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Pitt’s new quantum lab will advance innovation across the region

The Western Pennsylvania Quantum Information Core represents more than a decade of Pitt’s commitment to partnerships in quantum science and industry commercialization.

May 7 • 8:00 AM EDT • Science • pittwire.pitt.edu

Science diplomacy lessons from a North Korean volcano

Mount Paektu, a mythic, active volcano on the border between North Korea and China, is almost the epitome of a scientific challenge that crosses political lines. In 946 CE, it erupted in one of the five biggest volcanic events of the past 10,000 years, kicking up huge quantities of ash and sending destructive mud flows down river channels for hundreds of kilometres. Should this happen again, the entire region, including easternmost Russia, South Korea and even Japan could be hit. “It’s definitely got the potential to be big,” said James Hammond, a professor of geophysics at Birkbeck, University of London. An eruption on the scale of 946 would have “huge regional impact.” For the past 15 years, Hammond has helped lead a groundbreaking collaboration with North Korean scientists to study the volcano, navigating scientific sanctions, tough export controls on scientific equipment and a long, pandemic-enforced exodus from the country. Although he seems more at home on far-flung research expeditions – before speaking to Science|Business, Hammond was camping out on a Greenland ice sheet – he has also advised the European Commission on its changing science diplomacy strategy. His long experience with North Korea has made Hammond sceptical of blanket bans on science collaboration, no matter the country.This is a live question in Europe, where in the wake of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, institutional ties with Russian universities were almost entirely severed, although some scientists fear this could undermine our understanding of climate change’s impact on the Arctic. Here, Hammond tells the story of the Mount Paektu mission and the policy lessons he takes from it. Ominous rumblingsThe genesis of Hammond’s collaboration came in 2002, when Mount Paektu began to rumble ominously. Earthquake activity picked up and the volcano began to emit unusual gases. North Korean scientists took notice. “People felt we need to know more about this volcano,” said Hammond. In 2011, North Korean vulcanologists put out a request for international expertise to help them learn more. At the time, Hammond and his collaborator, Clive Oppenheimer, were working on a vulcanology project in another sanctioned country, Eritrea, and so decided to answer the call. Within a month, they had flown into Pyongyang. “It was pretty incredible,” recalls Hammond (left). “We were made to feel like honoured guests, and invited to official celebrations.” The scientific opportunity was huge. Paektu is unusually positioned, a thousand kilometres from where tectonic plates rub against each other in the Pacific. “It was an incredibly interesting volcano, but not much research had been done, at least not in the international community,” he said. “There was so much we felt we could do. And we had these partners that were super keen to engage.”The mission received an unusual visitor in the form of volcano-obsessed filmmaker Werner Herzog, who accompanied Hammond and Oppenheimer while directing his 2016 film Into the Inferno about volcanos across the world. Four days into the trip, the German director delivered a long speech about reunification to his North Korean hosts, recalls Hammond. “He got to the heart of the Koreans and how they felt, and how they thought, in a way that I'm not sure I ever will,” he said. UN sanctionsHowever, Hammond realised he’d been “naïve” about how difficult it would be to collaborate with North Korea, which was sanctioned far more heavily than Eritrea. “We didn’t fully appreciate the all-encompassing nature of restrictions,” he said. In 2016, as tensions escalated over Pyongyang’s nuclear tests, a United Nations resolution banned all joint scientific work with North Korea. However, the UN sanctions did allow countries to request carve outs, and the UK successfully requested an exemption for Hammond’s work. Related articlesEU pushes for joint science diplomacy, but care needed to avoid gridlock, experts sayRussia severs its last ties with German scienceAnchor Greenlanders in Arctic climate research, experts tell EU ahead of policy updateExport controls have also delayed Hammond’s work. In one case, it took 18 months to get approval from the UK government to take seismometers, which measure earthquakes, to North Korea. “It was frustrating,” he said. “But they didn’t just say no.” However, one instrument, called an induction coil, used to measure how the earth conducts electricity, was blocked entirely because it can in theory be used to detect submarines. Karaoke bondingSince the collaboration started in 2011, Hammond has visited the country around 15 times, although the pandemic closed off North Korea for more than five years. A trip last November was Hammond’s first since the outbreak. Despite this lengthy interlude, Hammond has deep bonds in the country. The North Korean scientists Hammond works with are somewhat isolated, as they struggle to access the latest research papers and travel to international conferences. That said, they are “excellent geophysicists” and are “very well trained in the field,” he said. Over karaoke and chats about their families, “we’ve made friendships, for sure,” he said. The authorities have to sign-off things like the placement of seismometers, for example, but Hammond said these requests have been approved. “Everything that we've asked for within a scientific context has been delivered.”Scientific backchannels? These kind of personal links between scientists across political lines are one purported benefit of science diplomacy. During the Cold War, some historians argue, scientific contact between the US and Soviet Union laid a groundwork of trust for other cooperation, such as on arms control. Hammond agrees that backchannel contacts to North Korean geophysicists are hardly likely to defuse a military crisis on the Korean peninsula, but the simple fact of the scientific collaboration makes contacts between diplomats that little bit easier. “It creates opportunities to understand each other a little bit better,” he said. “When maybe you have those more difficult discussions as diplomats, it's coming from a slightly better place.” Cutting tiesDrawing lessons from the Mount Paektu mission for today’s links with Russian science isn’t simple. The analogy is far from exact, Hammond said, “because one is essentially a Cold War, versus a pretty hot war in the case of Russia.” But Hammond’s broader argument is that the challenges we face, such as climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss, pollution and so on, have globalised in an unprecedented way, making blanket shutdowns in collaboration with any country unwise.He’s somewhat critical of the UN scientific sanctions imposed on North Korea in 2016, even though they did allow for exceptions. “I think a blanket halt to some of these things, when we face big global challenges [. . .] that’s quite a risky thing to do,” he said.Institutional endorsement?European academics are still by and large free to work individually with Russian counterparts. However, official, institutional partnerships have largely ended. Shortly following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian university rectors wrote a public letter endorsing the war, meaning European universities fear official collaboration could also be seen as a kind of endorsement. Hammond acknowledges there is a risk of legitimising regimes, and state-controlled universities, through scientific cooperation. “That’s the trade off you have to make,” he said. Strategic projectsWith Russia, instead of giving a green light to restart all Arctic science, a middle ground might be firing up a few carefully selected “strategic” projects, said Hammond. After all, European countries are still collaborating with Russia on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, an experimental nuclear fusion plant in the south of France. However, even if Europe did try to revive Arctic science with Russia, there’s no guarantee Russian scientists would play ball. A series of high-profile arrests of physicists in Russia accused of sharing their findings with the outside world has made collaboration fraught. Even before the invasion of 2022, “the Russian regime made it increasingly difficult, and this sort of discouraged people,” Dag Rune Olsen, rector of the Arctic University of Norway, told Science|Business last year.

May 7 • 8:00 AM EDT • Science • sciencebusiness.net

The New Flexi-Lateralism: International Cooperation in an Era of Raw Power Politics

Escalatory attacks on multilateral rules and institutions in this era of raw power politics have plunged international politics into uncharted territory. Traditional alliances have been fractured, and new partnerships between unlikely bedfellows are emerging. No longer in transition, the post-World War II world order is in rupture. This paper examines international cooperation under these conditions and argues that a new "flexi-lateralism" is taking shape as a pragmatic response to changing times.

May 7 • 8:00 AM EDT • Politics • cgdev.org

Universities Can Bridge the Gap Between Climate Science and City Hall

Op-ed: Community-engaged partnerships between universities, governments and residents can turn academic knowledge into practical urban climate policy.

May 6 • 6:02 AM EDT • Science • nextcity.org

Google snags OpenAI's head of private equity

OpenAI lost its head of private equity to Google as leading AI labs launch fresh partnerships with PE firms to sell their tools.

May 5 • 3:17 PM EDT • Business • businessinsider.com

Caressa Douglas Joins CAA As Head Of Content And Integrations (EXCLUSIVE)

Caressa Douglas has joined CAA's Entertainment Partnerships group in the newly created role of Head of Content and Integrations.

May 5 • 1:47 PM EDT • Entertainment • deadline.com

Electronic Arts and Visa Team Up to Launch a Global, Multi-Year Partnership With EA SPORTS

Delivering immersive in-game rewards and expanding how players play, connect, and compete Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA), a global leader in interactive entertainment, today announced a landmark, multi-year collaboration with Visa (NYSE: V), the world’s leader in digital payments, to deliver the next generation of immersive, player-first experiences across EA SPORTS™ franchises. Visa is partnering with EA SPORTS franchises EA SPORTS FC™ and EA SPORTS™ College Football, offering in-game rewards and experiences for EA SPORTS’ global community of fans. By combining EA’s interactive, participatory platforms with Visa’s expansive global brand, this partnership demonstrates how the line between sports fandom and video games continues to blur as audiences increasingly play, watch, and connect across both physical and virtual sports. “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Visa for one of Electronic Arts’ most expansive brand partnerships to date, bringing more value to fans,” said David

May 4 • 8:00 AM EDT • Sports • news.ea.com

How employer partnerships are reshaping Chicago’s workforce

WGU explores how Chicago employers are investing in flexible education pathways to strengthen talent pipelines.

May 4 • 6:00 AM EDT • Business • chicagobusiness.com

Global Health & WASH: May 2026 Funding Opportunities (14 new opportunities!)

The May update for Global Health & WASH brings new calls that cluster around three distinct shifts: LMIC research leadership moving from funder encouragement into a hard eligibility constraint, pharmaceutical and corporate-linked funders running structurally independent education and use-inspired research portfolios at substantial scale, and AI adoption shifting decisively from speculative tool to operational capability across health and WASH systems alike. In LMIC Research Leadership as Eligibility, Not Encouragement, Wellcome anchors the dominant signal of the month with three separate major calls that all require or strongly center LMIC leadership in their basic eligibility architecture. Wellcome’s ESIC Hubs (£1.5-£1.9M per hub over 3-5 years) explicitly requires an LMIC-based lead applicant, treating Global South leadership as a design constraint rather than a participation goal. Wellcome’s Infectious Disease Clinical Trial Development Award funds transdisciplinary teams whose lead must be a mid-career or established researcher based at an organization in Africa, South Asia, or Southeast Asia. Wellcome’s larger Infectious Disease Clinical Trial Award (£1M-£8M for optimizing licensed interventions) requires the administering organization to be in eligible LMIC regions and at least 50% of applicants based there. Around Wellcome, the same pattern shows up at smaller scale and across funders: CHINNOVA channels $1M into West and Central African research institutions for climate-health work; IBRO’s Neuroscience Training Grants explicitly tier ceilings by region of residence with Africa receiving the highest amount ($5,000); IHME’s GBD Emerging Researcher Award reserves at least one of its two annual awards for an LMIC researcher; Sidaction’s HIV Cure call funds research teams across France, the Netherlands, and eligible African countries with a minimum two-country collaboration requirement. Taken together, these calls signal a meaningful shift in how research equity is being operationalized — not as encouragement language at the bottom of a call, but as a structural feature of who can lead, where the work must be administered, and what proportion of the team must be regionally rooted. In Pharma-Funded Independent Medical Education and Use-Inspired Research, the lineup this month is unusually deep. Pfizer alone runs four parallel calls under independent education and quality improvement frameworks: a Migraine and Women’s Health RFP (200K x 2-year, $500K pool), Migraine IME ($200K, $1M pool), JAK Inhibitor evidence-based education ($100K), and Maternal Vaccination HCP Education in Saudi Arabia ($75K), plus a separate Pediatric Pneumococcal Surveillance research call in Saudi Arabia ($400K per project). Novo Nordisk Foundation runs four parallel calls of its own at substantial scale: Infectious Diseases Catalyst Grants (DKK 60M pool, up to DKK 7M collaborative), Non-Diabetic Endocrinology Collaborative Grants (DKK 53M pool, DKK 5-10M per project), Pioneer Innovator Grant Health (DKK 1.1M), and Distinguished Innovator Grant Health (DKK 6.8M). LEO Foundation deploys DKK 2-4M per project for dermatology research excellence. Pfizer’s framing across calls deliberately separates the funding from product promotion, emphasizing measurable practice-relevant change and structural distance between scientific outputs and commercial activity. Novo Nordisk’s “use-inspired” hard filter pushes researchers toward a credible translation pathway from mechanism to deployable tool. The pattern: industry-aligned funders are running structurally independent portfolios at meaningful $ that fund implementation evidence, not promotion. In AI as Operational Capability, Not Speculation, several calls this month explicitly treat AI adoption as a near-term operational question with real evidence and governance requirements, rather than a speculative trend to be watched. Wellcome’s ESIC Hubs frames AI as “the accelerator” for evidence synthesis, asking hubs to translate technical innovation into adoption-ready workflows that can match real-world policy timelines. UNICEF Venture Fund’s new Climate Tech for Children’s Health call funds for-profit startups deploying AI, machine learning, and blockchain in low-resource environments, with a strict requirement that solutions must already have a working prototype with promising pilot results. The Water Research Foundation has launched two simultaneous AI calls treating reproducibility, cybersecurity guardrails, and human-in-the-loop deployments as core design constraints rather than nice-to-haves: one on GenAI and Agentic AI in water utilities ($200K), one on alternatives to water shutoffs that explicitly screens for implementation economics evidence. Nordic Innovation’s quantum technology call (NOK 4.5M) extends the same logic into life science and healthcare, demanding consortium-stage projects mature enough to test with real users. TEF-Health offers €300K in subsidized testing infrastructure for European healthcare AI and robotics SMEs. The pattern: funders are converting AI pilots into playbooks, requiring transfer evidence and risk controls before AI can move from experimentation to sector-wide operational practice. For LMIC-based researchers in infectious disease or evidence synthesis, the three Wellcome calls together represent the deepest concentration of LMIC-led research capital in recent memory — pair the Infectious Disease Clinical Trial Development Award (£200K, deadline May 19) as a strategic pipeline feeder into the larger Infectious Disease Clinical Trial Award (£1-£8M, deadline June 2), since the development award functions explicitly as a track into the larger trial scheme. For Nordic researchers, the four Novo Nordisk Foundation calls plus LEO Foundation and Nordic Innovation Quantum represent ~$30M in regional research capital this cycle, all with deadlines clustered in May-August. For WASH practitioners, the three Water Research Foundation calls together (each up to $200K) are a cluster worth reading across — one on AI deployment, one on shutoff alternatives, one rewarding applied innovation — and the strongest applicants will articulate how their work bridges utility operations to policy-relevant evidence. For US-based clinical researchers and educators, the four Pfizer calls plus the APF Portfolio’s 80+ programs form an unusually accessible recurring pipeline; APF’s prohibition on indirect costs is a meaningful structural feature for early-career applicants whose institutions might otherwise absorb significant overhead. Snapshot of New Opportunities Total Estimated Funding Pool: $100 Million+ USD The grants are organized into three categories: Open Calls: Current grant and opportunities with a deadline. Grants are listed by closing date. 39 open opportunities- 14 new! Rolling Applications: current grant and opportunities with rolling applications (but it’s still best to submit as early as possible). 14 rolling opportunities- 1 new opportunity! Long term planning: Grants that have closed their current rounds, but are expected to open new windows. 4 long term opportunities! A quick tip for returning readers: if you want to jump straight to the newest additions, use CTRL F to search for “New!” and navigate quickly to the latest funding opportunities This post is for paid subscribers. This helps support the time and effort it takes to curate and organize these opportunities. Subscribe To keep this accessible to everyone who needs it, we’re happy to offer pay what you can rates. You can find more details here. Open Calls: Migraine Competitive Grant Program: Migraine and Women’s Health (Quality Improvement and/or Research RFP), Pfizer.*Closing soon!* Pfizer, in collaboration with the American Headache Society, is seeking independent quality improvement and research projects that close persistent gaps in migraine care for women across the United States. The funding logic centers on measurable, practice-relevant change: proposals should generate actionable evidence, tools, or system improvements that can be shared and used widely, not just within a single site. Priority areas span menstrual migraine and screening in women’s health settings, the role of hormonal fluctuations across the lifespan, sex-specific risk factors, comorbidities and quality-of-life burden, and disparities in outcomes by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The call is structured as a two-step competitive process with an initial Letter of Intent, with the strongest concepts expected to translate scientific insight into implementable improvements in diagnosis, management, and equity. Geographies: United States. Who can apply: U.S.-based organizations (not individuals), including professional schools, healthcare institutions, professional organizations, and other entities focused on healthcare improvement. Funding amount: Up to USD $200,000 total over 2 years; total pool USD $500,000. Targeted Sectors / SDGs: Health; Focus areas: migraine, women’s health, quality improvement, clinical research, menstrual migraine, health disparities. Deadline: LOI: May 5, 2026; Full proposal (by invitation): August 28, 2026. Learn more and apply here. This RFP rewards “shareable impact”: the most competitive submissions will pair rigorous methods with a clear plan for system uptake and dissemination beyond the originating institution. ReSSARC: Strengthening the Health Sector and Food Security in the Central African Republic (AID 013381/01/0) Call for Proposals, Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). *Closing soon!* AICS is seeking a limited set of high-capacity humanitarian partners to deliver an integrated package that stabilizes essential health services while reducing acute malnutrition and strengthening food security resilience in priority areas of the Central African Republic. The funder’s logic is explicitly nexus-based: proposals should meet urgent, life-saving needs while reinforcing local systems, coordination mechanisms, and community-level capacity so results persist beyond the emergency window. AICS emphasizes inclusion and protection outcomes, expecting gender-sensitive design and explicit measures for groups facing compounded vulnerability, including women, children under five, internally displaced people, and people with disabilities. The call also signals a localization pathway, encouraging stronger collaboration with national NGOs and balanced partnerships, alongside clear coordination with existing cluster and humanitarian actors to minimize duplication and improve coverage. Geographies: Central African Republic (Bangui, Ombella-Mpoko, Ouham, Ouham-Pende, Lim-Pende, Lobaye). Who can apply: Non-profit organizations registered with AICS, plus eligible non-profits without an office in Italy that have a pre-existing collaboration agreement with an AICS-listed organization. Funding amount: Total pool EUR €1,800,000; max EUR €800,000 (single applicant) or EUR €1,000,000 (ATS). Targeted Sectors / SDGs: Health; Focus areas: malnutrition prevention and treatment, maternal and child health, community health services, food security and resilience, localization partnerships Deadline: May 5, 2026. Learn more and apply here. This call is structured to reward partners who can link frontline service delivery to system durability and localization, not just short-term coverage gains. Contracts for Innovation in drug and alcohol addiction healthcare, Innovate UK. *Closing soon!* Innovate UK, on behalf of the Office for Life Sciences Addiction Healthcare Goals program, is procuring R&D to accelerate innovations that can improve treatment outcomes, strengthen recovery, and reduce harm and deaths linked to drug and alcohol addiction. The competition is positioned as a market-facing readiness push: selected projects are expected to advance solutions toward later-stage validation, generate evidence of user acceptability and UK market fit, and map credible routes through regulatory and certification requirements. Innovate UK signals a preference for innovations that can be field-tested in relevant UK settings and progressed to TRL 6 or 7, with practical plans for commercialization after contract completion. This structure favors applicants that can execute most work in-house, co-develop with service providers and people with lived experience, and translate technical progress into deployable tools for addiction healthcare delivery. Geographies: United Kingdom. Who can apply: Single organizations of any size (including EU, EEA, or international) leading delivery, with most work and key deliverables carried out in the UK; subcontractors for specialist skills only. Funding amount: GBP £200,000–1.5 million per project (inclusive of VAT); Total pool: GBP £20 million (across two strands). Targeted Sectors / SDGs: Health; Focus areas: Mental Health, Health Systems Strengthening, Research & Development, Technology Access. Deadline: May 6, 2026 (11:00am). Learn more and apply here. This call uses procurement to pull near-market addiction innovations toward operational proof and adoption pathways in UK services.

May 4 • 3:59 AM EDT • Health • impactfunding.substack.com

New Orleans youth gaming labs support social emotional skills and career exploration

Founded by Brent DeLarge, Unchained Realities transforms youth experiences in New Orleans by integrating esports labs, design workshops, and emotional learning in partnerships with local schools and rec centers.

May 3 • 6:30 AM EDT • Entertainment • nola.com

New Orleans youth gaming labs support social emotional skills and career exploration

Founded by Brent DeLarge, Unchained Realities transforms youth experiences in New Orleans by integrating esports labs, design workshops, and emotional learning in partnerships with local schools and rec centers.

May 3 • 6:30 AM EDT • Entertainment • shreveportbossieradvocate.com

How The WEBTOON Entertainment (WBTN) Narrative Is Shifting With Softer Growth And New Partnerships

WEBTOON Entertainment’s latest analyst update keeps the model fair value steady at US$12.21 per share, while published price targets across the Street are now clustering in a wider US$10 to US$15 range. That spread reflects a split between analysts who still see long term growth drivers and others who are more cautious given softer recent revenue trends, weaker guidance, and questions around monetization, competition, and partnerships. In the sections ahead, you will see how to interpret...

May 2 • 3:18 PM EDT • Entertainment • finance.yahoo.com

Undergrad Business Roundup: Purdue Gets $20M Gift + Syracuse Whitman's New Experiential Center

Purdue lands a $20M gift for a new healthcare innovation institute, while Houston boosts startups, Whitman expands experiential learning, and global schools launch new partnerships and research.

May 1 • 7:56 AM EDT • Business • poetsandquantsforundergrads.com

Research commissioner pitches EU to US scientists and investors

Research Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva is just back from a two-day trip to San Francisco, where she pitched the EU as the place to be for US researchers looking to move and US venture capitalists looking to invest. A Commission spokesperson told Science|Business that Zaharieva used the trip to “promote Europe as a stable, rule-based and vibrant innovation destination.” She emphasised Europe’s excellent infrastructure and predictable funding, particularly through the European Research Council (ERC) and Europe Innovation Council.These are already proving tempting, with applications from US-based researchers to ERC and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) calls increasing substantially over the past few years. According to the Commission, the number of US-based applicants for the annual ERC Consolidator Grant call rose from 19 in 2025 to 64 in 2026, while US bids to the ERC Advanced Grant call rose from 23 in 2024 to 114 in 2025. Meanwhile, US applications to the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships scheme rose from 352 in 2024 to 998 in 2025.Pressure on US scientists to seek alternative employment has increased since Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Jobs at federal science agencies have been slashed, funding cut in some research areas and international scientific partnerships turned upside down. He has also made unprecedented attempts to control university affairs.During her trip, Zaharieva made a point of highlighting the protection of academic freedom in Europe, “especially in areas like climate change, renewable energy, and health, where US funding has faced cuts,” the spokesperson said.She also underlined the EU’s “attractive long-term career opportunities and relocation support for top researchers from anywhere in the world,” especially through its new Choose Europe for Science initiative.“Transatlantic cooperation remains essential to tackle global challenges while safeguarding shared values such as academic freedom and openness,” Zaharieva wrote on social media ahead of her visit.Related articlesERC walks back stricter resubmission rules for 2027Don’t feel guilty about poaching scientists fleeing Trump, US science body tells EuropeHer itinerary took in Stanford University’s business school and school of medicine, where topics for discussion included entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary collaboration. She also met with venture capital firms, including Playground Global, Forgepoint Capital and Akkadian Venture Capital, as well as the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, the largest public pension fund in the US.Other meetings included Jensen Huang, the chief executive of AI chip manufacturer Nvidia, and local business associations such as the Bay Area Council and EuroCham. European delegations in the area also received visits, including Advantage Austria and France’s La French Tech, and the Consulate General of Ukraine in San Francisco.

Apr 30 • 8:00 AM EDT • Science • sciencebusiness.net

Huntington invests in sports partnerships as it expands national brand

The Columbus-based bank has seen consistent growth in recent years, including successful acquisitions of Vertex Holdings, Inc and Cadence Bank.

Apr 30 • 6:02 AM EDT • Sports • dispatch.com

MrBeast wants to go deeper with ad agencies

Beast Industries is on the hunt for a VP of agency partnerships to bring structure and scale to its relationships with top ad agencies.

Apr 29 • 7:45 AM EDT • Business • businessinsider.com

Interventional radiology group inks 2 more practice partnerships with urologists

Founded by interventional radiologist Sandeep Bagla, MD, IR Centers is a platform helping other specialties manage and deliver such services.

Apr 29 • 4:17 AM EDT • Business • radiologybusiness.com

Australia becomes the 30th country to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem

The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Australia for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem, marking a significant milestone in the health of indigenous peoples and in global efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer represents a public health problem in the country.Australia is among a growing number of countries that have successfully eliminated trachoma, contributing to global progress towards the targets set out in the WHO road map for NTDs 2021–2030.Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and spreads through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, and flies that carry eye and nose discharge. Repeated infections can lead to scarring of the eyelids, turning eyelashes inward, and ultimately causing blindness if untreated.“WHO congratulates Australia on this important achievement,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This success reflects sustained commitment, strong partnerships, and a focus on reaching populations most affected by health inequities. It brings us closer to a world free from the suffering caused by trachoma.”Australia’s journey to eliminationAustralia’s achievement reflects decades of targeted public health action, particularly in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, where trachoma persisted despite its earlier disappearance from the rest of the country.National efforts intensified with the establishment of the National Trachoma Management Programme in 2006, which implemented the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy: surgery for trichiasis, antibiotics to treat infection, promotion of facial cleanliness, and environmental improvement. Regular screening of all communities classified as at-risk of trachoma by teams of qualified health workers formed an important part of the Programme. Interventions were delivered through coordinated partnerships between federal and state governments, Aboriginal community-controlled health services, and local communities.Over time, sustained screening, treatment, and prevention activities, including improvements in housing, water, sanitation and hygiene, led to a steady decline in trachoma prevalence. Australia’s approach included adaptations to reflect its context, such as targeted treatment based on community-level data rather than mass drug administration, and strong integration with environmental health programmes.“Elimination of trachoma is a win for the eye health of communities across Australia, particularly those whose lives have been impacted by a disease that is entirely preventable,” said Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing, Australia. “This major milestone is thanks to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, community commitment and sustained investment over many decades.“The lessons from this work will inform how we approach other preventable health conditions in remote and regional Australia. Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and local health workers have been central to this success, delivering culturally safe care and community-led solutions.”“This recognition from the World Health Organization reflects decades of work led by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, alongside local health workers in remote First Nations communities,” said Malarndirri McCarthy, Minister for Indigenous Australians. “Their work has been critical to eliminating trachoma as a public health problem in Australia.”Advancing global efforts against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)Trachoma is one of 21 diseases and disease groups that are regarded by WHO as NTDs. Together, NTDs affect more than 1 billion people worldwide, primarily in underserved populations with limited access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, and health care.Australia’s elimination of trachoma as a public health problem highlights the importance of sustained political commitment and cross-sectoral collaboration in addressing the underlying determinants of health. It also underscores the feasibility of eliminating trachoma even in geographically challenging settings.In addition to trachoma, Australia has several endemic NTDs, including Buruli ulcer, leprosy and scabies. Validation of elimination of trachoma as a public health problem marks the first time that WHO has confirmed the elimination of an NTD in Australia, which becomes the 63rd country globally and 16th in the Western Pacific Region to have eliminated at least one NTD.“Tackling neglected tropical diseases in the Western Pacific Region has long been a challenge for countries across the socioeconomic spectrum, given the complexities in reaching the most vulnerable communities, including in remote areas,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “As a doctor from Tonga, I’ve experienced these challenges for myself. But I also know that with strategic commitment underpinned by optimal resources and partnerships in health, success is possible as other countries in our region have also demonstrated. I commend Australia on eliminating trachoma as a public health problem and urge all involved to remain vigilant to ensure this status is maintained.”WHO continues to support countries working to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs, ensuring that progress reaches those most in need and that gains are sustained through strong surveillance, appropriately integrated into national health systems, and mainstreamed within the wider health sector and beyond.Editor’s notesNeglected tropical diseases and trachoma elimination effortsNeglected tropical diseases are associated with devastating health, social and economic consequences. Their burden is mainly felt among impoverished communities in tropical areas.Public health targets for the control, elimination and eradication of these conditions were set in the road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 (https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240010352).In 1996, WHO launched the WHO Alliance for the Global Elimination of Trachoma by 2020 (GET2020), creating a network of governments, non-governmental organizations and academic institutions dedicated to the fight against trachoma. WHO continues to support endemic countries to accelerate progress towards the global target of eliminating trachoma as a public health problem worldwide; 2030 is the new target date.Elimination of trachoma as a public health problem is defined as: (i) a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis (TT) “unknown to the health system” of < 0.2% in ≥15-year-olds; and (ii) a prevalence of trachomatous inflammation—follicular (TF) in children aged 1–9 years of < 5%, in each formerly endemic district, plus (iii) the existence of a system to identify and manage incident cases of TT.Other countries validated by WHO as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem are: Algeria, Benin, Burundi, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, India, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Togo, Vanuatu and Viet Nam.

Apr 28 • 8:00 PM EDT • Health • who.int

Celebrating connection in action: OHACE event spotlights students, partnerships and impact

Employees and students from Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Health gathered with community partners for OHACE’s year-end celebration.

Apr 28 • 11:27 AM EDT • Health • pennstatehealthnews.org

Curbing health care costs through collaboration

How Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan reduced costs by $6.3B through provider partnerships and value-based care over 20 years.

Apr 27 • 5:00 AM EDT • Health • crainsdetroit.com

10x Science: $4.8 Million Raised To Build AI Platform For Molecular Protein Characterization

10x Science, an artificial intelligence company focused on molecular-level protein characterization, announced that it has raised $4.8 million in seed funding led by Initialized Capital, with participation from Y Combinator, Civilization Ventures, Founder Factor, and a group of strategic angel investors. The round was oversubscribed and will support the company’s efforts to scale its platform and expand partnerships across the life sciences ecosystem.

Apr 26 • 10:42 AM EDT • Science • pulse2.com

Volkswagen's Cisek on China Business

Volkswagen is accelerating its China strategy by deepening partnerships with local technology and electric vehicle makers, including Xpeng, as it faces intensifying competition and a prolonged price war. The company is pushing greater localisation across manufacturing, R&D and product development to shorten vehicle cycles and cut costs. The strategy comes as China's auto market shifts toward replacement buyers and faster innovation, putting pressure on foreign carmakers to adapt quickly. Robert Cisek, Passenger Cars Brand China CEO at Volkswagen, spoke with Stephen Engle on Insight with Haslinda Amin from the Beijing Auto Show.

Apr 24 • 1:06 AM EDT • Business • finance.yahoo.com

Public-private partnerships go to space

Here are some of the most prominent commercial players in the new space race. Look beyond the rockets to the utilities...

Apr 23 • 10:43 AM EDT • Science • sciencenews.org

Opinion: Three ideas for how Chicago should handle stadium deals

Chicago faces major stadium decisions. UChicago grad students offer policy ideas to guide public investment and team partnerships.

Apr 22 • 2:16 PM EDT • Business • chicagobusiness.com

MAD: Elvis Enhances Brand Partnerships, Names Prince Head Of Entertainment

The new hire will build on the agency's "SeriousEntertainment" mission.

Apr 22 • 11:00 AM EDT • Entertainment • mediapost.com

Big-data game changer: Marquette develops a new generation of analytics-savvy sports scientists

Offering hands-on research experience with Marquette DI teams and lessons from Olympic partnerships, the Master’s in Sports and Exercise Analytics program prepares students to lead in the new world of data-driven exercise science.

Apr 22 • 10:25 AM EDT • Science • today.marquette.edu

Big-data game changer: Marquette develops a new generation of analytics-savvy sports scientists

Offering hands-on research experience with Marquette DI teams and lessons from Olympic partnerships, the Master’s in Sports and Exercise Analytics program prepares students to lead in the new world of data-driven exercise science.

Apr 22 • 10:25 AM EDT • Sports • today.marquette.edu

RWJBarnabas Health and Harvest Earn “Companies That Care” Honor from Commerce Magazine

RWJBarnabas Health was recognized by Commerce Magazine and The Commerce & Industry Association of NJ (CIANJ) at the 2026 "Companies That Care" Awards Ceremony on April 16th, 2026 for its engagement in partnerships that improve New Jersey.

Apr 21 • 1:17 PM EDT • Health • rwjbh.org

Wasted Investments, Looming Crisis: The Impact of U.S. Global Health Funding Cuts on HIV in South Africa

Executive Summary Starting in 2025, the Trump administration abruptly slashed and disrupted funding for global health, jeopardizing hard won public health gains and irreplaceable investments in infrastructure and partnerships for disease response, health security, and research. As of late March 2026 – more than a year after the disruptions began – HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and […]

Apr 21 • 8:43 AM EDT • Health • phr.org

Advancing epidemic and pandemic preparedness through research readiness: SEAR Unity Studies Network Sites chart the way forward in 2026

On 25 March 2026, WHO Regional Office for the South‑East Asia Region (SEARO) convened the first meeting of the SEAR Chapter of the Unity Studies Network Meeting in 2026 to take stock of progress and plan next steps for strengthening epidemic and pandemic preparedness across the Region. The meeting focused on reviewing the ongoing adaptation of selected, standard Unity Study methodologies, sharing field implementation experiences from 2025, and identifying key priorities to guide collaborative work in 2026.Held virtually, the meeting brought together representatives from six Unity Studies network sites across five countries (Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand) as well as participants from all three levels of WHO.The meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing regional efforts in South‑East Asia to strengthen early investigations and studies for epidemic and pandemic preparedness, with a focus on pandemic influenza and other emerging respiratory pathogens with epidemic and pandemic potential. In this context, and as part of preparedness for the rapid generation of evidence, the WHO Health Emergencies Programme in SEAR (WHE/SEAR) encourages Unity Studies sites to adapt prioritized, standardized Unity Study protocols to their national contexts. This approach supports the generation of timely and reliable evidence to inform public health decision‑making during epidemics and pandemics.These efforts are supported through a combination of experience sharing, participation in the global Unity Studies network webinars, capacity‑building of the national public health workforce, and regional collaboration that promotes inter‑country, inter‑agency, and inter‑ministerial action. In parallel, sites are encouraged to explore diversified funding sources to help sustain research preparedness over the long term.Discussions highlighted the importance of WHO’s catalytic financial support through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contributions (PIP‑PC). When combined with national and institutional resources, this support enables countries and sites to maintain continuity of activities at a core level and remain prepared to respond rapidly and effectively to future epidemics and pandemics.Regional and Global Updates: Opening the session, Dr Pushpa Ranjan Wijesinghe, Programme Area Manager, Pandemic and Epidemic Management (PEM) Unit, WHO Health Emergencies Programme, highlighted the progress made in operationalizing the Unity Studies Network across the Region and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of WHO at all three levels, together with country unity studies sites. He emphasized the availability of limited but catalytic funding through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PIP‑PC) workplan at SEARO to sustain network activities in 2026, while encouraging sites to leverage additional funding sources to expand implementation.Representing SEARO, Dr Ashok Basnet, consultant, Pandemic Influenza Preparedness reported that, at the regional level, the Unity Studies Network currently includes six sites across five countries: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. He noted that in 2025, catalytic funding supported protocol adaptation, training, and pilot implementation. In addition, a regional Unity Studies symposium held during the Global Public Health Summit in Sri Lanka strengthened and advocated collaboration between the Unity Studies site, national decision‑making forum, relevant technical units of the ministry of health, WHO and other partners.The symposium also highlighted the role of early investigations and studies as a key component of a multi‑source surveillance system needed at country level to generate a broad range of evidence. It underscored the critical role of country Unity Studies sites and similar research entities in generating evidence to support public health decision‑making during epidemics and pandemics.Participants of the WHO GISRS Unity Studies Sites Network- SEAR Chapter Meeting 2026 (Photo credit- PEM/WHE/SEARO). SEARO also updated participants on ongoing efforts to develop a regional Unity Studies webpage and to promote participation in global knowledge‑sharing platforms, including webinars and the WHO Community of Practice. Priorities for 2026 include supporting the implementation of Unity protocols, strengthening collaboration and experience sharing across sites, documenting and publishing findings, integrating Unity Studies activities as a component of multi-source national surveillance systems, and building workforce capacity.Dr Nickle Boddington of the Global Influenza Programme (GIP) at WHO Headquarters, which coordinates the Unity Studies Network globally, provided updates on global Unity Studies activities, noting that the network has expanded to 16 sites worldwide. New and updated protocols, including rapid clinical severity assessment tools and standardized data platforms, are being developed to support implementation. The global Community of Practice has also been launched to facilitate technical exchange, and continued support will be provided to sites for protocol adaptation, ethical approvals, and readiness for early investigation during outbreaks. Updates from Unity Studies sites in SEAR in 2025Unity Studies sites shared progress and experiences in implementing protocols across diverse country contexts. Sites initiated activities in 2025 using catalytic funding from SEARO, complemented by the mobilization of internal national resources. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Bangladesh, reported the adoption and piloting of investigation protocols on non‑seasonal influenza and emerging respiratory diseases during recent avian influenza outbreaks, demonstrating a multi‑source funding approach involving government, WHO and One Health partners.The Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (HIMSR), New Delhi, India, highlighted the piloting of household transmission investigation studies, the expansion of the national Unity Studies network, and the contribution of study findings to global evidence through published outputs. The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India, shared experiences from large‑scale seroprevalence studies conducted during the COVID‑19 pandemic, recent efforts to strengthen national Unity network sites through training activities, and plans to initiate multi‑centre studies on respiratory viruses.Similarly, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, highlighted its experience in developing integrated surveillance and diagnostic protocols for multiple respiratory pathogens, enhancing readiness for targeted investigations of emerging threats. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, reported ongoing engagement with the Ministry of Health and exploration of additional funding sources to initiate studies. Meanwhile, the National Public Health Laboratory, Nepal, provided updates on continued coordination with national stakeholders to initiate implementation, despite delays related to the country context.Across sites, shared experiences underscored the importance of protocol adaptation, multisectoral collaboration, and sustainable funding to operationalize Unity Studies and generate evidence for public health action.Discussions and Way ForwardThe meeting reinforced key priorities for 2026, including strengthening unity studies protocol implementation, enhancing collaboration, knowledge sharing, integrating research as a component of national multi-source surveillance systems, and ensuring that generated evidence informs public health decision‑making. Participants also emphasized the importance of documentation, visibility, and leveraging multiple funding sources, and agreed on the following action points.Unity Studies Sites and WHO Country Offices:Advance adoption and implementation of at least one Unity protocol, continuing activities initiated in 2025 with catalytic funding, supplemented with other sources of funding where feasible.Document site-specific experiences, outcomes, and lessons learned; participate in regional and global knowledge-sharing platforms including WHO webinars and the Community of Practice.Work closely with ministries of health to establish unified national platforms for translating generated evidence into national public health decision-making. WHO Country Offices may facilitate technical support and complementary, synergistic funding opportunities where feasible. WHO Regional OfficeCoordinate with WHO Country Offices to support implementation of core unity studies activities by network sites through catalytic funding and provide technical guidance and virtual engagement opportunities throughout 2026.Facilitate the participation of all Unity Studies sites in the regional meeting on Unity Studies implementation in October 2026, to be held back‑to‑back with the Annual SEAR Regional PIP‑PC Meeting; develop and host a SEAR Unity Studies website; and mobilize support from academic institutions within the SEAR Unity Studies Network to support the development of regional manuscripts that showcase Unity Studies activities to scientific audiences and promote knowledge‑sharing.Explore complementary funding opportunities and partnerships to sustain and expand network activities across the Region.WHO HeadquartersProvide global technical guidance, updated protocols, and toolkits to support the implementation of Unity Studies in SEAR.Facilitate engagement of SEAR sites in global webinars, the Community of Practice, and opportunities to showcase their work.Support joint publications, inclusion of SEAR experiences in global outputs, and identification of additional funding and collaborative opportunities to strengthen Unity Studies activities.

Apr 19 • 8:00 PM EDT • Health • who.int

Bundles Scholar Ray Tebout Is Moving the Justice-Impacted Workforce Toward Business Partnerships

Ray Tebout’s Vision-to-Value concept combines project leadership, personal behavioral reflection, and intrapreneurship to create business value.

Apr 17 • 8:00 AM EDT • Business • neighbors.columbia.edu

Andrew Left thinks Nvidia has crowned the next quantum stock winner

Andrew Left praised a newly public quantum company as a big winner due to its partnerships with AI chip titan, Nvidia.

Apr 16 • 1:10 PM EDT • Business • businessinsider.com

Business of Warfighting: ONR to Boost Industry Partnerships at Sea-Air-Space

To strengthen collaboration with industry, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) — to include the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and ONR’s international arm, ONR Global — will host an exhibit at the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space Exposition, April 20-22.

Apr 15 • 8:00 AM EDT • Business • dvidshub.net

The Idaho Business Review Interviews of Highly Effective People: Andrea Cantor

Andrea Cantor, raised in Boise, is the new director of the city's Economic Development department, focusing on business growth and community partnerships.

Apr 14 • 10:12 AM EDT • Business • idahobusinessreview.com

How This CU Denver Student Discovered His Passion for Politics

At 12 years old, Mario Quinones Rabelo wasn’t obsessing over video games or watching content creator MrBeast on YouTube. That’s how old he was when his Campus resources, helpful advising, and valuable community partnerships helped this student dream bigger than he ever thought possible.

Apr 14 • 10:08 AM EDT • Politics • news.ucdenver.edu

Simon Business School expands pathway to accelerated master’s degree through new college partnerships

Undergraduate students at partner institutions can earn their MS from the Simon Business School in one year.

Apr 13 • 7:52 AM EDT • Business • rochester.edu

China's Chery looking to expand car production in Europe, top executives say

Chery is looking to expand car production in Europe through partnerships with other automakers allowing it to use existing factories, top executives at the Chinese carmaker said ​at an event in Paris.

Apr 12 • 6:37 AM EDT • Business • reuters.com

Senator contacts leagues over 'gambling's ugly takeover'

As prediction markets expand partnerships with major U.S. sports leagues, a U.S. senator sent letters to six league commissioners Thursday raising concerns about "gambling's ugly takeover of sports."

Apr 10 • 11:25 AM EDT • Sports • espn.com

Andy’s Produce’s Josh Skikos named to North Bay Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 of 2026

“We prioritize sourcing from regional growers whenever possible and actively support the farming community through partnerships with local producers and organizations like the Sonoma County Farm Bureau.”

Apr 9 • 3:33 PM EDT • Business • pressdemocrat.com

College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences faculty elevate industry and community partnerships to transform lives statewide and beyond

The College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS) elevates research, teaching and service initiatives across its seven academic departments

Apr 9 • 1:45 PM EDT • Health • news.clemson.edu

Wendy Loretto Takes Helm at Glasgow’s Adam Smith Business School With Global Ambitions

Wendy Loretto becomes head of Glasgow’s Adam Smith Business School, outlining plans to boost global visibility, expand partnerships, and shape the future of business education.

Apr 9 • 12:50 PM EDT • Business • poetsandquantsforundergrads.com

Unrivaled Sports Partners with Under Armour and DICK'S Sporting Goods to Build the Future of Youth Sports Experiences

/PRNewswire/ -- Unrivaled Sports, the nation's leader in youth sports experiences, today announced landmark partnerships with Under Armour (NYSE: UAA) and...

Apr 9 • 9:00 AM EDT • Sports • prnewswire.com

Building the Future of Business at UNLV

UNLV plans a new Lee Business School building to strengthen the region’s workforce, expand industry partnerships, and support Southern Nevada’s growing economy.

Apr 8 • 12:23 PM EDT • Business • unlv.edu

IRS Expands Business Tax Account To Include More Kinds Of Entities

The IRS has once again expanded access to its IRS.gov online platform, allowing business organizations like partnerships to access digital services.

Apr 7 • 10:49 AM EDT • Business • forbes.com

Expansion gives millions of entities access to business tax accounts

The IRS said Monday it is opening the online, self-service accounts to partnerships, Indian tribal governments, tax-exempt organizations, and federal, state, and local governments.

Apr 7 • 10:28 AM EDT • Business • journalofaccountancy.com

Brewing Better Health highlights the power of public health partnerships and celebrates National Public Health Week

A Brewing Better Health podcast conversation with Chad Kingsley, M.D., MBA, and Dean Muge Akpinar-Elci, M.D., MPH, on prevention, community health and what public health is.

Apr 7 • 8:00 AM EDT • Health • unr.edu

World Health Day 2026

World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.

Apr 6 • 8:00 PM EDT • Science • who.int

World Health Day 2026

World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.

Apr 6 • 8:00 PM EDT • Health • who.int

3 Things to Know: Brands and Social Issues, Adult Recreational Sports League Participation Rebounds, and Sports Betting Partnerships

CivicScience has the world’s largest proprietary database of real-time declared intent, allowing brands to activate high-performing advertising that drives up to 80% better performance. See how our partners achieve superior marketing outcomes here. 1. Consumers hold mixed expectations on brand activism, with Democrats more likely to switch or boycott based on personal values, while Republicans [...]Read More... from 3 Things to Know: Brands and Social Issues, Adult Recreational Sports League Participation Rebounds, and Sports Betting Partnerships

Apr 6 • 4:11 PM EDT • Sports • civicscience.com

IRS extends Business Tax Accounts to partnerships, nonprofits and government entities

The Internal Revenue Service expanded its Business Tax Accounts to partnerships, tax-exempt organizations, and federal, state, local and tribal governments.

Apr 6 • 2:30 PM EDT • Business • accountingtoday.com

How WME Sports agents are reshaping golf's business landscape at Augusta National

WME Sports agents revealed how the Masters serves as golf's biggest networking hub, driving new brand deals, activations, industry partnerships and much more off the course.

Apr 6 • 8:21 AM EDT • Sports • foxbusiness.com

How WME Sports agents are reshaping golf's business landscape at Augusta National

WME Sports agents revealed how the Masters serves as golf's biggest networking hub, driving new brand deals, activations, industry partnerships and much more off the course.

Apr 6 • 8:21 AM EDT • Business • foxbusiness.com

Dead by Daylight Devs Celebrate 10 Years of Eldritch Evil and Hope for Many, Many More

At the Game Developers Conference last month, I sat down with Behaviour's head of partnerships Mathieu Cote, and creative director Dave Richard, to talk to them about Dead by Daylight's tenth anniversary.

Apr 3 • 5:11 PM EDT • Technology • ign.com

High stakes, big budgets: How brands are navigating a massive sports year

Brands are ditching one-off bets for long-term partnerships. As sports marketing budgets hit record highs, CMOs are choosing their battles.

Apr 3 • 12:01 AM EDT • Sports • digiday.com

National Public Health Week is ready, set for action

NPHW 2026 will take place next week, April 6-12. Its theme is “Ready. Set. Action!,” which supports a bold approach to improving health and wellness, meeting the moment with clarity and positivity, and engaging in collaboration and partnerships to make things happen.

Apr 2 • 8:00 PM EDT • Health • apha.org

‘This is a-maz-ing’: Women’s Final Four highlights growth of women’s sports

The Women’s Final Four marks explosive growth of women’s sports, bringing in high ticket prices, new NIL cohorts and brand partnerships while encouraging community engagement and leadership development.

Apr 2 • 7:21 PM EDT • Sports • cronkitenews.azpbs.org

2026 National Public Health Week

Each April, National Public Health Week shines a spotlight on the systems, people, and partnerships that keep our communities healthy. This year’s theme —Ready. Set. Action! — was chosen by the American Public Health Association (APHA) and calls on each of us to look back at the progress made and look forward to the steps needed for an even healthier future.

Apr 2 • 5:00 PM EDT • Health • scottcountyiowa.gov

Politics Keeps D.C.’s Autonomous Vehicles Roadblocked | The Foundation for American Innovation

Autonomous vehicles (AVs), in development for years, have only recently become safe enough for mass adoption. Now, events like Uber’s new partnerships with AV companies

Apr 1 • 8:00 AM EDT • Politics • thefai.org

Dubai-Based Storyfied Ventures Launches as ‘First’ Strategic Brand Entertainment Outfit in Middle East

A new Dubai-based company called Storyfied Ventures dedicated to strategic partnerships between brands and entertainment content in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is being launched by ...

Apr 1 • 7:57 AM EDT • Entertainment • yahoo.com

Play Ball! Partnerships will bring new Zebulon Regional Sports Complex to life

Pictured: Douglas County Commissioners and citizens at the Zebulon Special Business Meeting March 31, 2026 Did you know, according to newly released Census data, Douglas County is one of the fastest-growing…

Mar 31 • 10:01 PM EDT • Sports • douglas.co.us

Juanjo Duran, Global Head of Media & Entertainment Content Partnerships at Google

Juanjo Duran, Global Head of Media and Entertainment Content Partnerships at Google tells ADWEEK the two things he knew early on in his career: he loved technology, and he loved building relationships. What he didn’t expect was how that pairing would fuel a 15‑year career shaping how billions of people access entertainment.

Mar 31 • 5:45 PM EDT • Entertainment • adweek.com

Health Care and Public Health Collaborate on Emergency Preparedness in North Dakota

Learn how North Dakota leveraged cross-sector partnerships to create a stronger emergency response system.

Mar 31 • 12:00 PM EDT • Health • astho.org

Fighting Hawks Sports Partnerships to Launch Uniform Branding RFI on March 31

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Fighting Hawks Sports Partnerships (FHSP), the sponsorship arm for University of North Dakota Athletics and the Ralph Engelstad Arena, will distribute a Request for Information (RFI) beginning Tuesday, March 31, as it explores potential uniform and apparel branding partnerships across UND Athletics programs.

Mar 31 • 11:01 AM EDT • Sports • fightinghawks.com

Airbnb Externship Shows 3L Isabel Samayoa How Legal Strategy Drives Business Growth  - UC Law San Francisco (Formerly UC Hastings)

An externship at Airbnb provided 3L Isabel Samayoa exposure to areas such as contracts, licensing, risk management, and growth strategy, helping her develop the skills and experience to thrive in her future career as a corporate transactions attorney. 3L student Isabel Samayoa reflects on her work with Airbnb’s in-house legal team through UC Law SF’s Corporate Counsel Externship Program. Supported Airbnb’s legal team on commercial contracts, open-source licensing, external partnerships, product counseling, and legal research. Observed how legal advice aligns with business strategy and risk management. Gained exposure to strategic decision-making while preparing for a career in corporate transactions. Q: What did you do in this corporate externship? A: I supported the Airbnb legal team across several functions, including commercial contracts, open-source licensing matters, strategic external partnerships, legal research, real estate matters, internal AI integration, and product counseling. I also gained exposure to corporate structure counseling, litigation, patent counseling, and the company’s broader business strategy. Q: What did you take away from this experience? A: One of the most valuable parts of this experience was learning how a business actually operates. I had never worked on such a large team in the private sector, so I had little exposure to how companies run internally. I learned how lawyers can provide valuable advice to support business goals, seeing how leadership evaluates risk and develops growth strategies. Understanding those priorities allows me to calibrate my legal advice to clients, balancing the client’s goals against the level of risk they are willing to take. Q: How does this experience support your career goals? A: Exploring the anatomy of a successful company was incredibly valuable because I plan to pursue a career as a corporate transactions lawyer. Being in the room with the teams discussing important decisions allowed me to see firsthand the factors that contribute to that success and how lawyers help guide those decisions. Q: Would you recommend UC Law SF and this externship? Why? A: I would absolutely recommend this opportunity. While the team worked on high-stakes matters at a highly successful company, they still created an environment where I felt welcomed. They trusted me with meaningful work and supported me every step of the way. This helped me build confidence in my analytical abilities. Q: What’s your favorite UC Law SF memory so far? A: Some of my favorite UC Law SF memories, aside from my time at Airbnb, involve mentorship. I have benefited from mentorship and have also had the chance to mentor other law students. Watching the students I mentored go on to mentor others has been particularly rewarding. I think mentorship is integral to the legal profession, and it has been inspiring to see that culture thrive at UC Law SF and continue beyond the classroom. The Evidence of Success series highlights UC Law SF students as they share how the College’s opportunities equip them with the experience, skills, and confidence to excel in the legal profession.

Mar 31 • 11:00 AM EDT • Business • uclawsf.edu

North Shore Health weighs EHR options, potential partnerships

North Shore Health is exploring options for a new electronic health record system while also considering adding another partnership to its existing network. The hospital currently uses MEDITECH for its electronic health record system. However, Epic Systems, based in Madison, Wisconsin, has become increasingly prevalent across Minnesota and the broader Midwest. “I think North Shore...

Mar 31 • 5:14 AM EDT • Health • wtip.org

Personnel note: Tampa Electric names Ed Narain as Director of Regional Affairs

'Tampa Electric has a long history of supporting the growth and success of the communities it serves, and I look forward to helping strengthen those partnerships.'

Mar 23 • 4:45 AM EDT • Politics • floridapolitics.com

I moved my company from Wall Street to Florida—wish I'd done it sooner

Webull's chief of staff and head of strategic partnerships explains the benefits of moving the company's headquarters to a less saturated market.

Mar 18 • 5:11 AM EDT • Business • businessinsider.com

A Week of Impact: Showcasing Inclusive Health at Special Olympics Ireland Site Visits

A weeklong series of site visits across Ireland highlighted innovative partnerships, athlete led initiatives, and institutional leadership advancing inclusive health for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mar 16 • 8:00 AM EDT • Health • specialolympics.org

Circle Bank Charter And Earnings Put USDC Business Model In Focus

Circle Internet Group (NYSE:CRCL) has received preliminary approval to form a national trust bank, giving its USDC stablecoin business a new regulatory footing. The company also reported strong quarterly earnings, supported by rising USDC adoption and new partnerships with Visa and BlackRock. Circle Internet Group is appearing on more investor radars, with NYSE:CRCL closing at $115.38 and posting a 99.4% return over the past 30 days. The stock is also up 13.2% over the past week and 38.2%...

Mar 14 • 8:09 AM EDT • Business • finance.yahoo.com

Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones travels to Taiwan to promote San Antonio business partnerships

Mar 14 • 8:09 AM EDT • Business • kens5.com

Forging Health Partnerships Under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy in Honduras and Senegal - United States Department of State

The United States signed bilateral health cooperation Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Republic of Honduras and the Republic of Senegal, marking significant milestones in advancing the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy while strengthening our partnerships in the Western Hemisphere and Africa. In Honduras, the Department of State signed a five-year, $46.5 million […]

Mar 13 • 6:41 PM EDT • Health • state.gov

Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Japan

Global Issues Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum The Indo-Pacific Energy Security Ministerial and Business Forum will take place March 14-15, 2026 in Tokyo. IPEM is a premier, high-level platform for announcing and advancing energy deals, partnerships and investments that strengthen regional integration and secure critical supply chains across the Indo-Pacific. IPEM is co-hosted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan and the National Energy Dominance Council of the United States. It is sponsored by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency in partnership with the U.S. Departments of State, Interior, Energy, and Commerce, as well as the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). IPEM Forum main page Mission Japan Press Release Feb. 24, 2026 Announcement from the Department of Energy Submit your proposal to join senior government leaders and industry executives shaping the future of global energy security.

Mar 12 • 9:58 PM EDT • Business • jp.usembassy.gov

CAA Adds Executives to Entertainment Partnerships Team (Exclusive)

The major agency has hired studio vets Casey Leddy, Jim Morris and Kris Wallis for content collaborations with major talent and brands across media platforms.

Mar 12 • 11:30 AM EDT • Entertainment • yahoo.com

Little Rock bookstore grows with events, partnerships, and e-commerce

WoodsWorth focused on growing its online shop, adding more in-store events, and building partnerships. The bookstore has grown 7% a year since 2022.

Mar 10 • 1:17 PM EDT • Business • businessinsider.com

Veterans Business Outreach Center provides programming for incarcerated veterans

The Veterans Business Outreach Center at Penn State is establishing partnerships with State Correctional Institutions across the commonwealth to help build, grow, and enhance entrepreneurial education programming for incarcerated veterans.

Mar 10 • 12:39 PM EDT • Business • psu.edu

Veterans Business Outreach Center provides programming for incarcerated veterans

The Veterans Business Outreach Center at Penn State is establishing partnerships with state correctional institutions across the commonwealth to help build, grow, and enhance entrepreneurial education programming for incarcerated veterans.

Mar 10 • 12:39 PM EDT • Business • psu.edu

Davenport University expands access to growing health information field with new partnerships

Davenport University joins a growing chorus to protect patient data. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2025 that the demand for health information management professionals is growing rapidly. To meet the growing need, the university’s College of Health Professions has formed three new health information management partnerships with Southern University at New

Mar 10 • 11:40 AM EDT • Health • post.davenport.edu

Local organizations using partnerships to protect health, environment

Simple but targeted actions can make a big difference in protecting people from environmental health harms.

Mar 8 • 8:00 PM EDT • Health • apha.org

Trump plans to revoke Biden tax rule that cracked down on big business abuses

The Biden administration said large partnerships were illegally avoiding hundreds of billions in taxes. Trump says they shouldn’t have to report the transactions.

Mar 7 • 5:30 AM EST • Business • washingtonpost.com

Employer Partnerships with Home Base Iowa

Home Base Iowa (HBI) is partnering with a growing list of employers who are HBI Certified Businesses, signaling their commitment to Veteran employment.

Mar 6 • 12:28 AM EST • Business • workforce.iowa.gov

TikTok's global marketing lead is leaving

Sofia Hernandez, TikTok's global head of marketing and partnerships, is leaving the company.

Mar 5 • 10:47 AM EST • Business • businessinsider.com

American Express Expands Sports Partnerships with NFL, MLS, NWSL Deals

American Express inks new deals and partners with MetLife and Mercedes-Benz stadiums, NFL teams and NWSL for card member benefits and fan experiences.

Mar 4 • 3:46 PM EST • Sports • wwd.com

American Express Expands Global Sports and Entertainment Footprint with New Stadium and NFL Team Partnerships

NEW YORK, March 04, 2026--American Express (NYSE:AXP) will soon offer exclusive access, value and experiences for Card Members in the New York/New Jersey and Atlanta metropolitan areas through new long-term partnerships. American Express will be named the Official Payments Partner of MetLife Stadium, the New York Jets, the New York Giants, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United and the newly awarded National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team which will begin play in 2028. Thi

Mar 4 • 11:00 AM EST • Entertainment • finance.yahoo.com

American Express Expands Global Sports and Entertainment Footprint with New Stadium and NFL Team Partnerships

/PRNewswire/ -- American Express will soon offer exclusive access, value and experiences for Card Members in the New York/New Jersey and Atlanta metropolitan...

Mar 4 • 11:00 AM EST • Entertainment • prnewswire.com

American Express Expands Global Sports and Entertainment Footprint with New Stadium and NFL Team Partnerships

New Partnerships with MetLife Stadium & Jets Will Deliver Exclusive Access and Experiences for Card Members

Mar 4 • 11:00 AM EST • Entertainment • newyorkjets.com

American Express Expands Global Sports and Entertainment Footprint with New Stadium and NFL Team Partnerships

New Partnerships with MetLife Stadium & Jets Will Deliver Exclusive Access and Experiences for Card Members

Mar 4 • 11:00 AM EST • Sports • newyorkjets.com

Policy Brief: Outdoor Recreation and Public Health

States are increasingly exploring the intersection of health policy and outdoor recreation to better understand how these policy areas could be leveraged for the positive benefit of their constituents. While formal partnerships are still relatively novel, Governors have a variety of opportunities to engage with outdoor recreation and health agencies to create long-term benefits. This […]

Mar 4 • 10:50 AM EST • Health • nga.org

AHA podcast: Advancing Community Health

Doug Brown, partner with Manatt Health and current chair of the AHA’s Foster G. McGaw Prize Committee, discusses how hospitals are tackling food insecurity, workforce development, safe neighborhoods and other social drivers of health through authentic community partnerships. Discover what it takes for hospitals to truly serve as cornerstones of their communities, and how the Foster G.

Mar 4 • 9:43 AM EST • Health • aha.org

Community colleges tout success of state-sponsored business partnerships

Representatives from Iowa's community colleges gathered at the Iowa capitol Tuesday to showcase successes to lawmakers.

Mar 3 • 7:19 PM EST • Business • iowacapitaldispatch.com