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Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS) Showcases World-Class University-Industry Collaboration Model at CES 2026, Accelerating Regional Innovation with Global Impact in the Human-AI Collaboration Era

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January 8, 2026

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Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS) Showcases World-Class University-Industry Collaboration Model at CES 2026, Accelerating Regional Innovation with Global Impact in the Human-AI Collaboration Era

PRWire:

LAS VEGAS, NV – January 7, 2026 – Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), a globally recognized educational institution specializing in AI and purpose-driven language education, today announced its participation in CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Following highly tangible outcomes from its 2025 exhibit and community-focused outreach, BUFS is leveraging the world’s premier technology event to strategically expand its unique, localized University-Industry Collaboration (UIC) model onto the global stage.

BUFS operates under the innovative educational philosophy of fostering “PSC, (Problem-Finding, Self-learning, and Collaboration) between global and local community”. The university’s prominent presence at CES 2026, located at Venetian Expo, Booth 50972, is a strategic move to solidify its role as a sustainable innovation platform. This is achieved by integrating core strengths in narrative-intelligence language education with AI proficiency, transforming traditional academics into field-classrooms that help outstanding local technology companies build global business capabilities.

Global Reach Through Localized Partnership

The dedicated BUFS booth will serve as a showcase for innovative technologies from several prominent Busan-based South Korean companies, including Donghwa Entec, A-Mi Global (DR.MED), Health Pharmaceuticals, i-SMR, and K-Lab. These collaborations are built directly on unpolished customer feedback and real-world application.

In a powerful, practical application of its PSC model, BUFS students are actively supporting these companies on-site. They are providing comprehensive, real-time assistance ranging from technology demonstrations and critical global buyer consultations to the identification of overseas partnerships and strategic market entry planning.

A key highlight of this collaboration is the anticipated long-term strategic partnership with Donghwa Entec. Their participation at CES 2026 is expected to solidify a robust mid-to-long-term cooperative model encompassing joint global marketing and export strategy planning, specialized talent placement, and ongoing field-oriented university-industry projects.

Executive Insight: Scaling the RISE Program Globally

“The core purpose of our participation in CES 2026 is to validate and globalize the regional industry-academia cooperation model we established through South Korea’s RISE (Regional Innovation System & Education) program,” said Dr. Soon Heung Chang, President of BUFS.

“Building on PSC practice, we are systematically combining AI efficiency for a Scale-up Strategy for local companies’ overseas expansion while providing our students with invaluable global field connections. This initiative stands as a benchmark case for UIC (University-Industry Collaboration), creating a powerful win-win scenario for both regional economic innovation and university competitiveness,” President Chang added.

About Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS):

Busan University of Foreign Studies is a leading educational institution in South Korea known for its innovative PSC education model and specialization in AI and purpose-driven language studies. BUFS is dedicated to fostering global talent and driving regional innovation through dynamic university-industry collaborations that provide real-world experience and tangible economic impact.

Media Contact:

Eric (Suk Won) Kwon
Head of UIC(University-Industry Collaboration)
Busan University of Foreign Studies
ekwon@bufs.ac.kr
+82-51-509-5784
https://www.bufs.ac.kr/bbs/board.php?bo_table=bufsmain_2023

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Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS) Showcases World-Class University-Industry Collaboration Model at CES 2026, Accelerating Regional Innovation Worldwide

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January 6, 2026

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PRWire:

LAS VEGAS, NV – January 5, 2026 – Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), a globally recognized educational institution specializing in languages and AI, today announced its independent participation at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Following a highly successful solo exhibit in 2025, BUFS is leveraging the world’s premier technology event to strategically expand its unique, localized University-Industry Collaboration (UIC) model onto the global stage.

BUFS operates under the innovative educational philosophy of fostering “Problem-Finding, Self-learning, and Collaboration between global and local community” (PSC-based talent). The university’s prominent presence at CES 2026, located at Venetian Expo, Booth 50972, is a strategic move to solidify its role as a sustainable regional innovation platform by integrating its core strengths in foreign languages, artificial intelligence, international trade, and global business capabilities.

Global Reach Through Localized Partnership

The dedicated BUFS booth will serve as a cornerstone for innovative technologies from several prominent Busan-based South Korean companies, including Donghwa Entec, A-Mi Global (DR.MED), Health Pharmaceuticals, i-SMR, and K-Lab.

In a powerful, practical application of its PSC model, BUFS students are actively supporting these companies on-site. They are providing comprehensive, real-time assistance ranging from technology demonstrations and critical global buyer consultations to the crucial identification of potential overseas partnerships and strategic market entry planning.

A key highlight of this collaboration is the anticipated long-term strategic partnership with Donghwa Entec. Their participation at CES 2026 is expected to solidify a robust mid-to-long-term cooperative model encompassing joint global marketing and export strategy planning, specialized talent placement, and ongoing field-oriented university-industry projects.

Executive Insight: Scaling the RISE Program Globally

“The core purpose of our participation in CES 2026 is to validate and globalize the regional industry-academia cooperation model we established through South Korea’s RISE (Regional Innovation System & Education) program,” said Dr. Soon Heung Chang, President of BUFS.

“Building on last year’s experience, we are systematically enhancing our support for local companies’ overseas expansion while providing our students with invaluable global field experience. This initiative stands as a benchmark case for UIC (University-Industry Collaboration), creating a powerful win-win scenario for both regional economic innovation and university competitiveness,” President Chang added.

About Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS):

Founded in 1982 in Busan, South Korea, Busan University of Foreign Studies is an esteemed private university dedicated to cultivating globally competitive talent. Specializing in foreign languages, AI, and international business, BUFS emphasizes practical, field-oriented education that uniquely prepares students for the complexities of the global marketplace. The university is a recognized leader in regional innovation, actively connecting local businesses with international opportunities through its innovative educational and cooperative programs.

Media Contact:

Eric (Suk Won) Kwon
Head of UIC(University-Industry Collaboration)
Busan University of Foreign Studies
ekwon@bufs.ac.kr
+82-51-509-5784
https://www.bufs.ac.kr/bbs/board.php?bo_table=bufsmain_2023

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Global Energy Giants Confirm Participation at Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026

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December 30, 2025

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The Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 will gather global energy leaders in Tripoli this January to finalize upstream investment and licensing strategies, marking Libya’s official reopening to international oil and gas partnerships

TRIPOLI, Libya: In a major signal of Libya’s return to the global energy stage, three state-backed powerhouses, TPAO (Turkey), MOL Plc. (Hungary), and ORLEN Group (Poland), have officially confirmed their participation in the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026.

The summit, scheduled for January 24-26, 2026, arrives as Libya moves to aggressively reopen its upstream sector, lift operational constraints, and launch a new era of international licensing rounds.

The “National Champions” Strategy

The participation of these “National Energy Champions” underscores a renewed institutional confidence in Libya’s basins. These operators bring more than just capital; they provide the long-term technical expertise and government backing necessary to stabilize and scale Libya’s production targets.

TPAO (Turkey): Having signed a massive 10,000-km 2D seismic survey MoU in 2025, CEO Ahmet Türkoğlu will detail TPAO’s readiness to deploy technical assets across four offshore areas.
ORLEN Group (Poland): CEO Ireneusz Fąfara will address the group’s expansion in the Murzuq Basin, where ORLEN has resumed exploration following the lifting of force majeure.
MOL Plc. (Hungary): Positioned as a key player in Libya’s first international licensing round in 20 years, MOL is diversifying its supply chain with Libya as a cornerstone market.

Infrastructure & Investment: The 2026 Theme

Endorsed by the Office of the Prime Minister and the National Oil Corporation (NOC), the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 focuses on the theme: “Infrastructure & Investment Driving Energy Growth.”

“The participation of TPAO, MOL, and ORLEN underscores the renewed confidence state-backed operators are placing in Libya,” says James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power.

For more info, visit: https://libyasummit.com

Coherent Solutions Unveils 2026 Strategy for Middle East’s Digital Fitness Revolution

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December 30, 2025

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Coherent Solutions Unveils 2026 Strategy for Middle East’s Digital Fitness Revolution

PRWire:

The Future of Fitness 2026 report by Coherent Solutions identifies the Middle East as the epicenter of a “Human Performance Economy,” where brand survival depends on building 24/7 digital ecosystems that engage members far beyond the physical gym walls.

MINNEAPOLIS: As the Middle East emerges as a global powerhouse for health and wellness, a new report from Coherent Solutions argues that the next frontier of fitness isn’t found on the gym floor, but within a “Human Performance Economy.”

The 2026 Future of Fitness Report, titled “Winning with Digital Value Creation,” leverages 30 years of engineering expertise to map out how digital ecosystems spanning wearables, apps, and workplace wellness are becoming the primary drivers of member retention and investor interest.

The 160-Hour Opportunity

The report highlights a critical shift in consumer behavior: while the average member spends only 3–5 hours a week in a physical gym, there are over 160 hours remaining where digital touchpoints influence health choices.

“Modernization is about extending engagement into those 160+ hours,” says Igor Epshteyn, CEO of Coherent Solutions. “The UAE’s commitment to active living makes this region the perfect testing ground for hybrid models where technology supports the human experience, not just the workout.”

5 Trends Shaping the 2026 Fitness Landscape

To remain competitive, the report identifies five “make-or-break” pillars for operators and investors:

Hybrid Baselines: Digital access is no longer a perk; it is a fundamental member expectation.
Integrated Ecosystems: Success requires linking home, gym, and workplace data into a seamless loop.
The Personalization Fix: Using data to solve the industry’s perennial retention problem.
Privacy as a Product: Data security and consumer trust are now primary competitive advantages.
M&A Readiness: Digital maturity is increasingly the metric used by investors to determine scale and value.

Why This Matters for the Middle East

Driven by government-led wellness initiatives and a tech-savvy urban population, the Middle East is outpacing global growth rates. For club operators and enterprise platforms, the report serves as a blueprint for “continuous life experiences” transitioning from a place people go to a lifestyle they carry with them.

About Coherent Solutions Founded in 1995, Coherent Solutions is a global digital engineering firm with 10 development centers worldwide. They specialize in helping high-growth brands navigate digital transformation through high-fidelity software and transparent innovation.

Cielomar Recovery Announces Grand Reopening Under Original Ownership

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December 11, 2025

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PRWire:

A Nature-Integrated Eating Disorder Treatment Center Renewing Its Commitment to “Real Life Recovery” and “A Community of Care”

Moss Beach, California — December 10, 2025 — Cielomar Recovery, a specialized eating disorder treatment center, proudly announces its grand reopening and return to its original ownership and leadership team, led by Dr. Matt Keck, PsyD, MFT, CEO. The event marks a renewed commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals healing from eating disorders in a supportive, community-centered environment.

Cielomar Recovery has long stood apart in the eating disorder treatment field for its intentional integration of nature-based therapeutic experiences. Set along the tranquil coastline of Moss Beach, California, the program incorporates restorative natural settings, movement, outdoor sessions, and somatic regulation practices to support healing of both body and mind.

At the core of the program is its signature clinical philosophy: “Real Life Recovery.” Rather than isolating clients from the world during treatment, Cielomar helps individuals practice recovery skills in real environments—building confidence navigating meals, emotions, relationships, and daily routines in ways that reflect life beyond treatment.

To celebrate the return of this valuable treatment resource, the staff of Cielomar will host a grand reopening celebration for the community to visit the newly remodeled facility. The celebration will take place on January 3^rd, 2026, with more details below.

“Our grand reopening is a return to the heart of who we are,” said Dr. Matt Keck, PsyD, MFT, CEO and original owner of Cielomar Recovery. “Eating disorder recovery requires connection, authenticity, and consistent support. We believe deeply in the healing power of nature and in providing treatment that prepares clients for real life—not just life inside a program.”

This mission is grounded in the organization’s guiding belief: healing happens within ‘A Community of Care.’ Clients are supported by a multidisciplinary clinical team, peers, and staff who prioritize safety, compassion, and individualized, trauma-informed recovery.

Grand Reopening Details

Date: January 3, 2026

Time: 2pm–5pm

Location: 323 Cypress Ave. Moss Beach, California 94038

The celebration will include a ribbon cutting, guided tours, introductions to the clinical and leadership teams, and opportunities for healthcare partners to explore referral and collaboration pathways.

About Cielomar Recovery

Cielomar Recovery is an eating disorder treatment center offering evidence-based care supported by nature-integrated therapeutic experiences. Through its “Real Life Recovery” approach, Cielomar equips individuals with the tools, confidence, and community support needed for meaningful, lasting healing.

Media Contact

Name: Dr. Matt Keck, PsyD, MFT

Title: Chief Executive Officer

Email: matt@cielomaredr.com

Phone: (650) 556-4565

Vedanta Resources Launches CopperTech Metals to Strengthen U.S. Copper Supply and Advance Tech Infrastructure

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November 7, 2025

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PRWire:

NEW YORK — Vedanta Resources Limited (“Vedanta”) has announced the launch of CopperTech Metals Inc., a U.S.-based company dedicated to strengthening America’s copper security and supporting the nation’s growing technology and infrastructure needs. The initiative aims to “Power the Copper Century” by combining Zambia’s world-class Konkola Copper Mines with cutting-edge mining technologies and artificial intelligence.

CopperTech Metals will own and operate the Konkola Copper Mines in Zambia—one of the world’s richest copper and cobalt assets—and plans to invest an additional $1.5 billion to boost production and implement advanced AI-driven exploration and extraction technologies. This will increase production capacity from 140,000 tonnes in FY26 to 300,000 tonnes by 2031, with long-term plans to reach 500,000 tonnes annually, positioning CopperTech among the largest copper producers globally.

Anil Agarwal, Founder and Chairman of Vedanta Group, stated:

“Today marks a historic and pivotal moment. CopperTech will play a significant role in connecting America’s critical mineral needs with Zambia’s copper legacy, unlocking innovation in clean energy and industrial growth on both sides of the Atlantic.”

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (2024), the United States currently imports about 45% of its refined copper, while China produces over 45% of global supply. With global copper demand expected to rise more than 40% by 2040, CopperTech’s Zambian operations provide a vital source of geographic diversification for U.S. supply chains.

Tom Albanese, Director at CopperTech Metals, added:

“The next 25 years will require more copper than has been produced throughout human history. CopperTech is well positioned to serve as a strategic partner for America’s infrastructure needs.”

Strategic Partnerships and Infrastructure Expansion
In July 2024, the Zambian government returned management control of Konkola Copper Mines Plc to Vedanta, aligning with Zambia’s 2030 Copper Vision. The project benefits from Zambia’s collaboration with the U.S.-backed $10 billion Lobito Corridor, linking the Copperbelt to Angola’s Atlantic coast and providing efficient logistics for exports to the U.S.

World-Class Asset
Konkola’s ore grades average 2.9%, with deep mine grades reaching 3.3%—four times higher than global averages. Its integrated facilities include underground mines, processing plants, smelters, and recycling units, giving CopperTech a competitive edge in cost, quality, and sustainability.

About CopperTech Metals Inc.
Founded by Vedanta Resources, CopperTech Metals Inc. is a U.S.-domiciled integrated copper and cobalt producer operating Zambia’s renowned Konkola Copper Mines. Its mission is to support U.S. technology, energy, and infrastructure modernization by combining superior ore quality with advanced technology and AI-driven efficiency.

About Vedanta Resources Limited
Headquartered in London, Vedanta Resources Limited operates across India, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, producing zinc, silver, aluminum, oil & gas, copper, iron ore, nickel, cobalt, and energy.
More information: www.vedantaresources.com

Vedanta Resources Launches CopperTech Metals to Strengthen U.S. Copper Supply and Advance Tech Infrastructure

News

theconverser.com

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November 7, 2025

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PRWire:

NEW YORK — Vedanta Resources Limited (“Vedanta”) has announced the launch of CopperTech Metals Inc., a U.S.-based company dedicated to strengthening America’s copper security and supporting the nation’s growing technology and infrastructure needs. The initiative aims to “Power the Copper Century” by combining Zambia’s world-class Konkola Copper Mines with cutting-edge mining technologies and artificial intelligence.

CopperTech Metals will own and operate the Konkola Copper Mines in Zambia—one of the world’s richest copper and cobalt assets—and plans to invest an additional $1.5 billion to boost production and implement advanced AI-driven exploration and extraction technologies. This will increase production capacity from 140,000 tonnes in FY26 to 300,000 tonnes by 2031, with long-term plans to reach 500,000 tonnes annually, positioning CopperTech among the largest copper producers globally.

Anil Agarwal, Founder and Chairman of Vedanta Group, stated:

“Today marks a historic and pivotal moment. CopperTech will play a significant role in connecting America’s critical mineral needs with Zambia’s copper legacy, unlocking innovation in clean energy and industrial growth on both sides of the Atlantic.”

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (2024), the United States currently imports about 45% of its refined copper, while China produces over 45% of global supply. With global copper demand expected to rise more than 40% by 2040, CopperTech’s Zambian operations provide a vital source of geographic diversification for U.S. supply chains.

Tom Albanese, Director at CopperTech Metals, added:

“The next 25 years will require more copper than has been produced throughout human history. CopperTech is well positioned to serve as a strategic partner for America’s infrastructure needs.”

Strategic Partnerships and Infrastructure Expansion
In July 2024, the Zambian government returned management control of Konkola Copper Mines Plc to Vedanta, aligning with Zambia’s 2030 Copper Vision. The project benefits from Zambia’s collaboration with the U.S.-backed $10 billion Lobito Corridor, linking the Copperbelt to Angola’s Atlantic coast and providing efficient logistics for exports to the U.S.

World-Class Asset
Konkola’s ore grades average 2.9%, with deep mine grades reaching 3.3%—four times higher than global averages. Its integrated facilities include underground mines, processing plants, smelters, and recycling units, giving CopperTech a competitive edge in cost, quality, and sustainability.

About CopperTech Metals Inc.
Founded by Vedanta Resources, CopperTech Metals Inc. is a U.S.-domiciled integrated copper and cobalt producer operating Zambia’s renowned Konkola Copper Mines. Its mission is to support U.S. technology, energy, and infrastructure modernization by combining superior ore quality with advanced technology and AI-driven efficiency.

About Vedanta Resources Limited
Headquartered in London, Vedanta Resources Limited operates across India, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, producing zinc, silver, aluminum, oil & gas, copper, iron ore, nickel, cobalt, and energy.
More information: www.vedantaresources.com

African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Appoints Farid Ghezali as Secretary General, Charting New Course for African Oil Producers

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November 7, 2025

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African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Appoints Farid Ghezali as Secretary General, Charting New Course for African Oil Producers

PRWire:

With decades of experience in Africa’s upstream oil and gas sector, Farid Ghezali assumes the role of Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 6, 2025/ — The African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) appointed Algeria’s Farid Ghezali as its new Secretary General during the Ministerial Council Meeting in the Republic of Congo this week. Ghezali will take up the post in January 2026, marking the start of a new chapter for the continent’s oil producers as Africa positions its petroleum industry at the center of a just, inclusive and sustainable energy future.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) – as the voice of the African energy sector – extends its congratulations to Ghezali on his appointment as Secretary General. Ghezali brings decades of experience in Africa’s upstream oil and gas sector and is set to lead the organization into a new era of collaboration and growth. The AEC also extends its gratitude to outgoing Secretary General Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, whose exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment have elevated APPO’s role as the leading voice for African oil producers. Under Dr. Ibrahim’s stewardship, APPO strengthened partnerships with governments and investors, advanced the localization of Africa’s energy value chain and reaffirmed the role of oil and gas in powering Africa’s development. His tireless advocacy for African energy independence and intra-African cooperation has left an enduring legacy.

Ghezali assumes the role at a time when Africa’s oil and gas sector is on the precipice of accelerated growth. Play-opening oil discoveries made in markets such as Namibia and Ivory Coast, in tandem with renewed exploration campaigns in established provinces such as Angola, Nigeria and Libya, signal new opportunities for strengthened production. Advancements in seismic acquisition, processing technologies and deepwater drilling capabilities have further bolstered exploration efforts, setting the stage for future discoveries. With these projects, African hydrocarbon production is set to rise to 13.6 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (MMboe/d) by 2030, showing a notable increase from 2026 – estimated at 11.4 MMboe/d. Despite this growth, much more investment is needed to unlock the full potential of Africa’s oil industry.

As the continent enters its next era of oil development, APPO will continue to play a central role in promoting Africa’s energy agenda on a global stage. While global policymakers call for an end to oil exploration and production, Africa maintains its right to develop its resources for the development of its economies. In this scenario, APPO plays an important role, serving as a bridge between African producers and global counterparts. The organization has long-advocated for Africa’s position – one that is centered on responsible resource development and an inclusive approach to the energy transition. Under Ghezali’s leadership, APPO is well-positioned to continue this drive, supporting the continent as it enters its next phase of energy development.

A cornerstone of APPO’s development strategy is the launch of the Africa Energy Bank (AEB). Spearheaded by APPO in collaboration with multilateral financial institution the African Export-Import Bank, the $5 billion AEB offers a practical solution to the continent’s financial challenges, offering an avenue for African projects to access capital and drive developments forward. Under Ghezali’s leadership, APPO is tasked with realizing this important institution, supporting the continued growth of Africa’s oil industry.

“Farid Ghezali’s appointment comes at a decisive time for African oil producers. His deep industry knowledge and proven leadership will strengthen APPO’s mission to drive energy security, local value creation and regional collaboration. The AEC looks forward to working closely with him to ensure that oil remains a catalyst for industrialization and prosperity across our continent,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

As the continent accelerates the pace of oil developments, APPO’s coordination under Ghezali will be critical in harmonizing local content policies, optimizing resource management and ensuring that Africa captures greater value from its hydrocarbon wealth. The AEC stands ready to collaborate with APPO and its member states to advance these shared objectives, transforming Africa’s vast petroleum resources into a foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Professor Nelson Granados, Ph.D. Joins Prow™ as Chief Intelligence Officer, Strengthening the Company’s AI and Academic Leadership

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October 17, 2025

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Professor Nelson Granados, Ph.D. Joins Prow™ as Chief Intelligence Officer, Strengthening the Company’s AI and Academic Leadership

PRWire:

Silicon Beach Malibu, CA — October 17, 2025 Prow™, an AI-driven fintech platform empowering small and medium-sized businesses through data insights, payments innovation, and ESG-aligned digital currency, today announced the appointment of Professor Nelson Granados, Ph.D. as Chief Intelligence Officer (CIO).

Dr. Granados brings over two decades of expertise in digital innovation, media economics, and AI-driven transformation. He currently serves as Academic Director of the Executive Doctorate in Business Administration at Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School, and as Executive Director of the Institute for Entertainment, Media, and Sports.

With a Ph.D. in Information and Decision Sciences and an M.S. in Applied Economics from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, Professor Granados has authored numerous papers and thought-leadership pieces on digital strategy, data analytics, and emerging technologies. His research and teaching have influenced leaders across technology, finance, and media industries worldwide.

“Professor Nelson’s appointment reflects our deep commitment to responsible, human-centered AI innovation,” saidSir Steven Saxton, Founder & CEO of Prow. “His scientific rigor, leadership in digital transformation, and global perspective perfectly align with Prow’s mission to empower small businesses through trustworthy AI and financial intelligence. We’re honored to welcome him to our leadership team.”

Katherine Saxton, Co-Founder and Chief Experience & AI Officer, added:

“Professor Granados embodies the fusion of data science, ethics, and innovation that defines Prow. His insight into how AI, media, and economics intersect will help us build not only smarter technology, but a smarter ecosystem that uplifts entrepreneurs and small businesses across the globe.”

In his new role, Professor Granados will lead Prow’s Intelligence Lab, overseeing applied AI research, data-ethics frameworks, and partnerships with leading universities, including ongoing and collaboration with UC Berkeley technology development teams. His leadership will help shape Prow’s vision to create the AI Operating System for Small Business™, integrating advanced analytics, intelligent payments, and ESG-aligned financial tools.

About Prof. Nelson Granados PH.D.
Dr. Granados is professor of information systems and technology management at Pepperdine University. As a technology visionary, he researches the economic impact of emerging technologies. His research is published in top tech-quant business journals and has led to numerous awards, including best paper of the year by the IS discipline and runner up for best paper of the year in Management Science. Prior to joining academia, Dr. Granados marketed, sold, and developed IT applications in large corporations. He is a frequent contributor to Forbes on innovation in the Media and Entertainment sector.

About Prow™
Prow™ is an AI-driven fintech platform unifying financial data, payments, and AI insights for small and medium-sized businesses. Through its products ProwIT™, ProwPay™, and Green Stable Coin®, Prow helps businesses simplify decision-making, access faster payments, and participate in a sustainable digital economy.

Disclaimer:
This communication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any securities of Prow Corporation or its affiliates. Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. All third-party trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. No affiliation or endorsement is implied.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Kate Lane

Kate@ballantinespr.com

Ballantines PR

Honoring Esteemed Verterans with Drone Franchise Opportunity

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September 29, 2025

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(Hartford, Conn) – September 29, 2025. Exciting news in the drone sector as a veteran-owned drone franchise program takes center stage, empowering American service members in the realm of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) aka, drones.

Honoring ALL military veterans of the United States Armed Forces, Aquiline Drones Corporation (AD) – a CT based drone manufacturer and artificial intelligence (AI) systems company has forged a strategic partnership with Ryder System, Inc. (NYSE: R) and Vets to Drones. Together, they are launching a discounted drone franchise program exclusively for U.S. Veterans – a lifelong opportunity, well beyond 2025!

Through the collaboration with Ryder providing substantial discounts on franchise vehicles and Vets to Drones offering free professional drone training, a remarkable 30% discount on these drone franchises is now available to qualified Veterans.

AD recognizes the valuable efforts of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and its VetsCert (Certification) program, dedicated to empowering Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) to compete for specialized contracts, especially within the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). AD also calls upon the national business community to join in supporting this crucial initiative, encouraging self-employment avenues for Veterans.

“Veterans bring unmatched discipline, technical expertise, and leadership to the drone industry,” says Barry Alexander, founder and CEO of Aquiline Drones. He emphasizes the value of government contracting opportunities tailored for American drone manufacturing and professional drone services, highlighting the deserving nature of our nation’s esteemed veterans.

This strategic collaboration is geared towards advancing federal initiatives like the U.S. Department of War’s (DoW) Blue UAS program and the Replicator Initiative spearheaded by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), with a key focus on expanding secure, American-made drone systems swiftly.

In line with national directives from the U.S. Department of War (DoW) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the partnership aims to boost domestic drone production, diminish dependence on foreign-manufactured platforms, and nurture a skilled workforce capable of supporting vital defense and commercial missions.

Aquiline Drones’ innovative Veteran-owned drone franchise model plays a pivotal role in reinforcing U.S. drone manufacturing capabilities and enhancing workforce preparedness to meet these critical objectives.

The AD–Vets to Drones initiative, with a nod to Ryder for their support, offers structured and discounted franchise opportunities in three established models:

Modular Drone Manufacturing (MDM): Empowering veterans to produce U.S.-made drones meeting Blue UAS compliance standards, paving the way for federal procurement and industrial base contracts.
Inspection, Security & Surveillance (ISS): Supporting DHS, CBP, and FEMA missions such as border surveillance, disaster response, and infrastructure security, aligning with national technology modernization efforts.
Total Exterior Care (TEC): Providing advanced drone services for all exterior cleaning (power-washing, painting and graffiti removal) and environmental monitoring in municipal, industrial, and defense-related settings.

These franchises come with thorough pilot and operational training, business development support, access to AD’s captive insurance entity (Aquiline Drones Indemnity Corporation – ADIC), and qualification for federal Veteran-owned small business (VOSB) and service-disabled Veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) contracting opportunities.

This initiative seeks to enhance Veteran involvement in national security and industry expansion by fostering Veteran entrepreneurship and enabling military veterans to transition into small-business ownership roles that bolster local economies and advance U.S. technological leadership.

Expanding Veteran Participation in National Security and Industry Growth

Supporting the federal government’s objectives, this initiative focuses on:

Cultivating Veteran Entrepreneurship: Enabling military veterans to transition into ownership roles, boosting local economies, and advancing U.S. technological leadership.
Bolstering Homeland Security: Establishing a national workforce of veteran franchisees to support DHS and DoW missions like border security, disaster relief, and critical infrastructure monitoring.
Strengthening the Domestic UAS Industrial Base: Aligning with the DoW’s Replicator initiative to scale U.S. production capacity for autonomous UAV systems.

Chris Lewis, Founder and CEO of Vets to Drones, highlights, “This partnership offers Veterans more than just a career path; presents the opportunity for ownership in a rapidly growing sector crucial to U.S. defense and economic competitiveness.”

The U.S. drone market is poised to exceed $60 billion in the next decade, driven by defense upgrades, infrastructure monitoring, and commercial drone adoption. Through the franchise initiative, AD and Vets to Drones aim to:

Support DoW’s Blue UAS and Replicator Programs with secure, scalable, U.S.-made platforms.
Aid DHS Technology Modernization Efforts by enhancing surveillance and response capabilities for CBP, FEMA, and local law enforcement.
Promote Veteran-Owned Federal Contracting Goals by leveraging SBA programs to increase veteran participation in federal technology contracts.

This program, designed for rapid expansion, will extend to multiple states through collaborations with Veterans’ organizations, municipal governments, and federal entities. Aquiline Drones will equip franchisees with training and FAA-compliant frameworks, ensuring preparedness for civilian and defense contracts.

Aquiline Drones invites vendors, service providers, and industry leaders to be part of our groundbreaking initiative. By collaborating with us, you’ll tap into a rapidly expanding $60 billion market spanning defense, homeland security, infrastructure, and commercial sectors. Moreover, you’ll directly contribute to empowering Veterans with cutting-edge tools and technologies, ensuring their success as entrepreneurs.

Through these partnerships, a robust ecosystem is created, offering Veterans top-tier resources and a wide range of solutions. This empowers them to deliver exceptional services, win more contracts, and solidify their leadership in the evolving drone industry. Together, we can forge a sustainable path that uplifts Veterans, boosts American innovation, and drives the adoption of secure, homegrown drone solutions.

For franchise or partnership inquiries, contact:
Email: franchise@aquilinedrones.com | info@aquilinedrones.com
Phone: (860) 361-7958

About Aquiline Drones

Aquiline Drones Corporation (AD) is an American-owned technology company headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut. AD specializes in drone design and manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced drone pilot training. Through its insurance captive, Aquiline Drones Indemnity Corporation (ADIC), provides tailored coverage and risk management solutions for its franchise network.

AD’s leadership includes veteran aviators, military officers, engineers, IT specialists, and business strategists with decades of experience across aerospace and defense. With vertically integrated capabilities, AD develops secure Made-in-USA drone platforms and services supporting mission-critical applications for Inspections, Security, and Exterior Care across a range of U.S. commercial markets.

Learn more at www.aquilinedrones.com.