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The Cultivated B Initiated Pre-Submission Process towards EFSA Certification for Cultivated Sausage

The Cultivated B

The Cultivated B (TCB) began discussions with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and officially entered the pre-submission proces s for novel food approval of a novel or non-farmed sausage product. Subsequent to the official submission, TCB will emerge as world’s first biotech company to apply for EFSA certification for cultivated meat. This is a pivotal first step in the evolution of the cultivated meat market and establishes a viable path towards large-scale commercial production. “EFSA's Novel Food regulatory approvals process is among the most robust in the world, including a thorough and evidence-based assessment of food safety and nutritional value. For cultivated meat to become available in Europe, where this food was born, would mark a paradigm shift for the sector,” said Seth Roberts, policy manager at the Good Food Institute Europe. One of the most significant challenges in the cultivated meat sector is achieving production at the enormous volumes required by the food producer industry. In addition, food safety concerns and regulatory compliance further hinder cultivated meat from reaching consumers. TCB's early engagement with EFSA is a testament to knocking down these barriers, propelling the industry to democratize cultivated meat for the masses without compromising on quality or sustainability. "This is more than just a certification process; it’s a testament to our advanced, industrial-scale cellular agriculture technology and also a reflection of our unwavering commitment to usher in a new era of food production—one where health, taste, ethics and sustainability converge seamlessly,” said TCB CEO Dr. Hamid Noori. “The European cultivated meat sector has vast potential and considerable opportunity for growth. As this market gains prominence, our objective is to ensure consistent access to high-quality, sustainable meat for everyone. Attaining EFSA certification is a significant step in this direction.” The cell-based sausage product for which TCB seeks EFSA certification is similar to boiled sausages used in hot dogs and has been developed in close collaboration with TCB sister company The Family Butchers. It is a hybrid sausage product composed of vegan ingredients, including significant amounts of cultivated meat. Leveraging the combined expertise of both entities ensures that consumers will experience the familiar, delectable taste they love, all while benefiting from a sustainable and ethically produced product. EFSA certification is governed by a strict regulatory framework which emphasizes food safety standards. Achieving certification by EFSA for TCB’s cultivated sausage will indicate the safety of its cultivated meat products as measured by the highest European standards. It also charts the course and lays the groundwork for regulatory approvals worldwide. This strategic roadmap underscores the company’s determination to lead in the global cultivated meat industry, giving hundreds of startups in this space a path toward viable and scalable commercialization, setting new standards in food safety, innovation, and accessibility. About The Cultivated B (TCB) The Cultivated B’s multinational team of scientists develops and applies breakthrough technologies in cellular agriculture, precision fermentation and advanced bioreactor technology to enable scalable commercialization of the cellular-agriculture industry. TCB serves startups, corporations and academic research institutions within the food, pharma, cosmetics and personal care industries. With its pioneering engineering and production capabilities, TCB enables other companies to produce alternative proteins, such as cultivated meat, at industrial scale. The company’s fundamental commitment to minimizing the natural resources used paves the way toward a sustainable future, locally, regionally and globally. TCB’s research and development team is based in Germany, with manufacturing and an innovation hub based in Canada’s Toronto region. For more information, visit https://www.thecultivatedb.com and follow the company on LinkedIn. Contact Details Rainier Communications Jenna Beaucage +1 508-340-6851 tcb@rainerco.com Company Website https://www.thecultivatedb.com

September 14, 2023 08:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

XLB ETF: Building Materials In Demand As Construction Spending Rises

Select Sector SPDR

America appears to be on the brink of a construction renaissance. Despite the counter-intuitive trend of rising interest rates fueling an increase in building, the Commerce Department reports a consistent surge in construction spending post-pandemic. Much of this expenditure is being channeled into non-residential and commercial projects, indicative of the pent-up demand generated during the pandemic years. The recently passed infrastructure bill by Congress may also be contributing to this increase in demand for building materials. The need for materials to sustain this growth remains strong. Investors seeking to capitalize on this construction upturn can consider the exchange-traded fund (ETF), the Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund ( XLB ), which encapsulates this active sector. Market-Cap Weighting XLB tracks a market-cap-weighted index of U.S. basic materials companies. The fund includes only the materials components of the S&P 500. And with a low cost expense ratio of 0.10%* and over $5 billion in assets under management, XLB offers easy access to the sector. This sector is key to the economy and advisors and investors should consider XLB as a portfolio sleeve alongside other sectors. Building is always happening and now there could be an upward trend. The companies comprising XLB are big players in the industry. Steel, timber, and masonry are core components. Top holdings** are Linde with a weighting of 20.44%, followed by Air Products and Chemicals (7.08%), paint maker Sherwin-Williams (6.88%), and miner Freeport-McMoRan (6.17%). The rest of the top holdings include Ecolab, Nucor, Dow, Corteva, DuPont de Nemours, and PPG Industries. Investment Opportunities Amidst Construction Boom The diversity of the holdings within the fund, ranging from miners to paint manufacturers, provides investors with a well-rounded portfolio within a single fund. This allows for potential upside during an industry upswing. Taking into account recent industry challenges such as supply chain disruptions and environmental regulations, investing in XLB could prove advantageous. The ETF's holdings are well-positioned to navigate these issues, with many companies adopting innovative solutions to mitigate supply chain disruptions and aligning their operations with stringent environmental regulations. For instance, companies like Sherwin-Williams and Freeport-McMoRan are implementing sustainable practices in their operations, which not only comply with environmental regulations but also lead to operational efficiencies. Undoubtedly, the building materials sector plays a pivotal role in the economy. As such, advisors and investors should consider adding XLB to their portfolios, given the persistent relevance of the building industry and it’s potential. In conclusion, the XLB ETF presents a unique investment opportunity that capitalizes on the current construction landscape. It’s a solid choice for those looking to invest in a diverse portfolio of basic materials companies. Now is the time to consider the Materials ETF, XLB, to take advantage of the potential construction boom. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. * Ordinary brokerage fees apply ** Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 8/31/23 subject to change DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL006877 EXP 10/31/23 Contact Details Dan Dolan dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

September 14, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Harvest Thermal's Smart Battery HVAC Wins Major Efficiency Award at CEE ‘23

Harvest Thermal

Bay Area climate tech startup Harvest Thermal has achieved another level of recognition in the energy efficiency ecosystem. Its smart thermal battery won the Consortium of Energy Efficiency’s Integrated Home Competition award, putting it closer to top-of-mind for installers, homebuilders, and homeowners looking to dramatically reduce emissions from homes. The Integrated Home Competition recognizes newly available products that will work to achieve CEE’s vision of a comfortable, convenient, connected home. It promotes devices and systems that meet consumer expectations in terms of interoperability, reliability, and simplicity of use with an emphasis on delivering energy performance and demand savings. “It’s a proud moment for the team at Harvest Thermal to take the top prize in what is essentially Center Court of the energy efficiency world,” said CEO Jane Melia. “It’s quite an honor to earn the recognition of utility experts who must ensure the delivery of reliable, cost-effective electricity that is safe for a livable planet. ” By decarbonizing home heating and hot water, Americans can slash 10% of national emissions and ⅔ of their lifestyle emissions. Harvest’s integrated home heating and hot water solution cuts emissions by 90% compared to gas equipment and lowers bills by 30% on average. Harvest is proud to be recognized as a leading solutions provider for anyone who owns and heats their home or water. ABOUT HARVEST THERMAL Harvest Thermal is redesigning home heating and hot water for the planet. Its market-leading thermal battery system cuts carbon emissions by 90% from home heating and hot water compared to gas and 50% compared to heat pumps without storage. The cloud-connected Harvest Pod leverages software, sensors, and controls to reduce carbon emissions, and save an average of 30% off monthly heating bills. It also supports a cleaner, cheaper, and more resilient grid. Founded in 2019, Harvest Thermal has received support from the National Science Foundation, the California Energy Commission, Peninsula Clean Energy, and private investors. RECENT AWARDS NREL Industry Growth Forum’s 2023 People’s Choice Award, Edison Award for Sustainable Design, Consumer Solutions Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies List for 2023. CEO Jane Melia was named Entrepreneur Magazine’s 100 Women of Influence 2022 ABOUT THE CONSORTIUM OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY The CEE Integrated Home is a connected, fuel-neutral, interactive, and efficient home where devices and systems effectively communicate to provide new value to customers, utility systems, and society. The Integrated Home Competition supports this vision through public promotion of commercially available solutions that are simple, reliable, well-designed, and highly functional. It provides a platform for distinguishing innovation in service to Integrated Demand-side Management objectives, including traditional energy savings. The Competition is organized by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), the American Lighting Association (ALA), the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE), and UL Solutions; it is sponsored by over thirty energy efficiency utilities, trade associations, and research entities across the United States and Canada. Contact Details Harvest Thermal David Tuft +1 202-494-0813 david@harvest-thermal.com Company Website https://www.harvest-thermal.com/

September 13, 2023 12:29 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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xCures Platform advances progress on the White House Cancer Moonshot mission to end cancer as we know it.

xCures

xCures, a leader in data-driven cancer solutions, is thrilled to announce that its platform has been highlighted as a new commitment to deliver progress on the White House Cancer Moonshot mission – ending cancer as we know it. The xCures health-data technology platform has been designed to overcome a key challenge for many rare diseases: collecting, organizing, and standardizing comprehensive data from patients across the US. In alignment with the Cancer Moonshot Initiative’s goals to reduce cancer death rates by 50% over the next 25 years, xCures is launching an ambispective natural history study of DMG and DIPG. This study will speed up the identification of patterns that can inform more personalized treatment plans and targeted therapies. xCures will provide access without licensing fees to the data for academic and government researchers. Open access to this valuable resource will accelerate scientific breakthroughs and foster a community actively seeking a cure. “We recognize that collaboration is key to success. Our pledge extends to fostering an ongoing relationship with all stakeholders - patients, families, physicians, researchers, and advocacy organizations,” said Mika Newton, CEO of xCures. “Together, we can create a powerful collective dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of DMG DIPG.” DMG and DIPG patients are encouraged to sign up for the study at www.xcures.com/dmg About xCures xCures Inc. operates an AI-assisted platform that automatically retrieves medical records from all sites of care. The (unstructured) data is aggregated and organized into a powerful, always up-to-date care summary that helps cancer patients get the right therapy at the right time. The platform's portals, xINFORM for patients and xDECIDE for providers, facilitate treatment option decisions. The research portal, xUTILITY, generates Real-time, Regulatory-grade, Clinical data (RRC) for studies and decentralized trials. For more information, contact info@xcures.com or visit http://www.xcures.com. Contact Details xCures Inc Patrick van der Valk pvandervalk@xcures.com Company Website https://xcures.com

September 13, 2023 01:04 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Snapchat Keeping the Focus on User Safety

YourUpdateTV

In an era where digital interactions are an integral part of daily life, ensuring a safe online environment is paramount – especially for kids. Recently, Nona Yadegar, the Director of Design at Snapchat, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss Snapchat’s new safety features and the importance of creating safe, online spaces for kids to interact. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/_chmGR1TC_8 For more information, visit Snapchat, the popular platform built to foster expressive communication with your closest friends, is taking additional measures to ensure a safe and engaging online experience for children aged 13-17. New measures include: • Further restricting unwanted contact from strangers/suspicious accounts and making your Search experience safer. • A more age-appropriate content experience on public content platforms (such as removing suggestive content by default). • New efforts to find and crack down on accounts that may be trying to promote age-inappropriate content/commercial services. • And more focus on helping educate teens about common online risks, like catfishing and sexual exploitation. These protections will limit unwanted interactions on Snapchat for younger users, ensure content is age-appropriate, and improve education about common online risks, including steps teens and their parents can take to prevent them. In addition, Snapchat have heard from parents about the need for more tools and resources to help them better understand how to use the app, how to use the parent tools, and to better understand the threats teens face online. To better empower parents, Snapchat created a parents’ guide at parents.snapchat.com as well as a new YouTube explainer series. To learn more, check out this Snapchat blog post detailing the app’s most recent announcement. About Nona Yadegar Nona Yadegar is a Director on Snap’s design team. In this role, she acts as a cross-functional leader, aligning and prioritizing product and feature development. Nona draws upon her policy, safety and legal experience, having previously served as the Director of Platform Policy & Social Impact for Snap. Nona graduated with a BA in Political Science from Duke University, and with a JD from Columbia Law School, where she was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. She is based in Los Angeles where she lives with her husband David and her children Elio, Yael, and Farah Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 13, 2023 12:57 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Tematica Research "had a very strong first half of the year"

HANetf Holdings Limited

Tematica Research Head of Indexing Mark Abssy joins Thomas Warner from Proactive ahead of the release of Tematica's latest Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity report. Abssy gives an overview of where his focus is going to be for the rest of the calendar year, noting that he'll be working with HANetf to promote the Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity UCITS ETF. He goes on to reiterate the USP of the fund, which is that it gives investors exposure to tech through the digital connectivity and infrastructure that underpins the sector rather than through tech companies per se. He notes that the index stands out by only including companies deriving at least 80% of revenue from digital infrastructure and connectivity, which precludes some big players like Amazon. He says the team is "really looking for those companies that truly represent in a very focused way what the strategy is." He highlights the success of their approach, saying that the fund "had a very strong first half of teh year" and emphasising that thematic investing requires targeted exposure. He also touches on recent shifts in market sentiment, pointing out a broader participation in top contributors, indicating a return to fundamentals. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

September 13, 2023 09:10 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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AI Digital Partners with KERV Interactive, Offering Brands a Differentiated Method to Engage Buyers via Video and CTV

AI Digital

AI Digital, a full-service, global programmatic consultancy helping advertisers enhance digital consumer experiences with an audience-first approach, has partnered with KERV Interactive, the leading AI powered interactive video advertising platform, to equip advertisers with differentiated capabilities to create and implement interactive and automated campaigns that drive consumer purchase behavior across video and connected TV (CTV). This partnership is focused on helping brands to unlock the power of video as a performance media channel. Bringing together KERV’s AI-powered technology – which transforms video content into interactive experiences – with AI Digital’s programmatic and trading expertise, brands will get superior performance for video and CTV campaigns through better campaign results and consumer experiences for high-value audiences. "As video and CTV channels become increasingly crowded, advertisers are struggling to break through the noise and establish meaningful connections with their target audiences," said Jay Wolff, CRO of KERV Interactive. "Combining AI Digital's programmatic and trading expertise with KERV AI's interactive video advertising technology now gives brands the ability to accelerate business outcomes and drive active attention from their static video assets.” AI Digital’s collaboration with KERV will also extend AI Digital's Center of Excellence initiative in the streaming category by providing an integrated suite of utilities designed to help marketers navigate and reach the modern streaming consumer and drive them to commerce, across all consumption channels including video, audio and out-of-home (OOH). “We are excited to be working with KERV and bringing innovation to streaming and programmatic. Streaming is fundamentally changing how people consume media in the home, out of the home and everywhere in between,” said Stephen Magli, CEO and founder, AI Digital. “We can’t think of the consumer solely on video anymore because their consumption is ubiquitous across screens in and out of the home. By capitalizing on turnkey ad formats that drive performance, we are helping brands to collapse the funnel and bring in customers through video and CTV channels in a whole new way.” Through its optimization, consumer insights and measurement platform, ELEVATE, AI Digital drives greater accountability for client spend and delivers optimized business outcomes with its distinct metric called the Accountability Score – a specifically designed metric to help brands identify growth areas and minimize ad fraud within media plans, and ensure brand safety and address invalid traffic. With ELEVATE, marketers on average see a 3% reduction in invalid traffic and fraud, a 9% improvement in unique audience delivery, and a 6% increase in brand lift. The platform serves all types of media buys across channels and provides brands with total access across data, inventory, scale, to target and reach consumers at all touch points across their bespoke consumer journeys. “This partnership with KERV signifies a commitment to our ELEVATE platform reimagining how brands and the industry can capitalize on bringing commerce solutions to programmatic,” said Magli. “AI Digital’s ELEVATE seeks to shift the programmatic definition of success away from traditional metrics of impressions, reach and clicks to more meaningful outcomes such as brand equity and lower funnel actions.” About AI Digital AI Digital is a programmatic consultancy that enables an advanced analytics-based and AI-optimized approach to programmatic technology which leads to better business outcomes for marketers. Leading with an audience-first approach, the company helps agencies and advertisers navigate the digital ecosystem by delivering hands-on, unrivaled data and technology access, outcome-based audience strategy, advanced analytics-driven campaign optimization and advanced measurement including detailed, real-time transparent campaign reporting. AI Digital is a priority Amazon Partner with access to over 150+ people-based data sources and in-platform optimization expertise to maximize value of all walled gardens including Google and Amazon’s data and tech stack, along with 10+ DSPs. AI Digital leverages technology through its proprietary platform ELEVATE and the expertise of its world-class, global team to drive a more ELEVATED consumer experience, measurable action, and brand and sales lift for more accountable results. Learn more about AI Digital at www.aidigital.io. About KERV Interactive Austin-based KERV Interactive is a digital advertising platform built on patented technology to create shoppable and immersive experiences within video. Using machine learning techniques and AI to drive speed and precision, only KERV’s technology recognizes depth, dimension, and objects in a video in real-time more accurately than the human eye. The platform’s ability to make shoppable video has shown to be successful across the web, mobile, social and CTV. Only KERV delivers a truly unique shopping experience for consumers and brands. For more information, please visit www.kerv.ai Contact Details Veronica Ruth +1 845-430-8743 aidigital@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://www.aidigital.io

September 13, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

The Solid Tumors Market Is Expected To Be Worth $901.27 Billion By 2029, And Oncotelic Therapeutics (OTCQB:OTLC) Is Leading The Charge

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga Solid tumors are abnormal clumps of cells that form in various tissues or organs of the body. Unlike liquid or cystic tumors, solid tumors do not contain any liquid components. They can occur in bones, muscles and organs, and can be either benign or malignant. Solid tumors can arise from different types of cells, such as epithelial cells that line the outer surface of the skin and the covering and lining of organs and internal passageways. Solid tumors are generally considered more aggressive and difficult to treat compared to other types of tumors. This is because they have a tendency to grow, invade nearby tissues, and metastasize to other parts of the body. The characteristics that make solid tumors more challenging to treat include their ability to resist traditional cancer treatments — such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy — and their complex genetic makeup, which can vary from patient to patient. Additionally, the location of solid tumors within the body can also contribute to treatment difficulties, as certain areas may be more difficult to access or treat effectively. In order to improve treatment outcomes for solid tumors, researchers and medical professionals are continuously exploring new therapeutic approaches and personalized treatments tailored to the specific characteristics of each tumor. By gaining a better understanding of the underlying biology and genetic abnormalities of individual solid tumors, targeted therapies can be developed to selectively attack cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Oncotelic Therapeutics, Inc. (OTCQB: OTLC) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of innovative treatments for cancer, with a particular emphasis on solid tumors. The primary product being developed by Oncotelic, through its joint venture is OT-101, also known as Trabedersen. OT-101 is a novel antisense oligodeoxynucleotide designed to target transforming growth factor beta 2 (“TGF-β2”) overexpression in various malignancies, including pancreatic carcinoma, malignant melanoma, colorectal carcinoma and high-grade glioma. Oncotelic aims to address the aggressive nature of solid tumors and their resistance to conventional treatments. In April 2022, Oncotelic’s joint venture (JV) with Dragon Overseas Capital Limited, an affiliate of Golden Mountain Partners, LLC. The JV initial focus is on the development and commercialization of OT-101, the transformative cancer drug that Oncotelic licensed to the JV for a 45% ownership. Dragon Overseas invested cash of $27.6 million for a 55% ownership of the JV. The JV is planned to be headquartered in Hong Kong. Oncotelic could potentially receive up to $50 million following the sale of the RPD voucher once OT-101 has received marketing approval for diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas. The JV is expected to launch an initial public offering (IPO) on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2024, and CEO Dr. Vuong Trieu has said he expects the IPO to be highly successful. “I am excited to announce that, together with our partner Dragon Overseas, we have formed a JV for the discovery, development, and commercialization of TGF-β therapeutics against all pharmaceutical indications,” said Dr. Vuong Trieu, CEO and Chairman of Oncotelic. “This JV unburdens the Company of the high cost of drug development, which the JV will be responsible for, while the Company will participate in its upside through appreciation in the value of its shares in the JV.” The solid tumors market was valued at $209.61 billion in 2021, and it's expected to reach $901.27 billion by 2029. Oncotelic's focus on developing therapies specifically for solid tumors puts them in a very strong position to be a leader in a growing market. The company's research and development efforts in this area demonstrate its commitment to bringing fresh energy and potential breakthroughs into the treatment of solid tumors, offering new possibilities for patients. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

September 13, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Growth Stage Funding Is the New Series A Says Liquidity Group Exec

Benzinga

In the backdrop of dwindling venture capital (VC) funds and economic volatility, firms are re-evaluating equity and debt financing strategies. "We've seen companies bypassing the usual Series A, B, C approach. Instead, they're embracing what's now termed as 'growth stage funding'," notes Yaron Primovich, head of credit solutions at Liquidity Group. Most growth-stage funding comes in the form of non-dilutive investment - an investment that focuses on revenue and success rather than risk. The Anatomy Of Growth Stage Funding Growth stage funding is often the step after seed funding. Here, companies that have ticked off milestones, like significant revenue streams and achieving product-market fit, are looking to expand. Unlike in earlier stages, where firms might rely on equity, now they often opt for debt sourced from banks or similar institutions. Such financing gives businesses the ability to ramp up their operations. The idea, as one CEO puts it, is to "throw gasoline on the fire." These firms, already having shown promise, are now on a less risky pedestal for investors. This isn't to say that this is the last funding bout for firms. Some will continue to look for equity rounds post this phase. But it's observed that many are marching directly to Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) after a successful growth-stage round. The Significance Of Long-term Financial Stability For startups seeking growth-stage funding, a sturdy financial backbone is pivotal. In many instances, lenders demand detailed financial documentation – a rigorous process that some CEOs might find overwhelming. But this scrutiny often streamlines operations, prepping them for further growth. "Establishing financial stability to a non-dilutive lender is gold for future investments. It indicates the company's capability to generate steady returns and manage its debts," said Primovich. The role of working capital is also paramount. It ensures the business keeps running smoothly, fulfilling its daily operational needs. This is especially true in sectors like artificial intelligence and biotech, where there's immense potential for growth, which makes managing finances prudently indispensable. Challenges And Navigation Acquiring growth-stage funding, even with a proven market presence, can be an uphill task. Attracting the right investors who see the vision and potential of the company becomes crucial. Building a robust relationship with potential stakeholders and exuding credibility are fundamental. As companies morph from startup to growth stage, their financial appetite surges. However, affordable capital is key. A company's financial health, its growth trajectory, and prevailing market conditions can swing the cost pendulum. Building a compelling business case and forging strong ties with potential investors often fetches favorable financing terms. Consistent revenue streams bolster a company's growth potential. Startups that can show they're on this path have a better shot at securing additional rounds of funding. Startups need to be cognizant of the current regulatory framework around non-dilutive capital. Non-compliance can be costly, causing delays or even sinking potential investments. This means being alert to securities laws, tax obligations, and more. Expert legal advice often becomes essential. Finding The Right Growth-Stage Partners Aligning with the right investors during the growth stage is a linchpin for success. They're not just financial backers but also mentors and guides. Depending on the need, businesses can look at various potential investors. “Finding a great growth-stage partner is as important as finding the right equity investor,” said Primovich. “Luckily, most non-dilutive funders take hours - not months - to make a decision so the opportunities are promising.” With innovation at its peak and a surge in growth-stage funding, there's a vast potential for industry disruption. For investors and tech companies alike, the future is luminous. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

September 13, 2023 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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