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Heartland Forward Releases 2024 “Most Dynamic Micropolitans” Report, Highlights Resilience and Growth in America’s Small Cities

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The report details how trends in tourism and manufacturing contribute to the overall economic strength of micropolitan regions

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Aug. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Heartland Forward – a policy think-and-do tank working as a resource for states and communities to advance the economic success in the middle of the country – today released its biennial report, “Most Dynamic Micropolitans”. It ranks 527 micropolitan areas – municipalities with populations of 10,000 to 50,000 – across the entire United States based on economic performance. Los Alamos, N.M.; Jefferson, Ga.; and Jackson, Wyo.Idaho ranked as the top three most dynamic micropolitans. Outdoor recreation, tourism and manufacturing were the most common strengths among the top 25.

The economic impact of the pandemic intensified existing challenges facing micropolitan areas, where more than 27 million Americans live. As these communities represent a significant portion of the population, it is essential to invest in creating strong, resilient environments that enable residents to thrive. Such investments empower local populations and serve as a model for sustainable community development across the nation.

“Micropolitans are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in America’s economy,” said Ross DeVol, president and CEO of Heartland Forward. “Our report shows how these innovative communities are thriving, offering a blueprint for other small cities.”

Over half of the top 200 and nearly half of the top 100 micropolitans are in the heartland, with a strong manufacturing base, diverse economies, proximity to major metropolitans and demand for skilled labor as significant drivers for successful micropolitan communities.

Seven of the top 10 micropolitans rely on tourism to drive their economy, leveraging their access to natural destinations and recreational amenities to attract visitors from across the country. Many micropolitans also benefit from robust manufacturing industries that serve as a source for well-paying jobs and technological innovation. In Arkansas, for example, Blytheville and Magnolia are manufacturing hubs employing thousands of highly skilled workers with competitive wages, contributing significantly to the state’s economy.

The rise of hybrid and remote work has led to a growing non-native population, fueling growth in these communities and the introduction of new industries. The report emphasizes the importance of economic diversification, noting regions dependent on a single industry face greater volatility. Notably, Los Alamos, N.M., ranks first for the second year in a row. The expansion of Los Alamos National Laboratory has contributed to the region registering the highest overall employment growth on our economic momentum measure, which tracks jobs added between September 2022 and September 2023 (12.3%).

“Each year, our analysis of the economic conditions of micropolitans helps public policymakers, businesses and researchers plan strategically, drive sustainable growth and foster resilience in these vital communities,” said Jackson Li, a report author and research associate at Heartland Forward.

The Rankings
Top 25 Micropolitan Areas for 2024

Los Alamos, N.M.Jefferson, Ga.Jackson, Wyo.IdahoHeber, UtahKey WestKey Largo, Fla.Cedar City, UtahTown of Pecos, TexasMonticello, N.Y.Breckenridge, Colo.Hailey, IdahoRifle, Colo.Edwards, Colo.Hobbs, N.M.Fredericksburg, TexasSpearfish, S.D.Steamboat Springs, Colo.Durant, Okla.Brenham, TexasSandpoint, IdahoKalispell, Mont.Rexburg, IdahoSeaford, Del.Sevierville, Tenn.Granbury, TexasNantucket, Mass.

Heartland Forward assessed the micropolitans by analyzing key economic indicators, including average pay, employment, real GDP and personal income. The methodology examines short-term (2021-2022) and medium-term (2017-2022) growth, focusing on metrics like young-firm employment and knowledge intensity.

Access the full 2024 Most Dynamic Micropolitans report here for detailed rankings and city profiles. To learn more about Heartland Forward, please visit https://heartlandforward.org.

About Heartland Forward
Heartland Forward is a policy think-and-do-tank dedicated to being a resource for states and local communities in the middle of the country. We do this by studying broad economic trends and building data-driven and community-tested partnerships, programs and policies to address the needs of the heartland – all while helping to change the narrative about the middle of the country and kick-starting economic growth.

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SOURCE Heartland Forward

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Ganzin Unveils Revolutionary AURORA IIS Eye-Tracking Solution at CES 2025

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Ganzin will announce AURORA IIS solution in CES 2025, which is a new NPU eye-tracking solution, that only composed of one NPU, two eye sensors, and two IR LEDs. The host could receive eye-tracking results from the NPU directly without any computational burden. It is an ideal eye-tracking solution for AR and AI smartglasses.The NPU’s dimension is just 2.3 x 5.6 mm, the eye sensor’s dimension is 1.6 x 1.6 x 2.3mm, and the IR LED’s dimension is 1 x 0.5 x 0.45mm.DPVR, a leading Chinese VR brand, is set to announce its new standalone VR model, the P2 Vision. The device features advanced eye-tracking technology, powered by the Ganzin AURORA IIS solution.P2 Vision is orderable since CES 2025. You are welcome to visit DPVR booth to experience P2 Vision and Ganzin eye tracking performance at LVCC, Central Hall – 15945.

TAIPEI, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Ganzin, a pioneer in glint-free wearable eye-tracking technology provider, is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking AURORA IIS solution at CES 2025. This cutting-edge system redefines simplicity and performance in eye-tracking, requiring only one compact NPU, two eye sensors, and two IR LEDs to deliver real-time eye-tracking results to the host device without any computational burden. It is an ideal eye-tracking solution for AR and AI smartglasses.

The NPU, with an ultra-compact size of just 2.3 x 5.6 mm, is purpose-built for AI/AR glasses, and VR headsets. The accompanying eye sensors measure a mere 1.6 x 1.6 x 2.3 mm, while the IR LEDs are 1 x 0.5 x 0.45 mm. The entire AURORA IIS solution weighs less than 1 gram and consumes under 100 mW of power, delivering exceptional efficiency for next-generation wearable devices.

In a major collaboration, DPVR, one of China’s most prominent VR brands, will debut its latest standalone VR model, the P2 Vision, at CES 2025. The P2 Vision incorporates Ganzin’s AURORA IIS solution, enabling precise, real-time eye-tracking capabilities that enhance user interaction, gaze-based control, and immersive experiences.

Visitors to CES 2025 are invited to experience the P2 Vision and Ganzin’s innovative eye-tracking technology in action. Live demonstrations will be held at the DPVR booth (LVCC, Central Hall – 15945), where attendees can get a hands-on look at the future of VR interaction. The P2 Vision will also be available for order starting at CES 2025, marking a new era for VR accessibility and functionality.

“The AURORA IIS marks a major breakthrough in eye-tracking technology,” said Dr. Shao-Yi Chien, CEO of Ganzin. “Our ultra-compact, energy-efficient solution is tailored to meet the demands of VR, AR, and wearable device manufacturers. We also offer flexible customization of eye camera placement to integrate with our clients’ industrial design (ID) requirements.”

Ganzin will have a private suite at the Westgate Hotel during CES 2025. To learn more about our AURORA IIS solution or to schedule a private demonstration, please reach out to our contact listed below.

Media Contact: Martin Lin
Business Development Manager
Ganzin Technology Co., Ltd.
Email: martin.lin@gnainz.com.tw 

About Ganzin

Ganzin is a global leader in eye-tracking technology, delivering advanced, compact, and energy-efficient solutions for next-generation wearable and immersive devices. The company’s vision is to make human-machine interaction more intuitive and accessible to everyone, enabling smarter and more responsive user experiences for consumers.

About DPVR

DPVR is a leading virtual reality technology company based in China, renowned for its development of user-friendly, high-performance VR headsets. Committed to bringing immersive experiences to the masses, DPVR continues to push the boundaries of VR technology and innovation.

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SOURCE Ganzin Technology

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Eddid Financial Partners with HKBU for the Third Consecutive Year to Establish 10th Anniversary Scholarship

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HONG KONG, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Building on successful collaborations with the School of Oriental and African Studies (“SOAS”) at the University of London, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and City University of Hong Kong, Eddid Financial (the “Group”) announces its partnership with Hong Kong Baptist University (“HKBU”). The Group and HKBU have, together, established the “Eddid Financial 10th Anniversary Scholarship” for the 2024/25 academic year to recognize students who excel academically and contribute outstandingly to social service.

Over the past three years, the Group has engaged in various initiatives with HKBU, including the establishment of social service scholarships, fintech research projects, and internship programs. As Edidd Financial approaches its 10th anniversary in 2025, this new scholarship underscores their commitment to deepening collaboration. This “Eddid Financial 10th Anniversary Scholarship” will reward third-year undergraduate students from the business school who demonstrate academic excellence and a dedication to community service, inspiring more students to strive for success while giving back to society.

The Group is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of talent and looks forward to supporting those who pursue excellence and are passionate about serving the community in the future academic year. Eddid Financial will also maintain close communication and collaboration with HKBU to support its teaching and research efforts, contributing to sustainable development in society.

About Eddid Financial

Anchored in Hong Kong, Eddid Financial is an all-encompassing financial group centered around fintech and dedicated to integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies and other latest technologies into its enterprise DNA. The diversified businesses of Eddid Financial range from retail to institutional and include but are not limited to fintech, internet finance, wealth management, asset management, investment banking, and virtual assets. Eddid Financial is committed to providing one-stop financial services and products to customers through high-quality investment solutions.

Members of the Group hold a variety of licenses and memberships across key financial markets. These include Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) regulated activities (“RA”) licenses for types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9; SEHK and HKCC participant (OTP-C broker number: 0974 and 0977), Insurance Broker Company license; Trust or Company Service Provider License in Hong Kong. Additionally, our fully owned U.S. broker-dealer subsidiary, Eddid Securities USA Inc., maintains approved membership with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), the National Futures Association (NFA), and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), and the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (NQX), and is a registered broker dealer with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the United States.

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SOURCE Eddid Financial

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JinkoSolar Announces Results of 2024 Annual General Meeting

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SHANGRAO, China, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (“JinkoSolar” or the “Company”) (NYSE: JKS), one of the largest and most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world, today announced that all shareholders resolutions proposed at the Company’s 2024 annual general meeting held today were duly passed. Specifically, the Company’s shareholders passed the following resolutions approving:

The re-election of Mr. Xianhua Li as a director of the Company;The re-election of Mr. Steven Markscheid as a director of the Company;The ratification of the appointment of Mr. Gang Chu as an independent director of the Company and the re-election of him as an independent director of the Company;The ratification of the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP as auditors of the Company for the fiscal year of 2024;The authorization of the directors of the Company to determine the remuneration of the auditors of the Company; andThe authorization of each of the directors of the Company be authorized to take any and all action that might be necessary to effect the foregoing resolutions 1 to 5 as such director, in his or her absolute discretion, thinks fit.

 About JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd.

JinkoSolar (NYSE: JKS) is one of the largest and most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world. JinkoSolar distributes its solar products and sells its solutions and services to a diversified international utility, commercial and residential customer base in China, the United States, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Chile, South Africa, India, Mexico, Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Greece and other countries and regions.

JinkoSolar had over 10 productions facilities globally, over 20 overseas subsidiaries in Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, India, Turkey, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, Denmark, Indonesia, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, and a global sales network with sales teams  in China, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Italy, Germany, Turkey, Spain, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Vietnam and India, as of September 30, 2024. To find out more, please see: www.jinkosolar.com

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Ms. Stella Wang
JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd.
Tel: +86 21-5180-8777 ext.7806
Email: ir@jinkosolar.com 

Mr. Rene Vanguestaine
Christensen
Tel: +86 178 1749 0483
Email: rene.vanguestaine@christensencomms.com  

In the U.S.:

Ms. Linda Bergkamp
Christensen, Scottsdale, Arizona
Tel: +1-480-614-3004
Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jinkosolar-announces-results-of-2024-annual-general-meeting-302339506.html

SOURCE JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd.

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