Latest news with #PlugandPlay
Yahoo
8 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Multiple Farm Credit associations collaborate with Plug and Play to advance agricultural finance through new Seed4Growth Program
SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a significant step forward for agricultural finance, American AgCredit (AAC), Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica), Frontier Farm Credit, AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit East and CoBank, announce the launch of a new program with Plug and Play called Seed4Growth. The innovation program aims to collaborate across the ag and finance sectors, keeping industry leaders up to date on the rapidly evolving landscape, while showcasing the most cutting-edge digital solutions. "We are thrilled to expand our partnership and launch the Seed4Growth program. This initiative will drive innovation and collaboration, ultimately benefiting the agricultural community," said Mark Jensen, Chief Executive Offices, AgCountry, FCSAmerica, Frontier Farm Credit. Krista McDonald, EVP Chief Strategy Officer, AgCountry, FCSAmerica, Frontier Farm Credit added, "We are excited to be a part of the Seed4Growth program that is evolving the Farm Credit innovation ecosystem in a collaborative way. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to working together to become more future-focused." Expanding the Partnership The Farm Credit organizations, part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, first approached Plug and Play for support in navigating the dynamic startup ecosystem – looking for technology solutions and resources that help support the evolving agricultural lending and finance marketplace in support of farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. AAC and FCSAmerica began working with Plug and Play programs in 2023. They welcomed CoBank to the relationship in 2024. An additional association, Farm Credit East, joins the collaboration with the launch of the Seed4Growth Program. Impact The expanded relationships have already yielded significant successes and benefits. Representatives from AAC, FCSAmerica, and CoBank have expressed their enthusiasm about the expanded partnership and its potential impact on the agricultural finance industry. "The collaboration provides significant insights into technological disruptions, helping us gain direct insights into the investment and commercialization of emerging technology. Plug and Play facilitates the comprehension of next-generation advancements in technology and innovation that are critical to the core business of Farm Credit organizations. The introduction of Seed4Growth will drive a better future for the entire System," said Alp Basol, Head of Innovation and Center of Excellence at CoBank. "Working with Plug and Play has been eye-opening for our organization. The expertise offered in tech scouting and the ability to connect us with external innovators who operate at the speed of disruptors has meaningfully informed our innovation journey. Plug and Play's proactive approach and deep industry insights have been instrumental in enhancing our strategic vision," said Mike Lancaster, Chief Customer Value Officer at American AgCredit. The Seed4Growth program is designed to further explore what's possible in Fintech and Agtech, ultimately benefiting farmers, ranchers, and the global food supply. By bringing others into the fold, the program promises to make an even greater impact on the agricultural community through advanced financial solutions and cutting-edge technologies. For more information about the new program or to get involved, visit [Website] or contact press@ About American AgCredit American AgCredit was chartered in 1916 as part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the nation's fourth-largest Farm Credit association. American AgCredit specializes in providing financial services to agricultural and rural customers in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico and Oklahoma, and serves capital market customers throughout the U.S. Learn more at About Farm Credit Services of AmericaFarm Credit Services of America is a customer-owned financial cooperative proud to finance the growth of rural America, including the special needs of young and beginning producers. With more than 47.6 billion in assets and nearly 8 billion in members equity, FCSAmerica is one of the region's leading providers of credit and insurance services to farmers, ranchers, agribusiness and rural residents in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. Learn more at About Farm Credit East Farm Credit East is a member-owned cooperative serving businesses involved in agriculture, forest products and commercial fishing throughout its eight-state territory of New York, New Jersey and New England. In addition to loans and leases, the organization offers a full range of specialized financial services. Farm Credit East is governed by a 15-person board of directors, comprised of 13 customer-elected, one customer appointed and one outside appointed director. For more information, visit About CoBank CoBank is a cooperative bank serving vital industries across rural America. The bank provides loans, leases, export financing and other financial services to agribusinesses and rural power, water and communications providers in all 50 states. The bank also provides wholesale loans and other financial services to affiliated Farm Credit associations serving more than 78,000 farmers, ranchers and other rural borrowers in 23 states around the country. CoBank is a member of the Farm Credit System, a nationwide network of banks and retail lending associations chartered to support the borrowing needs of U.S. agriculture, rural infrastructure and rural communities. Headquartered outside Denver, Colorado, CoBank serves customers from regional banking centers across the U.S. and also maintains an international representative office in Singapore. About Plug and Play Plug and Play is the ultimate innovation platform, on a mission to make innovation open to anyone, anywhere. Since 2006, we have brought together 95,000+ startups, 550+ world-leading corporations, and hundreds of venture capital firms, universities, and government agencies across 25+ industries. Together with our partners, we are creating a unique ecosystem designed to facilitate meaningful introductions, invest in startups, and bring together key stakeholders. Plug and Play offers corporate innovation programs and helps corporations in every stage of their innovation journey, from education to execution. We also organize startup acceleration programs and have built an in-house VC to drive innovation across multiple industries where we've invested in hundreds of successful companies including PayPal, Honey, N26, Flutterwave, Trulioo, BigID, Turing, and many more. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, we are active in 60+ locations across five continents. For more information, visit Media Contact:Plug and Playpress@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Plug and Play Errore nel recupero dei dati Effettua l'accesso per consultare il tuo portafoglio Errore nel recupero dei dati Errore nel recupero dei dati Errore nel recupero dei dati Errore nel recupero dei dati
Morocco World
02-06-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Technopark, Plug and Play Launch Global Accelerator for Moroccan Startups
Casablanca – Morocco took another big step toward its digital-hub ambitions today as Technopark Morocco and Plug and Play Tech Center signed a strategic partnership at Technopark headquarters in Casablanca. The Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform (MTNRA) and the Ministry of Economy and Finance have backed the partnership, reinforcing the government's Maroc Digital 2030 strategy. Why the partnership matters Morocco's startup scene has grown quickly, but founders often say they lack two things: strong global networks and late-stage capital. Plug and Play, famous for early bets on Dropbox and PayPal, brings both. Technopark has added deep local roots since 2001, it has shepherded more than 1,800 young companies across IT, green tech, and creative industries. The partnership program promises hands-on coaching, pilot projects with big corporations, and crucially, introductions to investors inside and outside Africa. What the leaders said 'As a global leader in innovation and investment, committed to the Moroccan technology ecosystem since its inception and convinced of its potential, this partnership with the Technopark allows us to strengthen our commitment,' Aziz El Hachem, Co-Director Africa, Plug and Play Tech Center, said in his speech in the event. 'We are working to co-build an ecosystem where local innovation shines well beyond borders, with a clear ambition: to support the emergence of high-potential startups and accompany them towards success on a global scale.' El Hachem told Morocco World News. That Plug and Play planted roots in Casablanca five years ago: 'We landed in Morocco five years ago to position Morocco as the leading innovation hub in Africa. Since then, we have managed to accelerate more than 110 different startups,' he said, adding: 'We're very happy with this new partnership with the Ministry of Digital Transformation and TechnoPark. We will be launching a new program out of TechnoPark in Casablanca to double down on our different operations and activities, and investments,' he told MWN From Technopark's side, Managing Director Lamiae Benmakhlouf framed the alliance as the next logical step after two decades of local ecosystem-building. 'This strategic partnership with Plug and Play marks a new step in our mission to support Moroccan startups. It reinforces our commitment to an open, connected, and internationally oriented ecosystem,' she argued in her speech. 'We are convinced that this synergy will provide young startups with the necessary levers to accelerate their growth and access new markets.' She later elaborated in an exclusive interview with MWN. 'The objective of this partnership is to implement an acceleration program for Moroccan startups with high growth and innovation potential,' she stressed. The initiative is 'part of the Moroccan Digital Strategy 2030,' she recalled, adding that its central aim is 'to support startups throughout their journey from ideation to acceleration.' Government officials echoed that message. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister for Digital Transition and Reform of the Administration, who oversees digital transition, linked the deal to national policy. 'This collaboration illustrates the Kingdom's will, through the Maroc Digital 2030 strategy, to make innovation a driver of growth, technological sovereignty,y and openness,' the minister explained. 'By joining forces with a leading player such as Plug and Play, we are creating concrete opportunities for Moroccan startups to shine internationally and to be part of global competitiveness dynamics,' said in a speech at the event.' The United States demonstrated its support for the initiative through remarks by Marissa Scott, Consul General of the United States in Casablanca. Scott hailed the partnership in comments to MWN, emphasizing the US government's commitment to supporting innovation efforts in Morocco. 'I am here at Technopark today to celebrate,' she said. 'We are excited as the USA government about this memorandum of understanding because it gives an opportunity to connect the technical innovation prowess of the United States with the building momentum of Morocco, combined, it is a powerhouse.' How the program will work According to both Technopark and Plug and Play insiders, applications are expected to open in July, with a 12-week acceleration track to follow. The cohort should wrap up with a public Demo Day in September; pilot opportunities will be offered via Plug and Play's network of over 550 corporate partners. Initial focus areas are said to include fintech, health-tech, clean energy, smart-city solutions, and other high-growth digital services.' With today's signing, all eyes will now turn to the first cohort this fall. If the Technopark–Plug and Play model delivers, Morocco could see a fresh wave of startups ready for international prime time, just as the kingdom pushes to diversify its economy and stake a claim as Africa's digital gateway. Applications open in a matter of weeks, officially launching the race to become Morocco's next exciting tech founder. For founders itching to join this transformative initiative, El Hachem's closing words set an encouraging tone: 'We will be launching a new program out of Technopark in Casablanca to double down on our different operations and activities, and investments.'
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Plug and Play Expands to Cambodia in Partnership with Ministry of Post and Telecommunication (MPTC) and AUPP Technology Center (ATC)
SINGAPORE, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cambodian Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) is a founding anchor partner for open innovation platform Plug and Play's new location in Phnom Penh, with the American University of Phnom Penh Technology Center (ATC) serving as an advisory member. The Plug and Play Cambodia Program aims to position Cambodia as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation whose reach extends beyond Asia-Pacific. "This collaboration marks a significant step forward in strengthening Cambodia's position as a center for digital innovation and entrepreneurship. By partnering with Plug and Play and ATC, we are fostering a dynamic ecosystem where startups can thrive, access critical resources, and scale globally. Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting technology-driven growth, attracting investment, and empowering Cambodian innovators to make a lasting impact in the region and beyond," says MPTC Secretary of State H.E. So Visothy. Plug and Play intends to expand its Cambodian network by engaging corporations and organizations through deal flows and industry events. Focusing on five key sectors—Financial Services, Education, Travel & Hospitality, Food & Agriculture, and Logistics, the Plug and Play Cambodia Program's objective is to expand Cambodia's startup ecosystem by accelerating the growth of high-potential startups, supporting their commercialization, and enabling international expansion. Additionally, it will offer investment services to develop Cambodia's venture capital asset class. Plug and Play's Open Innovation Services will further empower corporations by building their innovation capabilities and facilitating mutually beneficial collaborations with startups. Plug and Play, a Silicon Valley-based global open innovation platform, has an established presence in Asia Pacific through its Singapore headquarters, connecting corporates, startups, and venture capitalists within its vast ecosystem. "We are excited to launch Plug and Play Cambodia, a milestone that reflects our commitment to fostering innovation across Southeast Asia. Cambodia's rapidly evolving startup ecosystem and growing pool of entrepreneurial talent make it a promising hub for global innovation," says Jupe Tan, Managing Partner of Plug and Play APAC. "Through this platform, we aim to connect local startups with our international network of corporate partners, investors, and mentors to help them scale and succeed on a global stage." To engage early-stage startups, the Plug and Play Cambodia Program plans to collaborate with the ATC, the university's dedicated startup platform. By onboarding startups from ATC's incubator, the Plug and Play Cambodia Program will build on ATC's existing initiatives through organizing events, programs, and training sessions. "At ATC, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. Partnering with Plug and Play and MPTC allows us to provide startups with greater access to mentorship, funding, and global market opportunities. This collaboration will strengthen Cambodia's startup ecosystem and empower local talent to drive impactful innovation on an international scale," says Chea Somphors, General Manager of ATC. As a rapidly digitalizing country, Cambodia holds great potential to become a thriving startup ecosystem. With support from MPTC and in partnership with ATC, a leading institution already driving startup growth initiatives, Plug and Play seeks to accelerate these efforts and establish innovation practices in Cambodia. This partnership with MPTC and ATC will empower local innovators and startup owners to pursue regional and global opportunities, tapping into Plug and Play's Silicon Valley connections and expertise to scale promising startups beyond borders. About Plug and Play Plug and Play is the leading innovation platform, connecting startups, corporations, venture capital firms, universities, and government agencies. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, we're present in 60+ locations across five continents. We offer corporate innovation programs and help our corporate partners in every stage of their innovation journey, from education to execution. We also organize startup acceleration programs and have built an in-house VC to drive innovation across multiple industries where we've invested in hundreds of successful companies including Dropbox, Guardant Health, Honey, Lending Club, N26, PayPal, and Rappi. Our Asia Pacific headquarters was launched in Singapore in 2010 and we are now present in five cities in Southeast Asia with additional locations in China, Japan, Korea and India. We work closely with both the public and private sector with programs, innovation initiatives and startup investments across the region. For more information, visit About the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) is the government ministry managing Cambodia's postal and telecommunications systems. Based in Phnom Penh, MPTC promotes effective network infrastructure connectivity and accessible services of Post, Telecommunications, and ICT sectors across the Kingdom of Cambodia, the region, and the world in order to contribute to socioeconomic development. MPTC focuses on expanding effective, reliable, and secure infrastructure, modernizing services, and ensuring nationwide coverage. The ministry promotes digital development at all levels of government to enhance public service delivery, supports ICT awareness and capacity building, encourages investment and R&D, and upholds regulatory compliance to ensure fair competition and consumer protection. For more information, visit About AUPP Technology Center (ATC) The AUPP Technology Center (ATC) is a platform where technology startups, corporates, and professionals can create value and unlock potential. By providing space, resources, guidance, and mentorship to selected tech startups in Cambodia, ATC helps propel them to a global scale, contributing to the transformation of the Cambodian digital economy. At the same time, global technology companies gain access to Cambodia's growing market and emerging talent through ATC. ATC is also home to the Center of Leadership and Professional Development (CLPD), which hosts professional and leadership training programs focused on corporate and leadership development. These programs bridge skill gaps along the corporate growth journey by developing industry-specific and key management capabilities, equipping Cambodian professionals and employers with world-class learning and development solutions. For more information, visit View original content: SOURCE Plug and Play APAC Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Arab News
27-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Tawuniya's ‘InsurAI' challenge showcases AI-powered breakthrough in insurance
Marking the culmination of its highly anticipated 12-week virtual program 'InsurAI,' Tawuniya, the largest insurance company in the Middle East and North Africa, successfully concluded its Demo Day on May 26. The event showcased 10 cutting-edge startups, selected from a competitive pool of over 1,000 applicants, which presented their innovative solutions designed to unlock new avenues for growth and transformation in the insurance sector. Launched in December 2024 by Tawuniya in collaboration with Plug and Play, and supported by government partners including Monsha'at and CODE, the InsurAI program underscores Tawuniya's steadfast commitment to driving digital transformation in the region's insurance industry. It also aims to propel economic development and strengthen Saudi Arabia's growing startup ecosystem in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 goals. The program provided a unique platform for 10 rising innovators — Papaya Insurtech, WideBot AI, DESAISIV, Intella, Yasmina, AlloBrain, Curacel, CozmoX AI, and Chefaa — who were selected through a rigorous evaluation process. During Demo Day, these startups pitched their next-generation generative AI solutions to a curated audience of investors, technology leaders, and Tawuniya executives. Abdullah Alshargi, CTO at Tawuniya, said: 'The InsurAI is more than just a platform — it's a statement of intent. We are investing in a future where artificial intelligence is seamlessly integrated into the insurance ecosystem to bring about real, measurable impact. Demo Day spotlighted how visionary startups are already solving some of the industry's most pressing challenges — from claims automation and fraud detection to hyper-personalized customer experiences.' 'Through strategic partnerships and hands-on mentorship, we have built a launchpad for innovation that aligns with Tawuniya's mission to lead the digital transformation of the insurance sector. We envision InsurAI as a catalyst for long-term collaboration and a driver of what's next in insurtech,' he added Over the course of the program, each team received expert mentorship and support in areas such as product development, regulatory compliance, and go-to-market strategy. Strategic partners played an instrumental role in the program, enhancing the startups' journey toward scalability and investment-readiness. The event concluded with the announcement of the top three startups, who shared a prize pool of $225,000 alongside potential partnership opportunities with Tawuniya. This event marks a significant milestone in Tawuniya's mission to foster an innovation-driven ecosystem and cement Saudi Arabia's role as a regional hub for AI and insurtech.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Frisco Unveils New Innovation Hub to Support Growing Innovation and Venture Capital Sectors
Plug and Play to serve as operator for new innovation hub FRISCO, Texas, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The City of Frisco, Texas, announced the opening of Origin, a new innovation focused facility designed to bring industry specific accelerator programming, sports-tech innovation in human potential and international startup support to the region. Origin is a public-private partnership conceptualized by the Frisco Economic Development Corporation (Frisco EDC) and brought to fruition by Plug and Play at Baylor Scott & White Health Sports Therapy & Research. Origin has been under development since 2020 and stemmed from the city leadership's vision to create an open collaboration space for residents to scale their businesses, as well as a networking space for venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, fintech, sportstech, AI, cybersecurity and other startups. After a competitive request for proposal process, Plug and Play was selected in 2023 as the facility's operator due to their proven ability to connect startups with large corporations, investors and industry leaders. "This new facility is proof of what's possible when a city drives with vision, determination and collaborative partnerships," said Jeff Cheney, Mayor of Frisco. "This hub is a starting point for new technologies, businesses and careers in Frisco. I'm excited to see the groundbreaking innovation that will take shape here." Located on the 10th floor of the Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research facility in Frisco, Origin and Plug and Play's innovation hub will anchor a joint 6,000-square-foot space designed to bring together startups, investors and corporate partners at the center of Frisco's innovation movement. The flexibly designed space includes private offices, meeting rooms and co-working areas designed to accommodate the thriving startup ecosystem. "Frisco is home to more than 500 tech companies and many top tier leading brands," said Jason Ford, President of the Frisco EDC. "Origin was a strategic investment in Frisco's future and marks a major step forward in Frisco's continued rise as a national innovation leader. With the help of Baylor Scott & White and Plug and Play, we've created a one-of-a-kind space where new ideas, industries and startups can flourish here in Frisco, all working side by side." For Plug and Play, a Silicon Valley-based innovation acceleration company with an international presence, this new facility will be the largest space under their operation outside of their California headquarters. Plug and Play will operate the hub under a membership-based model, and will host networking events, hackathons, workshops and special presentations open to the greater community. "This innovation hub is more than just a physical space, it's a signal to the world that Frisco is serious about shaping the future," said Saeed Amidi, CEO and Founder of Plug and Play. "Frisco is already a national model for how sports, business, and innovation can coexist. We're honored to bring our global network and proven accelerator model to this remarkable community with values perfectly aligned to our own." In addition to hosting carefully designed startup cohorts, the space will also be open to Frisco-based entrepreneurs, service providers and partner institutions, including the University of North Texas-Frisco, which will sponsor a dedicated sports innovation space within the facility. About Frisco Economic Development Corporation The Frisco EDC operates as a Texas non-profit corporation and is governed by a seven-member board of directors appointed by the Frisco, Texas City Council. Job number one is facilitating the creation of jobs, as the Frisco EDC's mission is to improve the economic opportunities and quality of life for all Frisco residents. The Frisco EDC has facilitated major economic development projects, resulting in hundreds of projects and thousands of jobs in the City of Frisco. For more information, visit About Plug and Play Plug and Play is the leading innovation platform, connecting startups, corporations, venture capital firms, universities and government agencies. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, Plug and Play is present in 60-plus locations across five continents. It offers corporate innovation programs and helps corporate partners in every stage of their innovation journey, from education to execution. Plug and Play also organizes startup acceleration programs and has built an in-house VC to drive innovation across multiple industries where it has invested in hundreds of successful companies including Dropbox, Guardant Health, Honey, Lending Club, N26, PayPal and Rappi. For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Frisco Economic Development Corporation Sign in to access your portfolio
