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ideas42 Welcomes New CEO, Bridgette Gray

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Respected behavioral science nonprofit looks forward to a new chapter with fresh leadership and vision for the future

NEW YORK, March 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — ideas42’s Board of Directors enthusiastically announced the selection of Bridgette Gray as the nonprofit’s new CEO. Effective immediately, she will lead ideas42, one of the world’s top applied behavioral design firms. As the organization celebrates 15 years of creating social impact with behavioral science, the Board is thrilled to welcome Bridgette’s fresh vision and deep expertise in driving social change to lead ideas42 through its next phase of development and growth.

Bridgette has a 30-year track record of success as an executive leader in the nonprofit industry, including as an Executive Director. She comes to ideas42 from several high-profile nonprofits, including the Points of Light Foundation, Year Up, Per Scholas, and most recently, Opportunity@Work. Bridgette is an innovator, strategist, fundraiser, organization builder, and recognized workforce development and social impact leader. Bridgette is deeply committed to improving the lives of those with the fewest opportunities, least access, and least resources, having spent her career striving to create a more equitable world.

Her arrival marks a milestone in the organization’s evolution as it doubles down on its commitment to creating a more equitable world using behavioral science. She offers the organization and its talented team key opportunities to reimagine and deepen ideas42’s partnerships and impact in its issue areas of focus.

“After thorough succession planning and a comprehensive search, we are beyond pleased to welcome our top choice to lead our world-class nonprofit,” said George Overholser, Chair of the Board of Directors of ideas42. “We are delighted that Bridgette has embraced ideas42’s mission to make the world more equitable using behavioral science, and we will benefit greatly from her leadership. Alongside extensive professional expertise, she brings additional strength through her lived experience, which makes her uniquely qualified to lead ideas42 successfully into the future.”

Since 2008, ideas42 has been at the forefront of pioneering a new approach to solving some of the world’s most complex challenges. The Board is confident that under Bridgette’s stewardship, with her extensive network and experience in nonprofit innovation, ideas42 will solidify its position as a cutting-edge leader in the growing field of applied behavioral science.

“The field of behavioral science has evolved since I co-founded ideas42 with Sendhil Mullainathan and Antoinette Schoar, and ideas42 has evolved with it. More than ever, I am convinced that insights into people’s perception, motivation, capabilities, and behaviors are a prerequisite to designing effective approaches in many important domains, ranging from education and the law to the environment, poverty, and reducing inequality,” said Eldar Shafir, Co-Founder and Scientific Advisor at ideas42, and the Class of 1987 Professor of Behavioral and Science and Public Policy and Director of the Kahneman-Treisman Center at Princeton University. “By bringing on Bridgette as CEO, ideas42 is signaling a commitment to continue evolving our approach to addressing complex challenges. I am confident that Bridgette’s vision will allow the organization to push further the boundaries of applied behavioral science as it explores solutions to societal problems.”

“As I step into the role of ideas42’s CEO, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this unique organization and excited to shepherd it into its next phase. ideas42 has had great success in its first 15 years, and like myself, it is hungry to do more while building new capabilities,” said Bridgette. “Even more than most industries, behavioral science does not admire tradition. It admires innovation rooted in marked change, solutions, stability, and sustainability. This is a critical time to reimagine our work and seek greater impact than ever before–and I look forward to achieving this with ideas42’s talented team of vested stakeholders.”

Bridgette succeeds long-time Executive Director Josh Wright, who is beginning a fellowship at Princeton’s Kahneman-Treisman Center for Behavioral Science and Public Policy, where he will work on a book about applied behavioral science, drawing from the extensive track record ideas42 established under his leadership. Josh will join ideas42’s esteemed list of advisors.

“I have been fortunate to lead such a talented group in building and growing ideas42 over the last 12 years,” said Josh Wright. “I am incredibly pleased to pass the baton to a leader of Bridgette’s caliber and excited to see ideas42’s future evolution and growth.” 

About ideas42

ideas42 is a nonprofit that applies insights from behavioral science—the study of how people make decisions and act in the real world—to improve lives and drive social change. Working globally, we reinvent the practices of institutions and create more effective products and policies that can be scaled for maximum impact.

We also teach others, ultimately striving for a future where the universal application of behavioral science powers a world with optimal health, equitable wealth, and environments and systems that are sustainable and just for all. 

For the past 15 years, we’ve been at the forefront of applying behavioral science to create a more equitable world. And as we’ve developed our expertise, we’ve helped to define an entire field. Our efforts have extended to 50+ countries as we’ve partnered with hundreds of governments, foundations, NGOs, private sector entities, and philanthropic leaders. Visit ideas42.org for more.

Media Inquiries
Mitra Salasel
mitra@ideas42.org

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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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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/european-wellness-biomedical-group-announces-new-klotho-research-initiative-led-by-prof-mike-chan-302338980.html

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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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SOURCE Plume Network

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South Clackamas Business Resource Center Launches Digital Community Platform

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The Business Resource Center (BRC) of South Clackamas County unveils a new digital platform featuring an innovative business mapping system developed by COBID-certified IronGlove Studio. The website integrates advanced mapping technology with resource management tools to serve local businesses across nine communities, offering free consultations and scholarship opportunities for eligible residents.

OREGON CITY, Ore. and SOUTH CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore., Dec. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ —  The Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County (BRC) is proud to announce the launch of its new website, https://brcscc.org, developed by Oregon City-based IronGlove Studio, LLC. The launch marks a significant expansion of its online presence and services, representing a major step forward in the BRC’s mission to support and empower local businesses and community members in the South Clackamas area.

This initiative offers an unbiased and equitable opportunity for every small business in the South Clackamas region to connect, discover, and grow through access to training, resources, and support.

Who is the Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County

The Business Resource Center (BRC) of South Clackamas County is a vital hub for small business support, resources, and training opportunities, dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the region. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and operating until December 31, 2024, or until funding is exhausted, the BRC provides free consultations, training programs, and scholarships to empower small business owners in Gladstone, Oregon City, Beavercreek, Canby, Molalla, Mulino, Colton, Eagle Creek, and Estacada. Through initiatives like its comprehensive website and Local Business Map, the BRC connects entrepreneurs with the community, creating opportunities for growth and promoting sustainable, community-based economic development.

Key Offerings

Free Business Resource Consultations: Local entrepreneurs can access expert advice and guidance at no cost, ensuring they are not alone in their small business journey.

Exclusive Scholarship Opportunities: The BRC offers scholarships for Clackamas Community College’s Career & Technical Education programs, covering up to $3,500 per semester for eligible students in select zip codes.

Local Business Map: As part of its marketing initiative, the BRC features an innovative Local Business Map developed by IronGlove Studio. This custom solution integrates advanced mapping technology with COBID certification filters, enabling small businesses to connect with one another while providing valuable demographic insights for community stakeholders.

Website Performance

Since its soft launch in August 2024, the BRC website has quickly become a vital resource for the South Clackamas business community. The platform has attracted nearly 3,000 visitors, with users spending an average of 4 minutes engaging with the site’s resources and information. The site’s success is particularly evident in its scholarship program, which has already received 82 applications, including 6 from Spanish-speaking community members, demonstrating the BRC’s commitment to serving our diverse business community.

Strategic partnerships with Here is Oregon and Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory allowed us to create targeted social media campaigns that have helped drive over 2,000 visitors to the site, resulting in more than 7,000 total pageviews. Visitors are actively engaging with the platform’s resources, averaging 2.7 actions per visit, including accessing business resources, downloading materials, and utilizing the local business map.

The platform, developed by IronGlove Studio, LLC of Oregon City, a COBID-certified firm, showcases innovative integration of WordPress with proprietary Angular mapping technology. “The BRC website demonstrates how enterprise-level solutions can be scaled down to serve community needs,” says Derek Neuts, Owner of IronGlove Studio. “By incorporating advanced features like COBID certification filters and demographic reporting capabilities, we’ve created a platform that not only connects consumers to businesses but also provides valuable insights for community development.”

Community Support

The BRC extends its gratitude to its advocates, partners and supporters, including the previous Oregon State Senator Bill Kennemer, previous Oregon State Representative (now Senator) — Mark Meek, the Chambers of Commerce for Canby, Estacada, Molalla and Oregon City, the Cities of Colton and Gladstone and the Hamlets of Beavercreek and Mulino.

“The launch of our comprehensive website marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting the South Clackamas County business community,” said Shatrine Krake, Director of Communications at the Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County. “This initiative offers an unbiased and equitable opportunity for every small business in the South Clackamas region to connect, discover, and grow through access to training, resources, and support.”

For more information or to schedule a free business consultation, visit https://brcscc.org.

Media Contact

Shatrine Krake, Director of Communications, Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County, 1 503-656-1619, shatrine@brcscc.org, https://brcscc.org/

Technical Development Contact: Derek Neuts, IronGlove Studio LLC, 1 503-501-4645, contact@ironglove.studio, https://www.ironglove.studio

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SOURCE Business Resource Center of South Clackamas County

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