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College Contact Wins Career Pathways EdTech Product of the Year

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SAN DIEGO, Oct. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — College Contact, a fast-growing edtech startup based in Austin Texas, won first place in the highly competitive “Navigating Career Pathways” category at the 2024 EDTECH WEEK Shark Tanks last week. The category focused on sourcing innovative tools and tech platforms that help K-12 & higher education learners explore and succeed in their college & career journeys through mentorship, pathfinding, and skills alignment. The judges, composed of global EdTech investors from WGU Labs, JFF Ventures and EduLabs Capital Partners, selected College Contact from a pool of hundreds of promising startups in the space.

The Shark Tanks @ EDTECH WEEK event is a prestigious competition for startups and Series A companies in the EdTech space. Finalists in the 2024 category included REACH Pathways, (gamified content for HiPURS), Hellohive (talent building for companies), Prentus (AI-powered data analytics for tracking job outcomes), and GoPursue (career access platform).

College Contact’s win underscores the importance of its near-peer mentorship model, which matches high school students with upskilled undergraduate mentors for postsecondary pathway advising, offering real-time support on everything from essay writing to navigating financial aid. The platform’s ability to provide personalized, relatable, and authentic advising at scale stood out to the panel of investors, considering the startup has had extremely high student engagement and adoption metrics since its organic inception from a TikTok video.

Founded in 2019 in Sophie Smith’s college dorm room, College Contact was born out of universal frustration with the current postsecondary advising landscape. High schoolers and their parents found Sophie’s authentic content on TikTok, and joined a waitlist for support from the then 19-year old. The onslaught of original demand was driven by exorbitant costs of private college counselors and the lack of 1:1 time students receive in school due to high counselor caseloads. In an effort to democratize access to higher education for these families, Sophie threw together a duct-tape and glue solution – matching students on the waitlist to competent undergraduate students in her network.

After Sophie and her cofounder Leah Guesman graduated from the University of Virginia in 2023, the pair began exploring if their solution could be sold directly to public school counseling departments. As they entered the K-12 market, their solution caught fire for a second time.

Kyle Seipp, the Director of Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness at E3 Alliance remarked, “There are 5.5 million students in Texas, which means there are 5.5 million different college & career pathways to success in this state alone. College Contact can bring personalized 1:1 support to every student. This is a revolutionary idea to support overwhelmed counseling departments with high caseloads.”

“We are thrilled to have won this competition,” said Sophie Smith, CEO of College Contact. “It’s a powerful validation of our near-peer model and our mission to provide accessible college & career advising for every student, regardless of their background. We are especially excited about the inbound demand we have received from counseling departments, who see our solution as a valuable resource for their large student bodies.”

Leah Guesman, COO of College Contact, added, “This win is a testament to the power of mentorship. By connecting students with peers who have recently gone through critical college and career decisions, we give them both the support and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their futures. This recognition from the broader EdTech community is already helping us expand our reach and continue to scale our impact.”

Since its founding, College Contact has helped over 5,000 students gain admission to more than 150 universities, with 86% of them securing a spot at their top-choice school. Beyond their growing partnerships with districts in California, Texas and Florida, the platform is gaining attention for its affordability from individual families, offering near-peer mentorship services for as little as $60 per month—a fraction of what traditional private college counselors charge.

College Contact’s focus on providing accessible, tailored guidance to students of all backgrounds aligns with the broader movement to make higher education more equitable and attainable. Learn more at College Contact’s website here.

About College Contact

College Contact is a Texas-based, female-founded college and career readiness platform that connects high school students with near-peer mentors. With a historical 100% university acceptance rate and an 86% placement rate into students’ first-choice universities, College Contact has helped thousands of students nationwide. The platform’s innovative model, combined with comprehensive resources and personalized support, empowers students to achieve their academic and career goals, while simultaneously helping school districts scale 1:1, personalized postsecondary advising.

Media Contact:
Grayson Turley
info@yourcollegecontact.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/college-contact-wins-career-pathways-edtech-product-of-the-year-302286391.html

SOURCE College Contact

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Alliant Credit Union Foundation Announces Record Breaking Year in Efforts to Bridge the Digital Divide

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January 9, 2025

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Foundation awarded over $1.6 million to community organizations focused on digital equity in Illinois and Nationwide in 2024

CHICAGO, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With the goal of providing reliable broadband, digital literacy resources and technology equipment for underserved communities across the United States, the Alliant Credit Union Foundation, today announced its 2024 efforts. In 2024, the Alliant Credit Union Foundation launched it’s Million Dollar Challenge, aiming to invest at least one million dollars in organizations working to close the digital gap. By 2024 year-end, the foundation has donated over $1.6 million to fifteen organizations nationwide.

The Alliant Credit Union Foundation funds were strategically allocated to charitable partners empowering local initiatives in Illinois and throughout the nation to enhance access to digital tools, and provide essential resources in rural, digitally challenged, and under-resourced populations.

“2024 has been a year of mission-driven and meaningful progress for the Alliant Foundation,” said Meredith Richie, President of the Alliant Credit Union Foundation. “From funding initiatives nationwide to facilitating technology access and driving important conversations, we’ve taken significant strides in addressing the digital gap. These achievements reflect the collective efforts of our partners, donors, and community members who share our vision of a more connected and equitable future.”

Some key grants from the Alliant Foundation in 2024 include:

$500,000 to PCs for People to expand their St. Louis processing center and purchase shipping trailers to run regular routes transporting devices and equipment from four of market locations (including Chicago).$250,000 to Digitunity for their Software Modernization Project a platform that will help states and corporations generate the supply they need to meet their Digital Equity Plan device goals.$250,000 to Compudopt for the Connectivity Chicago Project. The grant will allow the organization to expand their services and provide devices, education, and free internet to households.$100,040 to EveryoneOn for the Digital Connections Project to provide training and devices to individuals looking to enhance skills in the everchanging digital landscape.

Recognizing the importance of access to functional technology, the foundation hosted multiple events throughout the year to provide access to those who need it most. In February, the foundation partnered with EveryoneOn, Visa and with Nevada Partners, to open The Community Access Lab in Las Vegas’ Westside as a part of Visa’s Super Bowl Giveback Program. The Lab works to enhance community residents’ digital and financial literacy and foster Westside entrepreneurship. In the Spring and Fall the foundation partnered with PCs for People to host electronic drives at Alliant Credit Union headquarters in Chicago, a record-breaking 15,686 pounds of tech equipment was collected to be refurbished and distributed to populations in need.

The Digital Divide by the Numbers:

11.5 million American households without internet access, per the 2020 U.S. Census.1 in 5 parents say children’s homework cannot be completed without computer or internet access.$1 million+ Alliant Credit Union Foundation grants to foster digital inclusion within at-risk communities in 2024.

About Alliant Credit Union Foundation:
The Alliant Credit Union Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of communities by supporting initiatives that foster financial literacy, economic empowerment, and access to essential resources. As the philanthropic arm of Alliant Credit Union, the Foundation partners with organizations that align with its mission to create opportunities for underserved populations, promote financial education, and address the digital divide. The Alliant Credit Union Foundation is committed to making a lasting impact and helping individuals and families build a brighter financial future through strategic grants and community partnerships.

Media Contact:
Natalie Symonds 
nsymonds@alliantcreditunion.com
Sr. Media Strategist
Alliant Credit Union

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/alliant-credit-union-foundation-announces-record-breaking-year-in-efforts-to-bridge-the-digital-divide-302347234.html

SOURCE Alliant Credit Union

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Old World Labs Unveils Advanced AI Agents at CES 2025: Revolutionizing Robotics and Virtual Worlds

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January 9, 2025

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the first day of CES 2025, Old World Labs (OWL) is proud to announce groundbreaking advancements in its “Agents as a Service” technology, showcasing how these cutting-edge AI systems seamlessly integrate into humanoid robots and virtual environments. These innovations mark a significant leap forward in bridging the physical and digital worlds, setting a new standard for adaptability and intelligence in robotics.

 

The Next Generation of AI-Driven Robotics

At the forefront of OWL’s innovations is the “Replicants” system, a first-of-its-kind platform enabling self-replicating humanoid robots equipped with advanced AI agents. These agents combine real-time reasoning, resource-aware adaptability, and dynamic interaction, making them invaluable across industries—from manufacturing to immersive virtual experiences.

Key Features of the Replicants System:

Humanoid Robotics Integration: AI agents embedded within robots capable of natural human-like interactions and precise task execution.Virtual World Interoperability: Unified AI presence across physical robots and digital environments for seamless collaboration.Resource-Aware Design: Sustainable, scalable solutions that adapt to complex challenges in real time.

Why This Matters

The evolution of AI agents into humanoid robotics represents a paradigm shift in how humans engage with technology. OWL’s advancements enable robots to:

Understand and interact with 3D environments.Execute complex tasks autonomously, enhancing productivity and user experience.Transition seamlessly between physical and digital spaces, redefining the role of AI in daily life and industrial applications.

Quote from Nick Liverman, Founder of Old World Labs

“At CES 2025, we’re showcasing how Old World Labs is driving the future of AI and robotics. Our Replicants system empowers humanoid robots and virtual agents to function as intelligent companions and collaborators. These breakthroughs push beyond traditional boundaries, enabling accessible, adaptive, and scalable solutions for everyone,” said Nick Liverman.

Live Demonstrations and Interactive Sessions

Attendees at CES 2025 are invited to Booth #8777 in the LV North Hall to:

Experience Real-Time AI Integration: See how OWL’s agents operate humanoid robots with precision and adaptability.Explore Virtual World Interactions: Witness how AI agents transition seamlessly between robotics and immersive virtual platforms.Participate in Workshops: Learn how OWL’s “Agents as a Service” technology can transform industries and projects.

About Old World Labs

Founded in 2012 by Nick Liverman, Old World Labs has been a pioneer in robotics and AI innovation. Renowned for its high-precision 3D printing solutions, OWL is now at the forefront of integrating intelligent agents into humanoid robots and virtual worlds. With a mission to make advanced technology accessible and impactful, OWL continues to set the industry standard.

Media Contact

Eric Faust
Business Development
Old World Labs
info@oldworldlabs.com

Click here for more details about our booth at: https://ces25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=0014V00003uGRiBQAW

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/old-world-labs-unveils-advanced-ai-agents-at-ces-2025-revolutionizing-robotics-and-virtual-worlds-302347159.html

SOURCE Old World Labs

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BLUETTI Unveils Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K at CES 2025, Highlighting Brand Refinement Strategy for 2025

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59 minutes ago

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January 9, 2025

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BLUETTI reinforces its role as a technology pioneer in clean energy with innovative energy solutions at CES 2025.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a leading provider of clean energy solutions and this year’s CES Innovation Award honoree, debuted its latest energy storage solutions, the Apex 300 portable power station and EnergyPro 6K whole house battery backup, during its brand refinement event at booth 9837 at CES 2025.

As part of its strategy to refine and elevate its global brand, BLUETTI launched its new product era 3.0, showcasing its groundbreaking new product series: Bluetti Elite, Apex, and EnergyPro. The highly anticipated products, Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K, were officially unveiled during the event, marking a significant leap in the company’s ongoing commitment to pioneering clean energy storage.

BLUETTI Apex 300: The All-in-One Solution for Every Scenario

The Bluetti Apex 300 Portable Power Station is a versatile portable power station with a 2,764.8Wh capacity and 3,840W output, providing reliable power for home backup, RV road trips, and other off-grid scenarios. It can deliver both 120V and 240V power simultaneously, meaning user can handle essential appliances and heavy-duty devices like well pumps and dryers.

With advanced parallel-expansion technology, the Apex 300 can scale up to an impressive 58kWh storage and 11.52kW output, ensuring up to a week of power supply during extended outages. In parallel, it is powerful enough to charge an electric vehicle.

Charging is fast and flexible — powered by Turbo Boost charging technology, users can recharge the Apex 300 to 80% in just 45 minutes from mains power. Alternative charging options include solar panels, vehicles, generators, and EV stations. With industry-leading PV charging capacity of up to 30,720W, the Apex 300 ensures stable power even in remote locations or prolonged blackouts.

The Apex 300 is expected to be officially released in the second quarter of 2025.

BLUETTI EnergyPro 6K: The Ultimate Power Solution for Small to Medium Homes

Designed for residential and small-to-medium business use, the Bluetti EnergyPro 6K Whole House Battery Backup is a reliable, affordable and cost effective home energy storage system that integrates solar, battery, grid, generator, and EV power sources. It supplies dependable backup power during power outages, peak periods, or other off-grid settings.

The EnergyPro offers flexible scalability for a personalized power experience. By connecting up to five EnergyPro 6K units, users can achieve substantial power output and storage capabilities to weather extended blackouts or support small off-grid farms.

Seamlessly integrating with users’ existing rooftop solar systems, the EnergyPro 6K optimizes energy usage by storing excess solar power. This allows homeowners to always be prepared for power interruptions while reducing their electricity bills. The AT1 Smart Distribution Box further enhances energy efficiency by allowing any supported EV to charge the battery during extended power outages, and home standby generators to automatically fuel the battery without manual switching. This comprehensive energy solution ensures uninterrupted power in any situation, without relying on the grid or favorable weather conditions.

The EnergyPro 6K is expected to be officially released in the second quarter of 2025.

Powered by BLUETTI Future Tech System

The Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K are powered by BLUETTI’s cutting-edge Future Energy Tech System, which consists of four key pillars:

BLUEPEAK Innovation Hub: The core of BLUETTI’s hardware and physical innovations in energy storage.BLUELINK Energy Network: The brain behind BLUETTI’s product and energy solutions, providing intelligent and seamless connectivity.BLUEGRID Power Infrastructure: Tailored tech solutions for households and SME businesses, offering scalable and efficient power management.BLUELIFE Ecosystem Tech: A lifestyle-driven tech ecosystem that integrates energy seamlessly into daily life, empowering consumers to embrace sustainable living.

BLUETTI’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and clean energy solutions is poised to reshape how consumers and businesses manage their power needs in 2025 and beyond. For more information on the upcoming products and BLUETTI’s vision, visit us at booth 9837 CES 2025 and explore the future of energy.

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a pioneer force in clean energy technology, committed to a sustainable future by providing green and independent energy storage solutions for every household. With a strong focus on innovation and customer needs, BLUETTI has gained the trust of 3.5 million customers and established a presence in over 110 countries & regions. Through initiatives like the LAAF (Lighting An African Family) Program, BLUETTI is dedicated to bringing power to millions of African families in off-grid areas.

Contact: Ellen Lee, ellenlee@bluetti.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bluetti-unveils-apex-300-and-energypro-6k-at-ces-2025-highlighting-brand-refinement-strategy-for-2025-302346866.html

SOURCE BLUETTI POWER INC

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