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ISS National Lab Launches Orbital Edge Accelerator Program to Propel Startups Into the Growing Space Economy

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CIRI, E2MC, and Stellar Ventures will invest in six startups for projects leveraging the ISS National Lab

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla., April 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory is taking a giant leap in fostering new space innovators with the launch of the Orbital Edge Accelerator program. This bold initiative is designed to integrate cutting-edge startups and investment partners into the rapidly expanding space economy. Through the accelerator, six pioneering startups will be selected to receive an investment of up to $500,000 each—which is being provided by global investors Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI), E2MC, and Stellar Ventures—along with mentorship and the opportunity to launch an ISS National Lab-sponsored investigation. By bridging the gap between early-stage companies and space-based innovation, the Orbital Edge Accelerator program aims to unlock discoveries that can benefit humanity and drive new commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit. 

Engaging the startup community is a strategic priority for the ISS National Lab. Having access to the unique space environment allows entrepreneurs to push the boundaries of science and technology, develop novel products, and build new businesses. Over the years, dozens of startups have been awarded flight opportunities through the ISS National Lab to advance R&D in diverse areas, from communications and remote sensing to advanced materials and biotechnology. The impact of conducting research through the ISS National Lab is notable, as startups awarded flight projects have cumulatively raised nearly $2.4 billion in funding postflight, demonstrating the value of space-based R&D in accelerating commercialization. With the launch of the Orbital Edge Accelerator, the ISS National Lab aims to build on this momentum and fuel the next wave of innovators that will shape the future space economy. 

To deliver the accelerator program, the ISS National Lab is working with TechConnect, which has more than 25 years of expertise connecting innovators with high-value commercialization opportunities. In the coming months, representatives from the ISS National Lab, CIRI, E2MC, Stellar Ventures, and TechConnect will meet with interested startups at conferences and networking sessions to highlight the accelerator and discuss how space-based R&D can lead to innovation not possible on Earth. Additionally, AWS will serve as corporate partner for the Orbital Edge Accelerator program, providing their extensive expertise and reach toward scouting and mentoring the inaugural cohort of startups.

TechConnect will host an informational webinar on April 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EDT providing additional details on the scope of this opportunity and the advantages of utilizing the orbiting laboratory. To register, please visit the webinar registration page. TechConnect will also host two office hours for potential respondents to ask questions about the accelerator program. Learn more about these opportunities on the accelerator webpage.

Startups interested in the Orbital Edge Accelerator program will need to submit an application by 8:00 p.m. EDT on May 19, 2025. Once the application window closes, the ISS National Lab and investment partners will evaluate each submission and select up to 20 finalists to pitch in a virtual setting. From there, reviewers will invite six startups to join the Orbital Edge Accelerator cohort. Each startup will receive a $500,000 investment and the opportunity to submit an official proposal to utilize the ISS National Lab in a future spaceflight mission. 

The six selected startups will be joining attendees at the 14th annual ISS Research and Development Conference in Seattle July 28-31, 2025. To learn more about the accelerator program, networking events, and application process, visit the Orbital Edge Accelerator webpage.

Download an image for this release: Orbital Edge Accelerator

About the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory:
The International Space Station (ISS) is a one-of-a-kind laboratory that enables research and technology development not possible on Earth. As a public service enterprise, the ISS National Laboratory® allows researchers to leverage this multiuser facility to improve quality of life on Earth, mature space-based business models, advance science literacy in the future workforce, and expand a sustainable and scalable market in low Earth orbit. Through this orbiting national laboratory, research resources on the ISS are available to support non-NASA science, technology, and education initiatives from U.S. government agencies, academic institutions, and the private sector. The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space® (CASIS®) manages the ISS National Lab, under Cooperative Agreement with NASA, facilitating access to its permanent microgravity research environment, a powerful vantage point in low Earth orbit, and the extreme and varied conditions of space. To learn more about the ISS National Lab, visit our website.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CASIS accepts corporate and individual donations to help advance science in space for the benefit of humanity. For more information, visit our donations page.

About CIRI:
Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI) is a dynamic and forward-focused Alaska Native regional corporation, recognized as one of 12 land-based corporations established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). Since its incorporation on June 8, 1972, CIRI has expanded beyond its Southcentral Alaska roots—where its regional boundaries align with the traditional Dena’ina homeland—to become a global enterprise. Today, CIRI operates in 45 states and seven countries, driving growth, innovation, and opportunity for its more than 9,500 Shareholders who reside in Alaska and around the world. 

About E2MC:
E2MC (Earth-to-Mars Capital) is a pioneering venture capital firm dedicated to advancing the space economy by financing early-stage space-related startups globally. Our leadership team not only has a combined over 100 years’ of space experience, but is also comprised of former entrepreneurs, and has extensive institutional investment experience. We leverage our specialized expertise and extensive global network to provide tangible support for our portfolio companies (over 20 so far). E2MC’s mission, “From Earth into Space, for Earth,” underscores our dedication to paving the way for humanity’s expansion into space, and to harnessing space technology for global advancement and development. We are based in Arlington, VA.

About Stellar Ventures:
Stellar Ventures is a woman-led venture capital firm founded by aerospace industry leader Celeste Ford to back the next generation of space entrepreneurs. The firm invests in early-stage, mission-driven space technology companies and brings unmatched technical depth and industry connections to help founders build the world-changing businesses of tomorrow.

About TechConnect:
With 25+ years of experience connecting emerging technologies with unique funding and partnership opportunities, TechConnect boasts the most robust research and innovation network in the world, coupled with the nation’s largest funder of innovation through its parent company, Advanced Technology International. It employs a broad scope of tools to deliver top technologies, including open innovation programs, conferences, and accelerators. Each year, TechConnect scouts, vets, and connects thousands of emerging technologies with corporate, investment, municipal, and national defense clients techconnect.org.

Media Contact:            

Patrick O’Neill 

904-806-0035

PONeill@ISSNationalLab.org  

 

International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory
Managed by the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space® (CASIS®)

1005 Viera Blvd., Suite 101, Rockledge, FL 32955 • 321.253.5101 • www.ISSNationalLab.org

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/iss-national-lab-launches-orbital-edge-accelerator-program-to-propel-startups-into-the-growing-space-economy-302419007.html

SOURCE International Space Station National Lab

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Make Time Wellness Announces Launch of Award-Winning Products at The Vitamin Shoppe

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New Wellness Solutions Available Starting April 2025, Empowering Women to Prioritize Their Brain Health

LOS ANGELES, April 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Make Time Wellness, the rapidly growing wellness brand focused on women’s brain health, is excited to announce its official launch at The Vitamin Shoppe. Beginning this month, Make Time Wellness products are now available at approximately 475 retail locations of The Vitamin Shoppe and Super Supplements, as well as www.vitaminshoppe.com, making it easier for women across the U.S. to prioritize their brain health, beauty, and overall wellness.

The launch at The Vitamin Shoppe marks a significant milestone for the brand, which has gained widespread recognition for its innovative approach to women’s wellness. Make Time Wellness’ unique product offerings, including the Make Time for Brain Health & Beauty Gummies, Make Time for Beauty Sleep Gummies, and the reformulated Make Time for Brain, Body & Beauty Vitamin Powder, are designed to support women in their daily health and beauty routines.

Helen Christoni, co-founder of Make Time Wellness, shared her thoughts on the brand’s new partnership. “We are beyond excited to launch Make Time Wellness at The Vitamin Shoppe. This partnership gives us the opportunity to expand our reach and offer more women across the country the tools they need to take control of their brain health and to make time for their overall well-being.”

As part of the launch, Make Time Wellness is introducing three of its innovative products to The Vitamin Shoppe customers. These include:

Make Time for Brain Health & Beauty Gummies ($39.99) – A sugar-free gummy formulated with Cognizin® Citicoline, biotin, MCT oil, and Curcumin to support brain function, focus, and beauty from within.Make Time for Beauty Sleep Gummies ($29.99) – A sugar-free gummy with melatonin, biotin, elderberry, lavender, and chamomile extract to promote restful sleep and rejuvenation of the skin.Make Time for Brain, Body & Beauty Vitamin Powder ($49.99) – The award-winning hero product, recently reformulated with Cognizin® Citicoline and organic green tea to support cognitive function, focus, and vitality while maintaining its signature orange flavor.

Emma Heming Willis, co-founder of Make Time Wellness, reflected on the significance of the collaboration. “Partnering with The Vitamin Shoppe is a big step for us in bringing our products to a wider audience. We’re also proud to give back by donating 5% of every sale to Hilarity for Charity, which supports families and caregivers impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. This partnership allows us to make a meaningful impact, not only through our products but also by supporting a cause that’s very close to our hearts.”

“As the premier specialty retailer for lifelong wellness solutions, The Vitamin Shoppe is proud to introduce Make Time Wellness to our customers. We admire the brand’s science-driven approach to brain health and holistic well-being, as well as the passion and leadership Emma, Helen, and their team bring to advancing essential conversations around women’s health,” shared Muriel Gonzalez, President of The Vitamin Shoppe.

With this launch, Make Time Wellness is excited to offer more women the opportunity to discover its science-backed products and take the first step in their wellness journey.

About Make Time Wellness

Make Time Wellness was created to help women prioritize their brain, body, and beauty—and, in doing so, make more time for themselves. Co-founders Emma Heming Willis and Helen Christoni were inspired by the lack of products focused on women’s brain health, and together, they built a movement to raise awareness, educate, and offer high-quality, science-backed wellness products. For more information, visit maketimewellness.com or follow @maketimewellness on Instagram.

About The Vitamin Shoppe

Lifelong Wellness Starts Here™. The Vitamin Shoppe®, a subsidiary of Franchise Group, Inc., is a global, omnichannel specialty retailer and wellness lifestyle Company with the mission of providing customers with the most trusted products, guidance, and services to support them on their journeys of lifelong wellness. Based in Secaucus, New Jersey, the Company offers a comprehensive assortment of nutritional solutions, including vitamins, minerals, sports nutrition, specialty supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, and green living products. In addition to carrying products from approximately 700 national brands, The Vitamin Shoppe offers products from its proprietary brands within its owned and wholesale channels, including: The Vitamin Shoppe®, Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe®, BodyTech®, BodyTech® Elite, plnt®, ProBioCare®, and True Athlete®. In the U.S., the Company conducts business through over 675 company-operated retail stores under The Vitamin Shoppe and Super Supplements™ banners and via its website, www.vitaminshoppe.com. Globally, The Vitamin Shoppe serves customers in select Asia, South America, and Central America markets through local omnichannel partners.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/make-time-wellness-announces-launch-of-award-winning-products-at-the-vitamin-shoppe-302421152.html

SOURCE Make Time Wellness

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Sell with Confidence. Keep Your Business in Trusted Hands

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A new opportunity is available to help rural business owners transition ownership while protecting their legacy, supporting employees, and keeping wealth in local communities.

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo., April 7, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — A new opportunity is available to help rural business owners transition ownership while protecting their legacy, supporting employees, and keeping wealth in local communities. The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) is making it easier for businesses to explore employee ownership, thanks to a program that removes financial barriers and offers valuable tax credits and discounts.

“Too many business owners reach retirement without a solid succession plan.This program provides a clear, affordable path for owners to explore employee ownership and safeguard what they’ve built.”

With 80% of businesses listed for sale never finding a buyer, many owners face difficult choices that often result in closures, displacing loyal employees and pulling money out of the community. However, this program provides a better solution—helping business owners transition to employee ownership and securing the future of their businesses.

Employee ownership offers a proven pathway for preserving small businesses, empowering employees, and strengthening local economies. Unlike traditional sales, transitioning ownership to employees ensures that businesses remain rooted in their communities, maintaining jobs and keeping profits local.

With Baby Boomers retiring at record rates, rural businesses face increased risk of closure because of a lack of potential buyers in these smaller markets. “Too many business owners reach retirement without a solid succession plan,” said Marion Champoux-Pellegrin, Rural Employee Ownership Director for Rocky Mountain Employee Ownership Center. “This program provides a clear, affordable path for owners to explore employee ownership and safeguard what they’ve built.”

Who Qualifies?

The program is available to a limited number of businesses starting the process in 2025. To qualify, businesses must meet the following requirements:

At least three interested employeesSale of at least 20% of the businessLocated in rural Colorado

Business owners ready to protect their legacy and empower their employees should act now. With limited spots available for 2025, interested owners are encouraged to contact Rocky Mountain Employee Ownership Center (RMEOC) today to begin the process.

Rocky Mountain Employee Ownership Center (RMEOC), – RMEOC is a Colorado-based nonprofit leading the effort to help Colorado businesses explore and convert to employee ownership models. RMEOC’s mission is to create a more inclusive and fair economy by equipping business owners with the tools and resources they need to transition successfully. Through this program, RMEOC provides technical assistance, education, and ongoing support, ensuring that business owners have the guidance they need throughout the transition process.

Media Contact

Marion Champoux-Pellegrin, Rocky Mountain Employee Ownership Center, 1 303-351-2003, marion@rmeoc.org, https://www.rmeoc.org

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/sell-with-confidence-keep-your-business-in-trusted-hands-302419363.html

SOURCE Rocky Mountain Employee Ownership Center

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ECOVACS ROBOTICS Embraces Matter: Taking Smarter, More Convenient Floor Cleaning to the Next Level

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ECOVACS ROBOTICS robotic vacuum cleaners DEEBOT now support Matter for seamless smart home control.

SUZHOU, China, April 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ECOVACS ROBOTICS, a global leader in service robotics, has taken a major step forward in smart home integration by bringing its robotic vacuum cleaners DEEBOT into the Matter ecosystem. As China’s decade-long market leader in robotic vacuum cleaners, ECOVACS is making cross-platform connectivity, control, and automation smoother than ever.

Matter, the universal smart home standard developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), eliminates compatibility barriers by allowing devices from different brands to work together seamlessly. With enhanced interoperability, robust security, and simplified setup, Matter ensures a smarter, more reliable smart home experience—whether controlled locally or via the cloud.

ECOVACS’ global lineup – including DEEBOT X2, X2 Combo, T50, T50 Max, and X8 – will gain Matter 1.4 support, with functionality updates rolling out across these models in phases. This strategic enhancement ensures seamless integration with the growing Matter ecosystem, further simplifying connected home experiences.

Building on ECOVACS’ technological advancement, the brand made waves at CES 2025 with the global debut of its groundbreaking DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI. This industry-redefining robotic cleaner introduces the revolutionary OZMO ROLLER Instant Self-Washing Mopping Technology—ECOVACS’ first ultra-high pressure, high-speed mopping system with real-time self-cleaning capabilities.

The X8 PRO OMNI’s exceptional innovation earned remarkable industry acclaim, receiving top honors at the world’s prestigious tech events: the ‘Best in Show,’ ‘Best of CES,’ and ‘Editor’s Choice’ awards at CES 2025, along with both the ‘Best of IFA’ distinction and ‘Indoor Cleaning Solutions Gold Award’ at 2024 IFA.” The X8 Family has achieved cumulative sales of 230,000 units in the Chinese market by February 2025.

With 27 years of innovation in service robotics, ECOVACS has empowered over 28 million households across more than 170 markets—driven by its mission of “Robotics for All.” Now supporting Matter, ECOVACS enables effortless cross-platform integration, letting users sync their robots with any Matter-compatible smart home setup, ushering in a new era of intelligent home cleaning.

SOURCE ECOVACS

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