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GS National Insurance Partners with AmeriLife to Propel Growth & Expansion

AmeriLife

AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), a national leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions, announced today that it has partnered with Pittsburgh-based GS National Insurance (“GS National”), a wholesale distributor of health insurance products for independent brokers and agencies. Per the agreement, terms of the deal were not disclosed. “Over the last decade, GS National has experienced significant growth, and we’re excited to take our business to another level,” said Brian Breisinger, founder, president and CEO of GS National Insurance. “We have always strived to break through the complexities of the insurance business with simplicity, transparency and recognition at the heart of our approach. Together with AmeriLife, we’ll be able to support even more independent brokers and agencies at scale than ever before.” Founded in 2007 as independent health insurance agency, Gateway Strategies, the firm grew quickly over the next three years as it recognized the need for more tailored support of brokerage companies in a rapidly evolving Medicare marketplace. In 2010, it shifted its focus to wholesale distribution under the name GS National Insurance, working with a growing number of local and regional health insurance carriers and expanding its footprint to seven states across the eastern United States. Now, together with AmeriLife’s best-in-class tools, resources, and holistic product offerings, GS National is well-positioned for accelerated growth and long-term success. “I’m thrilled to welcome Brian and GS National to AmeriLife,” said Scotty Elliott, Chief Distribution Officer for AmeriLife Health. “The team’s focus on cultivating strong relationships with carriers and providing exceptional value for their agents has been key to their rapid growth. We look forward to supporting their ambitions for years to come.” “GS National has proven to be not only a successful wholesale distributor, but also an innovator in our space,” added Tim Calvert, Chief Operating Officer for AmeriLife. “We’re excited to add Brian’s and the team’s expertise and industry leadership to our growing network of affiliates. ### About GS National Insurance Founded in 2007, GS National Insurance is a national wholesale distributor of insurance products for independent brokers built on the belief that simplicity, transparency and recognition are the cornerstones for success in the insurance industry. For more information, visit GSNational.com. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as a leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents and advisors and 120 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Media Jeff Maldonado +1 321-297-1112 jmaldonado@amerilife.com Partnership Inquiries Patrick Nichols +1 727-726-0726 pnichols@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com/

October 03, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Bidscale Becomes the First Software Adopter of the NCMA Contract Management Standard™

National Contract Management Association

Bidscale, a software solution for modernizing and accelerating government contracting, has become the first software company to adopt the National Contract Management Association’s (NCMA) Contract Management Standard™ (CMS). Bidscale's dedication to addressing the pressing needs of government contracting with digital solutions aligns with the profession's shift towards more efficient and transparent contract management practices, solidifying their position as a software leader. As the global language for contract management professionals, the NCMA CMS offers companies a cohesive and standardized framework. By seamlessly integrating the CMS into its core processes, including pre-award, award, and post-award, users can anticipate heightened operational efficiency and clarity. This strategic integration also reinforces Bidscale’s dedication to excellence in contract management practices. Tony Kwag, Chief Executive Officer of Bidscale, states, "We are proud to lead the way in modernizing government contracting with our adoption of the National Contract Management Association's CMS. This milestone reinforces Bidscale's commitment to revolutionizing contract management, aligning with industry trends towards greater efficiency and transparency. We can't wait to showcase this as GCMS 2023." Kraig Conrad, Chief Executive Officer of NCMA, commends Bidscale for their forward-thinking approach to the contract management profession, stating, "It's impressive to see Bidscale incorporating the Contract Management Standard™ (CMS) into their software. This proactive step demonstrates their commitment to setting global standards and their foresight in enhancing their services for professionals and organizations within the contract management field." The U.S. Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) has officially recognized the CMS as the foundation of a new contracting training system for all government agencies, effective February 1, 2023, ensuring that CMS adoption is in harmony with government practices. For more information about Bidscale and its commitment to contract management excellence, please visit https://www.bidscale.com/. For more information on NCMA's Common Language Adoption, please visit: www.ncmahq.org/adopters The National Contract Management Association (NCMA), which was founded in 1959 and is the world’s leading association in the field of contract management. The organization, which has over 18,000 members, is dedicated to the professional growth and educational advancement of procurement and acquisition personnel worldwide. NCMA strives to serve and inform the profession and industry it represents and to offer opportunities for the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. To find out more, please visit www.ncmahq.org. Born out of an OT contract, Bidscale is a software-as-a-service platform that provides AI-powered contracting across the full federal contracting lifecycle, from requirements to award and beyond. Bidscale’s mission is to revolutionize how government and industry streamline decision-making and consolidate knowledge. Request a demo today at https://www.bidscale.com/demo. Contact Details National Contract Management Association Holly Dehesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org/

October 03, 2023 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Learning Technologies Group "much more comfortable about the second half"

Learning Technologies Group PLC

Learning Technologies Group PLC (AIM:LTG, OTC:LTTHF) chief executive Jonathan Satchell speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after the workplace talent development company released its interim results for the six months to 31 June 2023 Satchel provides an overview of the company's performance over the period as well as its future outlook. The firm reported £285 million in revenue for the first half, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. However, challenges arose from integrating their LEO business into the GP Strategies content business, which Satchell suggests may ultimately have cost an estimated $80 million of EBIT. Despite these challenges, Satchell expresses confidence in the company's resilience. He says the company's performance during the second half was always going to hinge on the GPLX turnaround, adding that August's figures show a strong recovery and he feels "much more comfortable about the second half." While facing softness in markets like China and Japan, the company remains optimistic about meeting analyst expectations for the full year. He also says that as they approach their 10th anniversary, the firm is being selective about acquisitions and has announced a voluntary debt repayment of $25 million. Satchell also highlighted their focus on integrating AI thoughtfully, ensuring they don't merely follow trends but leverage technology effectively. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

September 29, 2023 03:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Joshua Borders Appointed as CEO of AmeriLife’s Senior Market Advisors

AmeriLife

Senior Market Advisors (SMA), a fast-growing field marketing organization (FMO) in the health insurance space and an affiliate of AmeriLife Group, LLC (“AmeriLife”), today announced the appointment of Joshua Borders to principal and chief executive officer. Borders, who succeeds SMA founder Jeff Pitta, was previously founder and managing partner of Buffalo Health Advisors, a Nashville-based insurance distributor and downline affiliate of SMA that specializes in Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, PDP solutions, and health insurance for the under-65 market. At Buffalo, Borders oversaw a nationwide network of more than 500 field agents and grew the business 20% year-over-year for nine straight years, establishing the company as a top MAPD distributor in the state. Borders began his career as an independent sales agent focused on the Medicare Advantage market, bringing with him a client-centered approach and relentless focus on empowering agents with the tools and resources they need for success. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead SMA alongside an amazing team and our partners at AmeriLife,” said Borders. “SMA’s story is one of continued success, thanks in large part to an approach that isn’t content being just any FMO. SMA has – and will continue to be – a true difference-maker in the lives of the agents we help, the clients they serve, and the communities we support.” Founded in 2007, SMA boasts over 9,000 agents across 49 states, providing them with access to top Medicare and health insurance contracts, as well as life insurance and other products to help them serve the senior market. SMA is highly regarded for its best-in-class training, expert marketing support, and robust technology platforms that are designed by and for agents to better manage and grow their books of business, and support and scale growing independent marketing organizations (IMOs). SMA became an affiliate of AmeriLife in 2021. SMA is also deeply committed to putting people over profits. Since its founding, SMA has pledged more than $10 million to charities and community organizations locally and around the world, including to organizations such as Feeding America, King’s Kids Africa, and global nonprofit charity: water. “SMA has written the playbook on what it takes to be a successful FMO,” said Robert “Bobby” Bache, vice president of Life and Health Distribution for AmeriLife Health. “I’m grateful for Josh’s partnership and confident that, under his direction, SMA will continue to raise the bar in our industry.” “I want to thank Jeff for his many years of service at SMA and congratulate Josh on his new role,” added Scotty Elliot, Chief Distribution Officer for AmeriLife Health. “Josh’s appointment is a testament to his leadership, business acumen, and agent-first mindset. I believe he’s the perfect choice to lead SMA, and I couldn’t be more excited for the road ahead.” ### About Senior Market Advisors Senior Market Advisors (SMA) has been putting people over profits since 2007, through hard work and a commitment to “doing right” by the consumer. We know the grit and determination involved in becoming a career agent. And as a result, we have become one of the fastest growing FMOs, doubling our business each year for the past five years. For more information, visit us online at SeniorMarketAdvisors.com. About AmeriLife AmeriLife’s strength is its mission: to provide insurance and retirement solutions to help people live longer, healthier lives. In doing so, AmeriLife has become recognized as the leader in developing, marketing, and distributing life and health insurance, annuities, and retirement planning solutions to enhance the lives of pre-retirees and retirees across the United States. For more than 50 years, AmeriLife has partnered with top insurance carriers to provide value and quality to customers served through a distribution network of over 300,000 insurance agents and advisors and more than 100 marketing organizations and insurance agency locations nationwide. For more information, visit AmeriLife.com, and follow AmeriLife on Facebook and LinkedIn. Contact Details Media Jeff Maldonado +1 321-297-1112 jmaldonado@amerilife.com Partnership Inquiries Patrick Nichols +1 727-726-0726 pnichols@amerilife.com Company Website https://amerilife.com/

September 28, 2023 01:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Federal Publications Seminars (FPS) Embraces Industry Standardization with Adoption of CMS™ and CMBOK®

National Contract Management Association

Federal Publications Seminars (FPS), a leading government contract training provider, has announced a significant milestone in its commitment to advancing the contract management profession. FPS proudly embraces the National Contract Management Association's (NCMA) ANSI Approved Contract Management Standard™ (CMS™) and the Contract Management Body of Knowledge (CMBOK®) as the cornerstone for hiring, career development, and training of contract management professionals. The CMS™, recognized as the standard global language of government contracting, and the comprehensive CMBOK® collectively offer a unified framework to define, discuss, and advance contract management phases, domains, competencies, and skills. “Our adoption of these standards reaffirms FPS’s support of NCMA and dedication to cultivating excellence and promoting a common language within the contract management community,” said Andy King, President of FPS. Mr. King stated, "By aligning our training courses with the adoption of CMS™ and CMBOK®, we are poised to provide even greater support to our thriving FPS education community. Our partnership and collaboration with the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) reinforces our commitment to cultivating a more robust, knowledgeable, and ethical federal government contracting industry." “Through this collaboration, FPS aims to empower its clients to not only meet compliance requirements but also gain a competitive edge by harnessing their newfound expertise. The synergy between FPS and NCMA promises a brighter future for professionals in the federal contracting arena,” Mr. King concluded. "We appreciate Federal Publications Seminar's commitment to advancing the contract management profession through the adoption of the CMS™ and CMBOK®. they join leading organizations on our journey toward common language to foster global excellence," stated Kraig Conrad, Chief Executive Officer of NCMA. This move aligns FPS with the Department of Defense, civilian agencies of the U.S. government, industry leaders, and higher education institutions that have also embraced the CMS™ for their hiring, training, and educational programs. FPS's commitment to these standards is not only a testament to its leadership in the profession, but also an expression of support for NCMA's pivotal role in advancing the profession. For more information on NCMA's Common Language Adoption, please visit: www.ncmahq.org/adopters The National Contract Management Association (NCMA), which was founded in 1959 and is the world’s leading association in the field of contract management. The organization, which has over 18,000 members, is dedicated to the professional growth and educational advancement of procurement and acquisition personnel worldwide. NCMA strives to serve and inform the profession and industry it represents and to offer opportunities for the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. To find out more, please visit www.ncmahq.org. About Federal Publication Seminars: Federal Publications Seminars (FPS) has been the leading provider of government contracts training and education for more than 60 years. FPS offers hundreds of in-person and online courses designed to provide in-house counsel, procurement officers, contract administrators, and accounting professionals and firms with solid, comprehensive opportunities to stay current on critical issues throughout the government contracting market. FPS instructors are nationally recognized leaders in the government contracting industry. For more information or to subscribe, visit fedpubseminars.com or call 888.494.3696. Follow FPS on social channels for the latest updates, class notifications and promotions @fedpubseminars. Contact Details National Contract Management Association Holly Dehesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org/

September 28, 2023 06:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Classiq to Host Quantum Software Hackathon and Bootcamp on October 1

Classiq Technologies

Classiq Technologies, a leading quantum computing software company, today announced its annual quantum computing software bootcamp and hackathon, the Classiq Quest. There is no cost to participate in either event. First up is the bootcamp, October 1-5, during which participants will learn how to fully exploit Classiq’s software to design, optimize and execute quantum algorithms. One to two hours of work per day over the five days will provide students, professors and others in academia focused on electrical engineering, computer science and other related fields an excellent opportunity to learn how to develop quantum algorithms. The quantum computing bootcamp is also a resource for those in industries such as DevOps, finance, chemistry, pharma, automotive and supply chain who want to learn how to harness the power of quantum computing. With a daily challenge on each day, participants will emerge from the bootcamp as experts on Classiq’s platform and fully prepared to tackle the Quest Hackathon challenges. Next up is the Classiq Quest Hackathon, which runs from October 8-11. The hackathon is an online programming competition open to individual as well as group participants. It is designed to reward those that can create efficient and elegant quantum circuits for a variety of important problems. Over the four days, participants receive a series of challenges for which they must design, optimize, and execute quantum algorithms. The challenges are a combination of open and well-defined problems that fall under three quantum computing themes – applications, utility, and education – and for each theme, there are two challenges. The application challenges focus on the use of quantum algorithms for addressing real-life problems in industries such as chemistry, finance, material science, and cyber security. Quantum utility concentrates on quantum algorithms that fully exploit the capabilities of available quantum computers. The quantum education theme is targeted at quantum algorithms for educational purposes with intuitive graphics and visualizations. “We often hear from professors that they have difficulty finding ways to teach students about quantum computing,” said Amir Naveh, chief product officer and co-founder at Classiq. “Our bootcamp offers a great way for students to get up to speed quickly on quantum computing and then test their skills with the challenges in the hackathon. It’s equally relevant and useful for people on the corporate side, who are quantum curious and need an easy entry point. We’re all about democratizing quantum computing.” Last year, nearly 300 participants from 51 countries registered for the Classiq coding competition and Classiq received more than 150 solutions. Participants must register by Sunday, October 1. Details on events, challenges and ways to participate are available at https://go.classiq.io/classiq-quest-hackathon#Bootcamp. The prize pool is $15,000. For each challenge, the first, second and third place winners will be rewarded with $1,500, $700, and $300, respectively. About Classiq Classiq Technologies, the leading quantum software company, provides an all-encompassing software platform with a single point of entry into quantum computing, from algorithm design to execution. Tailored to all levels of developer proficiency, Classiq aims to democratize access to quantum computing with software that equips customers to take full advantage of the quantum computing revolution. A low-code development environment ensures that a broader range of talents, including those with backgrounds in AI, ML and linear algebra, can harness quantum computing without requiring deep, specialized knowledge of how to program quantum computer hardware. Backed by powerful investors such as HPE, HSBC, Samsung, Intesa Sanpaolo and NTT, Classiq’s world-class team of scientists and engineers has distilled decades of quantum expertise into its groundbreaking software development platform. Follow Classiq on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), or YouTube, or visit www.classiq.io to learn more. Contact Details Michelle Allard McMahon/Jenna Beaucage classiqPR@rainierco.com Company Website http://www.classiq.io/

September 27, 2023 01:45 PM Eastern Daylight Time

SFAA, NASBP and a Coalition of Partners Strongly Support Bill Providing Essential Protections on WIFIA Financed Projects

SFAA

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA), National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP), and a coalition of industry partners commend Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) for the introduction of S.2928, the “ Water Infrastructure Subcontractor and Taxpayer Protection Act”. This legislation provides essential protections for workers, suppliers and contractors by requiring payment protection on federally financed infrastructure projects receiving Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) assistance, including public-private projects (P3s). “Bonding WIFIA-financed P3 projects will protect taxpayer dollars, ensure project completion, protect local small business contractors and workers, and promote economic growth,” said Lee Covington, President and CEO of SFAA. “As more and more water infrastructure projects come online, and P3s become more common in the space, WIFIA must be modernized to include the same payment and performance requirements that protect all other federally funded infrastructure projects,” continued Covington. P3 projects have increased in popularity over the years; however, the lack of clarity for requiring payment and performance protections on P3 projects can force taxpayers to absorb additional costs of rebidding a project. Without the payment protections bonds provide, subcontractors, suppliers, and workers are often left unpaid for extended periods if the contractor defaults. The solution ensures parity for protections between traditional project delivery methods and P3 projects utilizing the WIFIA program, and the same protections required in the TIFIA program and other federally financed projects. In addition, surety bonds provide payment protections for workers, subcontractors, and suppliers and provide an economic benefit to taxpayers. A recent study by Ernst & Young (EY), The Economic Value of Surety Bonds, reported: Unbonded construction projects are more likely to default than bonded projects – by up to 10 times. When a contractor defaults on an unbonded construction project, the completion cost is 85% higher than on projects protected by surety bonds. 75% of public project owners report that surety bonding reduces contractor pricing by an average of 3.2%. Five times as many public project owners report bonded projects are more likely to be completed on time or ahead of schedule, and contractors prioritize bonded projects over unbonded projects. Read the entire EY report at www.surety.org/suretyprotects. “Construction is a risky business, and for over 80 years, the federal and state Miller Acts have protected against the risk of loss by requiring payment and performance bonds,” related Mark McCallum, CEO of NASBP. “NASBP and SFAA look forward to working with Senators Kelly and Cramer and the U.S. Congress, on a bipartisan basis, to pass this essential bill,” continued McCallum. The coalition of partners includes: American Property and Casualty Insurance Association American Subcontractors Association Business Coalition for Fair Competition Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers Finishing Contractors Association International International Union of Operating Engineers Mechanical Contractors Association of America National Electrical Contractors Association National Association of Minority Contractors National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies National Association of Surety Bond Producers Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association The Association of Union Constructors The Construction Employers of America The Surety & Fidelity Association of America Women Construction Owners and Executives The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry. Based in Washington, D.C., SFAA works to promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding by proactively advocating on behalf of its members and stakeholders. The association’s more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. For more information visit www.surety.org. Founded in 1942, the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) is the association of and resource for surety bond producers and allied professionals. NASBP members specialize in providing surety bonds for construction contracts and other purposes to companies and individuals needing the assurance offered by surety bonds. www.nasbp.org Contact Details SFAA Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org NASBP Kathy Hoffman +1 240-200-1278 khoffman@nasbp.org Company Website https://surety.org/

September 27, 2023 11:10 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Minuteman Press Franchise in Westlake, Ohio Moves to New Location, Expands Business

Minuteman Press International Inc

Jennet and Dan Foster are the owners of the Minuteman Press franchise in Westlake, Ohio. The family business first opened in 2004 and 19 years later, Jennet and Dan celebrated their relocation from North Olmsted to Westlake with a grand opening event on June 15, 2023. Minuteman Press in Westlake is located at 26145 Center Ridge Road, Unit A, Westlake, OH 44145. Expanding & Relocating the Business On the relocation, Jennet shares, “We acquired some new machines (Xante envelope press and Duplo cut, score, perf machine) and we were looking to expand. We first thought about expanding into the empty space next door and continuing to lease but then we decided to invest in ourselves instead and bought a commercial property. With room for the new equipment, we can offer in-house services that were previously vendor jobs, so the turnaround times on certain products is now even quicker for our clients.” Jennet continues, “Now, we have the space to expand even more. We just purchased a used booklet maker and will eventually add another color digital press. We also now have double doors, so we don't have to have pallets dropped on the sidewalk and disassemble them to bring them in. Our new facility also has more desk space for our staff. There are currently 5 people on our team and it’s been a great move! It was a little sad to leave North Olmsted but Westlake has welcomed us with open arms and we're happy to be here.” Reflecting on the grand opening, Jennet says, “The grand opening was held on June 15. We couldn't believe the number of people that attended. We had over 100 people and our giant parking lot was overflowing. It was packed inside and outside at the cornhole boards. The Chambers of Commerce that I'm involved with were fantastic in getting the word out. It was a great party that really came together nicely.” Growth & Getting Involved in the Community One key to growth has been Jennet’s community involvement. She shares, “I'm super involved with many organizations. I'm in four Chambers of Commerce including being on the board of one and different committee roles on the others. I am also a member of BNI as well as the National Association of Women Business Owners. In 2019, I did the 10,000 Small Businesses Program and that was really helpful in understanding different aspects of business. As a member of NAWBO, I do outreach to graduates of the program.” Jennet continues, “I am not just in these organizations, I am personally involved, which helps me get to know so many people. And it’s so true that people want to do business with people they know, like, and trust. We also advertise as a sponsor within these organizations and we advertise with direct mail to our customers and potential customers. You have to let people know about all of the products and services that you provide. Otherwise, how will they know that they need them?” She also credits the Minuteman Press support team for helping her business stay on track. Jennet says, “Last year, we were understaffed and had a family emergency. Both our RVP Rich DeRosa & field rep Ryan McIntyre were there for us to help out at the shop to keep things moving. It was a real lifesaver and very much appreciated. They have also helped with hiring and are also good to bounce ideas off of when you're considering new equipment, and they offer assistance when we need help with vendors. The FLEX software is great, too.” Minuteman Press Reflections As they approach 20 years in business as Minuteman Press owners, Jennet shares, “When we started Minuteman Press with my dad, Dan and I were just newlyweds. One of the things that has been wonderful for us about owning the business is that we can be there for our 3 kids. When they were younger, we were able to pop out in the middle of the day to help with a class party or read the class a story or whatever they needed. Today, they're now 13, 15, and 17. Having Minuteman Press as our business allows us to have that freedom to be there for our family.” It’s also clear that Jennet and Dan simply love what they do. She says, “What we love about this industry is helping our customers. They will come in with just an idea. We will then give a little guidance, design it, produce it, and wow them with the finished product, which they use to achieve their purposes.” She adds, “We love to watch our customers grow and succeed and we appreciate them letting us help them with that!” Minuteman Press in Westlake is located at 26145 Center Ridge Road, Unit A, Westlake, OH 44145. For more information, visit their website: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/oh/westlake/ Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at https://minutemanpressfranchise.com. Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

September 26, 2023 10:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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VPN Trust Initiative: VPN Trust Seal Accreditation Program Launch

VPN Trust Initiative

The Internet Infrastructure Coalition (i2Coalition) launched the VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) in 2020 to establish a baseline for how virtual private network (VPN) providers should operate. The goal is to help avoid oversights, misunderstandings, or vague legislation that could invite abuses of power and short-sighted legislation of helpful technology. As a result of collaborative efforts, the VTI Principles serve as a comprehensive set of best practices for VPN providers that bolster consumer confidence and provider accountability, promoting wider VPN adoption and access to the technology’s benefits. Today VTI is announcing the launch of the VPN Trust Seal accreditation program, which provides a clear public indicator that a participating VPN provider follows established best practices for delivering service in the following five areas: Security: VPNs will use the necessary security measures, including strong encryption and authentication protocols, to appropriately address the risks. Advertising Practices: Given the complexity and different use cases for VPNs, claims must not mislead. Privacy: VPNs should keep as little data as they deem necessary to provide the service and only produce data to law enforcement when legally required. Disclosure and Transparency: To foster trust, member companies must take steps toward informing users and the public about their actions and procedures. Social Responsibility: VPN providers will promote VPN technology to support access to the global Internet and freedom of expression. Principles guiding VPN Trust Seal accreditation are informed by input from businesses, legislators, free speech advocates, and other outside experts to protect the privacy and security of VPN users; offer practical policy guidelines for VPN providers; and ensure policymakers, regulators, and the wider market have access to clear criteria for evaluating these technologies. The inaugural group of VPN providers that have earned accreditation includes Certida, FastVPN, IvacyVPN, NordVPN, PureVPN, Surfshark, Texas.net, IPVanish, StrongVPN, eVenture Ltd, and ExpressVPN. “Now when VPN customers try to determine which providers align with their ethics, they can look for the VPN Trust Seal and gain some assurances about the commitments behind the products they are looking to purchase,” said Christian Dawson, Co-Founder & Executive Director, i2Coalition. For more detailed information on each of these principles and how to get the VPN Trust Seal, please visit the VTI website. About i2Coalition’s VPN Trust Initiative i2Coalition’s VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) is an industry-led consortium that promotes consumer safety and privacy online by increasing understanding of VPNs and strengthening business practices in an industry that already protects millions of Internet users. The VTI leverages first-hand knowledge to advocate, create, vet, and validate guidelines that strengthen trust and transparency and mitigate risk for users. To learn more about the VTI, please visit vpntrust.net. About the i2Coalition The Internet Infrastructure Coalition (“i2Coalition”) ensures that those who build the infrastructure of the Internet have a voice in public policy. We are a leading voice for web hosting companies, data centers, domain registrars and registries, cloud infrastructure providers, managed services providers, and related tech. We protect innovation and the continued growth of the Internet’s infrastructure which is essential to the global economy. Our coalition launched at a significant time in our industry’s history. The genesis of the organization began in 2011 when many of the i2Coalition founding and charter members joined forces during the successful effort to prevent SOPA and PIPA from becoming United States law. After mobilizing to ensure the Internet’s free flow of information and commerce, we realized the ongoing need for an industry voice, founding formally in 2012. To learn more about the i2Coalition and explore membership, please visit i2Coalition.com. Contact Details Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://vpntrust.net/

September 26, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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