New Social Network Pitchel to Connect Startups and Investors

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New York, NY, September 01, 2023 –(PR.com)– In October, a new social network will be released that will allow startup owners to present their idea to an external audience and investors. According to CBInsights statistics, only 1% of startups become unicorns like Uber, Airbnb, Slack, Stripe. The reasons for such a small percentage can be different: from an unclear strategy to insufficient funding for further development.

Therefore, Pitchel’s main goal is to connect investors with startups and become a source of inspiration for users looking for new ideas and interested in trends in the startup market.

More about Pitchel
The Pitchel social network will operate in the format of a mobile application with a user-friendly interface. The main idea of the social network is to display short and interesting presentations of startups in video format in the feed of users, including startup owners, investors, and inspiration seekers.

This format of short video speeches will help startup owners explain their idea as briefly and accurately as possible, and investors will be able to view ideas in a convenient format without wasting time.

How Pitchel works
The Pitchel mobile app will work in a simple and straightforward way for users.

The first step is to download and install the app from the App Store or Google Play.

The second step is registration, which requires only an email and can be done with a Google or AppleID account.

The third step is filling out a profile and using the application.

When registering a startup, the owner needs to upload a video pitch, as well as fill in basic information about the business: goals, problems it solves, competitive advantages, etc. That is, to provide all the necessary information to the investor at the stage of familiarization with the startup.

No additional profile filling is required when registering investors or users. Only registration and further video viewing is required.

Investors can also customize the video feed by selecting startup countries and business categories. In this case, the investor will be shown only those video presentations that meet the specified criteria.

The fourth step is using the social network. Users can like video presentations they like and communicate with each other. In addition, videos that the user has liked are saved in the history, which allows you to view the presentation again and not lose them in the feed.

Key features of the Pitchel social network
Personalized experience. Investors and users who have joined Pitchel can set up feed filters based on their interests, such as startup categories or country, and see only those ideas that they may potentially be interested in.

Global access. With Pitchel, users have access to investment opportunities without geographic restrictions. Interesting projects in various sectors become available to everyone, in every corner of the world.

Support for startups. Pitchel provides a platform for startups to present their ideas to a wide audience of potential investors and receive feedback from an external audience.

User-friendliness. The Pitchel interface is designed to provide maximum convenience and speed of access to the necessary information. This includes quick registration, as well as easy profile filling and communication.

The ability to leave information about yourself before the official launch of Pitchel.

Pitchel now gives startup owners the opportunity to fill out a pre-launch form with information about their startup and get a guaranteed first placement as soon as the social network is launched. In addition, additional information about the project will be published on Pitchel’s social networks: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

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CodeLock Selected to Participate in Startup Battlefield 200 at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023

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Ashburn, VA, August 25, 2023 –(PR.com)– CodeLock, Inc., a patent-pending AI/Machine Learning enabled SaaS solution for DevSecOps that provides continuous software security at the code level, has been chosen to exhibit at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 as part of Startup Battlefield 200, the world’s preeminent startup competition.

CodeLock is one 200 startups selected from a review of thousands of applicants to pitch in front of investors and TechCrunch editors. This year’s Startup Battlefield participants span artificial intelligence (AI), software as a service (SaaS), fintech, security, sustainability, space exploration and more.

“Being selected as a TechCrunch Disrupt showcase startup for 2023 will position CodeLock at the forefront of enhanced security, accountability, and compliance within the software development landscape,” said, Brian Gallagher, CodeLock’s CEO.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 will be held from Tuesday, September 19 – Thursday, September 21 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. The event is known for debuting the hottest startups, introducing game-changing technologies and discussing what’s top-of-mind for the tech industry’s key innovators—and this year will be no different. Past companies launched at Disrupt include Dropbox, Mint, Cloudflare, Fitbit, Yammer and more.

For more information on TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 and Startup Battlefield 200 visit the conference’s website here. Disrupt passes can be purchased here.

About Startup Battlefield

TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield 200 is the world’s preeminent startup competition. Startup Battlefield 200 will showcase the top 200 startups from around the globe, across multiple industries. All 200 companies will go through training, have access to masterclasses, private receptions, communities and investor meet and greets. Companies that launched on our stage include Vurb, Trello, Mint, Dropbox, Yammer, Tripit, Redbeacon, Qwiki, Getaround, and Soluto.

About TechCrunch Disrupt

TechCrunch Disrupt is the world’s leading authority in debuting revolutionary startups, introducing game-changing technologies, and discussing what’s top of mind for the tech industry’s key innovators. This year, Disrupt gathers the best and brightest entrepreneurs, investors, hackers, and tech fans virtually and in-person for interviews, demos, Startup Battlefield 200, Networking, and more.

TechCruch Disrupt Announcement:

https://techcrunch.com/2023/08/24/introducing-the-startup-battlefield-200-companies-at-techcrunch-disrupt-2023/

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Seminar on World Entrepreneur’s Day Empowers Future Leaders in Business and Innovation Conducted by Shreekant Patil, Founder- PARENTNashik, at K.K.Wagh College, Nashik

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Nashik, India, August 25, 2023 –(PR.com)– In celebration of World Entrepreneur’s Day, CE Shreekant Patil, mentor at StartupIndia, an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader, successfully conducted a stimulating and insightful seminar on August 21. Held at K.K.Wagh Engineering College, the seminar aimed to inspire and empower aspiring entrepreneurs, equipping them with valuable knowledge and tools to navigate the dynamic world of business.

The event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of participants, including students, professionals, interested in entrepreneurship. CE Shreekant Patil created an engaging atmosphere, blending expertise with real-world experiences, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape and its challenges and opportunities.

Keynote speeches delivered by CE Shreekant Patil captivated the students, shedding light on crucial aspects of starting and sustaining a successful venture. These impressive entrepreneurs shared personal anecdotes, invaluable lessons, and essential tips, leaving attendees feeling inspired and motivated.

CE Shreekant Patil is Mentor at StartupIndia, MeitY Startup Hub, Chairman Committee at NIMA Startup Hub, Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce (State) and founder at PARENTNashik.

Throughout the seminar, interactive sessions and workshops enabled participants to delve deeper into critical topics such as ideation, market research, funding strategies, marketing, leadership, and scaling a business. Attendees not only acquired theoretical knowledge but also engaged in practical exercises, promoting hands-on learning and enhancing their problem-solving abilities.

Inspired by the seminar’s success, CE Shreekant Patil emphasized the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within the community. They announced plans to establish ongoing mentorship programs, workshops, and networking events to support aspiring entrepreneurs and help them transform their vision into reality.

In recognition of Shreekant Patil’s dedication to nurturing future leaders in business and innovation, numerous participants expressed interest in attending future seminars and workshops hosted by K.K.Wagh College of Engineering. Dr. Kushare & Prof. Mangesh Panchbhai delivered a vote of thanks at the end of the session.

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Angel Investors in Fidotek Corp, a Next-Gen AI Startup, Receive 35% Investment Tax Credit

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Tucson, AZ, August 16, 2023 –(PR.com)– Fidotek Corp, a leading Next-Gen AI company, is delighted to announce its certification by the Arizona Commerce Authority as a Bioscience Small Business under the Small Business Capital Investment Incentive (Angel Investment) program.

The primary aim of the Angel Investment program, as established by A.R.S. § 41-1518, is to foster early stage investments in targeted Arizona small businesses. This initiative offers tax credits to investors who invest in small businesses certified by the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA).

Fidotek is a pioneering force in the $120B pet industry, holding a patent leadership position. Powered by proprietary extensive pet data, its Next-Gen AI platform stands as the industry’s inaugural solution poised to initiate digital transformation across a range of product and service verticals. These encompass pet product retail (the #1 E-commerce CPG), veterinary wellness, remote diagnostics and veterinary telemedicine, and real-time in-field clinical trials to expedite the development and testing of novel pet drugs, therapeutics, and pet food.

The company has recently expanded its growing pet data partnership with the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine (Oro Valley) by welcoming the first four doctoral candidates. This move bolsters its founding team’s pet data expertise. While still in development, the company has refrained from disclosing specific details regarding its technologies or revenue models.

Andy Gibbs, CEO, stated, “Over 360 Generative AI startups have raised $14B to compete for a share among 200 million adults. In contrast, we are the IP leader in an almost unexplored realm, targeting America’s 90 million dogs with a cutting-edge AI platform founded on exclusive pet data. The tax credits afforded by our ACA certification have already drawn new angel investors beyond Tucson, extending our reach into the more active angel investor and venture capital communities in the greater Phoenix metro.”

In Arizona’s Angel Investment program, investors can claim tax credits up to 35% of the investment amount by documenting their investments in certified small businesses: 1st Year Credit: 12% of the investment; year 2: 12%; year 3: 11%.
Additionally, Arizona offers the exemption of capital gains tax on income derived from investments in companies certified by ACA (A.R.S. § 43-1022).Contacts:

Qualified investors interested in learning more about current SAFE and Series A investment opportunities in Fidotek may contact Andy Gibbs, founder and CEO.

For more information on ACA investment incentives for Angel Investors, contact the Arizona Commerce Authority.

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As Home and Auto Insurance Prices Surge, WOOP Insurance, a Philadelphia Start-Up, Offers Consumers a Solution

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Media, PA, August 17, 2023 –(PR.com)– Woop Insurance’s new product – Insurance Dashboard – gives consumers a free personalized evaluation of their insurance policy that allows members to understand the current insurance market and their policy costs and coverage, to make informed decisions for the best coverage and price.

Home and auto insurance prices are rapidly rising in the current economy. Woop Insurance, a local fintech startup specializing in the insurance industry, provides consumers with a free, online evaluation of their current insurance policies, pricing, and coverage in relation to rising costs in the industry. Woop focuses on making the insurance process easy, by making pricing transparent and understandable. Woop’s Insurance Dashboard is free to use and creates a personalized report for each user that focuses on three things: if the current price they pay is fair; how their price was calculated; and if their current insurance company is raising prices faster than their competitors.

Woop Insurance CEO, Eric Foster, is a South Jersey native and a graduate of St Joe’s University – a Philadelphia Area resident, who has built a fintech company with national impact on a major industry.

After working in the insurance industry for years, Foster was driven to create a company that changed the insurance experience for consumers by providing them with price transparency, industry knowledge, and the information needed to make informed financial decisions about their policies and coverage. According to Foster: “Our mission goes beyond technology; it’s about empowering consumers.”

The Insurance Dashboard product is at the forefront of the company’s mission-driven initiatives. In response to surging insurance costs, Woop created this product to allow users to understand their own insurance policies, understand why costs are rising, and to compare their insurance options with financial savvy. Home and auto insurance are necessary costs for most Americans. By, leveraging advanced technology and data analytics, Woop’s new product aims to help users make well-informed insurance decisions, promoting financial literacy and confidence. After receiving their Insurance Dashboard report, if their current policy is not the best option, consumers can then request quotes online that compare rates and coverage from major name brand insurers, in one online experience, without calls to an insurance agent.

Foster compares the Insurance Dashboard product to a well-known tool for financial literacy for consumers: “Much like how Credit Karma demystified credit for consumers, our Insurance Dashboard seeks to do the same for insurance, making it more transparent and accessible.”

To find out more about Insurance Dashboard, our innovative insurance solutions, or Woop’s presence in the local community, contact Josh Evans, as listed above, or visit us at: https://www.woopinsuranceagency.com/.

About Woop Insurance:
Woop is redefining insurance through technology. We are committed to making insurance transparent, simple, and convenient. By demystifying the industry, we empower customers with knowledge and access to the best insurance deals in minutes.

Contact: Josh Evans
Email: jevans@itswoop.com
Phone: (609) 314-1622

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University of Arizona Veterinary Interns Join Fidotek; Next-Gen AI to Transform $120B Pet Industry

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Oro Valley, AZ, August 16, 2023 –(PR.com)– Fidotek Corp, an early stage bioscience company with a robust intellectual property portfolio, proudly announces the inclusion of four doctoral candidates, known as “VetCats,” from the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, to its diverse team of experts in pet care and technology. This collaborative endeavor represents a significant leap forward in shaping the future landscape of digital pet behavior, wellness standards, and protocols.

Utilizing its patented pet wellness system, data acquisition hardware, and exclusive cloud-based artificial intelligence, Fidotek is dedicated to empowering veterinarians and pet owners through early illness identification, predictive diagnosis, timely intervention, and enhanced quality of life for pets, on both individual and cohort levels.

“We’re at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence within the pet industry, and Arizona’s veterinary interns play a pivotal role in our ambitious mission. This collaboration not only grants doctoral candidates hands-on experience in shaping the future of digital pet wellness, but also accelerates the development of our transformative platform for veterinarians and pet guardians,” commented Andy Gibbs, CEO, and Founder of Fidotek.

The company’s data-driven system is poised to expedite quantitative analysis for real-time in-field clinical trials involving manufacturers of pet pharmaceuticals and food, streamline personalized product matching for pets, and establish initial connections with veterinarians who validate the company’s AI pre-diagnosis using conventional diagnostic tools.

Gibbs added, “While Generative AI has spawned a technology investment frenzy to pick the few winners out of the dozens of startups, after six years of quiet development, we’re positioned to be the first next-gen AI platform built on pet data. Being first has its advantages.”

With its burgeoning pet data partnership with the Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine and the Veterinary Specialist Technology Advisory Board, Fidotek maintains unwavering focus on delivering the inaugural big data / AI platform that will spearhead the digital transformation of the legacy pet industry.

About Fidotek Corp:

Fidotek Corp stands as a pioneering bioscience company championing groundbreaking technologies and business models across pet retail, veterinary care, and pet health insurance verticals. Driven by extensive pet data acquisition systems and cloud-based AI, Fidotek passionately endeavors to revolutionize the pet industry through its patented, transformative innovations.

Fidotek is certified as an Arizona Bioscience Small Business under A.R.S. § 41-1518, offering up to 35% tax credit incentives for Angel Investments made into Arizona-based startups.

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Infamous Whiskey to Launch Kickstarter Campaign

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Greensboro, GA, August 16, 2023 –(PR.com)– Georgia-based startup artisan distillery of high-quality whiskey and whiskey cocktails, Infamous Whiskey, is set to launch a Kickstarter campaign on the creative community-focused platform Kickstarter on September 8, 2023. The Kickstarter crowdfunding platform choice aligns with both the artisan nature of distilling craft spirits and the distinctly creative side of the company’s executive management team including musicians, artists, athletes, and actors.

“Because of our own creative and artistic roots and the fact that distilling fine spirits is considered a work of art by professionals and aficionados, we wanted to host our rewards-based crowdfunding campaign on a platform for creative projects – Kickstarter. We believe Kickstarter’s artist community will be excited about our passion for the careful craftsmanship of distilling whiskey and also about our promise to help our charity of choice, The Lovely Project,” commented Mark Matuszek, President of Infamous Whiskey and former music producer.

The goal of this Kickstarter campaign is to raise a portion of the down payment for property which will serve as the base for distilling operations and headquarters for the company. The team has scouted a location in the heart of Georgia’s beautiful Lake Country, approximately 50 miles east of Atlanta. The remaining payment will be taken care of by the company. The city has already begun the process of creating local ordinances and investigating applicable zoning and state laws. To support the Kickstarter campaign Infamous Whiskey advertising efforts will commence across multiple social media platforms shortly after the launch on September 8.

“Distilling craft fine spirits requires passion,” said founder and CEO Lorenze Tremonti. “In many ways it’s like making music – my former professional career. Instead of finding the perfect inspiration and vibe to bring out the right notes or words, you find the perfect ingredients and techniques to bring out the right flavor profiles. The end result of the distilling process can taste so complex based on the infinite variables involved. It took me years of failing before I created the taste I originally envisioned. When I finally got the flavor profile I hoped for, I thought, ‘Whoa! This is it! This is the one!’ and I wanted everyone I knew to taste it. It felt just like when I used to make music and I would finally write the perfect song and I wanted everyone to hear it. Anyone that creates any kind of art knows that feeling. It’s a euphoric moment.”

Anyone who supports Infamous Whiskey in their debut Kickstarter campaign has the chance to receive some nice rewards in return including Infamous Whiskey branded hats, Glencairn Whiskey Glasses, decanters, and three different limited edition prints of original watercolor paintings of Infamous Whiskey bottles by professional artist Moggie Mackubin of Orlando, FL.

“We were so happy when Moggie agreed to create paintings of our products using her beautiful watercolor talents. She gave each of the three pieces such incredible vibrancy and movement and we’re excited to offer them as top tier rewards of our Kickstarter campaign. Someday soon the originals will be proudly hung side by side in the lobby of our distillery,” said Shaun Roberts, Vice President of Branding and Analytics and former graphic novelist contributor.

The Infamous Whiskey Kickstarter campaign is set to begin on Friday, September 8 and will run for 45 days ending on Monday, October 23. Once it is made active, the direct campaign link will be featured on InfamousWhiskey.com, the official website for Infamous Whiskey.

For more information, please visit infamouswhiskey.com/news.

For press inquiries, please contact:
Chris Roberts, VP of Media & Advertising
Phone: 706-817-5559
Email: marketing@infamouswhiskey.com

About Infamous Whiskey
Infamous Whiskey is a spirits brand that combines the roots of Georgia shine with the traditions of Kentucky distilling. Crafted by Lorenze Tremonti, master distiller and CEO, Infamous Whiskey challenges conventions and redefines the boundaries of taste. With an unwavering commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, Infamous Whiskey invites whiskey enthusiasts to embrace the extraordinary and live life infamously. Learn more: infamouswhiskey.com.

About The Lovely Project
The Lovely Project is a non-profit organization headquartered in Orlando, FL that exists to empower girls and women to find their voice, know their value, and unleash their valor. Through interactive events and programs hosted on site and in local schools, girls ages 5-19 are invited to experience a loving and encouraging environment where they can be heard and build lasting relationships. Learn more: TheLovelyProject.org

About Kickstarter
Kickstarter is a rewards based crowdfunding community that exists to help bring creative projects to life. A home for film, music, food, art, theater, games, comics, design, photography, and more. Learn more: kickstarter.com

Note: This press release is for informational purposes only.

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Neurobit Launches Neurobit HUB: A Comprehensive Tool for Streamlining Sleep and Population Health Research

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New York, NY, August 14, 2023 –(PR.com)– Neurobit, a global leader in artificial intelligence-driven sleep health analytics, announced the launch of Neurobit HUB, a comprehensive web-based tool designed to revolutionize the clinical trial process in sleep and population health research. Developed from Neurobit’s extensive experience in conducting clinical trials and understanding the associated challenges, this platform is intended to optimize sleep studies, accelerate scientific breakthroughs, and make the entire clinical trial process more efficient.

Leveraging Neurobit’s vast expertise in sleep analytics, Neurobit HUB integrates an advanced analytical capability that can derive 40 specific sleep biomarkers from physiological data. This unique feature is strategically aligned with the needs of clinical researchers, academics, and technicians, and opens new pathways for novel biomarkers and drug discovery among others. Through the fusion of over 20 health AI modules and clinically validated home-based devices, Neurobit HUB not only enhances the efficiency of the entire clinical trial process but also adds a novel dimension to sleep and population health research.

“The power of data in accelerating breakthroughs in sleep science cannot be overstated,” says Dr. Amiya Patanaik, Co-founder of Neurobit. “With Neurobit HUB, we are going beyond traditional data management by offering a tool specifically tailored to streamline the entire clinical trial process. This solution was born out of our own experiences with the trials and the recognized need to innovate in this critical area.”

Neurobit HUB introduces a paradigm shift in sleep and population health research, integrating comprehensive functionalities to enable:

Seamless Clinical Trial Integration: Neurobit HUB offers end-to-end support for the clinical trial process, consolidating and harmonizing data for holistic analysis, making trial management more transparent and effective.

Powerful and Advanced Analytics: The tool’s advanced statistical analysis and visualization capabilities are aligned with Neurobit’s pioneering work, which includes leveraging 40 biomarkers, offering researchers unparalleled insights.

Customizable Study Design:With Neurobit HUB, researchers can tailor research protocols with customizable study parameters and workflows, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in clinical trials.

Collaborative Research:The platform supports secure data sharing and collaboration to foster a cooperative research environment.

Regulatory Compliance:Neurobit HUB’s design ensures strict adherence to privacy regulations and data security standards, making it a reliable and trustworthy tool for research institutions engaging in clinical trials.

“Neurobit HUB is not just a data management tool; it’s a robust solution designed to drive discoveries in sleep and population health research, with a distinct focus on streamlining and innovating the clinical trial process,” says Kishan, Co-founder of Neurobit. “Our unique understanding of the challenges in clinical trials led to the creation of this tool, and we believe it will be instrumental in accelerating progress in the field.”

For more information about Neurobit HUB, visit https://www.neurobit.com/research/hub

About Neurobit
Neurobit is a leading innovator in health analytics, transforming the understanding of sleep as a biomarker to help deliver predictive precision medicine. Their AI-driven solutions offer groundbreaking insights into sleep health and its relation to overall wellbeing. Co-founded by Amiya Patanaik and Kishan, Neurobit’s mission is to revolutionize sleep health and analysis with a range of products for healthcare institutions. With a global footprint, Neurobit operates under the name Neurobit Health from its headquarters in New York, USA, while maintaining presences in Bangalore, India as Neurobit Innovations, and in Singapore as Neurobit Technologies.
Learn more at neurobit.com

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Latest ezPaycheck Payroll Software Now Supports Flexible Social Security Number Masking

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Atlanta, GA, August 14, 2023 –(PR.com)– Taking proactive measures to protect employee information, such as masking SSNs on paychecks, can foster a sense of trust and security among employees. With ezPaycheck payroll software from Halfpricesoft.com, there is a new easy to use feature to mask the Social Security number. In today’s business world, states require specifically how social security should be displayed on payroll checks.

Masking or partially redacting Social Security numbers (SSNs) on paychecks can provide several benefits in terms of security and privacy. Here are a few reasons why it might be advantageous:

-Identity Theft Protection: SSNs are highly sensitive and valuable personal information. Masking the SSN on paychecks can reduce the risk of identity theft. If a paycheck is lost or stolen, an individual’s full SSN won’t be readily available to potential fraudsters.

-Privacy Enhancement: Redacting SSNs on paychecks helps protect an individual’s privacy. In some cases, employees may feel uncomfortable with their SSNs being openly displayed on their pay stubs, especially if these stubs are accessible to others. By masking the SSN, it limits the exposure of personal information to unauthorized individuals.

-Masking SSNs on paychecks can help organizations fulfill their obligations under regulations, ensuring that they handle sensitive data appropriately.
Reduced Risk of Internal Fraud: In an organizational setting, masking SSNs on paychecks can help.

“Newest ezPaycheck 2023 payroll software offers a flexible option to mask or show the social security number for employees on a check depending on state requirements.“ said Halfpricesoft.com founder Dr. Ge.

ezPaycheck business payroll software is an innovative and inexpensive application catering to small and midsize business owners new to payroll processing. The graphical interface allows Human Resources and business owners to print paychecks as well as W2, W3, 940, 941 forms all within one software application.

New and seasoned business owners are invited to visit halfpricesoft.com and download ezPaycheck for up to 30 days with no cost or obligation. The download includes the full version of the paycheck software along with a sample database. The sample database allows new customers to try all of ezPaycheck’s exciting features, including the intuitive graphical interface, without wasting time entering data. (Please note: TRIAL appears on checks and forms until the purchased license key is entered).

Priced at $139 per installation and released each per calendar year for a single installation, ezPaycheck payroll software is affordable for any size business. To start the no obligation 30-day test drive today at halfpricesoft.com

Restore data
https://youtu.be/p6IP-e_8k6c

About Halfpricesoft.com
Halfpricesoft.com is a leading provider of small business software, including online and desktop payroll software, online employee attendance tracking software, accounting software, in-house business and personal check printing software, W2, software, 1099 software, Accounting software, 1095 form software and ezACH direct deposit software. Software from halfpricesoft.com is trusted by thousands of customers and will help small business owners simplify payroll processing and streamline business management.

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Chai – AI Company Announces $205 Million Valuation

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Palo Alto, CA, August 13, 2023 –(PR.com)– Chai, the leading AI chat entertainment platform, has announced a $205 million valuation after a rapid round of funding from a number of high-powered angel investors. The profitable company has historically been reticent to accept outside funding, preferring to reinvest all financial gains in further improving the company’s proprietary AI offerings.

The company was founded in 2020 with the goal of instituting a cutting-edge AI platform app, encouraging users to explore their creativity and create meaningful connections with the artificial intelligence that acts as a friend and a confidante. Bolstered by the market’s enthusiasm, the platform quickly grew to a 5 million-strong user base.

Commenting on the news, William Beauchamp, founder and CEO of Chai said, “Today marks a new era for Chai. We have raised a substantial amount of funding which will allow us to continue our exponential growth, and focus on further training and maturing our AI. Our research team, all of whom are motivated by the limitless possibilities our AI has to offer, will be able to continue their work on providing users with the best experience possible.”

The startup will use its funds to further its ambitious scope and focus on pushing forward with its Guanaco competition, announced earlier this year. The competition leverages the mastery of the AI community by allowing engineers, academics and students to compete to design the highest-scoring AI language model, as measured by user engagement on the Chai platform. Top-ranking entrants will be awarded prizes of up to one million USD.

“At Chai, we constantly strive to stay at the forefront of the artificial intelligence field, and with this new wave of funding, we’re for sure on the right track,” added Beauchamp. “Our focus right now is on experimenting with new ways to engage and delight our users, as well as leveraging the best of the AI community.”

*For more information about Chai Research, visit https://chai-research.com

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Cellbunq Expands Its AI Platform to Support Complex Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Structures

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London, United Kingdom, August 05, 2023 –(PR.com)– Cellbunq, a global Know Your Business provider, announced today that it is expanding its artificial intelligence (AI) platform to support complex Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) structures. With this expansion, Cellbunq will now be able to provide businesses with comprehensive data on UBO structures that are typically difficult to obtain.

Through Cellbunq’s platform, businesses and individuals can easily onboard themselves and their business partners and select their desired services. In addition, Cellbunq provides global coverage, allowing enterprises to onboard regardless of location, with no need for physical presence.

The expansion of the AI platform to support complex UBO structures is a game-changer for businesses seeking clarity on ownership structures. With the new functionality, companies can access clear and understandable graphs showing the ultimate beneficial owners of any entity.

“Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for businesses to understand who they are dealing with,” said a Cellbunq spokesperson. “With this expansion, we can provide comprehensive data on complex UBO structures that are typically hard to get from any country. This will enable businesses to make more informed decisions and comply with regulatory requirements.”

The new functionality covers businesses owned by entities and individuals, providing a holistic view of UBO structures. The AI platform’s expanded capabilities allow for a more granular analysis of complex ownership structures, enabling businesses to quickly identify potential red flags.

Cellbunq’s AI platform expansion is the latest in a series of updates to provide businesses with the most comprehensive and reliable KYB services. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted partner to businesses worldwide.

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MacDonald Air Launches Private Jet Brokerage with Exclusive Point System

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Fort Wayne, IN, August 05, 2023 –(PR.com)– MacDonald Air, a groundbreaking private jet charter brokerage, proudly announces its official opening to the public. Led by visionary entrepreneur Peter MacDonald, the company aims to revolutionize the private charter booking process, bringing convenience, efficiency, and unique rewards to its valued clients.

Recognizing the challenges and time-consuming nature of arranging private jet travel, MacDonald Air steps forward with a cutting-edge platform that streamlines the entire booking experience. By combining the benefits of commercial travel with personalized services, MacDonald Air ensures a hassle-free journey from start to finish.

One of the most innovative features offered by MacDonald Air one of the industry’s first point systems, which provides customers the opportunity to redeem free charters without the need to pay for any membership. For every dollar spent on charter bookings through the MacDonald Air system, clients will earn 1 point. This exclusive loyalty program grants unprecedented access to complimentary private charters, rewarding frequent flyers for their trust and support.

Peter MacDonald, the founder and senior broker of MacDonald Air, commented on the company’s mission: “We take a low pressure approach, because we know you’re probably price shopping, and we get it. We think you should fly with us not because you were persuaded by our sales team, but because you like the deal we’re offering. At MacDonald Air, we understand the importance of time and the desire for a first-class travel experience. Our platform not only saves valuable time for businesses but also redefines the way travelers are rewarded.”

With a commitment to continuous innovation, MacDonald Air is set to introduce a range of enhancements to elevate the private jet charter experience further. The company aims to redefine luxury air travel by combining cutting-edge technology, exceptional customer service, and a dedication to meeting the unique needs of each client.

About MacDonald Air:
MacDonald Air is a leading private jet charter brokerage, founded by entrepreneur Peter MacDonald. The company is on a mission to redefine the private charter booking process, offering efficiency, convenience, and a groundbreaking point system for free charters. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, MacDonald Air is poised to become a trailblazer in the private jet charter industry.

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Gear Patrol’s Successful Acquisition of DPReview from Amazon

Gear Patrol, a website providing advice, how-tos, and product reviews, recently acquired DPReview from parent company Amazon. This move came as a surprise to many in the photography community, as Amazon had announced plans to shut down DPReview completely. DPReview had been a trusted source of information for photography enthusiasts for 25 years, not only for gear reviews but also for its active forum where photography enthusiasts could engage with each other. The news of DPReview’s closure garnered thousands of comments and sparked conversations on social media.

However, Gear Patrol stepped in and saved the day by finalizing a deal to purchase DPReview in June 2023. Eric Yang, the founder and CEO of Gear Patrol, was motivated by a combination of business reasons and a personal attachment to DPReview. He recognized the importance of DPReview’s extensive knowledge base and the strong community it had built over the years. Gear Patrol, with its mission to empower people and provide them with the knowledge they need, saw DPReview as a natural fit.

The acquisition of DPReview by Gear Patrol ensures that the valuable photography knowledge and community fostered by DPReview will continue to thrive under new ownership.

An AI-Generated ‘South Park’ Episode, Microsoft’s Security Struggles, and Tesla’s Debut Cybertruck Creation

Welcome to Week in Review (WiR), TechCrunch’s weekly summary of the latest tech news. If you missed the headlines this week, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

In this edition of WiR, we have articles about a fake AI-generated “South Park” episode, the popularity of Threads app, Tesla’s first Cybertruck build, OnlyFans CEO stepping down, Wix’s new AI-powered website creation tool, and Plex’s free Winamp-inspired music player.

Let’s dive into the details. Fable Studios, an AI startup, showcased its platform by creating a fake “South Park” episode that didn’t sit well with creatives due to an ongoing strike in the TV and film industry. On the security front, Microsoft is still investigating how Chinese-backed hackers managed to gain access to multiple email inboxes, including government agencies.

Meanwhile, Instagram’s “Threads” app saw a surge in downloads, causing confusion with Threads, an unrelated app that was originally pitched as a Slack alternative. Tesla finally unveiled its long-awaited Cybertruck, and OnlyFans’ CEO Ami Gan stepped down, leaving the platform in the hands of Keily Blair.

Wix, known for its website-building solutions, introduced an AI Site Generator tool that allows users to generate complete websites by describing their intent. Additionally, Plex announced that its Winamp-inspired music player, Plexamp, is now free.

In other news, Cowboy, a competitor of VanMoof e-bikes, launched its “Bikey” app, which allows VanMoof riders to continue using their e-bikes despite VanMoof’s financial struggles.

If you prefer audio content, TechCrunch has a range of podcasts you can tune into. “Equity” discusses venture capital in Q2 2023, while “Found” features Catherine Tabor, the founder and CEO of Sparkfly, who talks about building a company adaptable to changing technology trends.

TechCrunch+ subscribers enjoy access to in-depth commentary, analysis, and surveys. This week’s highlights include electric utilities’ reluctance to embrace the electric transition, the success of mixed-gender founding teams in raising funds, and the regulatory uncertainty surrounding Ripple’s XRP token.

Lastly, save the date for Disrupt 2023 in San Francisco this September. From interviews to roundtables and a startup expo floor, there’s plenty to explore at this event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join the startup community.

Get an early sign-up for ChatGPT on Android before its release next week

After being launched for iOS two months ago, ChatGPT can now be “pre-ordered” by Android users who want to use the popular chatbot on their devices. If it achieves similar popularity to the iPhone version, we can expect significant usage numbers in the coming weeks.

While ChatGPT and other OpenAI tools can be accessed on mobile devices through the web interface, the dedicated app offers a much better user experience. In the first week alone, the iPhone version was downloaded half a million times, although its success was later surpassed by Threads.

The Android version of the ChatGPT app seems to have the same functionality as the iOS version, meaning it will likely have most, if not all, of the features of the web-based version. It should also allow users to sync their conversations and preferences across devices, so those using an iPhone at home and an Android at work can seamlessly switch between the two.

However, there may be some differences between the iOS and Android versions due to the variations in the two operating systems. For example, features like Siri and Shortcuts, which were added to the iOS app in June, may not be available on Android, but there could be similar alternatives for Android users.

OpenAI mentioned on Twitter that the Android app would be rolling out to users next week, presumably starting in the U.S. There is no information about release plans for other countries, but it is likely that they will follow in the coming weeks or months, as was the case with the iOS app.

If you want to be notified when the app becomes available, you can pre-register on the Play Store.

IBM’s quarterly success owed to the intervention of Red Hat

IBM’s Acquisition of Apptio Becoming More Crucial for Future Success

IBM released its earnings report this week, and to be honest, the results were not very impressive. The company generated approximately $15.5 billion in revenue, a disappointing 0.4% decrease compared to the previous year. However, even within this underwhelming report, there were some positive aspects for the renowned tech giant.

On the downside, IBM’s infrastructure business is struggling, with a 14.6% decrease in revenue to $3.6 billion compared to the previous year. This includes a 30% decline in IBM Z Systems, the company’s mainframe business. Since Z Systems has been a reliable source of revenue for the company in the past, its poor performance is concerning.

On the bright side, software revenues increased by 7.2% in IBM’s most recent quarter to $6.6 billion, with Red Hat leading the way with an 11% growth. This showcases the improving performance of IBM’s $34 billion acquisition of Red Hat in 2018. One could argue that without Red Hat, IBM’s situation would be much worse.

CEO Arvind Krishna has been striving for modest growth for the company, but IBM failed to achieve even that in the second quarter.

Nevertheless, as IBM continues to focus on its hybrid cloud strategy, where its objective is to be a trusted partner in managing infrastructure regardless of its location, there are a few promising indicators for the future. This includes an anticipated revenue growth of 3 to 5% at constant currency rates, as well as an expected $10.5 billion in free cash flow for this quarter, a $1 billion increase from the previous year.

Several divisions within IBM are contributing to its modest growth trajectory. Apart from rising software revenues, the consulting division reported a 4.3% increase in revenue compared to the previous year, reaching $5 billion. These professionals help large companies with managing their hybrid cloud implementations, among other services.

Recently, IBM made a significant acquisition by purchasing Apptio for $4.6 billion. Apptio specializes in software that aids in understanding resource allocation, whether on-premises or in the cloud. Although this deal is expected to close later this year, it has the potential to generate additional revenue from the hybrid cloud approach. It could also bolster IBM’s year-over-year comparisons in the future.

What about AI?

IBM also considers AI to be intrinsically linked to its hybrid strategy. In May, the company introduced a refreshed version of Watson, an artificial intelligence platform called Watsonx that takes advantage of the latest generation of large language models. While IBM may have missed opportunities with its initial launch of Watson in 2011, which gained fame through its victory in “Jeopardy,” the company is now hoping to capitalize on the renewed interest in AI.

Knife Capital leads $21M Series B funding round as Kasha expands health access platform across Africa

As Africa experiences a significant increase in its young population, it is crucial for entrepreneurs to develop healthcare solutions that meet the medical needs of the continent’s future. While the private healthcare sector in Africa gained attention during the pandemic, women’s health, specifically addressing menstrual and reproductive health, has been overlooked. However, looking at other emerging markets, it is only a matter of time before this category receives the venture capital funding it deserves. The recent $21 million Series B investment in Rwandan startup Kasha is evidence of this.

Kasha, founded in 2016 by CEO Joanna Bichsel, is not your typical women’s health startup. It operates as an e-commerce platform that serves a wide range of customers but has a focus on women’s health and household items. The platform provides a digital retail and last-mile distribution service for pharmaceuticals and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs), allowing customers to order products like sanitary pads, contraceptives, diapers, and cleaning supplies. Its customers include individuals, small resellers, hospitals, pharmacies, and clinics.

Initially targeting the Rwandan market with a direct-to-consumer model, Kasha expanded into wholesale after obtaining the necessary pharmaceutical license to serve pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. The startup covers a range of health needs, including newborn and maternal health, menstrual hygiene, family planning, sexual and reproductive health, and noncommunicable diseases. It aims to provide a variety of products to cater to the stigmatized health needs of women.

In terms of funding, Kasha raised $1.5 million in seed funding and secured a $3.6 million Series A from investors after expanding into Kenya. The recent Series B round was led by Knife Capital and saw participation from other investors. Kasha plans to use the investment to expand its platform in South Africa and West Africa later this year.

Kasha differentiates itself from other B2B e-commerce platforms in East Africa by focusing on health products. It offers telehealth services, connects consumers without prescriptions to doctors, and provides inventory credit to pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals. The startup works directly with manufacturers and suppliers to ensure the authenticity of its products. It also spreads information on health and safety through various content channels and provides insights to global health organizations.

Kasha has experienced significant growth since its Series A round, with annual recurring revenue increasing by 50x. The company aims to continue growing aggressively, become a global company, deliver strong returns to investors, and potentially go public. With its recent funding and the support of investors, Kasha is well-positioned to expand its last-mile access to health offerings across Africa.

Tech Companies’ Remarkable IPO Performance Makes Startups Appear Inadequate

Many venture-backed startups are unable or unwilling to go public, causing concerns among backers of venture funds who want to see returns.

Investors are becoming increasingly cautious about investing more capital in the startup landscape without getting some of their prior cash back. However, with expected delays in IPOs and a backlog of highly valued startups, relief is not anticipated in the near future.


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However, there are still some companies going public, and some of these newly public entities have been successful, even if they are venture-backed or related to the tech industry. This success is somewhat embarrassing for traditional software companies, seen as the center of tech and startups.




The Cava public offering (a privately-backed fast casual food with ecommerce elements) was successful, and this week saw the debut of Oddity Tech, a beauty-focused company that emphasizes its use of modern technology to create its products. Both Cava and Oddity priced their IPOs above their final price range and experienced a surge in value after starting to trade.

While food and beauty may not have the same growth and gross margins as traditional tech companies, these IPO successes challenge the notion that only software companies can thrive in the tech industry.

There is ongoing discussion in the tech industry regarding why software companies aren’t more profitable, considering their high-margin recurring revenue. Some argue that the belief in their increasing profitability over time may be incorrect, especially among smaller SaaS firms that struggle to demonstrate operating leverage.

Meituan invests in Zhipu AI, China’s formidable AI competitor

Zhipu AI, a prominent challenger to OpenAI in China, has received funding from Meituan, a food delivery giant with a market cap of approximately $100 billion. A subsidiary of Zhipu AI recently gained a 10% stake in the company. The exact funding details have not been disclosed, but Zhipu AI mentioned raising “hundreds of million yuan” in a Series B round last September. Qiming Venture Partners, Legend Capital, and Tsinghua Holdings are among its investors.

Numerous Chinese companies are working on developing large language models (LLMs) that could rival their Western counterparts. Zhipu AI, which originated from Tsinghua University, is one such company. Founded in 2019, it is led by Tang Jie, a professor in the university’s Department of Computer Science and Technology.

Zhipu AI recently open-sourced its bilingual conversational AI model, ChatGLM-6B, which is trained on six billion parameters and claims to be able to perform inferences on a single consumer-grade graphics card, significantly reducing the cost of running an LLM. They have also previously open-sourced a more powerful variant, the GLM-130B, trained on 130 billion parameters. Their chatbot app, ChatGLM, is currently in a closed beta phase primarily targeting academic and industry players.

Meituan’s investment in Zhipu AI comes shortly after their acquisition of Light Years Beyond, another prominent LLM player in China, for $234 million. These investments are expected to enhance Meituan’s AI capabilities while providing the AI firms access to Meituan’s extensive user base of 450 million individuals who utilize their on-demand platform for food delivery, grocery shopping, and hotel bookings.

Disrupt 2023: Rick Fox emphasizes eco-friendly cement for a sustainable future

Concrete, a key ingredient in modern construction, is one of the least climate-friendly materials. It contributes to nearly 10% of the world’s carbon pollution. However, there is hope with the development of concrete that removes CO2 from the atmosphere. This breakthrough technology will be discussed in a session called “Doing Something Concrete on Climate” at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023. Rick Fox, former NBA champion and founder of carbon-negative concrete startup Partanna, will be joining us on the Sustainability Stage to share his journey and insights.

Rick Fox, known for his basketball career and acting roles, has now turned his focus to making a positive impact on climate change. As the CEO of Partanna, he aims to leave a lasting legacy by addressing the environmental impact of concrete. In this session, we will delve into the genesis of Partanna, the company’s funding and growth plans, and its vision for the future.

Join us at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 to learn more about this innovative startup and how it could potentially transform the concrete industry into a more sustainable one.

Rick Fox: Partanna founder and CEO

After retiring from the NBA, Rick Fox ventured into the entertainment industry, making a name for himself as an actor and producer. In 2015, he also became a pioneer in esports with the establishment of the Echo Fox gaming franchise. Throughout his career, Fox has worked with numerous Fortune 500 brands and has been actively involved in philanthropic efforts.

Don’t miss out on the Sustainability Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023, where you can hear from leading experts on topics such as cultured meat, energy, fashion, infrastructure, and agriculture. Contact our sponsorship sales team if you are interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at the event.