Latest news with #UpLink
Business Journals
27-05-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Comcast says ‘yes' to San Francisco with community partnership
From its dynamic design to its mission-oriented outlook, Yes SF Headquarters screams 'San Francisco.' Located at the intersection of Montgomery and Bush streets in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, the bustling coworking and event space is designed to foster collaboration within the sustainability, small business and innovation communities. The flexible space is the result of an UpLink Challenge launched in 2023 through collaboration between the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, the World Economic Forum, and corporate sponsors. UpLink is the World Economic Forum's digital platform for entrepreneurs to connect with investors, corporate partners, experts and other organizations that can help them scale. It aims to build ecosystems that enable purpose-driven entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. The UpLink platform served as host for the Yes SF challenge. The challenge called for entrepreneurs to submit sustainable solutions that contribute to the city's needs for an opportunity to receive funding and support. Yes SF Headquarters — a lively community dedicated to revitalizing Downtown San Francisco and modeling the future of sustainable urban living worldwide — was the winning proposal. 'If you want to change the world you need a community, you need a network that are all investing in the future of San Francisco,' said Jeff Merritt, head of urban transformation at the World Economic Forum, at Yes SF's grand opening celebration in November. 'What we've been able to do with this space is actually create an open door for the community.' Yes SF HQ is among the first brick-and-mortar storefronts created in response to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11, which says cities and human settlements should be inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. From the beginning, the Yes SF team recognized that robust connectivity would be essential if the initiative was to succeed. Comcast stepped up as the connectivity partner, equipping the space with blazing-fast, low-latency business fiber at no cost, as well as its secure networking and cybersecurity solutions. 'Comcast has really helped us in this particular space to help create that digital opportunity for people,' said Rodney Fong, president and CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. 'It's tough out there and we want to make sure that everybody has an opportunity from an access perspective.' 'Nowadays, you can't really do anything unless you're connected — unless you're online,' said Alan Goldsmith, California regional vice president at Comcast Business. 'So this is really part of the community initiative to serve those businesses.' The spirit of optimism was on full display at Yes SF HQ on a recent weekday morning as dozens of local innovators gathered for 'Scaling for Success,' a panel and networking event hosted by Comcast Business and the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. 'As you think about Small Business Week and the number of events that many of us have attended this week, this is San Francisco every single week,' said Alex Youn, director of public policy and government affairs at Comcast, in his introductory remarks. 'It's always busy. There are always things going on.' The Yes SF partnership is a highly visible demonstration of Comcast's widespread and ongoing commitment to San Francisco. That commitment includes its sustainability. The company recently unveiled new packaging for its Xfinity products that's designed with sustainability and recyclability in mind. Made with 100% recyclable materials and an eco-friendly, water-based ink, the new 'handshake box' (as it's been dubbed) is made in the United States, which cuts down on emissions associated with shipping overseas. 'We are and have to say 'yes' to so many things,' Fong said. ''Yes' to innovation, 'yes' to sustainability, 'yes' in recognizing that climate change is in our backyard, and again, say 'yes' to San Francisco.' Comcast Business offers leading global businesses the technology solutions and forward-thinking partnership they need. With a full suite of solutions including fast, reliable connectivity, secure networking solutions and advanced cybersecurity and a range of managed service options, Comcast Business is ready to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. Comcast Business has been recognized by leading analyst firms for its continued growth, innovation, and leadership, and is committed to partnering with customers to help them drive their businesses forward. To learn more about Comcast in California visit Aaron Welch is a freelance writer.
Globe and Mail
15-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
ElectraLith Selected As A Top Innovator By The World Economic Forum
Summary: ElectraLith has been recognized as one of eight top innovators globally by the World Economic Forum, which described its DLE-R technology as "deeply inspiring" and a leading solution advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Melbourne, Victoria, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 15, 2025) - The World Economic Forum today announced that ElectraLith Pty Ltd ("ElectraLith") is a winner of the highly prestigious Sustainable Mining: Mining the Unmined Challenge. In its selection, the World Economic Forum identified ElectraLith's next-generation DLE-R technology as one of the most promising solutions driving progress toward achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Image: ElectraLith's DLE-R To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: As part of the challenge, ElectraLith was selected by UpLink as one of eight Top Innovators advancing groundbreaking technologies that maximize the recovery of metals and minerals from ores and non-primary sources, reducing the need for fresh extraction to meet future raw material demands. Uplink is the World Economic Forum's innovation platform with a mission to enable an innovation ecosystem driving positive systemic change for people and the planet. The World Economic Forum commented: "We are deeply inspired by ElectraLith's solution and excited to help ElectraLith scale its impact." As a Top Innovator, ElectraLith will benefit from a three-year curated Engagement Programme that includes high-profile events, global visibility and access to networks of potential partners, collaborators and investors. The Engagement Programme is intended to significantly enhance ElectraLith's ability to rapidly scale DLE-R to create a lasting and positive impact on global sustainability challenges. Charlie McGill, ElectraLith's CEO, commented: "It is a genuine honor to receive this special recognition from the World Economic Forum. Our team is dedicated to delivering the cleanest method of extracting and refining lithium from any source, unlocking lithium's full potential to deliver a sustainable future. This recognition validates that DLE-R is on track to make an important and measurable impact that directly addresses the global sustainability challenges identified by the United Nations." McGill continued: "DLE-Rs' ability to extract and refine lithium from any source without water is its true differentiator. It means we can unlock lithium in regions where water is extremely scarce, such as in the Andes where the vast majority of the world's lithium reserves can be found. It's estimated that more than 60% of all water in this region is used for lithium extraction, having a devastating impact on the environment and its indigenous communities." Jun Qu, ElectraLith Director and Main Sequence Investment Manager, commented: "Ensuring sustainable access to critical resources is one of Main Sequence's key priorities. Lithium is central to the energy transition, but there is a significant innovation gap that needs to be bridged before we can sustainably supply the battery-grade materials needed at scale. ElectraLith is closing that gap. Its single-step, cost-effective process is capable of producing battery-grade lithium directly from any source." Based on technology invented at Monash University by Sir John Monash Distinguished Professor Huanting Wang, ElectraLith's DLE-R system uses proprietary electrochemical technology to extract and refine lithium in an end-to-end, modular and scalable system. It is the only Direct Lithium Extraction ("DLE") process that requires no water or chemicals, and the only DLE process able to directly produce refined lithium for the battery market, eliminating dependence on third party refining. By removing these externalities, DLE-R is rapidly emerging as the cleanest, most versatile and most-cost-efficient method to extract and refine lithium from any source. The World Economic Forum's recognition follows the December 2024 close of a materially oversubscribed Series A funding round of A$27.5m led by Main Sequence and supported by a world-class investor syndicate comprising Rio Tinto, Chevron Technology Ventures, Marathon Petroleum, Vista Energy, In-Q-Tel, IP Group, Fathom Fund, Hostplus, Breakthrough Victoria and Monash University. Information: media@ About ElectraLith ElectraLith is unlocking a green future with the cleanest, most versatile and most cost-efficient method of extracting and refining lithium, the fundamental element of a sustainable future. ElectraLith's cutting-edge DLE-R technology revolutionises the DLE and refining industry by extracting and producing battery-grade lithium hydroxide or carbonate in a single, scalable and modular step. As opposed to other DLE processes, DLE-R fully eliminates the need for water and chemicals and can run entirely on renewable energy. ElectraLith is based in Melbourne, Australia, and Washington, DC. About Main Sequence Main Sequence is tackling the world's biggest challenges by turning today's scientific discoveries into tomorrow's industries. Main Sequence was founded by CSIRO in Australia in 2017. It now has $1Bn funds under management to help build and invest in companies that are solving our greatest planetary challenges. To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi: KACST to set up Quantum Valley with major firms
Saudi Arabia - King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) is working with Aramco and Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) on establishing a Quantum Valley by leveraging strategic partnerships with major quantum companies such as IBM and Pasqal to operate the first quantum computer in the Kingdom. Dr Talal bin Ahmad Al-Sudairy, Senior Vice President of KACST for Research and Development, revealed this during the World Quantum Day 2025" events, organised by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia, in partnership with KACST. President of KACST and Chairman of the Centre's Board of Directors, Dr Munir bin Mahmoud El-Desouki, along with a distinguished group of experts and enthusiasts in future technologies from within and outside the Kingdom took part in the event. Dr Al-Sudairy said: 'In the Kingdom, the future is not a distant dream — it is being translated in the quantum labs at KACST, discussed in the innovation centres in NEOM, and tested in the startup garage. We are working on building an ecosystem that brings together academia, industry, and innovation.' Dr Basma Al-Buhairan, Managing Director of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia, stated in her opening speech that 'quantum science is no longer confined to theoretical frameworks; today, it has become a main driver for developing practical solutions that meet societal needs and help address global challenges'. Dr Al-Buhairan explained that the 'UpLink' challenge embodies an effective model of integration between tech innovators and decision-makers, supporting the building of a more advanced and sustainable future. Startups honoured The event witnessed the honouring of the top 10 innovative startups from various countries in the 'Quantum for Society' challenge, launched by the Centre in collaboration with the World Economic Forum's 'UpLink' platform. The aim was to support startups and entrepreneurs using quantum technologies to offer practical solutions to global challenges in fields such as climate change, sustainability, healthcare, and water. Among the winning startups was the German firm Planqc, which developed quantum computers to improve supply chains, discover materials, and accelerate drug development. A UK startup, Quantum Dice, developed advanced quantum algorithms to enhance energy efficiency in computational processes, while the Brazilian company Qnity introduced a high-precision solution for detecting molecular interactions, accelerating new drug discovery. In the environmental field, the Spanish startup, PlanetaiSpace, launched the 'QUANTUM-AQUA' initiative, which uses satellite technologies and quantum machine learning to detect groundwater depletion early. In the health sector, the UK startup, Quantasphere developed advanced quantum solutions to enhance data security in healthcare, while the Finnish company Algorithmiq offered a software platform that links quantum and classical systems for drug discovery and patient-specific treatment customization. The US startup, Xairos, developed quantum time-transfer technology that provides ultra-accurate global timing for telecommunications networks, data centers, and financial institutions. In the energy and geology sectors, the Australian startup, Nomad Atomics, introduced a technology enabling precise imaging of subsurface dynamics using gravity, enabling effective applications for carbon dioxide storage. The Canadian startup, Quminex, developed solutions based on quantum intelligence and unsupervised learning to efficiently detect critical mineral deposits, while the Spanish company Quantum Mads developed technologies to enhance the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants using quantum computing, reducing energy consumption and improving environmental resource management. World Quantum Day activities also featured a series of panel sessions that discussed the applications of quantum in vital areas such as healthcare, cybersecurity, computer science, education, and communications. These included discussions on the importance of governance and investment strategies for the next phase of the quantum transformation, in addition to workshops hosted by the Saudi Society for Quantum Computing, which presented advanced concepts in quantum computing—most notably the concept of 'entanglement swapping' and its expanding applications. The event also included a tech exhibition showcasing the history and future evolution of quantum sciences. The organisation of this event comes as part of the Kingdom's efforts to strengthen its position in the field of future technologies and to support the "quantum economy" project. April 14 was selected as an annual occasion to celebrate quantum science, in line with the United Nations' declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. - TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Leaders
15-04-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Launches Quantum Valley, Honors Innovators at UpLink
Dr. Talal bin Ahmad Al-Sudairy, KACST's Senior Vice President for Research and Development, announced that KACST is collaborating with Aramco and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) to launch Quantum Valley . This initiative, supported by key industry players like IBM and Pasqal, will establish and operate the Kingdom's first quantum computer. 'In Saudi Arabia, the future is not far off—it's already taking shape in our quantum labs at KACST, our innovation hubs in NEOM, and the startup ecosystem,' Dr. Al-Sudairy said. 'We're creating a collaborative environment that bridges academia, industry, and innovation.' In her opening address, Dr. Basma Al-Buhairan, Managing Director of the Centre, emphasized that quantum science has evolved beyond theory. 'It now plays a pivotal role in developing real-world solutions that address societal needs and global challenges,' Dr. Al-Buhairan stated. 'The UpLink challenge as a successful model that unites innovators and decision-makers to build a more sustainable, tech-driven future.' The event spotlighted and honored the top 10 startups in the 'Quantum for Society' challenge—an initiative by the Centre and the World Economic Forum's UpLink platform. Additionally, the selected startups are leveraging quantum technologies to tackle pressing global issues in climate, health, energy, and more. Among the winners: Planqc (Germany) uses quantum computers to enhance supply chains, material discovery, and drug development. Quantum Dice (UK) improves energy efficiency through advanced quantum algorithms. Qnity (Brazil) developed high-precision tools for molecular interaction analysis, speeding up drug discovery. PlanetaiSpace (Spain) launched the QUANTUM-AQUA initiative, combining satellite imaging and quantum machine learning to detect groundwater depletion. Quantasphere (UK) focuses on data security in healthcare with quantum-based solutions. Algorithmiq (Finland) offers a hybrid platform combining quantum and classical computing for personalized medicine. Xairos (USA) created ultra-accurate quantum time-transfer systems for telecommunications and financial sectors. Nomad Atomics (Australia) enables high-precision subsurface imaging, aiding in CO₂ storage monitoring. Quminex (Canada) uses quantum intelligence to locate critical mineral deposits efficiently. Quantum Mads (Spain) applies quantum computing to boost the energy efficiency of wastewater treatment facilities. The celebration also featured a range of expert panels exploring quantum's role in key sectors like healthcare, cybersecurity, computer science, education, and communications. Discussions covered emerging governance models and investment strategies essential for the next phase of quantum development. Moreover, the Saudi Society for Quantum Computing hosted advanced workshops, including one on 'entanglement swapping' and its growing real-world applications. A dedicated tech exhibition traced the past, present, and future of quantum technologies, offering attendees a hands-on glimpse into this transformative field. Finally, this initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's strategic push to lead in future technologies and support the rise of a 'quantum economy.' April 14 has been designated as an annual day of celebration for quantum science, aligning with the United Nations' declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Related Topics : C4IR Saudi Arabia to Host Global Experts for World Quantum Day 2025 Aramco Partners Pasqal to Deploy First Quantum Computer in Saudi Arabia Huawei Cloud Launches AI-Ready Infrastructure in Saudi Arabia for Vision 2030 Saudi Aramco Completes $6 Billion Bond Issuance Short link : Post Views: 43
Trade Arabia
15-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
KACST to set up Quantum Valley with major firms
King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) is working with Aramco and Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) on establishing a Quantum Valley by leveraging strategic partnerships with major quantum companies such as IBM and Pasqal to operate the first quantum computer in the Kingdom. Dr Talal bin Ahmad Al-Sudairy, Senior Vice President of KACST for Research and Development, revealed this during the World Quantum Day 2025" events, organised by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia, in partnership with KACST. President of KACST and Chairman of the Centre's Board of Directors, Dr Munir bin Mahmoud El-Desouki, along with a distinguished group of experts and enthusiasts in future technologies from within and outside the Kingdom took part in the event. Dr Al-Sudairy said: 'In the Kingdom, the future is not a distant dream — it is being translated in the quantum labs at KACST, discussed in the innovation centres in NEOM, and tested in the startup garage. We are working on building an ecosystem that brings together academia, industry, and innovation.' Dr Basma Al-Buhairan, Managing Director of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Saudi Arabia, stated in her opening speech that 'quantum science is no longer confined to theoretical frameworks; today, it has become a main driver for developing practical solutions that meet societal needs and help address global challenges'. Dr Al-Buhairan explained that the 'UpLink' challenge embodies an effective model of integration between tech innovators and decision-makers, supporting the building of a more advanced and sustainable future. Startups honoured The event witnessed the honouring of the top 10 innovative startups from various countries in the 'Quantum for Society' challenge, launched by the Centre in collaboration with the World Economic Forum's 'UpLink' platform. The aim was to support startups and entrepreneurs using quantum technologies to offer practical solutions to global challenges in fields such as climate change, sustainability, healthcare, and water. Among the winning startups was the German firm Planqc, which developed quantum computers to improve supply chains, discover materials, and accelerate drug development. A UK startup, Quantum Dice, developed advanced quantum algorithms to enhance energy efficiency in computational processes, while the Brazilian company Qnity introduced a high-precision solution for detecting molecular interactions, accelerating new drug discovery. In the environmental field, the Spanish startup, PlanetaiSpace, launched the 'QUANTUM-AQUA' initiative, which uses satellite technologies and quantum machine learning to detect groundwater depletion early. In the health sector, the UK startup, Quantasphere developed advanced quantum solutions to enhance data security in healthcare, while the Finnish company Algorithmiq offered a software platform that links quantum and classical systems for drug discovery and patient-specific treatment customization. The US startup, Xairos, developed quantum time-transfer technology that provides ultra-accurate global timing for telecommunications networks, data centers, and financial institutions. In the energy and geology sectors, the Australian startup, Nomad Atomics, introduced a technology enabling precise imaging of subsurface dynamics using gravity, enabling effective applications for carbon dioxide storage. The Canadian startup, Quminex, developed solutions based on quantum intelligence and unsupervised learning to efficiently detect critical mineral deposits, while the Spanish company Quantum Mads developed technologies to enhance the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants using quantum computing, reducing energy consumption and improving environmental resource management. World Quantum Day activities also featured a series of panel sessions that discussed the applications of quantum in vital areas such as healthcare, cybersecurity, computer science, education, and communications. These included discussions on the importance of governance and investment strategies for the next phase of the quantum transformation, in addition to workshops hosted by the Saudi Society for Quantum Computing, which presented advanced concepts in quantum computing—most notably the concept of 'entanglement swapping' and its expanding applications. The event also included a tech exhibition showcasing the history and future evolution of quantum sciences. The organisation of this event comes as part of the Kingdom's efforts to strengthen its position in the field of future technologies and to support the "quantum economy" project. April 14 was selected as an annual occasion to celebrate quantum science, in line with the United Nations' declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. - TradeArabia News Service
