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Optellum, AI Lung Cancer Diagnosis Innovator, Secures $14M Series A Funding to Accelerate Expansion

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Lead investor Mercia, alongside Intuitive Ventures and Black Opal, invests in Optellum’s pioneering AI-powered lung-health technology

OXFORD, England and HOUSTON, Sept. 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Optellum, an Oxford-based medtech company that provides a breakthrough AI platform to diagnose and treat early-stage lung cancer, has raised $14 million in a Series A funding round. The investment will enable Optellum to scale its base, operations, and commercial launches in the UK and USA; accelerate research and development; and expand its platform into personalized therapy decisions by integrating imaging data with molecular data, robotics, and liquid biopsies.

 

This funding round was led by Mercia, with additional investors Intuitive Ventures (Sunnyvale, CA, USA) and Black Opal Ventures (New York, NY, USA). Existing investors, including St John’s College in the University of Oxford, IQ Capital, and the family office of Sir Martin & Lady Audrey Wood, also participated in this round.

Lung cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. Approximately 150,000 people in the United States and 1.8 million people worldwide die from lung cancer each year. The current worldwide five-year survival rate is 20 percent, primarily because most patients are diagnosed after symptoms have appeared and the disease has progressed to an advanced stage (Stage III or IV). In contrast, the survival rate for small tumors treated at Stage 1A is up to 90 percent. This disparity highlights a critical need for diagnosis and treatment at the earliest stage possible.

Optellum is the leader in AI-enabled lung cancer diagnosis, and the first and only medtech company to attain FDA clearance, CE-MDR in the EU, and UKCA in the UK for its software platform Virtual Nodule Clinic. This first-of-a-kind platform can help physicians identify and track at-risk patients, and optimally diagnose the signs of lung cancer early, so treatment can be started sooner for patients with tumors, and invasive procedures such as biopsies on benign lesions can be minimized.

Jason Pesterfield, CEO at Optellum, said: “With this strong support and commitment of highly specialized investors, we are positioned to accelerate commercial deployment in both the UK and the United States to expand our installed base. Following years of research and clinical trials that have shown the impact of our software on the diagnosis of at-risk lung nodules, we’re focused on expanding patient access to this crucial technology and identifying deadly lung cancer faster in more at-risk people. The funding will also boost our research and development with world-leading institutions and partners to progress further innovation.”

Lead investor Mercia brings expertise in software technologies having a significant impact on global health issues and an existing portfolio that includes AI and machine-learning technology.

Investment Director at Mercia, Stephen Johnson, said: “Optellum is the latest in a series of companies to channel research from the UK’s world-leading universities into commercially viable products that can make a difference to the provision of medical care. Having observed Optellum achieve great milestones over the years, we are now excited to become part of their success and apply our experience with scaling up software and deep-tech companies to help accelerate Optellum’s impact on patient lives across the world.”

Intuitive Ventures, the independent venture-capital arm of Intuitive (NASDAQ: ISRG), a world leader in medical robotics, including lung cancer care, was founded in 2020 to accelerate the future of minimally invasive care. The investment team supports Optellum’s ambitions to think and move beyond earlier diagnosis into decision support across the treatment pathway, integrating liquid biopsies, molecular tests, and drug therapies.

“Lung cancer is an urgent public health crisis and Optellum’s groundbreaking approach utilizing AI to accelerate early detection and intervention may fundamentally alter the healthcare community’s approach to combating this disease,” said Oliver Keown, MD, managing director of Intuitive Ventures. “Optellum is uniquely positioned to align and provide considerable value to patients, providers, and payers alike. Intuitive Ventures is thrilled to provide our full arsenal of financial and strategic support to Optellum as we work towards a world of better outcomes for cancer patients.”

Physician-led, female-founded fund Black Opal Ventures has a mission to build better businesses and a better future at the intersection of healthcare and technology. Its expertise in reimbursement and health economics will assist Optellum, which recently announced a New Technology Ambulatory Payment Classification for Medicare patients in the USA.

Founder Tara Bishop, MD, commented: “We value solutions that make medicine more accurate and accessible. The strong validation data that underpins the Optellum solution has demonstrated its ability to make a difference to patients. We share Optellum’s vision of making this available to every doctor in every hospital – and transform the diagnosis and treatment path for lung cancer.”

Optellum’s platform was developed and clinically validated in partnership with leading universities and healthcare systems around the world. Optellum also has strategic collaborations with GE Healthcare and the Lung Cancer Initiative at Johnson & Johnson to accelerate clinical deployments and continue the advancement of the platform. In the UK, Optellum’s solution is being used to predict at-risk lung nodules in a multi-center study with NHS Trusts as part of a major investment in AI for healthcare.

About Optellum

Optellum is a commercial-stage lung health company providing artificial intelligence decision-support software that assists physicians in early diagnosis and optimal treatment for their patients. The company was founded so that every lung disease patient is diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible stage, when the probability of better health outcomes is highest. In 2021, the Oxford-based medtech company achieved FDA 510(k) clearance for the application of AI decision-support software in lung cancer diagnosis, and has since announced strategic partnerships in the USA with GE Healthcare and the Lung Cancer Initiative at Johnson & Johnson, while the Virtual Nodule Clinic has been implemented in leading healthcare systems across the USA. Optellum has headquarters at the Oxford Centre for Innovation in Oxford, United Kingdom and a U.S. office at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, Texas. For more information, visit optellum.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tim Cox | CubanEight for Optellum | timcox@cubaneight.com

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SOURCE Optellum

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The Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) and Marian University Partner to Promote Bone Health in Indiana

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May 14, 2025

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ARLINGTON, Va., May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become weak and more likely to fracture, affects approximately 10 million Americans, with another 44 million at risk due to low bone density. Yet many individuals remain unaware that they have the disease until they break a bone. In fact, about one in two women and up to one in four men over the age of 50 will break a bone in their lifetime due to osteoporosis.

Marian University and the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) are teaming up to bring greater awareness to osteoporosis. Their partnership focuses on helping individuals understand the risks, learn ways to prevent bone loss, and recognize the importance of early diagnosis. They are also working to spread awareness in communities throughout Indiana, especially in underserved areas where access to bone health education and resources may be limited.

“Improving bone health across the lifespan starts with education,” said Kathleen Shoemaker, BHOF Board Chair. “We are proud to partner with Marian University to ensure more people, especially those in underserved communities, have access to the knowledge and tools they need to prevent fractures and maintain strong bones for life.”

Through this collaboration, Marian University and BHOF are committed to providing preventive tips, management strategies, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong, healthy bones at every stage of life. Educational initiatives will include seminars, health fairs, workshops, and digital outreach, all designed to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to protect themselves.

The effort also highlights the importance of regular bone density screenings, proper nutrition—including adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D—and weight-bearing exercises, all of which are crucial in managing and preventing osteoporosis.

“This partnership reflects our deep commitment to community health and proactive education,” said Dr. Todd Logan, Scholar-in-Residence for Aging & Society at Marian University. “By working with BHOF, we can help deliver vital bone health resources to more Hoosiers, especially in communities where access to care and education has been limited.”

About the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation

Established in 1984, the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation is the nation’s leading health organization dedicated to promoting strong bones for life, preventing osteoporosis and broken bones, and reducing human suffering through programs of awareness, education, advocacy, and research. For more information on the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation, visit www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org.

About Marian University

Founded in 1937, Marian University is the only Catholic university in Indianapolis and central Indiana, serving more than 5,100 students, including 4,000 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students, earning degrees in the arts, business, education, engineering, math, medicine, nursing, ministry, and the natural and physical sciences. In 2013, Marian University established its College of Osteopathic Medicine, the first new school of medicine in Indiana in more than 100 years, and in 2023, opened the new E. S. Witchger School of Engineering as part of the university’s continuing efforts to graduate students that help meet the Midwest’s growing STEM workforce needs. For more information, visit www.marian.edu.

Media Contact for the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation
Carina May
cmay@bonehealthandosteoporosis.org
703-740-1764

Media Contact for Marian University
Christopher Proffitt
cproffitt@marian.edu
317-955-6591

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-bone-health-and-osteoporosis-foundation-bhof-and-marian-university-partner-to-promote-bone-health-in-indiana-302455712.html

SOURCE Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation

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5WPR Wins Gold Stevie Award for PR Campaign of the Year (Technology) with Huntress

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May 14, 2025

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NEW YORK, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — 5WPR, one of the largest independently-owned PR and digital marketing firms in the U.S., is proud to announce it has been awarded a Gold Stevie Award for PR Campaign of the Year (Technology) for its rapid-response media campaign with leading cybersecurity firm Huntress.

The campaign launched in February 2024 in response to a critical vulnerability discovered in ConnectWise ScreenConnect. As Huntress’s CEO Kyle Hanslovan and his team rapidly developed a proof of concept to demonstrate the severity of the issue, 5WPR mobilized a fast-paced media strategy to ensure the company’s findings reached the cybersecurity community, business leaders, and the public with urgency and clarity.

Through targeted outreach and expert commentary, 5WPR secured 104 media placements and over 14 billion impressions within the first month alone. Huntress was featured in 90 percent of all ConnectWise-related coverage, with appearances in top outlets including Axios, TechCrunch, Dark Reading, and TechRepublic. The effort firmly positioned Huntress as a trusted source for real-time cybersecurity insights.

“Winning the Gold Stevie for our work with Huntress is an incredible honor and reflects the speed, precision, and expertise our team brings to high-stakes communications,” said Lori Ruggiero, Managing Partner and EVP, Corporate and Technology at 5WPR. “We are proud to support Huntress in their mission to protect businesses and lead critical industry conversations.”

The American Business Awards® (The Stevie Awards) are recognized as one of the most coveted global honors for business achievements, celebrating excellence in marketing, communications, and public relations across various sectors. All 2025 Public Relations Award winners can be viewed here.

The campaign showcases 5WPR’s strength in translating complex technical issues into accessible, impactful narratives that drive visibility and credibility in competitive markets.

About 5WPR

5WPR is a full-service PR agency known for cutting-edge programs that engage with businesses, issues, and ideas. Founded in 2003, 5W has been named a top US and NYC PR Agency by leading industry publication O’Dwyer’s, as well as awarded Agency of the Year in the 2024 American Business Awards®, and continuously brings leading businesses a resourceful, bold, and results-driven approach to communication. The agency has more than 250 professionals serving clients in B2C (Beauty & Fashion, Consumer Brands, Entertainment, Food & Beverage, Health & Wellness, Travel & Hospitality, Technology, Nonprofit), B2B (Corporate Communications and Reputation Management), Public Affairs, Crisis Communications and Digital Marketing (Social Media, Influencer, Paid Media, SEO). In addition to its business accolades, 5W was named to the 2024 Digiday WorkLife Employer of the Year list. For more information and to join our team visit 5W Careers.

Media Contact
Chris Bergin
cbergin@5wpr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/5wpr-wins-gold-stevie-award-for-pr-campaign-of-the-year-technology-with-huntress-302455738.html

SOURCE 5W Public Relations

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Meet the 2025 We Love Tech Awards Winners: Where Innovation Takes Center Stage

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May 14, 2025

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The 2025 We Love Tech Awards honor groundbreaking innovation in enterprise technology, recognizing winners and finalists across AI, Cloud, SaaS, and more—celebrated live and amplified by Evan Kirstel.

BOSTON, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Innovation isn’t a buzzword—it’s the engine of progress. It powers the platforms we rely on, the tools that redefine industries, and the visionary products that change how we connect, create, and thrive. That’s why we launched Evan Kirtsel’s We Love Tech Awards: to celebrate the products, organizations, and experiences that are shaping the future of enterprise technology.

Innovation is the heartbeat of enterprise tech—and these winners aren’t just building the future, they’re accelerating it. The We Love Tech Awards are about shining a spotlight on the boldest thinkers, the most impactful solutions, and the people pushing boundaries every single day.

“Innovation is the heartbeat of enterprise tech—and these winners aren’t just building the future, they’re accelerating it,” said Evan Kirstel, B2B Tech Influencer & Founder, We Love Tech Awards. “The We Love Tech Awards are about shining a spotlight on the boldest thinkers, the most impactful solutions, and the people pushing boundaries every single day.”

After months of judging by our expert panel, we’re proud to reveal the 2025 Winners and Finalists—a group of game-changers spanning AI, Cloud, IoT, Customer Experience, and beyond.

This Year’s Standouts: 2025 Winners

These companies and products aren’t just innovating—they’re setting new standards for excellence:

🏢 VAI Cloud LLC — Cloud Computing🏢 Klearcom — Customer Experience🧠 EY WeVerse — Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML)🧠 Veryon Reliability — Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML)🌩️ Dynex Quantum Powered Solutions — Cloud Computing🤖 Alorica – evoAI — Customer Experience🧩 Cyara AI-Led CX Transformation Platform — Customer Experience📊 VERDAZO — Enterprise Technology🎮 TD Treat Island Tycoon (Roblox) — Gaming📡 Hytera US Inc — Internet of Things (IoT)💸 DailyPay’s On-Demand Pay Solution💬 CallTower GCC High for Microsoft Teams — SaaS/UCaaS/XaaS🌱 Enablon ESG Excellence — SaaS/UCaaS/XaaS🕶️ TD Immersive Learning — Virtual Reality (VR)/Augmented Reality (AR)

Each winner receives a blockchain-based Verix® certificate, a royalty-free award badge, press amplification, and spotlight opportunities—including appearances on my show.

2025 Finalists: Visionaries in the Making

These finalists impressed our judges with their bold ideas and innovative thinking:

💡 CCH Tagetik Intelligent Platform — Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML)📶 TEAL (Teal Communications, Inc.) — Internet of Things (IoT)🛠️ Omnira Asset Planner — SaaS/UCaaS/XaaS🎧 Genesys Cloud Contact Center — Contact Center

Join Us Live: Online Awards Show – May 14, 2025

Mark your calendars! Evan Kirstel will host the Official 2025 We Love Tech Awards Show LIVE on May 14, 2025. Join us as we reveal exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, spotlight the winners, and talk innovation with leaders shaping the future.

🎟️ Watch Live: https://linktr.ee/EvanKirstel

Why These Awards Matter

The We Love Tech Awards are more than a trophy—they’re a movement. Here’s what sets us apart:

🔊 Social-First Recognition: Winners are amplified across my 550K+ followers on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and beyond.🌐 Inclusive & Diverse Categories: From VR to Cloud, AI to Gaming, we spotlight innovation wherever it thrives.🎥 A Live Show Experience: This isn’t a boring webcast. It’s a high-energy digital celebration—designed for a global, tech-forward audience.

Let’s Keep Building the Future

This program isn’t just about recognizing excellence—it’s about elevating voices, forging community, and shaping what’s next. Whether you’re a marketer, founder, or technologist, now’s your time to shine.

💡 Visit www.welovetechawards.com to learn more, subscribe for updates, or get involved.

Let’s celebrate what’s next in tech—together.

About Evan Kirstel

Evan Kirstel, a top B2B tech influencer, boasts an impressive social reach of over 550,000 followers across his podcast and platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. With years of experience working with Fortune 1000 brands, Evan helps companies harness social media for strategic growth, audience engagement, and social selling. Learn more at https://www.evankirstel.com/.

About Business Intelligence Group

The Business Intelligence Group was founded with the mission of recognizing true talent and superior performance in the business world. Unlike other industry award programs, business executives—those with experience and knowledge—judge the programs. The organization’s proprietary and unique scoring system selectively measures performance across multiple business domains and then rewards those companies whose achievements stand above those of their peers. Learn more at https://www.bintelligence.com/.

Media Contact

Eliana Starbird, Business Intelligence Group LLC, 1 9095292737, eliana@welovetechawards.com, www.welovetechawards.com

Twitter, LinkedIn

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/meet-the-2025-we-love-tech-awards-winners-where-innovation-takes-center-stage-302454395.html

SOURCE Business Intelligence Group LLC

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