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Avnet and HKSTP Invite Global Startups to New AI Hardware Launchpad

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HONG KONG, May 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Avnet (NASDAQ: AVT), a leading global technology distributor and solutions provider, in collaboration with Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP)  and the Emerging Microelectronics and Ubiquitous Systems Laboratory (EMUS Lab), today announced the launch of the 12-month DfMA Launchpad for AI MMP Programme (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly Launchpad for AI Minimum Marketable Product). The programme is now open for applications from startups worldwide.

Positioned as a co-incubation programme, the initiative is designed to support both local and international startups in accelerating the commercialisation of AI innovations, with a focus on Edge AI, Physical AI, and high-performance computing (HPC), while exposing startups to global market access and supply chain integration. Leveraging Hong Kong as a strategic gateway to Greater Bay Area, the programme provides participating startups with global market exposure, direct access to experienced industry partners and supply chains.

By combining Avnet’s global technology expertise and supply chain capabilities, EMUS Lab’s advanced research infrastructure, co-established by Avnet and the University of Hong Kong (HKU), and HKSTP’s established incubation ecosystem, the programme aims to connect startups with relevant industry, research, and manufacturing partners, with the goal of turning prototype products into market-ready solutions.

Arthur Chung, Vice President, Sales and Supplier Management, Asia at Avnet, said: “Our collaboration with HKSTP, HKU and EMUS Lab brings together global technology expertise, advanced research capabilities, and a strong innovation ecosystem. By supporting startups from development through to production, we aim to accelerate the journey from innovation to scalable, market-ready solutions across Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and beyond.”

Derek Chim, Head of Startup Ecosystem & Development of HKSTP, said: “This partnership with Avnet and EMUS Lab, which is strategically located at the HKSTP Data Technology Hub, provides startups with access to critical infrastructure, technical expertise, and industry networks. It strengthens Hong Kong’s position as a leading global innovation hub while accelerating the commercialisation of next-generation AI hardware solutions through collaborative ecosystem building and market linkage.”

Focus Areas: Edge AI, Physical AI and High-Performance Computing

The programme targets three critical technology domains that underpin next-generation AI hardware deployment:

Edge AI: Enabling real-time intelligence at the device level across applications such as smart cities, industrial automation, retail, and healthcarePhysical AI: Powering robotics, autonomous systems, and intelligent machines through the integration of software and physical environmentsHigh-performance computing (HPC): Supporting AI model training, simulation, and large-scale data processing with advanced compute infrastructure

Startup Support: Funding, Technical Expertise and Global Market Access

Selected startups will receive comprehensive support designed to accelerate product development and go-to-market readiness, including:

Potential funding of up to HKD 100,000 (subject to HKSTP Ideation Programme terms)Access to EMUS Lab and Hong Kong Science Park facilitiesOne-on-one technical mentorship from Avnet engineers and HKU expertsSupport in AI model optimisation, hardware–software co-design, and system validationAccess to Avnet’s global ecosystem of OEMs, enterprise customers, and investorsAccess to co-creation opportunities offered through HKSTP’s extensive co-development partner network

EMUS Lab: Advancing AI Research and Talent Development

Since its establishment, EMUS Lab has demonstrated measurable impact in advancing AI research and talent development. The lab’s research, powered by Avnet-sponsored GPU infrastructure, has resulted in top-tier publications in Nature family journals and elite conference presentations at ICLR and ICML. Furthermore, the lab has engaged more than 260 students through STEM initiatives, contributing to the growth of Hong Kong’s innovation talent pool.

These achievements demonstrate EMUS Lab’s ability to translate advanced research into real-world AI innovation and startup outcomes. The upcoming grand opening will further showcase how this four-pillar collaboration model translates research into innovation, talent development, and startup creation.

Eligibility and Application

Applications for the DfMA Launchpad for AI MMP Programme will open on 1 May 2026 and close on 29 May 2026. Eligible applicants should have a functional prototype or early-stage product aligned with Edge AI, Physical AI, or HPC, and demonstrate readiness to enter or expand into the Hong Kong market. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews scheduled for 2–3 July 2026, which may be conducted either online or on site. The interview panel will comprise two representatives from Avnet or Avnet’s partners, together with two representatives from HKSTP. Final results will be announced on 13 July 2026.

Overseas startups selected for the programme will be required to establish a Hong Kong entity to ensure local ecosystem participation and impact.

For full programme details and application guidelines, visit: https://www.avnet.com/apac/resources/hkstp-co-incubation-program/ 

About Avnet

As a leading global technology distributor and solutions provider, Avnet has served customers’ evolving needs for more than a century. Through regional and specialised businesses around the world, we support customers and suppliers at every stage of the product lifecycle. We help companies adapt to change and accelerate the design and supply stages of product development. With a unique viewpoint from the center of the technology supply chain, Avnet is a trusted partner that solves complex design and supply chain issues so customers can realize revenue faster. Learn more about Avnet at www.avnet.com.

About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 17,000 research professionals and over 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.

Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

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The Ultimate Send-off to Summer: CSTS Debuts Global Entertainment IP PremierX at New York’s Pier 17, Ushering in a New Era of Live Entertainment

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NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CSTS Enterprises (‘CSTS’), a New York-based sports, entertainment, integrated media and travel technology group, today announced the official launch of PremierXTM, its flagship live entertainment brand, with a landmark Halloween Weekend event “AFTER DARK” at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York on October 30, 2026.

Capping off Seaport’s 2026 Summer Season in unforgettable fashion, the grand finale brings a powerhouse lineup of stars to the PremierXTM stage at Pier 17, featuring Lil Xan, Armani White, DJ Soda, Nate Wyatt, and surprise A-list guest headliners. Set against the iconic Manhattan skyline, the landmark eventing unites chart-topping hip-hop and high-octane electronic music for a festival-grade experience as The Rooftop at Pier 17 transforms into the city’s premier live music destination.

Building on the momentum of the PremierXTM After Party for the 2026 World Cup Final that took place in New York on July 19th, “AFTER DARK” signals the official debut of PremierXTM, a proprietary, New York – born global entertainment IP created by CSTS to deliver defining cultural experiences at the intersection of music, sport, art and lifestyle. Centred on the power of cultural crossover, PremierXTM serves as an international bridge connecting East and West, modern innovation and timeless classical, while uniting world-class artists, creators, performers and audiences through the universal language of entertainment and premium live experiences.

The launch also marks the beginning of a promising relationship with Pier 17, providing a world-class stage for PremierXTM to accelerate its growth in the U.S. and engage international audiences over the long term. By combining PremierXTM’s global entertainment vision with Pier 17’s iconic waterfront setting, the partnership aims to create a premier destination for live experiences, empowering both platforms to expand their global reach, deepen audience engagement, and drive sustainable growth.

As a key pillar of CSTS’ integrated ecosystem spanning entertainment, sports, travel, integrated media and marketing solutions, PremierXTM further strengthens the Group’s ability to create high-impact experiences that connect audiences, destinations and brand partners. With the global live entertainment market projected to grow from approximately US$203 billion in 2025 to US$270 billion by 2030[1], PremierXTM is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for premium, experience-led entertainment while creating long-term value to the Group through recurring audience engagement, tourism and brand partnerships.

“PremierX TM represents a significant milestone in CSTS’ evolution from a leading operator of global sports and hospitality platforms into a creator of world-class entertainment experiences,” said Abel Zhao, Group CEO and Executive Director at CSTS Enterprises. “The season finale at Pier17 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for CSTS as we expand our entertainment footprint and introduce a platform designed to deliver iconic live experiences and bring together artists and audiences from across the globe.”

“PremierXTM was built from the ground up as a bespoke platform to champion multicultural talent and visionary creative performers.” said Jason Liu, Regional Director of CSTS USA. “Starting from New York, we are building a scalable global brand that brings iconic live experiences to audiences worldwide while expanding our presence across key entertainment hubs in North America, Asia and Europe.”

Following its New York launch, PremierXTM plans to expand through a broader international rollout across North America, Asia and Europe, with future editions planned as part of a growing network of recurring live entertainment properties and flagship cultural events.

For ticket information on PremierXTM: “AFTER DARK”, visit
https://www.axs.com/events/1644912/after-dark-tickets

About CSTS Enterprises

CSTS Enterprises is an integrated media, entertainment, sports, and travel technology group. Headquartered in New York City, the company develops and partners with intellectual properties and brands to deliver compelling experiences that connect with audiences across the world. In addition to its own initiatives, including Generation CTM and PremierXTM, it collaborates with international IPs including FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and Formula 1.

CSTS integrates experiential marketing, travel, data, and technology to deliver seamless end-to-end audience experiences. The company engages consumers across physical events and digital channels, executing at scale worldwide, turning complex activations into co-ordinated, measurable outcomes.

[1] Source: Industry research by Markets and Markets, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030.

 

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Swanson Vitamins Launches Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro to Champion Registered Dietitians and Licensed Nutritionists at Every Stage of Their Careers

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New network for health and nutrition professionals offers CPEU-accredited continuing education, profession-wide promotion, practicum support and exam scholarships

FARGO, N.D., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Swanson Vitamins today launched Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, a network for health and nutrition professionals. The new initiative champions registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists through every stage of their careers, from students to providers with decades of experience. Created by nutrition professionals for nutrition professionals, Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers educational resources, incentives and investments to support practitioners who share Swanson’s commitment to uncompromising integrity.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers tailored resources for both practicing professionals and students. For practicing registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists, the program provides CPEU-accredited continuing education, along with profession-wide promotion of the experts who guide consumers’ wellness decisions. For dietetics and nutrition students, Swanson is investing in the next generation of the profession through practicum support and scholarships toward licensing or credentialing exam fees.

As consumers take a more active role in their health, they are increasingly turning to registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists for accurate, science-backed guidance. Through Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, Swanson aims to help nutrition professionals strengthen their credentials and build expertise in areas where consumers are seeking trusted nutritional support.

“Since 1969, we have been committed to uncompromising integrity in service of everyone’s journey to real wellness, and we believe real wellness starts with the experts who guide it,” said Erin Del Ponte, EVP Brand Marketing at Swanson Vitamins. “Registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists translate nutrition science into practical, personalized guidance that helps people make informed decisions about their health. With Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, we are proud to support these professionals at every stage of their careers, from students preparing for their credentialing exams to seasoned providers building expertise in the areas that matter most to consumers today.”

Swanson Nexus Pro program highlights

CPEU-accredited continuing education for registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsProfession-wide promotion of registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsPracticum support for dietetics and nutrition studentsScholarships to help offset licensing or credentialing exam fees

Applications for Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro are open and can be submitted HERE. Additional details, including scholarship award amounts and practicum support details, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro was introduced at the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ annual conference, held Oct. 24-27 in San Antonio. This initiative builds on Swanson’s longstanding commitment to the nutrition and dietetics community and reflects the company’s continued investment in the professionals who help consumers make informed choices on their journey to real wellness.

Media Assets
Photos HERE

About Swanson Vitamins
Since 1969, Swanson Vitamins has offered high-quality, science-backed vitamins and supplements rooted in one simple belief: proof over promise. Nearly six decades before “wellness” became an industry, Swanson was pioneering trustworthy supplement offerings and upholding uncompromising quality standards through intentional sourcing, rigorous in-house and third-party testing and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Today, Swanson is a Certified GMP Facility recognized by NSF, backed by an in-house team of nutritionists, dietitians, scientists, chemists and pharmacists with a combined 250-plus years of experience. With more than 1,300 products across 36 categories, Swanson doesn’t chase trends. It sets standards for integrity, quality and clarity in the supplement industry.

Swanson products are available at SwansonVitamins.com, Amazon and iHerb.com. Learn more at SwansonVitamins.com or follow @swansonvitamins on Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lauren Torrez, Crowe PR
ltorrez@crowepr.com 

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Technology Drives the Future of Travel: JETOUR Continues to Expand Its “Travel+” Ecosystem

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WUHU, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Expectations for travel are evolving: vehicles are no longer simply a means of reaching a destination, but travel companions that bring people closer to nature, serving as a “mobile third space.”

JETOUR continues to advance its “Travel+” strategy, integrating technological innovation, product development, and ecosystem building into real travel scenarios. From October 20 to 23, the 2026 JETOUR Global Technology Experience Day, themed “Future Travel Starts Now,” takes place across Wuhu, Anhui and Moganshan, Zhejiang, featuring technology experiences, on-road driving, outdoor living, and conservation activities.

Technological Innovation: Expanding the Possibilities of Travel

Backed by the Group’s expertise in AI, intelligent driving, smart cabins, and AiMOGA Robotics, JETOUR turns cutting-edge technology into experiences users can genuinely feel. The XWD Fully Automatic Intelligent 4WD, with 7+X one-touch modes, tackles mountain roads, gravel, and water crossings, while the GAIA All-Terrain Intelligent Architecture adapts to diverse terrain and C-DM hybrid technology balances performance with efficiency. On October 21, models with these technologies take on mountain-road test drives at Moganshan.

A Diverse Product Lineup: Enriching the Travel Experience

The G700 combines premium comfort with hardcore off-road capability, while the T1 and T2 suit both urban driving and light off-road adventures. Roof tents, onboard refrigerators, and other ecosystem equipment turn the vehicle into an all-round companion. JETOUR also hosts a camping market and a Starry Night Forum, bringing product features into real travel settings.

Ecosystem: Extending the Value of Travel

Travel is about understanding cultures and protecting nature as well as exploration. Participants visit Xiazhu Lake in Zhejiang for a crested ibis conservation initiative. Globally, JETOUR supports cheetah conservation in Africa, turtle conservation in Malaysia, harpy eagle conservation in Panama, and protection of Pakistan’s national animal, the markhor.

JETOUR has also partnered with Chile’s Colo-Colo, FIBA, and the Malaysia Marathon, broadening engagement with local culture, sport, and communities — giving “Travel+” an ever richer meaning.

JETOUR now joins travelers worldwide across city, mountain, and wetland, exploring new possibilities through the deeper integration of technology and travel.

ABOUT JETOUR

Launched in 2018, JETOUR follows the “Travel+” strategy and has entered over 100 countries and regions, with 2,000+ sales and after-sales outlets. Its lineup includes the T Series for light off-road and the G Series for the premium luxury off-road market, covering urban commuting, family road trips, outdoor camping, and long-distance journeys.

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