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BIOPITCH, featured at the annual Florida Innovation Conference, highlights the state’s most promising life sciences ventures

ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BioFlorida’s annual BIOPITCH competition took center stage, highlighting Florida’s pipeline of breakthrough healthcare innovations, at the 28th Florida Innovation Conference. This annual pitch competition brings together the state’s most promising early-stage companies, and the investors positioned to accelerate their growth.

The Annual Innovation Conference featured industry leaders and prominent organizations including Lisa T. Miller, the Strategic Advisor to Healthcare Executives, Entrepreneurs & Innovators; Fisher Scientific; eMerge Americas; MintPharma Capital; Arthrex; Catalyst Pharmaceuticals; Hesperos; and Transpire Bio. The gathering, which highlights Florida’s strengths as a premier destination for Life Sciences innovation, culminated with the announcement of winners in the highly competitive BIOPITCH competition.

72 of Florida’s most innovative seed and early-stage biotech companies showcased their transformative solutions to a distinguished panel of 16 investors. Submissions showcased advances in cell-based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, targeted cancer therapeutics, novel antimicrobial resistance solutions, and a diverse array of breakthrough treatments addressing some of healthcare’s most pressing unmet medical needs. The competition featured two distinct categories:

• Florida Premier: Innovative life science companies headquartered in Florida.
• Emerging Florida: For entrants that are a member of a Florida University / Incubator or Research Institute.

NeuroGenesis, from Miami, was awarded the $60,000 Florida Premier grand prize for their groundbreaking work in neurological therapeutics. Founded and led by CEO Tal Gilat, NeuroGenesis is advancing NG01, an innovative therapy that uses patients’ own stem cells and has shown promising results in clinical trials for progressive multiple sclerosis and ALS, with FDA clearance to move forward with advanced trial studies.

Asha Therapeutics, a Tampa based biotechnology company, earned $30,000 as the Emerging Florida winner for their pioneering therapeutic platform. Under the leadership of Co-founder, Chief Scientific Officer, and President Bradlee Heckmann, Ph.D., Asha Therapeutics is developing novel treatment strategies that leverage fundamental scientific insights to address serious medical conditions including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and ALS, bringing new possibilities to patients in need of advanced therapeutic options.

“With over 70 applications from across Florida, this year’s BIOPITCH field was exceptionally strong,” states Mark Glickman, President and CEO of BioFlorida. “The quality of companies competing validates what we’ve been seeing – that Florida has become a destination for life sciences entrepreneurs. Our winners exemplify the innovative thinking and scientific excellence that’s defining the state’s biotechnology sector.”

Conference programming addressed vital areas including Florida’s biotech ecosystem, artificial intelligence’s impact on healthcare innovation, neurological breakthroughs, and global partnership strategies, providing insights into the trajectory of life sciences in Florida and nationally. Participants represented an expansive spectrum of disciplines, including biopharmaceutical executives, medical technology innovators, digital health pioneers, academic researchers, healthcare systems, investors, policymakers, and economic development professionals.

The conference recognized eight R1 research institutions throughout Florida, acknowledging their essential contributions to the state’s research infrastructure and innovation capacity. Quest Diagnostics served as the premier sponsor for the awards celebration, which featured a keynote address from Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly on the state’s economic vision for life sciences growth.

For more information on the annual Florida Innovation Conference or the BIOPITCH competition, please visit www.bioflorida.com

About BioFlorida
From Concept to Consumer, BioFlorida is the premier source for supporting Florida’s life sciences industry, representing a diverse range of sectors including BioPharma, MedTech, Digital Health, Health Systems, and supporting organizations. We provide comprehensive resources and advocacy while fostering a thriving community that leads in innovation, delivering groundbreaking solutions that benefit patients.

BioFlorida’s value-driven membership supports the life sciences ecosystem through increased Visibility, Industry Insights, Education & Information, Networking & Events, Cost Savings, Policy & Advocacy, and Capital & Growth Opportunities.

By connecting Florida’s life sciences industry with local, national, and global opportunities, BioFlorida plays a vital role in driving innovation and growth, positioning the state as a leader in the field.

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SOURCE BioFlorida

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HARTFORD, Conn., Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shipman & Goodwin LLP is pleased to announce that Brendan Schain, formerly Legal Office Director with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), has joined the firm’s Hartford office as a partner in the Environmental Practice Group.

Schain’s practice will focus on providing environmental regulatory compliance guidance to clients, including with the release-based cleanup regulations that go into effect in 2026. The transition from the Connecticut Transfer Act, which has been in effect for 40 years, to a release-based cleanup program, will impact a wide range of stakeholders, including industrial and commercial real estate owners and developers, manufacturers, multi-family housing developers, banks and other lenders, healthcare providers, and institutional landowners like independent schools, colleges and universities. Schain will counsel clients on the investigation and remediation of releases of pollution, including advising on reporting requirements, the state’s cleanup standards, and filing and administrative requirements. The new regulations will be effective March 1, 2026.

“Brendan has a distinguished reputation as a leader in his field. His work to draft Connecticut’s new release-based cleanup regulations, replacing the Transfer Act which has been in effect since 1985 and has been the subject of much criticism, is a game-changer for transactions in Connecticut and the state’s economic development,” said Andrew Davis, chair of Shipman’s Environmental Practice. “Having Brendan join the team amplifies Shipman’s strong environmental presence in the state and nationally.”

Schain previously served as the Legal Office Director for DEEP’s Environmental Quality Branch, where he provided strategic counsel on Connecticut’s environmental laws and administrative processes and advised the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and senior leadership. During his tenure, he led the team responsible for delivering legal support across the agency’s air, waste, water, remediation, emergency response, coastal, and wetlands programs. He was a key contributor to Connecticut’s transition away from the Transfer Act and toward a release-based cleanup framework, supporting the Release-Based Cleanup Working Group and spearheading the drafting and adoption of the state’s Release-Based Cleanup Regulations. Schain also handled a broad range of permitting, enforcement, and site-remediation matters and served as a hearing officer in the Office of Adjudications, presiding over numerous enforcement actions and contested case hearings.

“This is an exciting time to be joining Shipman. The Environmental Practice Group is top ranked and is well-known for being ahead of the curve on evolving environmental legal developments,” said Schain. “I have had the pleasure of collaborating with skilled and knowledgeable lawyers at the firm while at DEEP and look forward to providing counsel about the new release-based cleanup program. Together we will help clients navigate the complexities of these statutory and regulatory reforms.”

Schain’s arrival follows the announcement of Shipman’s strategic recent expansion in the Northeast. In November, the firm opened a Boston office with 17 lawyers from Tarlow Breed Hart & Rodgers, and earlier this year added depth to its Finance Practice group across their Connecticut offices.

“We are very excited to welcome Brendan to Shipman,” said Aaron Levy, a partner in the firm’s Environmental Practice and member of the state-appointed work-group that advised DEEP on the new release-based cleanup regulations. “Brendan is an excellent fit for our environmental practice and helps expand the capabilities we offer to clients. He is highly regarded for his dedication and commitment to developing regulations that help improve the environment, enhance the community and support business.”

Schain is licensed to practice in Connecticut and holds a J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law. He earned his B.A. in Political Science from American University.

Shipman’s Environmental Group is recognized as a Band 1 firm in Chambers & Partners.
The multidisciplinary environmental team advises clients on existing Environmental, Health and Safety requirements, as well as industry standards and emerging developments related to environmental legislation, regulations, policies and management at the national, regional and local levels. The firm’s clients include manufacturers, developers, lending institutions, educational institutions, healthcare entities, insurance companies, energy companies and private clients.

About Shipman & Goodwin LLP
Shipman’s value lies in its commitment to its clients, to the profession, and to the community. With more than 160 lawyers in offices throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York, the full-service law firm serves the needs of local, regional, national, and international clients that include public and private companies, educational institutions, governmental entities, non-profit organizations and individuals. For more information, visit www.shipmangoodwin.com.

Contact:
Becky Bergman 704-607-5977 | [email protected]

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SOURCE Shipman & Goodwin, LLP

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Markopolo AI, the AI revenue agent, has announced a strategic partnership with T2, a leading Saudi-based technology firm in Riyadh. This collaboration marks a pivotal milestone in Markopolo’s expansion across Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global technology hub under Vision 2030.

The partnership signing ceremony took place in the presence of Fahmidul Hasan, Strategic Growth Officer & Business Partner, and Salman Saafi, Growth Product Manager, from Markopolo, alongside Abdulkarim Aljarba, CEO, Riyadh Alawwad, CBO, and Ziyad Alsuwaidan, Manager of the CEO’s Office, from T2.

T2, known for driving digital transformation across emerging markets, brings extensive regional expertise and networks that will accelerate Markopolo’s growth in Saudi Arabia’s thriving e-commerce ecosystem. T2 is well-positioned to co-sell Markopolo’s AI agent and provide seamless product integration.

The partnership comes as founders Tasfia Tasbin and Rubaiyat Farhan celebrate dual achievements: acceptance into Saudi Arabia’s prestigious TAQADAM Accelerator by KAUST (Cohort 8) with a USD 140,000 grant, and HF0 Residency, one of the world’s most selective founder residencies in San Francisco.

In 2025, Markopolo raised USD 2 million in seed funding led by Joa Capital, a Saudi venture capital firm focused on high-growth tech ventures. This investment, coupled with support from the Kingdom’s National Technology Development Program (NTDP) through TAQADAM, positions Markopolo at the intersection of Saudi Arabia’s digital commerce revolution and its strategic vision for AI leadership.

Instead of basic personalization, Markopolo’s AI revenue agents analyze real-time behavioral patterns, purchase hesitations, and communication preferences to guide each customer’s unique journey. The technology moves beyond segmentation toward genuine individual understanding.

“Our vision is to become a multibillion-dollar global company within the next two years,” says CEO and Co-founder Tasfia Tasbin. “This partnership with T2, combined with our presence in TAQADAM and HF0, accelerates that mission as we bring world-class AI innovation to Saudi Arabia, Silicon Valley, and beyond.”

“In five years, every e-commerce transaction will be guided by an AI revenue agent,” adds CTO and Co-founder Rubaiyat Farhan. “We’ve built a behavioral intelligence engine that finally enables true personalization at global scale.”

The company’s mission is ambitious: recover USD 100 billion in lost revenue by 2030, ensuring no customer is ever treated as merely a segment again.

Contact person’s name: Md Zubayer Wasit
Title/Company: Marketing Manager, Markopolo AI
Email address: [email protected]
Phone number: +8801648440100

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PITTSBURGH, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “I wanted to create a fun and unique way to honk your horn when driving a jeep-style vehicle,” said an inventor, from Jackson, Ky., “so I invented the JEEP JEEP HORN. My design helps make others aware of their surroundings, and it enables you to have fun with other jeepers.”

The patent-pending invention provides a new horn system or device for the owners of jeep-style vehicles. In doing so, it offers an alternative to beeping the traditional horn. As a result, it increases awareness. It also offers added fun. The invention features a unique design that is easy to use so it is ideal for the owners of jeep-style vehicles.

The JEEP JEEP HORN is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, visit www.jeepjeephorn.com. Or contact Brandi Johnson at 606-568-2510 or email [email protected].

*InventHelp is neither affiliated with nor endorsed by the Jeep® brand or Stellantis corporation, which holds a trademark.

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SOURCE InventHelp

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To deliver advanced AI-powered cybersecurity defense operations for global enterprises

BENGALURU, India, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) today announced the launch of its Next-Gen Cyber Defense Center (CDC) in Bengaluru. This center is key to the company’s worldwide CDC network and is Cognizant’s largest facility designed to deliver advanced AI powered platform centric cybersecurity managed services, engineering and transformation services to clients globally.

Cognizant has a strong cybersecurity practice with longstanding experience, driven by seasoned professionals with deep expertise. At the Bengaluru CDC, these specialists aim to provide round-the-clock monitoring and rapid response to security incidents, supporting clients across diverse industries and geographies. The center features an integrated threat research lab, supported by strategic alliances with leading technology companies.

“Cybersecurity is entering a new era where hyper-connected enterprises and AI-driven threats outpace traditional defenses,” said Ravi Kumar S, CEO, Cognizant. “Our new Cyber Defense Center in Bengaluru reflects our commitment to delivering intelligence-led cybersecurity engineering and operation services that help enable clients to predict, prevent and mitigate advanced cybersecurity threats.”

The Bengaluru CDC is built on a multi-layered technology architecture that combines Cognizant’s proprietary innovations, such as Cognizant Neuro^® Cybersecurity, with industry-leading platforms from technology partners to deliver advanced cybersecurity capabilities. To support a steady pipeline of skilled talent, the center has partnered with leading academic institutions to train next-generation cybersecurity professionals.

Through its global network of Cyber Defense Centers, Cognizant is expanding its capabilities aiming to deliver comprehensive enterprise cybersecurity services, assisting clients build risk resilience while advancing innovation in cyber defense strategies.

About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes and transform experiences so they can stay ahead in our fast-changing world. Together, we’re improving everyday life. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.

For more information, contact:

Name: Sharon Lobo
Email: [email protected]

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FRESNO, Calif., Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lyons Magnus, a global leader in foodservice and ingredient innovation, has unveiled its 2026 trend forecast, highlighting five emerging categories expected to influence food and beverage menus in the year ahead. “We’re particularly interested in the perfect storm of functional indulgence and pure sensory joy,” says Lyons Chef Branton Worrell. “These trends aren’t just predictions; they are the roadmap we’re already using to help our customers create menu items consumers can’t stop craving.”

Gut-friendly Wellness: In 2026, the protein-powered shift will continue playing a major role in shaping menus. As weight loss medications shift eating habits, consumers have already started opting for high-protein, gut-friendly snacks and drinks that satiate in smaller portions. In response, brands are improving their products with higher protein content, collagen-infused formats, and nutrient-dense recipes that provide steady energy. Fermented proteins and fiber-forward blends add a wellness edge, while restaurants have started creating gut-friendly menus built around compact, protein-forward dishes.

Textural Maximalism: Multi-layered textures and sensory-driven creations are poised to take center stage in 2026. From crunchy inclusions to velvety cold foams, texture is becoming a signature component of menu innovation. The demand for maximalist texture and multi-sensory eating reflect a growing desire for food and beverage experiences that go beyond flavor. Consumers are looking for playful self-expression, depth, and layers of flavor through combinations that pair creamy with crispy, chewy with crackly, and smooth with aerated or foamed textures. This shift is inspiring brands to rethink builds – adding drizzles, toppings, flavored foams, and finishing elements that heighten both visual and multi-sensory appeal.

Unconventional Flavor: A growing number of young consumers are gravitating toward unexpected combinations, global palettes, and ingredients that challenge traditional flavor norms as we head into 2026. The search for bold, unconventional flavors reflects the growing demand for adventurous, boundary-pushing taste experiences. As a result, brands are experimenting with savory-sweet pairings, edible blooms, and unconventional umami notes that create multi-layered, conversation-starting dishes. This blend of cultural inspiration and playful discovery invites creativity and is poised to become a defining force in 2026 menu innovation.

The Tea Renaissance: In 2026, tea and matcha will continue to redefine beverage culture, inspiring both flavor innovation and ritualized consumption. Matcha- and tea-inspired creations are moving beyond traditional lattes and into desserts and savory dishes, tea flights, blends infused with adaptogens and more. This trend offers earthy, umami flavors and reflects consumers’ desire for treats that mix wellness with indulgence. From ceremonial grade matcha to layered tea-infused pastries, this wellness shift in teas combines functional benefits with creativity, appealing to consumers looking for mindful, elevated experiences.

The Sober Shift: In 2026, alcohol-free offerings are poised to be a core pillar of beverage innovation, merging wellness, indulgence, and creativity. This trend is redefining drinking culture as consumers increasingly seek alcohol-free options that deliver flavor, wellness, and purpose. Innovation is driving functional beverages that balance natural ingredients, reduced sugar, and vibrant tropical or fruity profiles. From craft non-alcoholic cocktails to functional elixirs, brands are creating mindful, elevated experiences that satisfy taste and lifestyle simultaneously. creativity.

About Lyons Magnus
Lyons Magnus is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of premium foodservice products, ingredients, and beverage solutions. For more than a century, the company has partnered with restaurant chains, operators, and chefs to deliver innovative products backed by deep culinary expertise, market insights, and a commitment to quality. Lyons Magnus serves foodservice customers across restaurants, coffeehouses, healthcare, and hospitality with a portfolio designed to inspire creativity and fuel growth.

Contact
Tracy Pfister
Senior Marketing Director
[email protected]

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SOURCE Lyons Magnus

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Seasoned economic development expert returns to help drive data informed growth and competitiveness in Southern Nevada

LAS VEGAS, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) announced that Nickoles (Nick) Clason has joined the organization as Senior Director of Business Intelligence. In this role, he will guide research, economic analysis, and strategic intelligence that support business attraction, retention, and expansion across Southern Nevada.

Clason will lead research functions that include market analytics, industry trend forecasting, labor market analysis, and economic impact modeling. His work will help ensure that public and private sector partners have timely and reliable information to guide decision making. Clason will report to the Chief Strategy and Performance Officer.

He brings eight years of experience in economic development, public policy, and research. Before rejoining LVGEA, he served as an Economic Development Officer with the City of Henderson’s Economic Development and Tourism team, where he focused on data and research. His background also includes work with Applied Analysis, earlier experience at LVGEA as an Economic Development Analyst, and service as a policy aide to the former chairman of the United States Senate Finance Committee with a focus on tax, trade, and banking policy.

Clason is a Las Vegas native and a Certified Economic Developer. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute and holds Bachelor of Science degrees in economics and political science from Utah State University.

Clason states he is honored to step into this leadership position.

“Returning to the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance as Senior Director of Business Intelligence feels like stepping back into a place where vision meets possibility. I am incredibly excited to work with Danielle, the entire LVGEA team, and the LVGEA Board to advance economic development in Southern Nevada. I am honored to help shape data driven strategies that fuel growth, innovation, and a stronger future for our region.”

Danielle Casey, LVGEA President and CEO, said the organization is pleased to welcome Clason back.

“I am thrilled to welcome Nick back to the LVGEA team. As a Certified Economic Developer and a graduate of Oklahoma University’s Economic Development Institute, he brings demonstrated experience in the practice of economic development along with the credentials that reflect his dedication to continuous education as a top national professional. We are eager for his leadership in initiatives that strengthen our ability to deliver compelling value propositions for business attraction across multiple industry sectors.”

Lauri Perdue, LVGEA Board Chair, said Clason’s return strengthens the organization’s strategic capacity.

“The LVGEA Board is delighted to have Nick Clason rejoin LVGEA. His experience working with two major regional partners since his last tenure brings invaluable insight to our organization and strengthens the collaborative foundation that drives Southern Nevada’s economic success. Nick’s return reflects both his dedication to this community and LVGEA’s momentum in building a unified, high-performing regional ecosystem.”

With Clason’s leadership, LVGEA continues to strengthen the strategic foundation that supports economic growth, innovation, and long-term opportunities for Southern Nevada.

About Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance

The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) is a public-private partnership dedicated to growing the economy of the Las Vegas region through intentional business attraction, expansion, and connectivity. LVGEA has been designated as one of eight Regional Development Authorities (RDA) in Nevada by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) for 2025-2026. To learn more, visit Lvgea.org

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SOURCE The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance

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PITTSBURGH, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “I enjoy doing crossword puzzles and thought there could be a better way to do them when traveling or away from home,” said an inventor, from Traverse City, Mich., “so I invented the PURSE PUZZLES. My design ensures you have your puzzles and a pencil in one compact and convenient unit.”

The invention provides an improved way to do crossword puzzles when away from home. In doing so, it offers an alternative to using traditional crossword puzzle booklets. As a result, it increases convenience. It also could make doing crossword puzzles easier and more enjoyable. The invention features a compact and simple design that is easy to use and carry so it is ideal for individuals who enjoy crossword puzzles.

The PURSE PUZZLES invention is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, visit www.pursepuzzles.com. Or contact Christina Gray at 231-632-4475 or email [email protected].

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SOURCE InventHelp

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