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CDFI Coalition Marks 30th Anniversary of CDFI Fund

CDFI Coalition

Members of the CDFI Coalition gathered in Washington, DC, this week to mark the 30 th anniversary of the CDFI Fund with a keynote address by Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), panel discussions and the release of a report highlighting the three decades of successes celebrated by the CDFI movement. Coalition members, legislators and Administrations officials held panel discussions on New CDFI Certification Requirements, Cybersecurity and AI, Financing CDFIs and Community Development, Opportunities in Climate Financing, and Challenges and Opportunities for new CEOs of Color. The report is based on data from the Coalition’s survey of its members. Highlights of the report and the 30 th Anniversary of the CDFI Fund include: Seventy CDFIs responded to the survey, making $22.5 billion in loan originations and $185 million in EQ2 and equity investments. This financing created or sustained more than 500,000 jobs and 105,000 units of affordable housing, over 150,000 community facilities and 437,000 business. The CDFI industry has grown significantly since its infancy in 1994. 1,462 CDFIs have been certified to work in low-wealth communities nationwide as of January 2024. These CDFIs have assets totaling more than $200 billion and outstanding portfolios of more than $150 billion. Certified CDFIs include 573 loan funds, 516 credit unions, 161 depository institution holding companies, 197 banks or thrifts, and 15 venture capital funds in rural and urban areas in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. In FY 23, CDFI Fund Financial Assistance recipients financed more than 126,000 businesses, provided funding for more than 76,000 affordable homes, and originated more than $57 billion in loans and investments. Thirty years ago, only a handful of CDFIs had been funded with philanthropy and other support, and their success provided the roadmap for the 1994 legislation and the impetus for the CDFI fund. One of the more unexpected successes of the CDFI movement and the CDFI fund are the offshoots that they have supported and enabled. Significant new programs were built on the CDFI infrastructure and commitment created in 1994 by the Riegle Act. “The CDFI 30 th Anniversary Report contains numerous success stories from CDFIs around the nation about how the credit, the products and the technical assistance they have made available have been transformative in their communities,” said CDFI Coalition spokesperson Bob Rapoza. For example: CDFI Program Financial Assistance (FA) Awards – The CDFI Fund makes FA awards to both large and small certified CDFIs. CDFIs use FA awards for lending capital, loan loss or capital reserves, operations, or development services. Award recipients must match their FA award dollar-for-dollar with non-federal funds. The Native American CDFI Assistance Program, launched in 2001 to encourage investing in Native Communities by supporting the creation and expansion of Native CDFIs -- which in turn help to create jobs, establish, or improve affordable housing, and provide appropriate financial services and counseling to community residents. The number of Native CDFIs has increased from 14 in 2001 to 66 in 2024. The New Markets Tax Credit Program, authorized in 2000 to stimulate private investment in low-income communities. The CDFI Fund has made 1,563 allocation awards totaling $76 billion to date. New Markets tax Credit investments have created more than one million jobs that cost the federal government less than $20,000 per job. The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program, authorized in 2010 to empower the Treasury Department to guarantee notes or bonds issued at no cost to the federal government to support CDFI lending and investment activity. Since 2013, the CDFI Fund has guaranteed nearly $2.5 billion in bond authority through the program. The Capital Magnet Fund, administered by the CDFI Fund, provides grants on a competitive basis to CDFIs and other non-profit organizations to finance affordable housing and related economic development efforts for low-income families and communities. The Capital Magnet Fund has generated $20 additional investment for every $1 of award funding and created more than 63,000 affordable homes. The report also highlights the power of CDFIs, their investors and stakeholders in responding to our nation’s racial equity challenges as well as the Great Recession and the COVID 19 Pandemic. For example: CDFIs served as economic shock absorbers, providing flexible and patient capital, rigorous risk management, and commitment to the projects in their communities and the sustainability of their borrowers. When traditional lenders pull back from economically distressed communities, policymakers look to CDFIs to fill the void. Recognizing the power of CDFIs, during the height of the pandemic, Congress made an investment in 2020 through appropriations for three temporary programs to support CDFIs, totaling $12 billion, including $1.25 billion for what became the Rapid Response Program, $1.75 billion for increased investment in low-income communities of color, and $9 billion for an emergency capital investment program for CDFI’s certified depositories and MDIs. CDFIs used those new resources to provide a wide variety of financial services to support the recovery of underserved markets under siege from COVID-19. In addition to stabilizing businesses, CDFIs financed initiatives to expand access to healthy food, health centers and hospitals, affordable housing, shelters, treatment centers, and other businesses and community facilities on the front lines of the pandemic. Private sector corporations and foundations have also recognized the efficacy and power of CDFIs. For example, between 2020 and 2022, in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd and the ongoing pandemic, the eight largest US banks made $9.2 billion in commitments to CDFIs. This commitment and the increased federal support allowed CDFIs to expand their efforts and launch new initiatives in communities of color. “As we look forward to the next 30 years, we know that CDFIs are going to continue to be a major force for bringing access to credit to low-income communities and individuals across the nation. They will be pivotal in our collective efforts to eliminate racial wealth gaps and increase opportunities for people and communities of color,” Rapoza added. CDFIs continue to innovate, to solve problems, to finance opportunities and to make sure that lending capital and technical assistance is available to all communities in our nation. In doing so, they acknowledge there is a newer and burning challenge – how CDFIs can support reducing the carbon in our atmosphere and ensure that low-income communities and communities of color can access the same opportunities, tools and resources that will help mitigate the impact of climate change on our communities and economy. “The confidence of Congress and the Administration in providing such a key role to CDFIs under the Green House Gas Reduction Fund is a wonderful testament to the positive impact and reach of CDFIs in our most underserved communities,” said Rapoza. “We know that CDFIs will bring their innovative cultures, their commitment to serving low-income communities and communities of color, and their experience leveraging federal and philanthropic resources with private capital to make such a difference in America’s communities.” DOWNLOAD THE CDFI FUND 30 TH ANNIVERSARY REPORT About the CDFI Coalition Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are lenders with a mission to provide fair, responsible financing to rural, urban, Native and other communities that mainstream finance doesn’t traditionally reach. The CDFI Coalition, formed in 1992, is the unified national voice of community development financial institutions. Our mission is to encourage fair access to financial resources for America’s underserved people and communities. Through its member organizations, the Coalition represents CDFIs working in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. This national network of CDFIs includes community development loan funds, community development banks, community development credit unions, microenterprise lenders, community development corporations and community development venture capital funds. The CDFI Coalition coordinates industry wide initiatives to increase the availability of capital, credit and financial services to low-income communities across the nation. For more information, visit www.CDFI.org Contact Details Greg Wilson +1 571-239-7474 gregwilsonpr@gmail.com

March 14, 2024 11:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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CIOB Report Reveals Construction Industry’s Reluctance to Hire People with Criminal Convictions

Chartered Institute of Building

Just 25 per cent of construction bosses say that they would hire people with a criminal conviction Negative stigma, lack of prior qualifications and fears over existing employees’ safety cited amongst barriers New report says recruiting people with a criminal record could decrease rate of employment for those leaving prison (Currently 74 per cent still unemployed after six months). Government estimates annual cost of reoffending is £18 billion. Negative stigma and a lack of proper training opportunities are blocking many people with criminal records from earning a second chance at life within the construction industry, a Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) report has revealed. The report, called Building Opportunity: Employing People with Criminal Convictions in Construction, shows individuals with a criminal record face significant barriers to gaining employment within the industry including perceived risk to the business by employers and fears about business reputation. It urges the Government to break down barriers and provide more accessible training opportunities to improve individual’s employability and ease the skills shortage in the construction industry. Statistics show nearly 75 per cent of people leaving prison are still without work six months after their release. CIOB says breaking down barriers would lower unemployment amongst people with criminal convictions. Meanwhile, the Government estimates the current cost of re-offending is approximately £18 billion per year. Niamh Evans, Policy and Public Affairs Officer North at CIOB, said more people within the industry should consider an open-minded approach to hiring people looking for a fresh start, adding: “Construction companies across the UK are facing a labour shortage and there is an untapped market of potential candidates waiting to be unearthed. “However, negative stigma and a lack of access to proper training for people in prison means there are many people missing out on a second chance at life. “Companies can proactively show they are willing to consider applicants with a criminal record by making this known on their website and teaming up with organisations that support people with criminal convictions to find work. “While there are some training opportunities available for people with criminal convictions, we would like to see improved access to give more candidates a chance to develop their skills ahead of a rewarding career within construction.” CIOB’s research shows just 25 per cent of construction managers surveyed* would consider hiring a person with an unspent criminal conviction – despite the sector facing a significant labour crisis. Thirty-two per cent of respondents said they would not consider hiring someone with an unspent criminal conviction while 43 per cent said they might. More than 12 million people in the UK currently have a criminal record with hundreds of thousands of convictions remaining unspent – so candidates must declare their convictions when applying for a job. Some survey respondents said they would not hire people with criminal convictions due to the lack of trust in an individual’s behaviour and concerns over existing employees’ safety, particularly in a high-risk environment like a construction site. Despite this CIOB’s report highlights how some construction companies have already enjoyed success through hiring people with criminal convictions and specifically showcases how one large construction company and one much smaller one, are being proactive in this area. They include Williams Homes, based in Bala, Wales, which has taken on several recruits through its work with HMP Berwyn. Owain Williams, joint managing director, added: “Our initiative to provide work experience and training to individuals in our local prison has been incredibly successful. We have gained loyal workers and we have been able to tailor our supply chain to meet the company’s needs, whilst giving back to the community. “Everyone working in the prison academy and on site through temporary release receives a high standard of training. Our colleagues and clients have all supported and embraced the project as it allows us to make an immense difference to the lives of people leaving custody by broadening their career opportunities. “As we have had such a positive experience with this initiative, we are now exploring how to scale up this work and employ more people following their release from prison.” It is estimated 225,000 additional construction workers will be needed to meet demand by 2027, according to data from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). Demand for construction work is likely to increase in the years ahead with significant plans for the regeneration of the built environment in the UK, particularly with the Government’s flagship levelling up agenda and political focus on delivering a faster rate of housebuilding. CIOB obtained its data through a survey of more than 130 construction companies across the UK. To read the report in full, visit: www.ciob.org/industry/research/criminal-convictions-employment Notes to editors * Survey of 270 construction industry representatives across 133 businesses carried out by CIOB in September/October 2023. Other CIOB recommendations include: Construction companies should review the recruitment process to remove unnecessary barriers and look to assess applicants on an individual, case-by-case basis Prisons and training partners should align qualifications and training with construction industry needs, whilst also considering the specific learning requirements for people in custody Improved Government support for individuals leaving custody, including access to appropriate accommodation and financial assistance which is vital for supporting individuals to reintegrate into the workforce. About CIOB The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) stands for the science, ethics and practice of built environments across the world. We have over 47,000 members worldwide and are the world's largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership. Everything we do is to improve the quality of life for those using and creating the built environment. We have a role in the management, leadership, education and development of our industry. For our members, guiding and educating them as they embark on their careers. For policymakers, defining the standards for all to meet. For the public, creating an environment they can live and work in safely, comfortably and confidently. Contact Details For further information please contact Courtney Friday CIOB Media Relations Officer +44 7552 538788 cfriday@ciob.org.uk Company Website https://www.ciob.org/

March 12, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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How AI Could Revolutionize the $25 Billion Property Management Industry

MarketJar

As artificial intelligence (AI) quickly transforms entire sectors, one $25 billion industry is lagging behind. In a world where you can do almost everything with the tap of a button on your phone —order food, call an Uber, make dinner reservations, preheat your oven and even buy a car—the property management industry is stuck in the past and still relying heavily on paper-based transactions, cheque payments, manual amenity bookings, home walk-throughs with clipboard checklists and more. The lack of innovation is not only inefficient, it can be very costly. It also doesn’t fit in with shifting industry dynamics. More and more people are opting to rent instead of buy property and a record number of rental homes and communities are being built across the nation to meet rising demand., Clearly, the need for a streamlined approach that connects the industry from construction to leasing to property management is essential. AI can tap into data on properties, communities, tenants, and markets to tailor tools for property management-specific tasks, like screening tenants, maintenance calendars, collecting rent payments, managing common areas and writing listings. The implementation of AI can also lead to new ways for property managers and developers to make money. According to McKinsey Global Institute, AI could create $110 billion to $180 billion in value for the industry. It could also help companies gain 10% or more in net operating income through more efficient operating models, tenant retention, stronger customer experience, smarter asset selection, and new revenue streams. The problem is, it’s not just about plugging in a technology solution and expecting miracles. Property management companies are quickly learning that applying AI effectively requires a careful approach. It's about aligning the technology closely with business goals to truly unlock its value. As AI development progresses, more tools are being developed that cater to the property management market. That’s where Tribe Property Technologies (TSXV:TRBE) (OTCQB:TRPTF) comes into play. Unlike other companies that offer piecemeal solutions, Tribe Property Technologies offers a full suite of tech-elevated property management solutions that cover everything from pre-construction to post-occupancy. One of these innovative solutions is an AI-powered reporting tool that provides property managers with enhanced reporting and benchmarking capabilities. Tribe simply needs to enter a building’s address and its historical maintenance documents, and its AI will generate a comprehensive report on the building’s past and present issues, insurance information, repair and maintenance expenses, and other details that can empower the condo boards, strata councils and community managers to better understand the operational and financial health of their building. The managers can then optimize forward-looking planning and work to reduce their property’s operational costs. Tribe Makes it Easy to Build, Manage, and Live in Residential Communities Tribe Property Technologies (TSXV:TRBE) (OTCQB:TRPTF) is offering one of the most comprehensive and innovative solutions to an industry in desperate need of change. Tribe offers a range of services and tools tailored to different stakeholders, including Stratas & HomeOwners Associations, (or HOAs), building developers, owners, landlords, and property managers. These tools include council voting tools, AI-powered building health reports, easy payment systems, and more, all aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing the overall living experience. This all-encompassing approach not only cuts customer acquisition costs and improves retention but also enables seamless integration of value-added products and services within the platform. By offering end-to-end solutions for all community living stakeholders, Tribe Property Technologies has established multiple revenue streams. With a focus on market penetration, Tribe has achieved rapid revenue growth and a leading market position, ranking #45 in Canada on the Deloitte Technology Fast 50™ after achieving 361% revenue growth between 2019 and 2022. Backed by an experienced, multi-disciplinary management team, Tribe has a proven aggressive M&A strategy, with plans to expand in the Canadian and US markets. In December, Tribe Property Technologies completed the acquisition of Meritus Group Management, a property management company specializing in tech-driven solutions for condominium and multi-family residential communities. The acquisition expands Tribe’s footprint in Ontario, adding over 5,000 additional homes under its management, and boosts its bottom line. Tribe now manages over 45,000 homes across Canada, with expansion plans into the United States. But that’s just one of the deals in the company’s robust pipeline. Tribe Property has completed 12 acquisitions to date to improve profitability, with efforts focused on workflow optimizations, back-end service consolidation and other cost reduction initiatives. The company plans to continue its M&A growth strategy, focusing on targets that expand its technology and introduce Tribe to new geographical markets. Tribe 's focus on profitability has led to a 34% year-over-year improvement in Adjusted EBITDA in the third quarter of 2023. The company remains dedicated to delivering value to its shareholders and is committed to achieving significant milestones that will solidify its financial stability and maximize shareholder value. Tribe Property Technologies (TSXV:TRBE) (OTCQB:TRPTF) is well-positioned to disrupt the property management industry with its innovative approach, experienced team, and aggressive growth strategy. For further information on Tribe Property 's innovative solutions and projects, please visit https://tribetech.com/ Disclosure: 1) The author of the Article, or members of the author’s immediate household or family, do not own any securities of the companies outlined in this Article. The author determined which companies would be included in this article based on research and understanding of the sector. 2) The Article was issued on behalf of and sponsored by, Tribe Property Technologies Market Jar Media Inc. was paid $1,500 for the production and publishing of this article by Tribe Property Technologies’s Digital Marketing Agency of Record (Native Ads Inc.). 3) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of the author and not Market Jar Media Inc., its directors or officers. The author is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. The author was not paid by Market Jar Media Inc. for this Article. Market Jar Media Inc. was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this Article. Market Jar has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of Market Jar or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Market Jar Media Inc. requires contributing authors to disclose any shareholdings in, or economic relationships with, companies that they write about. Market Jar Media Inc. relies upon the authors to accurately provide this information and Market Jar Media Inc. has no means of verifying its accuracy. 4) The Article does not constitute investment advice. All investments carry risk and each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional. Any action a reader takes as a result of the information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Market Jar Media Inc.'s terms of use and full legal disclaimer as set forth here. This Article is not a solicitation for investment. Market Jar Media Inc. does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on PressReach.com should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Market Jar Media Inc. does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on PressReach.com. 5) Market Jar Media Inc. and its respective directors, officers and employees hold no shares for any company mentioned in the Article. 6) This document contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, (collectively, “forward-looking statements”), which reflect management's expectations regarding Tribe Property Technologies’s future growth, future business plans and opportunities, expected activities, and other statements about future events, results or performance. Wherever possible, words such as “predicts”, “projects”, “targets”, “plans”, “expects”, “does not expect”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “anticipate” or “does not anticipate”, “believe”, “intend” and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative or grammatical variation thereof or other variations thereof, or comparable terminology have been used to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to: (a) revenue generating potential with respect to Tribe Property Technologies’s industry; (b) market opportunity; (c) Tribe Property Technologies’s business plans and strategies; (d) services that Tribe Property Technologies intends to offer; (e) Tribe Property Technologies’s milestone projections and targets; (f) Tribe Property Technologies’s expectations regarding receipt of approval for regulatory applications; (g) Tribe Property Technologies’s intentions to expand into other jurisdictions including the timeline expectations relating to those expansion plans; and (h) Tribe Property Technologies’s expectations with regarding its ability to deliver shareholder value. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management’s experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, as of the date of this document including, without limitation, assumptions about: (a) the ability to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute Tribe Property Technologies’s business plan; (b) that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; (c) Tribe Property Technologies’s ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; (d) the accuracy of budgeted costs and expenditures; (e) Tribe Property Technologies’s ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; (f) political and regulatory stability; (g) the receipt of governmental, regulatory and third-party approvals, licenses and permits on favorable terms; (h) changes in applicable legislation; (i) stability in financial and capital markets; and (j) expectations regarding the level of disruption to as a result of CV-19. Such forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of Tribe Property Technologies to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation: (a) Tribe Property Technologies’s operations could be adversely affected by possible future government legislation, policies and controls or by changes in applicable laws and regulations; (b) public health crises such as CV-19 may adversely impact Tribe Property Technologies’s business; (c) the volatility of global capital markets; (d) political instability and changes to the regulations governing Tribe Property Technologies’s business operations (e) Tribe Property Technologies may be unable to implement its growth strategy; and (f) increased competition.Except as required by law, Tribe Property Technologies undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future event or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Neither does Tribe Property Technologies nor any of its representatives make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, sufficiency or completeness of the information in this document. Neither Tribe Property Technologies nor any of its representatives shall have any liability whatsoever, under contract, tort, trust or otherwise, to you or any person resulting from the use of the information in this document by you or any of your representatives or for omissions from the information in this document. 7) Any graphs, tables or other information demonstrating the historical performance or current or historical attributes of Tribe Property Technologies or any other entity contained in this document are intended only to illustrate historical performance or current or historical attributes of Tribe Property Technologies or such entities and are not necessarily indicative of future performance of Tribe Property Technologies or such entities. 8) Investing is risky. The information provided in this article should not be considered as a substitute for professional financial consultation. Users should be aware that investing in any form carries inherent risks, and as such, there is a possibility of losing some or all of their investment. The value of investments can fluctuate significantly within a short period, and investors must understand that past performance is not indicative of future results. Additionally, users should exercise caution as transactions involving investments may be irreversible, even in cases of fraud or accidental actions. It is crucial to acknowledge that rapidly evolving laws and technical issues can have adverse effects on the usability, transferability, exchangeability, and value of investments. Furthermore, users must be cognizant of potential security risks associated with their investment activities. Individuals are strongly encouraged to conduct thorough research, seek professional advice, and carefully evaluate their risk tolerance before engaging in any investment endeavors. Market Jar Media Inc. is neither an investment adviser nor a broker-dealer. The information presented on the website is provided for informative purposes only and is not to be treated as a recommendation to make any specific investment. No such information on PressReach.com constitutes advice or a recommendation. Contact Details James Young +1 800-340-9767 campaigns@pressreach.com Company Website https://pressreach.com

March 08, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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BRKZ Secures $8m in Series A Funding to Revolutionize the Building Materials Sector in MENA

BRKZ

Total value of the various infrastructure, transport, and building projects across the MENA region is approximately $2.5T. Helping to connect construction businesses with suppliers of building materials, a pioneering B2B construction tech startup BRKZ that specializes in materials procurement for construction projects is today announcing a $8 million investment to empower contractors to reach their full potential. The funding round was co-led by 9900 and BECO Capital, with participation from Aramco’s Wa’ed Ventures, Knollwood Investment Advisory, RZM Investment and MISY Ventures. With this series A funding round, BRKZ has now raised $13.55m in total. BRKZ’s seed round ($5.55m) was led by Better Tomorrow Ventures, with participation from Class 5 Global, Knollwood Investment Advisory, Plus VC, and several other strategic Saudi angel investors. BRKZ was launched in 2022 and founded by Ibrahim Manna, a three-time logistics founder and former Careem executive, to address critical challenges in the construction industry such as fragmented supply chains, operational inefficiencies, and lack of access to finances. The company aims to leverage technology to ensure equitable access to the best market prices for all contractors and is on a mission to build a tech-enabled ecosystem to revolutionize the MENA construction industry. For buyers of building materials, BRKZ offers access to the best prices across a wide pool of suppliers and materials along with multiple delivery and payment options. And importantly, a quick and easy Request for Quotes via WhatsApp or website. Suppliers engage with BRKZ to benefit from access to a wide customer base. The simplified portal for suppliers enables them to customize prices by size, location, and delivery options. To date, BRKZ has facilitated over $170m quotations across nearly 1200 products from more than 350 suppliers. Ibrahim Manna, Founder of BRKZ, commented: “The investment underscores BRKZ's commitment to digitizing buying and selling building materials, promoting transparency, and fostering efficient contractor financing. It comes at a pivotal moment for BRKZ, enabling us to grow further within the $100billion construction market here in KSA. We're set to drive significant change, through tech, across every single touchpoint relevant to how building materials are sourced and supplied in a sector crucial to our economic landscape.” With this new funding, BRKZ is set to deepen its proprietary capabilities, getting closer to being a one-stop-shop for the construction industry, and expand its footprint across Saudi Arabia and beyond. Thus, contributing to the growth and efficiency of the construction sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the MENA region. Dany Farha from BECO Capital said: “The MENA construction market is full of substantial opportunities both for investors and contractors. BRKZ is well placed and capitalized to be the catalyst to boost development. The investment aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, attracting foreign investors and founders to a flourishing construction sector. BRKZ's strategic initiatives are aligned perfectly with our investment philosophy at BECO Capital. We're excited to be part of their journey.” Chris Corbishley, Managing Partner at 9900 added: “At 9900, we focus on ‘big problems’, identifying extraordinary founders solving for externalities across a range of sectors, globally. Nowhere is this more evident than in the construction sector - an industry marred by inefficiencies resulting in an estimated $1.6 trillion in annual losses to economic actors, as well as 5.7 billion metric tonnes of CO2 each year, which accounts for ~26% of global emissions. With their best-in-class procurement platform delivered through the power of technology, we’re excited to be backing Ibrahim and the BRKZ team towards driving positive change for this important economic sector within the MENA region” About BRKZ BRKZ is a B2B construction tech startup revolutionizing the buying and selling of building materials, through a managed marketplace. With a focus on digitization and transparency, BRKZ is committed to providing the best prices and financing solutions to contractors and suppliers in KSA and MENA. BRKZ is backed by leading VCs including 9900, BECO, BetterTomorrow Ventures, Waed, Knollwood Investment Advisory, Class 5 Global, RZM and Plus VC. Reflecting strong confidence in its mission to innovate the construction materials market. For more information please visit: https://brkz.com/en About 9900 9900 Capital is a multi-stage fund based in London, with offices in New York and a growing presence in MENA. Founded in 2023, it is managed by former investors at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the London-based investment firm Hedosophia. Alluding to the firm’s numerical name, which comes from the average number of working days in a lifetime, 9900's mission is to back extraordinary founders tackling 'big problems' across a range of sectors, globally. About BECO Capital Founded in 2012, BECO Capital is one of the first early-stage VC firms to have been founded in the UAE with a focus on MENA. Today, we are one of the largest non-governmental venture firms with c.$450m in assets under management. We’ve had the privilege of partnering early on with the regions’ biggest success stories which has resulted in all our funds being consistently ranked in the top 10% globally in terms of performance. We back early-stage tech entrepreneurs across a wide range of sectors who are tackling massive white spaces, building robust technology, and driving the evolution of the ecosystem in the MENA region and beyond. We support our startups with their overall strategy, fundraising and business development efforts, and provide mentorship and ongoing data analytics and insights. We've invested in 40+ startups and are building a global platform to continuously invest in cutting edge tech. For more information please visit: https://becocapital.com/ Contact Details BRKZ Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://brkz.com/en

March 06, 2024 06:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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The New American Home® 2024

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details News Media Group, Inc. Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

March 04, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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XLRE: An Entrance to Real Estate Investment

Select Sector SPDR

Since the announcement in 2015 of the Real Estate Sector ETF (XLRE), the sector has continued to evolve. This ETF is now more focused on REITs in the Industrial, Data Center and Telecommunications industries. XLRE is a unique investment platform that offers investors an easy and cost-effective way to access the overall Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) market. XLRE is a robust portfolio comprised of 31 REITs. Over 60% of the fund is held in the top ten holdings. List of Top Holdings*: ProLogis (12.56%) American Tower A (9.03%) Equinix Inc (8.45%) Welltower (5.27%) Simon Property A (5.00%) Crown Castle (4.81%) Public Storage (4.60%) Realty Income (4.49%) Digital Realty Trust (4.26%) Costar Group (3.53%) Designed with the goal of providing a diversified yet focused investment opportunity, the fund combines dividend yield with the potential for capital gains. With a low expense ratio of just 0.09%**, XLRE provides an affordable entry point into the various segments of the real estate market. Moreover, the transparency of XLRE sets it apart from other ETFs. Investors are privy to daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings, which provides them with a clear understanding of their investments. For Your Consideration As with all investment vehicles, it's important for investors to be aware that ETFs are subject to certain risks, including loss of principal, sector risk, and non-diversification risk. Therefore, investors are encouraged to carefully consider investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. The S&P 500 Index, an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks widely considered representative of the U.S. stock market, serves as a benchmark for XLRE. This allows investors to align their investments with the broader market trends. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. *Holdings, Weightings & Assets as of 2/22/24 subject to change **Ordinary brokerage fees apply DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007312 EXP 4/30/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

March 01, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Builders Capital the #1 Private Construction Lender Nationwide Raises $2.3 Billion in New Capital

Builders Capital

Builders Capital set a new company record raising an additional $2.3 billion in new Capital in 2023, positioning them as the #1 private construction lender nationwide. “There is a massive need for private capital in light of the housing supply/demand imbalance and regional banking system challenges,” said Robert Trent, CEO of Builders Capital. “We plan to use the capital to expand our platform and continue to provide necessary and creative financing solutions to our homebuilding customers to support the growth and success of their business.” In addition to the amount of capital available, these traits set Builders Capital apart from other lenders demonstrating why they are the industry leader nationwide: Access to significant building material savings through their revolutionary MOR program. Speed and execution towards closing loans on time. Creative financing structures that allow their customers to operate their business more efficiently. Confidence of closing with thousands of loans funded and over $9B in volume. More spec homes and starts with underwriting based on the absorption of the project versus arbitrary restrictions from government-regulated banks. State-of-the-art technology allowing their borrowers 24-hour access to loan details and draws. Anytime draws so vendors can be paid as often as the borrower would like. An In-House Loan Servicing department that provides seamless support post-closing. Last year, Builders Capital expanded its lending and servicing team with the addition of an East Coast headquarters to help deliver robust lending solutions to more builders across the country and meet customer demand. Housing market inventory is scarce and existing for-sale inventory remains near historic lows. Total housing inventory fell to a record low of 910,100 units in December, down 18% from the prior month and 14.2% from a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It was the lowest amount in more than 20 years since the data had been collected. New construction is a smart option for those looking to buy, making it a great time to be in the homebuilding industry. To learn more about Builders Capital and the construction loans they offer to builders and developers, visit builderscapital.com About Builders Capital Builders Capital is the nation's largest private construction lender, offering innovative financing solutions to a wide spectrum of developers and homebuilders. Loan products include options for Acquisition, Development, Construction, and Bridge financing, in the form of single-asset loans, portfolio loans, and revolving credit facilities. In addition to financing opportunities, Builders Capital borrowers can leverage national accounts for material purchase discounts, and access cutting-edge technology for project management, accounting, and BIM technology tools. Builders Capital is headquartered in Puyallup, Washington, with regional sales offices across the country. The management team at Builders Capital brings over 100 years of expertise in residential construction lending, home building, real estate development, and loan servicing. Learn more at: Builderscapital.com About BIMQuote BIMQuote and customhome.ai offer innovative products available to Builders Capital’s builder-borrowers, enabling them to operate more competitively, efficiently, and profitably in their business. BIMQuote offers a full project management and procurement suite, with integrated accounting and automated contracting tools such as lien waivers. Customhome.ai allows for the customization of a 3D digital model of a home and immediately generates a material takeoff as well as site-specific residential designs. Contact Details Joann Whetstine joann.whetstine@builderscapital.com Company Website https://builderscapital.com/

February 27, 2024 07:57 AM Eastern Standard Time

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HomeSphere Revolutionizes Home Product Management With AI-driven My HomeSphere App

HomeSphere

HomeSphere, the foremost platform connecting building product manufacturers to mid-market homebuilders, today launched My HomeSphereTM, an industry-changing mobile app and product suite designed to bring transparency and efficiency to home product management. Unlike any other product available today, the app benefits players along the homebuilding and buying supply chain, with distinct value to builders, manufacturers and homeowners. Visit HomeSphere at the NAHB International Builders’ Show in Booth W4051 in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. My HomeSphere: Transforming Home Product Information The My HomeSphere product suite empowers builders to use their smartphones to capture essential information about products in new homes while on-site, during installation. The data, encompassing appliances, HVAC systems, windows, doors, smart technology and more, syncs seamlessly with HomeSphere’s platform. HomeSphere’s proprietary AI automatically logs model and serial numbers, registers and tracks warranties in a single platform, and creates a comprehensive digital record of the home — with little effort from the builder or homeowner. “HomeSphere is the only company positioned to change data collection for the industry,” said HomeSphere CEO Greg Schwarzer. “We store the largest volume of U.S. home product information through our strong relationships with thousands of homebuilders and building product manufacturers, and we know what’s broken in the supply chain. My HomeSphere is the technology to fix it.” Changing the Landscape of Home Product Management My HomeSphere has the potential to redefine how building products are sourced, tracked and maintained, ushering in a new digital era for the home construction industry. Key Features of My HomeSphere: Creates a first-of-its-kind digital record of a home's products Enhances transparency within home product management Breaks down longstanding supply-chain silos in residential construction Addressing Industry Challenges Before My HomeSphere, builders installed products in homes without knowing how they performed, product manufacturers lacked clarity on product usage, and homeowners were left to fend for themselves, wading through a drawer full of manuals and registration cards. With My HomeSphere: Builders get a precise inventory of products installed in completed homes, simplifying after-sales issue resolution and increasing customer satisfaction. Homeowners gain “at their fingertips” information about the products in their homes so they can capitalize on valuable extended warranty opportunities, typically unclaimed. Building product manufacturers have — for the first time — clarity into where products are being used and by whom, facilitating customer relationships, mitigating risks and managing issues such as product defects or recalls. The Future of Home Product Management In the short term, My HomeSphere streamlines a fragmented supply chain burdened with outdated tracking methods. In the long term, HomeSphere anticipates further technological advancements to create an expansive network connecting the country’s 140 million homeowners with the manufacturers, contractors and installers that keep their homes running. “Each year in the U.S., millions of new homes are built, with an average of 15 branded products per home,” said HomeSphere Executive Chairman Glenn Renner. “No single company has ever captured this product data, yet it represents unprecedented value to homeowners, builders and product manufacturers. Our mission is to change that with a digital record of the U.S. housing stock accessible to millions of homeowners and the entire universe of builders, contractors and manufacturers. The My HomeSphere technology, paired with our experience, uniquely positioned us to execute this industry-changing vision.” About HomeSphere HomeSphere is a leading data platform connecting the residential construction industry. With 25 years of experience, HomeSphere aggregates data on products installed in over 250,000 homes annually, fostering transparency and efficiency throughout the process, from the product manufacturer to its end user, the homeowner. My HomeSphere represents a leap forward in home product management, revolutionizing how information is sourced, tracked and maintained. Contact Details Tracy Henderson +1 720-989-3530 tracy@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://www.homesphere.com/

February 26, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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HomeSphere and Aterra Designs Partner To Offer Homebuilders Electrical Planning and Design

HomeSphere

HomeSphere, the leading platform connecting building product manufacturers to mid-market homebuilders, today announced its latest partnership with a homebuilding industry service provider. Aterra Designs will offer its high-end residential lighting, electrical, and home automation design services, including Aterra Premium, Luminosity, and I3 Interactive Floor Plans, to HomeSphere’s network of 2,700+ builders who collectively construct more homes than the top five public builders combined. “Aterra Designs is the ideal partner as we continue to add products and services that greatly benefit the construction industry,” said HomeSphere President and CEO Greg Schwarzer. “This latest partnership demonstrates our commitment to unlock the unprecedented value of HomeSphere’s platform for more key constituents in homebuilding.” Single-family and multifamily builders use the HomeSphere platform to gain a competitive advantage. Aterra Designs aligns with that goal with a program that streamlines home lighting and electrical planning by connecting the home buyer, contractor and builder. Their proprietary software integrates with any trade or manufacturer, but HomeSphere builders have an exclusive opportunity to increase returns when they pair brands like Leviton Manufacturing and Progress Lighting with Aterra’s services. “Historically, our builders have doubled and sometimes even tripled their sales of lighting, electrical and home technologies. All this, along with receiving better documentation which reduces field errors,” said Aterra Designs President Paul Salmonson. “We look forward to extending this opportunity to HomeSphere builders so they can improve their profitability, connect to a new way of lighting their homes, and create a better customer experience.” Aterra Designs’ recently revamped Luminosity services offer a virtual electrical design tool with real-time lighting and pricing tied directly into the supply chain. Based on builder options, Luminosity generates orders and trade-specific information for installation, purchase orders, and bills of materials, saving homebuilders additional time and costs while increasing the beauty and efficiency of a new home. “We are continually adding valuable partnerships that enable our builders to construct better homes, improve margins and increase customer satisfaction,” said Schwarzer. “Aterra is a new offering, a new category and their services give our builders a new way to attract buyers. It's a win-win-win.” About HomeSphere Established in 1999, HomeSphere connects local and regional homebuilders to exclusive rebate offerings. HomeSphere’s builder network constructs and closes more than 250,000 new homes and units per year, making it the largest homebuilding group in the country by volume. Using HomeSphere-HQ, HomeSphere’s award-winning rebate management platform, builders capture incentives on completed homes, discover new products for their future projects and develop key relationships with the 80-plus manufacturers in HomeSphere’s preferred partner network. For more information about HomeSphere’s products and solutions for homebuilders and manufacturers, visit www.homesphere.com. About Aterra Designs For 25 years, Aterra Designs has brought home builders, contractors, and home buyers together to achieve a common goal: Creating homes as unique as their owners. Our residential designers are experts in lighting, electrical, and home automation design. As such, they can provide a range of coordinated options and create customized lighting solutions. Our focus on maximizing efficiency simplifies the building process and saves time, all while mitigating field errors. And, because we partner directly with top manufacturers, our design consultants can offer innovative new products to home buyers, allowing them to create the home that meets their specific needs. For more information on lighting and electrical solutions, visit www.aterradesigns.com. Contact Details Tracy Henderson +1 720-989-3530 tracy@centerreachcommunication.com Company Website https://www.homesphere.com/

February 21, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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