDT on Zoom. The event was designed to give entrepreneurs and small business owners an opportunity to gain national exposure for their businesses as well as resources to help them grow.

Related link: http://www.nationalentrepreneurs.org/

Oscilla Power, Inc. Announces Launch of MicroVentures Investment Opportunity

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Oscilla Power, Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of a private placement offering in accordance with Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg. CF) adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through MicroVentures.

More information can be found at: https://app.microventures.com/crowdfunding/oscilla-power

Oscilla Power, Inc. is developing advanced technology to extract energy from ocean waves. They are developing the Triton and Triton-C wave energy converters that promise to substantially lower the cost of extracting energy from the ocean. The ocean wave energy market is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 24% to over $15 billion by 2027.

Oscilla Power was founded in 2009 and has received over $20M in federal and over $5M in private funding to develop their technology. They are currently completing construction of their first commercial-scale system, the Triton-C, a 100kW wave energy converter which is expected to be tested in Hawaii next year. This system is currently being constructed in Seattle at the Snow & Company shipyard.

The Triton-C has been substantially funded through the US Department of Energy's Water Power Technologies office, who have committed over $5 Million to date towards the design, development and construction.

According to Oscilla Power's President, Balky Nair, "The bulk of the funds from this new Reg CF raise are intended to go towards completing the final outfitting and early activities towards deployment of the Triton-C in Hawaii."

Oscilla Power expects that the successful demonstration of the 100kW Triton-C wave energy system will be one of the last steps needed to commercialize their wave energy technology and will be a crucial stepping stone to prove the success of the 1 MW utility-scale Triton system in the coming years.

About Oscilla Power, Inc.:

Oscilla Power, Inc. is an ocean wave energy technology company that is developing an advanced wave energy converter aiming to unlock the tremendous renewable energy potential of the world's oceans. For more information, visit: https://oscillapower.com/.

About MicroVenture Marketplace, Inc.:

MicroVenture Marketplace ("MicroVentures") is a registered broker/dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. MicroVentures offers the sale of private placements in early and late stage companies in various industries, facilitates secondary transactions in private companies, and serves as a crowdfunding intermediary in accordance with Regulation CF. For more information, please visit: https://microventures.com/.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0706s2p-oscilla-power-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: Oscilla Power are currently completing construction of their first commercial-scale system, the Triton-C, a 100kW wave energy converter.

Oscilla Power, Inc. is pleased to announce the launch of a private placement offering in accordance with Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg. CF) adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through MicroVentures.

Related link: https://oscillapower.com/

Expert DOJO Invests $1.2 Million in Diverse Startups this June

SANTA MONICA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On June 3, 2020, Expert DOJO has announced that its current accelerator cohort has invested in 12 companies. Of 12 investments made, 9 are minority-led businesses, and of the same 12 investments, 4 have female founders.

Find out more about them in this blog post - https://expertdojo.com/weve-got-le-creme-de-la-creme-2020-startup-companies/.

Brian Mac Mahon, Expert DOJO's CEO said, "This is not just a question of fairness, it's a question of common sense. America is a diverse and creatively brilliant country and that is what makes it great."

Mac Mahon encourages all other Angels, Accelerators, Venture Capitalists and influencers in the startup world to make their scorecards public and welcome a new world of opportunity. "This is their chance to invest in a way that will make their children proud."

9 out of the 12 companies are waiting for other investors to follow in Expert Dojo's footsteps and help them raise their seed round of investment. "We really hope America will follow our movement," Mac Mahon said.

About Expert DOJO:

Expert DOJO is the fastest growing start-up community in Southern California based in Santa Monica. It helps early-stage startups through investment, foundation, showcasing, and influence.

Since 2014, It has worked with over 500 startups to accelerate their growth and success. Entrepreneurs love Expert DOJO and the power of our startup community. All entrepreneurs in its programs have agreed to support the whole community as they get stronger together.

Learn more at: https://expertdojo.com/

For additional information, please contact us at info@expertdojo.com

Expert DOJO social media accounts:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/expert-dojo/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/expertdojo/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ExpertDOJO/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Expert_Dojo
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/ExpertDOJO
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@expertdojo.com?lang=en

Brian's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmacmahon2/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0624s2p-brian-mac-mahon-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Brian Mac Mahon, Expert DOJO's CEO.

On June 3, 2020, Expert DOJO has announced that its current accelerator cohort has invested in 12 companies. Of 12 investments made, 9 are minority-led businesses, and of the same 12 investments, 4 have female founders.

Related link: https://expertdojo.com/

Black-Owned Private Equity Firm Offers Zero-Percent Interest Loans to Businesses of Color Impacted by COVID-19, Civil Unrest

GREENSBORO, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, North Carolina-based, black-owned private equity firm, Building Wealth & Communities (BWC) Capital, announced the launch of the BWC+invest Zero-Percent Interest Loan Program. Developed for small, emerging businesses of color across the country, the program will provide a minimum of $10,000 for businesses disproportionally impacted by temporary and permanent closures due to the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest surrounding recent police brutality and racial bias cases.

Established in partnership with the Racial Equity Institute (REI), a Greensboro, NC-based alliance of racial equity trainers, organizers and institutional leaders, the program grants qualified borrowers three-years to repay the loan with an up to 50% loan forgiveness option.

"The Racial Equity Institute believes that we must begin taking stock of the glacial nature of racial disparities and economic inequity. Current approaches have been a bit anemic in response to the magnitude of issues at hand," said Deena Hayes-Greene, REI's co-founder and managing director. "The murder of George Floyd and the COVID-19 pandemic have presented us with indisputable evidence that the African American community suffers the greatest disproportionality of any group in this state, in this country."

Hayes-Greene adds, "While we will join the masses of people demanding systemic change, we will also join BWC in empowering ourselves and our community by putting our money where our mouth is. We encourage other organizations dedicated to building resilient communities of color to support our efforts to highlight the concerns for a broader approach to closing persistent racial gaps in our community."

BWC's goal is to deploy $10 million in loans over a five-year period to businesses of color. The firm has already committed $100,000 over five years towards the initiative and seeks to encourage single and multi-year investments from institutional investors, philanthropists, and the community-at-large.

"Since inception in 2005, BWC has helped to build financial strategies to ensure infrastructure improvements on black college campuses and access to capital for major projects and businesses in underserved communities of color to the tune of over $1 billion in transactions," said Bridget Chisholm, BWC's founder and managing partner. "We are proud of our accomplishments and economic impacts such as jobs created and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) spending, but we know there is more to do. We refuse to stand by while communities of color collapse under the weight of business inoperability and racial inequities. The time is now, and we heed the call to act on behalf of black community growth and sustainability."

Qualifying businesses of color must have at least one year of operation, two or more full-time equivalent (FTE) employees and an established track record for producing enough cash flow (or a plan to re-establish it) to support loan repayment within a three-year period or to meet the requirements of the up to 50% loan forgiveness guidelines. Each application will be reviewed by a select community development committee within 72 hours of application submission. Loan approvals or disapprovals will be communicated to the applicant no later than seven business days after submissions.

"We believe our communities are in a state of emergency. Therefore, it is in the best interest of our program to work quickly to provide the capital needed to help businesses of color succeed," said Chisholm.

Application submission will open on July 1, 2020.

To donate or apply for the BWC+invest Zero-Percent Interest Loan Program, visit https://bwccapital.com/bwcinvest/.

About BWC Capital

BWC Capital, LLC is a private equity firm headquartered in North Carolina. In operation since 2013, BWC Capital was formed to address opportunities outside the scope of BWC Consulting, a boutique strategy and financial advisory consulting firm in existence since 2005, and in response to the insatiable demand and widening the gap for access to capital by emerging-and-growth-oriented businesses. To learn more about BWC Capital, visit https://bwccapital.com/.

LOGO LINKS FOR MEDIA
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0616s2p-bwc-invest-300dpi.jpg
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Today, North Carolina-based, black-owned private equity firm, Building Wealth & Communities (BWC) Capital, announced the launch of the BWC+invest Zero-Percent Interest Loan Program. Developed for small, emerging businesses of color across the country.

Related link: http://www.bwccapital.com

Bunk 57 Ministries Receives a $40,126 grant to reshape the lives of Minority Young Men

CHARLOTTE, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bunk 57 Ministries has received a $40,126 grant from the Mecklenburg County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council to fund its Youth Discipleship Program for minority youth, young men ages 12-17.

Bunk 57 Ministries is a non-profit organization serving the metro Charlotte area. The "Youth Discipleship" program partners young men ages 12-17 with a mentor that will take them through a 12- month mentoring program with a holistic approach.

The JCPC Grant will be used to provide one on one mentoring including group growth sessions, community service projects and educational and social excursions.

"We are excited to expand our efforts to transform the mindset of young men headed down the wrong path. The JCPC grant helps with training materials and the resources and personnel needed to support both mentors and program participants. Our mentors will work with our young men to focus on their mental, social, emotional and spiritual well-being in addition to academia," says, Ira Lawrence, Founder of Bunk 57 Ministries.

ABOUT BUNK 57 MINISTRIES:

Bunk 57 Ministries diverts youth from the school to prison pipeline, provides faith-based media through hip-hop and cinema projects and advances successful re-entry using faith-based practices through education, training and discipleship.

Bunk 57 Ministries is seeking additional mentors to work with the young men accepted into the program and is accepting donations to assist with additional funding to include its Life Restoration and Hip-Hop and Cinema programs.

For more information on Bunk 57 Ministries and how you can support efforts to change lives, please visit https://www.bunk57ministries.org/ or call 980-553-0108.

Media Contact:
Ira Lawrence, Founder
Bunk 57 Ministries
980-553-0108
theword@bunk57ministries.org

Bunk 57 Ministries has received a $40,126 grant from the Mecklenburg County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council to fund its Youth Discipleship Program for minority youth, young men ages 12-17.

Related link: https://www.bunk57ministries.org/

TeamSnap Raises $5.5 Million in Funding as Sports Activities Begin to Resume

BOULDER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- TeamSnap, the leader in sport management technology, announced today a $5.5 million convertible notes financing led by Foundry Group and Bolt Ventures. The funding comes as TeamSnap prepares for sports activities to return after the global shutdown.

TeamSnap supports over 22 million users, 3 million unique teams and 19,000 clubs across more than 100 different sports and activities. Sport organizations, teams, players and families use TeamSnap's innovative technology everyday to sign up, schedule, communicate, collect payments and coordinate everything for the sports season.

"While this has been a challenging time for the collective youth sports industry, it is gratifying to know that investors are still bullish about our technology, market position and brand," said Dave DuPont, CEO and co-founder of TeamSnap. "Our customers have always genuinely cared about our product. Their loyalty is a testament to our continued investment in technology and our commitment to improving the customer experience. As sports activity continues to recover, this funding gives us liquidity and flexibility to further support our network of teams, sports organizations and brand partners."

The Boulder-based venture firm Foundry Group has been a lead investor for TeamSnap in previous funding rounds. Bolt Ventures joins as a new TeamSnap investor.

"TeamSnap has become synonymous with youth sports and is the top-of-mind platform for all teams and sports organizations," said Isaac Harrouche, Investment Principal, Bolt Ventures. "With sports activities set to return, we are thrilled to partner with TeamSnap and look forward to its continued growth fueled by its powerful brand and innovative technology."

About TeamSnap

Since our formation in 2009, TeamSnap has been single-mindedly focused on taking the work out of play. Over 22 million coaches, administrators, players and parents rely on TeamSnap's powerful and easy-to-use tools for communication, scheduling, payment collection and registration, organizing every sport and group activity in the world. For more information, visit https://www.TeamSnap.com/.

Twitter: #YouthSports #SportsTech @teamSnap

*LOGO Link for Media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-1219s2p-teamsnap-300dpi.jpg

TeamSnap, the leader in sport management technology, announced today a $5.5 million convertible notes financing led by Foundry Group and Bolt Ventures. The funding comes as TeamSnap prepares for sports activities to return after the global shutdown.

Related link: https://www.teamsnap.com/

Structured Settlement Factoring Company Launches New Website to Better Serve Customers

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Strategic Capital has launched a new website (https://www.strategiccapital.com/). With this newly revamped web presence, they give people the opportunity to learn more about how they can maximize payout options for structured settlements, lottery winnings, casino winnings, and more.

They aim to help individuals and families learn not just about their service offerings, but also about the prospect of selling payments from any of the aforementioned products. On their new website, people can educate themselves about their options and what to expect of the process.

Strategic Capital has bought structured settlement payments, lottery winnings, investment annuity payments, IGT casino winnings, and other future payments for well over two decades. They are in a unique position to help their customers maximize their winnings and settlement payouts through well-structured transactions.

In fact, not only does the Strategic Capital team have years of experience buying structured settlement payments, but they also come highly recommended from some of the top lawyer associations across the country, including the Kentucky Justice Association, New Jersey Association for Justice (NJAJ), Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association (TTLA), National Association of Trial Lawyer Executives (NATLE), and the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC).

Micha Star Liberty, CAOC President 2020, says, "Strategic Capital has been thoroughly vetted by the board of CAOC and found to operate with integrity."

And Lynne M. Kizis, Esq., NJAJ President 2019, adds, "Unlike other firms in the industry, they are known for treating, with care and fairness, those with severe financial challenges arising after their case has settled."

With offices in New York and Los Angeles, Strategic Capital has originated over $1.5 billion in purchases. They have been buying lottery prize payments, investment annuity payments, structured settlement payments, and other future payments since 1994. Strategic Capital helps their customers by reviewing their finances and upcoming expenses. In this way, Strategic Capital is able to put together quotes and value calculations for customers to review. If the customer decides to move forward with selling some or all of their payments, Strategic Capital organizes their documents and sends them to the court. Once the application has been approved, they wire money to the customers directly.

Anyone interested in learning more about the services Strategic Capital offers and the processes involved with each can now find that information on their newly launched website: https://www.strategiccapital.com/

Strategic Capital, 575 Madison Ave Suite 1006, New York, NY 10022.

Strategic Capital has launched a new website. With this newly revamped web presence, they give people the opportunity to learn more about how they can maximize payout options for structured settlements, lottery winnings, casino winnings, and more.

Related link: https://www.strategiccapital.com/

777 Partners Announces Acquisition of Uown Leasing

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- 777 Partners, a Miami based investment firm, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Uown Leasing ("Uown"), from Shepard Capital Partners. Uown, a lease-to-own company based in Tampa, was founded in 2008.

The company partners with retailers of durable consumer goods to offer a lease-to-own financing product as an alternative to traditional credit. Currently, Uown offers its product in over 450 locations across the United States, with a focus on retailers of furniture, bedding and appliances.

Under the terms of the acquisition, Uown Leasing will combine operations with Mollie Financial, 777 Partners' existing lease-to-own product, and operate solely under the Uown Leasing name going forward. Uown will utilize Mollie Financial's best-in-class technology, including its innovative merchant portal.

"We look forward to expanding Uown into a nationally recognized leader in the lease to own industry, and we think that 777 Partners and Mollie Financial are the ideal partners to fuel explosive growth," says Daniel Klein, the CEO of Uown.

"We are excited to add Uown to 777 Partners' portfolio of consumer finance companies. Daniel and team have a built a market leading platform and we look forward to contributing to the future growth of Uown," says Aaron Levy, Principal at 777 Partners.

About Uown Leasing

Uown Leasing operates lease purchase programs to select furniture and electronics retailers across the United States. The company was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Tampa, Florida. Uown Leasing currently supports dealers operating in over 46 states. For more information, visit https://uownleasing.com/.

About 777 Partners

777 Partners is a Miami-based investment firm focused on a broad spectrum of financial services businesses across insurance, lending, specialty finance, and financial technology. Operating in attractive markets and often times esoteric asset classes, 777 seeks to make control investments across the business life cycle in companies with scalable profiles and ambitious management teams. 777 Partners senior management team is composed of industry veterans with backgrounds in private equity, venture capital, investment banking, insurance, financial technology, actuarial science, asset management, structured-credit, ABS, risk, analytics, complex commercial litigation and computer science. For more information on 777 Partners, visit https://777part.com/.

About Shepard Capital Partners

Shepard Capital Partners is a Florida based private equity firm focused on investment opportunities in the Southeastern United States. The firm invests in cashflow positive businesses where the primary constraint to growth is access to capital, and commercial real estate transactions which meet defined return characteristics. For more information on Shepard Capital Partners, visit https://shepardcap.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Reed
Shepard Capital Partners, LLC
creed@shepardcap.com
Phone: 404-643-1766

777 Partners, a Miami based investment firm, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Uown Leasing ("Uown"), from Shepard Capital Partners. Uown, a lease-to-own company based in Tampa, was founded in 2008.

Related link: https://shepardcap.com/

MPI REPORT: Wide Range of Private Market Fund Returns Could Explain Ivy Endowments’ Lackluster Fiscal 2019 Performance

SUMMIT, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Markov Processes International (MPI), a leading provider of investment research, analysis and reporting solutions for the global wealth and asset management industry, today announced the publication of its annual Ivy League endowment performance analysis for the latest fiscal year, "Measuring the Ivy 2019: Decoding the Performance Gap."

The report shows that the average Ivy endowment return for FY 2019 was just 6.7%, significantly underperforming a reference 60-40 domestic portfolio. Between the best performing Brown at 12.4% and Columbia at 3.8%, Ivies also experienced the second widest dispersion of returns in the past decade and saw a shift in the historical positioning of performance leaders (e.g., Yale and Princeton) and laggards (e.g., Harvard and Brown).

MPI uses endowments' annual return data and returns-based techniques to decode what may have happened in FY 2019 and suggests endowments' private market investments were the likely root of the year's anomalous results. MPI points to the fact that in a typical year the range of potential outcomes of private market investments is two- to three-times greater on both the upside and the downside versus a universe of U.S. equity mutual funds. Such dispersion in private market returns could explain both the lackluster returns of most Ivies as well as the wide range of results in FY 2019.

Report co-author Megan Woods, CFA, Director of Quantitative Research at MPI, said, "Even in the absence of considerable allocations to U.S. public equities and bonds, both of which had a solid year, the seeming inability of elite endowments' large exposures to private markets to push portfolio returns beyond their middling figures in fiscal 2019 is noteworthy and tells of the challenges in getting PE and VC investing consistently right. The range of outcomes of PE funds makes it very difficult to underestimate the risk in private equity relative to just looking at average returns shown by an index. In many years, more than 25% of funds have negative returns, even though the index may register a positive return in the double digits. We hope our report helps the many investors who are seeking to evolve the measurement of the performance and risk of their private market investment portfolios."

Michael Markov, MPI CEO and report co-author, stated, "This report offers a cautionary tale. Investors, both institutional and retail, are seeking greater access to the private market opportunity set - however, even the most sophisticated investors with access to elite managers aren't immune from potential performance downturns and can suffer in a year that was, on average, good for private markets. At a time when the amount of dry powder waiting to invest in richly valued markets sits near historic levels, it could be wise for investors to scrutinize private markets deals, managers and portfolios with renewed diligence using the latest quantitative tools."

For more information about the report or MPI's solutions, please email info@markovprocesses.com or call +1 908 608 1558.

About MPI
Markov Processes International (MPI) is a leading independent provider of quantitative investment research, technology, analytics and indices for the global investment management industry. MPI's flagship Stylus solutions are used by hundreds of firms to make smarter investment research, portfolio construction and optimization, performance analysis, risk surveillance, distribution and reporting decisions. MPI Stylus can be delivered as a desktop, enterprise-hosted or cloud-deployed solution. MPI's Enterprise Solutions team also offers customized configuration and implementation services to meet your organization's specific needs.

Follow us on Twitter @MarkovMPI, connect with us on LinkedIn and read the latest MPI research at https://www.markovprocesses.com/category/blog/.

Learn more at: https://www.markovprocesses.com/

Markov Processes International (MPI), a leading provider of investment research, analysis and reporting solutions for the global wealth and asset management industry, today announced the publication of its annual Ivy League endowment performance analysis for the latest fiscal year, "Measuring the Ivy 2019: Decoding the Performance Gap."

Related link: https://www.markovprocesses.com/

CALNOC Announces the CALNOC Nightingale Research Fund: Raising Nursing’s Voice in Health Services Research

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- CALNOC is pleased to introduce The CALNOC Nightingale Research Fund, an innovative and opportune resource in health services research focused on and administrated by nursing. "We are excited to announce the Research Fund today in honor of Florence Nightingale and in celebration of the Year of the Nurse 2020. This fund will stimulate and support new research and clinical inquiry with emphasis on nursing's contribution," said Dr. Mary E. Foley PhD, RN, FAAN and Chairperson of CALNOC.

"This Fund will provide awards and matching funds to qualified individuals and non-profit institutions in support of clinical inquiry on nursing's contributions to improving clinical care of patients, population health management, staff engagement and satisfaction, and health care operations," added Tony Sung, Chief Executive Officer of CALNOC.

Each year CALNOC will commit substantial support to the fund and announce its research priorities for the current year. Individuals and non-profit institutions are encouraged to apply.

For more information, priorities for funding as well as application process, please go to our website at https://calnoc.org/.

About CALNOC:

Since 1996, CALNOC has been at the forefront of supporting inter professional, nursing focused patient care excellence, creating the first database registry of nursing sensitive quality indicators. As a health services research organization, CALNOC conducts and supports research and clinical inquiry with a focus on nursing's contribution to improving healthcare. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, CALNOC is a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation.

For more information, call 833-225-6621 or visit https://calnoc.org/

CALNOC is pleased to introduce The CALNOC Nightingale Research Fund, an innovative and opportune resource in health services research focused on and administrated by nursing. We are excited to announce the Research Fund today in honor of Florence Nightingale and in celebration of the Year of the Nurse 2020.

Related link: https://calnoc.org/

HexGn Study: Startup Investors Shun Asia in 2019 and Flock to Americas and Europe

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- HexGn released a study of the funding trends in the global startup ecosystem in 2019; the team analyzed over 60,000 deals and one million data points for the report. Globally, the total funding for technology Startups this year dipped by 22 percent to $293 billion from $375 billion in 2018, with a 27 percent drop in deals. Health & Medtech clocked the highest number of transactions, while Fintech scored in terms of numbers in 2019.

In North America, funding came down to $154 billion from $165 billion in 2018, with a 31 percent drop in deals. However, If there ever was a time in recent years that the US moved far ahead of others, it is 2019. The US attracted more startup funding than the next 30 countries combined, combing $100 billion more Startup funding than second-placed China. San Francisco Bay Area, on its own, drew 18 percent of the global Startup funding.

Asia bore the brunt with investments shrinking 47 percent to $83 billion from $157 billion last year, and the deals went down by 27 percent, primarily due to China Startup funding crashing from $117 billion to just $51 billion in 2019, a drop of 56 percent. However, India bucked the Asian mayhem, with investments surging to $14 billion, up 18 percent in 2019.

Despite being in the news for 'Brexit,' declining auto sales and banking sector woes, Europe Startup funding held steady. Investments went up by eight percent from $43 billion to $47 billion in 2019, with the number of deals dropping by 20 percent, due to the continued focus of European governments on startups.

In Africa, investments grew from $1.7 billion to $1.85 in 2019; deals fell by 16 percent. South America got $3.95 in 2019 over $3.45 billion last year, and the deals dipped by 15 percent. The investments in the Oceania region went down by six percent from $2.8 billion to $2.7 billion in 2019.

In the 2019 annual Startup report, HexGn announced the Top Ten Startup Cities for 2020. In the order of global ranking, they are, San Francisco Bay Area, New York, Beijing, London, Shanghai, Delhi NCR, Singapore, Los Angeles County, Hangzhou and Bengaluru. These top ten cities from five countries, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, India and Singapore, account for 58 percent of global funding, signifying its standing.

Big things start small, Bahrain, Croatia, and Romania find a mention in the HexGn 2019 Global startup report for growing their Startup funding by over twenty times in 2019, despite the slowdown.

About HexGn

HexGn through its global research, industry events, and programs, equips students, entrepreneurs and businesses to tap into new opportunities and Future Proof themselves.

Website: https://hexgn.com/

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HexGn released a study of the funding trends in the global startup ecosystem in 2019; the team analyzed over 60,000 deals and one million data points for the report.

Related link: https://hexgn.com/

Lifting People with Disabilities Out of Poverty: JLA Pooled Trust Hits $5 million in Beneficiary Assets

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In recognition of the highly impactful, life-changing work provided to people with disabilities in the region, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has awarded Jewish Los Angeles Special Needs Trust & Services (JLA Trust) with a three-year, $250,000 Next Stage Grant.

"We're very proud that our Next Stage Grant will enable the long-term sustainability of JLA Trust and help it serve more individuals with disabilities and their families," said Marvin I. Schotland, president and CEO of The Foundation. "The Foundation provided seed-funding to JLA Trust in 2015 because we believe in its mission. JLA Trust provides guidance and resources to families as they navigate the daunting process of planning for the financial security of their loved ones with disabilities and secure the support they need to thrive. This much-needed service strengthens Jewish families across Los Angeles and our community as a whole."

The pooled trusts administered by JLA Trust help children and adults with a range of physical, mental, developmental and intellectual disabilities obtain a higher quality of life through affordable and professionally managed special needs trusts, which are a legal way to supplement means-tested government benefits. In less than 4 years of operations, JLA Trust recently crossed the $5 million mark in total beneficiary assets, and has already distributed $1.5 million for clients' expenses.

Background

In order to receive essential government benefits such as SSI, Medi-Cal and In-Home Supported Services (IHSS), single persons with disabilities are limited to only $2,000 in assets at any one time. To legally supplement those benefits with their own funds, or with money from family members, the only choices are the new CalABLE accounts (limited to $15,000 in a calendar year) and special needs trusts, which are traditionally very expensive to create and manage.

For those with less assets, an excellent solution is a Pooled Special Needs Trust, created by Congress in 1993. Using a Master trust document written by an expert attorney, JLA Trust acts as an "umbrella" over individual trust accounts, which are carefully managed in order to support persons with disabilities for as long as possible. Each client has a sub-account, and funds are only pooled for investment and cash management purposes.

All accounts receive professional trustee oversight and wealth management, along with a restricted-use VISA card from True Link Financial Services that is customized to meet the complicated rules of government benefit programs as well as the unique needs of each beneficiary.

Under the leadership of founding board Chair Sandor Samuels, a former CEO of Bet Tzedek Legal Services, JLA Trust enrolled its first client in August 2016, and has grown to 85 enrolled clients, with combined assets of more than $5 million. "Our community-based, personalized services are a game-changer for persons with disabilities in Los Angeles County and the region. We are thankful to the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles for awarding us with a Next Stage Grant, which gives us the ability to hire a dedicated marketing and outreach professional who can help JLA Trust expand our services to help more people with disabilities."

Seed funding for the new nonprofit was provided by a 2015 three-year Cutting Edge Grant from The Foundation, along with planning and program grants from the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. Funding has also been provided by the Diane P. and Guilford Glazer Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles.

JLA Trust & Services has strong roots in the Jewish community and is open to all persons of all faiths, types of disabilities, and gender/sexual identification. For more information, go to https://www.jlatrust.org/.

About the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles

Established in 1954, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles manages charitable assets of more than $1 billion entrusted to it by over 1,300 families. The Foundation partners with donors to shape meaningful philanthropic strategies, magnify the impact of giving, and build enduring charitable legacies. Over the past 15 years, it has distributed more than $1 billion to thousands of nonprofits across a diverse spectrum. http://www.jewishfoundationla.org/.

Client Stories:

Adam, 26 - A stroke left him with lifelong physical and intellectual disabilities. His family set up a Go Fund Me campaign to cover out of pocket medical costs and raised over $20,000. If the funds stayed in Adam's checking account, he would lose his vital Medi-Cal housing. His trust preserves his Medi-Cal benefits, plus the family uses trust funds for an aide and trips outside of the residential facility. "I am so grateful you exist," said his mother.

Janet, 48 - She has a genetic medical condition that causes great pain and seizures. Her father set up a 3rd party special needs trust for her with JLA Trust, and after his recent death, money from his life insurance policies are going directly into the trust, without jeopardizing her Medi-Cal. She said, "I am so grateful my Dad found JLA Trust and took care of everything ahead of time."

In recognition of the highly impactful, life-changing work provided to people with disabilities in the region, the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles (The Foundation) has awarded Jewish Los Angeles Special Needs Trust & Services (JLA Trust) with a three-year, $250,000 Next Stage Grant.

Related link: https://www.jlatrust.org/

Bank of Southern California, N.A. Completes Capital Offering and Plans to Form Holding Company

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Bank of Southern California, N.A. (OTC Pink: BCAL / OTCMKTS: BCAL), a community business bank headquartered in San Diego, announced today the successful completion of a capital raise of approximately $12 million through the issuance of common stock in a private placement to institutional and accredited individual investors at a price of $12.00 per share. The Bank also announced its plans to reorganize into a holding company, Southern California Bancorp, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.

The new capital was raised in connection with the Bank's pending acquisition of CalWest Bancorp (OTCBB: CALW / OTCMKTS: CALW), the holding company for CalWest Bank, previously announced in October. Bank of Southern California entered into a definitive agreement with CalWest Bancorp on October 21, 2019, which is expected to close in the first half of 2020, subject to customary closing conditions. The Bank is forming a holding company, Southern California Bancorp, to facilitate the CalWest transaction and to support the Bank's future growth. In addition to helping facilitate the new holding company's funding of the all-cash acquisition, the capital raise will further support the Bank's successful strategy of driving both organic growth and increasing its geographic footprint throughout Southern California.

Nathan Rogge, President and CEO of Bank of Southern California stated that proceeds from the offering will be used to strengthen the Bank's balance sheet and further support its expansion in the Southern California market. "We are pleased with the capital raise effort and will begin 2020 with additional capital to execute our growth strategies," Rogge added. "The strong interest that we received from individual and institutional investors demonstrates the investment community's endorsement and confidence in Bank of Southern California's performance and future value."

The Bank was represented by MJC Partners, LLC, who served as the sole placement agent for the offering.

About Bank of Southern California

A growing community bank, established in 2001, Bank of Southern California, N.A., with headquarters in San Diego, CA, is locally owned and managed, and offers a range of financial products to individuals, professionals and small-to-medium sized businesses. The Bank's solution-driven, relationship-based approach to banking provides accessibility to decision makers and enhances value through strong partnerships with its clients. The Bank currently operates eleven branches in San Diego County, Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Coachella Valley in Riverside County, as well as a production office in West Los Angeles. For more information, please visit https://www.banksocal.com or call (858) 847-4780.

About MJC Partners, LLC

MJC Partners, LLC is a leading Los Angeles-based boutique investment banking and advisory firm providing a full range of strategic, transactional, and valuation-related services to our clients across multiple industry groups. For more information about MJC Partners, visit http://www.mjcpartners.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain comments or information that constitute forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995), and Bank of Southern California intends for such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of that Act. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate, "intend," "plan," "estimate," or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs, such as "will," "would," "should," "could," or "may." Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management's views as of any subsequent date. Future events are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statement involve significant risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those presented, either expressed or implied, in this news release. Factors that might cause such differences include but are not limited to: the ability of the Bank to successfully execute its business plan; changes in interest rates and interest rate relationships; changes in demand for products and services; the degree of competition by traditional and non-traditional competitors; changes in banking legislation or regulation; changes in tax laws; changes in prices, levies, and assessments; the impact of technological advances; the outcomes of contingencies; trends in customer behavior as well as their ability to repay loans; and changes in the national and local economy. Bank of Southern California undertakes no obligation to update or clarify forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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Tickers: OTC Pink:BCAL / OTC:BCAL / OTCMKTS:BCAL / OP: BCAL / OTC:CALW

Bank of Southern California, N.A. (OTC Pink: BCAL / OTCMKTS: BCAL), a community business bank headquartered in San Diego, announced today the successful completion of a capital raise of approximately $12 million through the issuance of common stock in a private placement to institutional and accredited individual investors at a price of $12.00 per share.

Related link: https://www.banksocal.com/