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How to Protect Your Small Business From Potential Risks

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Experienced mentors can help entrepreneurs implement practical safeguards for your small business.

WASHINGTON, June 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Whether you’re starting a new business or your company has been up and running for a while, protecting the business you worked hard to build is essential. Unfortunately, in the excitement of managing a small business, many entrepreneurs skip over this very important consideration. As mentors to America’s small businesses, SCORE encourages entrepreneurs this National Safety Month to take proactive steps to protect your business from risk.

1. Find an accountant.
Even if you plan on doing business bookkeeping yourself, getting a good accountant is worth the price. Not only can they ensure you take advantage of any tax breaks, but they can also provide valuable advice on how to structure your business, the best way to finance business expansion, and how much you should pay yourself.

“One of the main reasons businesses fail is poor cash flow management,” said SCORE mentor Cheri Hoffman. “If you don’t have a ton of experience with accounting/bookkeeping, there are some things you need to know. The money you will spend for these professional services is worth it.”

2. Buy business insurance.
Most businesses need general liability insurance, which protects the business from a variety of claims that can arise from business operations. A business owner’s policy combines general liability with property coverage and is a popular solution for many small business owners. If you provide advice or professional services to customers, you may also need professional liability insurance, also known as E&O (errors and omissions) coverage. If you use a vehicle for business purposes, such as traveling to customers to perform services, transporting materials or people or delivering products, you will likely need commercial auto insurance.

3. Be smart about new customers and clients.
Small business owners can face cash flow issues due to late or unpaid invoices. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to mitigate the risk. Start with a contract. A written contract outlines the terms of your agreement, including the scope of work, the price, the payment terms and any deadlines. Consider having an attorney review your master contract template before customizing it for clients.

4. Plan ahead for when disaster strikes.
From an electrical fire that destroys your inventory to a natural disaster like a flood or hurricane, disaster can strike your business at any time. That’s why having a disaster plan for what you will do in an emergency is important. Create a plan and assign responsibilities for how to get employees and customers out of the building safely, what to do if a disaster keeps you and employees from getting to your business, and how you will keep running even if you can’t get to your physical location.

5. Protect your business data.
To protect your business from cyber threats, start by backing up your company data and documents and storing them securely. A cloud-based file storage solution keeps your data safe off-site and accessible no matter where you are. To protect your business from cybercrime and hackers, install appropriate firewalls, use business-grade computers and antivirus software, and train your employees in cyber security measures, such as creating strong passwords.

To help you assess and avoid potential risks for your small business, SCORE client Jackson Dalton, owner of Black Box Safety in El Cajon, Calif., recommends utilizing resources that are readily available. “Take all the free SBA and SCORE classes that you can and sign up for a SCORE mentor,” said Dalton. “Network with friends, family and acquaintances to find a reputable accountant and attorney, as they will keep you out of trouble.”

A SCORE mentor can help guide you in managing potential risks and protect your business. Find one today at score.org/find-mentor.

About SCORE:
Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs start, grow or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10,000 volunteers provide free, expert mentoring, resources and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. Visit SCORE at www.score.org.

Funded [in part] through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

CONTACT:
SCORE
202-968-6428
media@score.org

Looking for a small business expert or owner for an upcoming media story? Email media@score.org to request an interview source.

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Higer New V Series, Leading Bus New Trend

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SUZHOU, China, Dec. 24, 2024 /CNW/ — In November 2024, Higer New V Series buses officially launched in the Philippines, this batch of electric buses was the first batch of new energy buses introduced by the Philippines and put into commercial operation. And it has aroused extensive attentions and heated discussions from the Philippines local government, media and people.

Higer New V Series products were launched globally in March 2024, and then made a stunning debut at the Higer Global Partners Conference. The New V-series products with a new shape and a new platform are committed to creating new classic models with high quality, high safety and high intelligence.

In 3 years, more than 1000 people participated in the process of R&D, a one-time investment of more than 100 million yuan was made in the R&D and manufacturing of key components, equipment, tooling, molds, inspection tools, verification of components and vehicle, achieving comprehensive innovation, realizing a significant improvement in product quality and reliability, maintenance convenience and customer experience. Measuring from 8 to 13 meters in length, they can be powered by fossil fuels, electricity, hydrogen, etc. and are readily adaptable for the tourist transportation market, urban public transportation market, etc. The luggage compartment volume is 21.6% greater than similar products, the seating space is 50mm larger, and the middle aisle is 30mm wider. The overall component universality rate was greatly improved by the platform, modular, and universal design concept, and the number of component types decreased by 58%.

It is worth mentioning that Higer is committed to creating a technological experience, redefining the domain-centralized electronic and electrical architecture, and Higer launched the industry’s first mass-produced intelligent cabin. It will help the driver concentrate on driving. The new model provides a mobile phone control interface, drivers and tour guides can control lighting, multimedia, air conditioning, etc. through app. In addition, the intelligent cabin can be customized according to the operational needs of the transport company, realizing intelligent dispatching, intelligent charging, intelligent maintenance, AI interaction, and human-computer interaction.

So far, Higer new V series coaches have already received orders from more than 20 countries like Italy, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and etc., showing a fast rising popularity in the international market.

Higer new V series are committed to providing customers with new “classic models” with better quality, higher efficiency, achieving sustainable development and exploring more possibilities.

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European Wellness Biomedical Group Announces New Klotho Research Initiative Led by Prof. Mike Chan

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HEIDELBERG, Germany, Dec. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — European Wellness Biomedical Group (EWBG) has launched a new research initiative focused on Klotho, a protein with transformative potential in longevity medicine. Led by Professor Dr. Mike Chan, this project will explore Klotho’s role in combating age-related diseases and its ability to regenerate critical organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart.

Klotho, identified in 1997, is emerging as a key protein in longevity and regenerative medicine. It plays a pivotal role in regulating oxidative stress, mineral metabolism, and inflammation. The research will investigate how boosting Klotho levels could help address chronic conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, kidney failure, and heart disease, ultimately improving healthspan and extending lifespan.

“Klotho represents the next frontier in longevity medicine,” said Professor Mike Chan, Chief Scientist at EWBG. “Our research aims to understand how Klotho affects aging and how we can use it to treat chronic diseases that have long been associated with aging.”

Research Focus Areas

The new initiative will focus on three primary research areas:

Neurological health: Investigating Klotho’s neuroprotective effects and its potential to slow cognitive decline in diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.Kidney function: Examining Klotho’s role in regulating mineral metabolism and its regenerative potential in treating chronic kidney disease (CKD).Cardiovascular health: Studying Klotho’s influence on vascular function and its ability to prevent vascular calcification, a key contributor to heart disease.

This research builds on existing collaborations at EWBG, where leading scientists focus on advancing Klotho-based therapies for regenerative health.

Klotho: A Potential Breakthrough in Longevity Medicine

Klotho is gaining attention for its ability to regenerate tissues and reverse damage caused by age-related diseases. Unlike NAD+, which primarily enhances cellular metabolism and energy production, Klotho offers a broader range of therapeutic applications, including tissue regeneration, cognitive function improvement, and cardiovascular health.

As we age, Klotho levels naturally decline, leading to conditions such as cognitive decline, heart disease, and kidney failure. Research suggests that restoring Klotho levels can reverse the effects of oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular senescence, offering new treatment possibilities for a range of age-related diseases.

Professor Mike Chan: Leading the Charge in Klotho Research

Professor Mike Chan, a leading expert in stem cell therapy and longevity medicine, is spearheading this groundbreaking initiative at EWBG. His extensive experience in bio-regenerative medicine positions him as a key figure in exploring Klotho’s potential to revolutionize the treatment of age-related diseases. Through FCTI, a subsidiary of EWBG, Professor Chan and his team are developing therapies that combine stem cell technology and Klotho proteins to stimulate tissue regeneration in the brain, kidneys, and heart.

“By harnessing Klotho’s regenerative properties, we hope to address chronic conditions that were previously untreatable,” said Professor Chan. “Our ultimate goal is to improve quality of life and provide lasting solutions for those affected by aging-related diseases.”

The Future of Klotho in Longevity Medicine

The future of Klotho-based therapies looks promising, with Professor Mike Chan and EWBG at the forefront of this innovative field. As more research is conducted, Klotho is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing longevity medicine, offering a new approach to treating aging and chronic diseases. The potential applications of Klotho are vast, from neurodegenerative disease treatment to kidney regeneration and cardiovascular health.

With strong research partnerships, significant funding, and ongoing clinical trials, Klotho is poised to become a cornerstone of longevity medicine, transforming how we approach aging and disease. Professor Mike Chan’s leadership ensures that this promising protein will soon offer new hope to those seeking longer, healthier lives.

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Apas Port Launches $20M Vehicle Loan Initiative with HARVEST FLOW on Plume Network to Empower Financial Inclusion in Emerging Countries, Starting in Cambodia

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NEW YORK, Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Apas Port Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based Web3 company dedicated to deploying “kando”—a Japanese term for deep emotional engagement—into the digital realm, has announced the launch of HARVEST FLOW, a social impact-driven cryptocurrency lending platform. Committed to “social action”ーdelivering stable returns alongside meaningful social impact, HARVEST FLOW’s inaugural project is a $20 million initiative offering loans to TukTuk and four-wheel vehicle drivers in Cambodia who don’t have access to the financial system. This venture is set to operate on Plume Network, the leading Layer 1 blockchain specialized in Real-World Asset Finance (RWAfi), offering the necessary infrastructure to transform HARVEST FLOW’s vision of financial inclusion into scalable action.

Bridging Real-World Challenges Through Blockchain Innovation

HARVEST FLOW’s mission is to empower underserved communities and small businesses by granting access to affordable financing solutions. By leveraging blockchain technology, the platform addresses critical societal issues such as poverty alleviation and economic development, creating pathways for stable financial growth while delivering measurable social impact.

The initial focus of this initiative is to provide affordable financing options for TukTuk and four-wheel vehicle drivers in Cambodia—vital tools for local livelihoods. The project not only supports job creation but also enhances financial inclusion in emerging economies.

Why Plume Network?

As the first fully integrated L1 modular blockchain tailored for RWAfi, Plume Network provides the foundation for scalable, secure, and transparent financial ecosystems. With over 180 projects onboarded in its private devnet, Plume enables seamless tokenization and distribution of RWAs through its composable, EVM-compatible infrastructure.

How Plume Powers HARVEST FLOW:

End-to-End Tokenization: Streamlines the conversion of vehicle loans into blockchain-based assets.Investor Transparency: Advanced tools to track and visualize the social and financial impact of investments.Global Scalability: Infrastructure designed to handle the growing demands of HARVEST FLOW’s multi-region projects.DeFi Integration: Unlocks liquidity through decentralized finance primitives within the Plume ecosystem.

IoT-Backed Innovation for Loan Security

HARVEST FLOW’s projects are uniquely supported by embedded IoT technology within TukTuk engines, ensuring an exceptionally low loan default rate while building investor confidence.

Justin Chen, Head of Asset Strategy at Plume Network, noted: “This project highlights the power of combining blockchain and IoT devices to create innovative financial products that drive real-world impact. We’re excited to see HARVEST FLOW’s success on Plume and the positive change it will bring to the urban motility market in Southeast Asia.”

Looking Ahead

Starting with the vehicle mobility sector through 2025, HARVEST FLOW plans to expand into other sectors addressing social challenges and needs beyond 2026. This approach aims to ensure sustainable growth while delivering meaningful societal benefits, powered by Plume’s blockchain technology.

Masaki Minamide, director of HARVEST FLOW, stated: “Plume’s infrastructure empowers us to amplify our impact and support communities in need while offering our investors transparent and reliable returns. With this launch, we continue our mission to combine blockchain technology with meaningful social action.”

For more information, visit Plume Network or contact press@plumenetwork.xyz.

About Plume Network
Plume is the first fully integrated L1 modular blockchain focused on RWAfi, offering a composable, EVM-compatible environment for onboarding and managing diverse RWAs. With 180+ projects on its private devnet, Plume provides an end-to-end tokenization engine and a network of financial infrastructure partners, simplifying asset onboarding and enabling seamless DeFi integration for RWAs.

About HARVEST FLOW
Founded in April 2023, Apas Port Co., Ltd. is a Web3 production company with a mission to deploy “kando” (deep emotional impact) globally. The company leverages blockchain technology to connect carefully curated content with a co-creative community, acting as a “passport” to a new world of Web3 experiences.

X: https://x.com/HarvestFlow_io
Website: https://www.harvestflow.io/

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