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Velo3D Announces First Quarter 2026 Financial Results

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3 months ago

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Revenue of $13.8 million, up 48% year-over-yearGross margin of 17.2%Reaffirms outlook for 2026 revenue between $60 million and $70 million and to turn EBITDA positive in the second half of 2026

FREMONT, Calif., May 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Velo3D, Inc. (Nasdaq: VELO) (“Velo3D” or the “Company”), a leader in additive manufacturing (“AM”) technology known for transforming aerospace and defense supply chains through world-class metal AM, today announced financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2026. 

Recent Business Developments

Awarded a $9.8 million, five-year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract supporting the Defense Logistics Agency’s (DLA) Joint Additive Manufacturing Acceptability (JAMA) Pilot Parts Program, an initiative aimed at accelerating adoption of additively manufactured components across Department of War sustainment operations.Appointed Jim Suva as Chief Financial Officer.Closed a firm commitment underwritten registered direct offering in April 2026 of 3,571,428 shares of common stock, with gross proceeds of approximately $50 million. 

“For the first quarter, we delivered a strong start to 2026 with revenue up 48% year‑over‑year, reflecting recent sales momentum and disciplined execution across our end markets,” said Arun Jeldi, CEO of Velo3D. “Importantly, we achieved positive gross margin this quarter, a key inflection point that validates our operating model as we scale production and continue to drive cost efficiency. With a robust pipeline of opportunities, we believe we have a solid foundation for continued growth.”

“Demand remains particularly strong in defense and aerospace, where customers are prioritizing scalable, high‑performance additive manufacturing solutions. To support this demand and accelerate our expansion, we completed a successful equity offering in April, securing additional capital to invest in talent and operational infrastructure. We believe our competitive position is strengthening as we deepen customer relationships and expand into new programs. We remain focused on executing our expansion plans to capture these opportunities and drive long‑term value creation.”

($ in Millions, except percentages and per-share data)

1st Quarter 2026

1st Quarter 2025

GAAP revenue

$13.8

$9.3

GAAP gross margin

17.2 %

7.5 %

GAAP net loss1

($7.0)

($25.0)

GAAP net loss per share  – basic and diluted

($0.28)

($1.87)

Non-GAAP net loss1,2

($5.1)

($9.0)

Non-GAAP net loss per share  – basic and diluted1,2

($0.20)

($0.67)

Information about Velo3D’s use of non-GAAP information, including a reconciliation to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), is provided at the end of this release under “Non-GAAP Financial Information”. The non-GAAP financial measures presented in this release should not be considered as the sole measure of the Company’s performance and should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP.

Non-GAAP net loss and non-GAAP net loss per basic and diluted share exclude stock-based compensation expense, loss on warrant cancellation, fair value adjustments for the Company’s warrants and earnout liabilities, impairment of equipment subject to operating lease, and non-routine inventory adjustments for excess and obsolete inventory.

Summary of First Quarter 2026 Results 

Total Revenue was $13.8 million. 3D Printer and parts revenue increased 60% compared to the first quarter of 2025, driven by an increase in the average selling price, number of systems sold, and an increase in RPS revenues. While system sales are expected to remain the primary driver of revenue in 2026, the Company anticipates that, under its new go-to-market strategy, its RPS parts production business will contribute an increasing share of revenue. 

Gross margin for the first quarter was 17.2% compared to 7.5% in the first quarter of 2025. This change was primarily driven by the higher average selling price of Sapphire XC systems and increased RPS volume.

Operating expenses for the first quarter were $9.3 million compared to $12.2 million in the first quarter of 2025. Non-GAAP adjusted operating expenses, excluding stock-based compensation recorded in operating expenses of $1.2 million, were $8.1 million, down from $8.8 million in the first quarter of 2025. 

GAAP net loss for the first quarter was ($7.0) million compared to ($25.0) million in the first quarter of 2025. Non-GAAP net loss for the first quarter was ($5.1) million compared to ($9.0) million in the three months ended March 31, 2025. Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was ($3.6) million compared to ($6.9) million in the first quarter of 2025. For more information regarding the Company’s non-GAAP financial measures, see “Non-GAAP Financial Information” below.

As of March 31, 2026, the Company had $16.6 million of cash and cash equivalents, compared to $39.0 million as of December 31, 2025. As of March 31, 2026, the Company had $12 million in new bookings and ending backlog of $30 million.

“On April 27, 2026, the Company closed a firm commitment underwritten registered direct offering of 3,571,428 shares of its common stock, with gross proceeds of approximately $50 million,” said Jim Suva, CFO of Velo3D. “During the first quarter of 2026, the Company also completed debt-to-equity conversions totaling principal of $15 million, including $5 million converted at a premium to the Company’s share price on the date of conversion, and full repayment of the secured notes. As a result, we reduced our outstanding debt by approximately 70% to approximately $9 million.”

Guidance

Management reiterates expectations for the full year 2026 to include:

Revenue in the range of $60 million to $70 million.Sequential improvement in gross margin.Greater than 30% gross margin in second half of 2026.Non-GAAP adjusted operating expenses in the range of $45 million to $55 million.Capital expenditures in the range of $40 million to $50 million, primarily for RPS expansion, subject to the availability of sufficient financing.Positive EBITDA in the second half of 2026.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call for investors to discuss its first quarter 2026 financial results at 5 p.m. Eastern time / 2 p.m. Pacific time on May 12, 2026. The call will be webcast and can be accessed from the Events page of the Investor Relations section of Velo3D’s website at ir.velo3d.com.

About Velo3D:

Velo3D is a metal 3D printing technology company that enables customers to build mission-critical metal parts. The fully integrated solution includes the Flow print preparation software, the Sapphire® family of printers, and the Assure quality control system—all of which are powered by Velo3D’s Intelligent Fusion® manufacturing process.

Amounts herein pertaining to the Company’s first quarter ended March 31, 2026 results represent a preliminary estimate as of the date of this earnings release and may be revised upon filing of our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Additional information on our results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2026 will be provided upon the filing of our Quarterly  Report on Form 10-Q with the SEC.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company’s actual results may differ from its expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect”, “estimate”, “project”, “budget”, “forecast”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “plan”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “should”, “believes”, “predicts”, “potential”, “continue”, and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the Company’s guidance for fiscal year 2026 (including the Company’s estimates for revenue, gross margin, operating expenses, and capital expenditures), the Company’s expectations regarding its ability to achieve positive EBITDA in the second half of 2026,  the Company’s expectations about future demand, growth, profitability, long-term value, capacity requirements and operational efficiencies, scaled production, pipeline of opportunities, customer priorities, positive gross margins, the Company’s expectations regarding its liquidity and capital requirements, including plans to raise additional capital to support its expansion and the potential sources and uses of that capital, the Company’s expectations regarding its potential cost savings, the Company’s expectations about its market strategy and financial and operational position, the Company’s expectations that the RPS parts production business will contribute an increasing share of revenue, and the Company’s other expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies for the future. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 (the “FY 2025 10-K”) and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q (“Quarterly Reports”) and the other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Most of these factors are outside the Company’s control and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (1) the inability of the Company to execute its business plan, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the Company’s liquidity position/lack of available cash, the ability of the Company to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and retain its key employees; (2) the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; (3) the Company’s ability to service and comply with its indebtedness; (4) the Company’s ability to raise additional capital in the near-term; (5) the possibility that the Company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (6) changes in the applicable laws and regulations; (7) risks related to the Company’s exposure to government and defense contracts, including potential delays or reductions in government funding, government shutdowns, changes in defense procurement priorities or spending levels, and the timing and uncertainty of government contract awards and modifications; and (8) other risks and uncertainties described in the FY 2025 10-K and the Quarterly Reports, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and in the Company’s other filings with the SEC. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive and not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, including projections, which speak only as of the date made. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by applicable law.

Non-GAAP Financial Information

The information in the table below sets forth the non-GAAP financial measures that the Company uses in this release. Because of the inherent limitations associated with these non-GAAP financial measures, “Non-GAAP Net Loss”, “Non-GAAP net loss per basic and diluted share”, “EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA” and “Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Expenses”, should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for performance measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures may differ from, and should not be compared to, similarly named measures used by other companies. The Company compensates for these limitations by relying primarily on its GAAP results and using Non-GAAP Net Loss, Non-GAAP net loss per basic and diluted share, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Expenses on a supplemental basis. You should review the reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures below and not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate the Company’s business.

Management believes adjusted “Non-GAAP Net Loss”, “Non-GAAP net loss per basic and diluted share”, “EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA” and “Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Expenses” are useful to investors because they allow for comparison to the Company’s performance in prior periods without the effect of items that, by their nature, tend to obscure the Company’s core operating results due to potential variability across periods based on the timing, frequency and magnitude of such items. As a result, management believes that these measures enhance the ability of investors to analyze trends in the Company’s business and evaluate the Company’s performance relative to peer companies.

Reconciliations of the differences between these non-GAAP financial measures and their most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP are set forth below.

The Company’s non-GAAP adjusted operating expenses are calculated by excluding stock-based compensation recorded in operating expenses. The Company’s non-GAAP EBITDA is calculated by excluding interest expense, provision (benefit) for income taxes, and depreciation and amortization.  With respect to the Company’s 2026 financial guidance regarding non-GAAP adjusted operating expenses and non-GAAP EBITDA, the Company cannot provide a quantitative reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP measure without unreasonable effort due to its inability to make accurate projections and estimates related to certain information needed to calculate some of the adjustments as described above.

Velo3D, Inc.

Non-GAAP Net Loss Reconciliation

(Unaudited)

 

Three months ended

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

March 31, 2025

($ In thousands)

% of Rev

% of Rev

% of Rev

Revenue

$

13,816

100.0

%

$

9,441

100.0

%

$

9,320

100.0

%

Gross profit (loss)

2,381

17.2

%

(6,946)

(73.6)

%

697

7.5

%

Net Loss

$

(6,998)

(50.7)

%

$

(21,897)

(231.9)

%

$

(25,014)

(268.4)

%

Stock-based compensation

1,889

13.7

%

2,175

23.0

%

3,596

38.6

%

Loss on warrant cancellation

—

—

%

—

—

%

11,357

121.9

%

Loss on fair value of warrants

—

—

%

96

1.0

%

1,044

11.2

%

Impairment of equipment subject to operating lease

—

—

%

1,066

11.3

%

—

—

%

Gain on fair value of contingent earnout liabilities

—

—

%

(10)

(0.1)

%

—

—

%

Non-routine inventory adjustment for excess and obsolete inventory

—

—

%

6,979

73.9

%

—

—

%

Non-GAAP Net Loss

$

(5,109)

(37.0)

%

$

(11,591)

(122.8)

%

$

(9,017)

(96.7)

%

 

Velo3D, Inc.

Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation

(Unaudited)

 

Three months ended

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

March 31, 2025

($ In thousands)

% of Rev

% of Rev

% of Rev

Revenue

$

13,816

100.0

%

$

9,441

100.0

%

$

9,320

100.0

%

Net Loss

(6,998)

(50.7)

%

(21,897)

(231.9)

%

(25,014)

(268.4)

%

Interest expense

733

5.3

%

524

5.6

%

1,070

11.5

%

Provision (benefit) for income taxes

26

0.2

%

34

0.4

%

8

0.1

%

Depreciation and amortization

762

5.5

%

1,026

10.9

%

995

10.7

%

EBITDA

$

(5,477)

(39.6)

%

$

(20,313)

(215.2)

%

$

(22,941)

(246.1)

%

Stock-based compensation

1,889

13.7

%

2,175

23.0

%

3,596

38.6

%

Loss on warrant cancellation

—

—

%

—

—

%

11,357

121.9

%

Loss on fair value of warrants

—

—

%

96

1.0

%

1,044

11.2

%

Impairment of equipment subject to operating lease

—

—

%

1,066

11.3

%

—

—

%

Gain on fair value of contingent earnout liabilities

—

—

%

(10)

(0.1)

%

—

—

%

Non-routine inventory adjustment for excess and obsolete inventory

—

—

%

6,979

73.9

%

—

—

%

Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA

$

(3,588)

(26.0)

%

$

(10,007)

(106.0)

%

$

(6,944)

(74.5)

%

 

Velo3D, Inc.

Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Expenses Reconciliation

(Unaudited)

 

Three months ended

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

March 31, 2025

($ In thousands)

% of Rev

% of Rev

% of Rev

Revenue

$

13,816

100.0

%

$

9,441

100.0

%

$

9,320

100.0

%

Operating expenses

Research and development

2,695

19.5

%

3,283

34.8

%

2,059

22.1

%

Selling and marketing

1,721

12.5

%

2,415

25.6

%

1,086

11.7

%

General and administrative

4,912

35.6

%

9,163

97.1

%

9,076

97.4

%

Total operating expenses

$

9,328

67.5

%

$

14,861

157.4

%

$

12,221

131.1

%

Stock-based compensation recorded in operating expenses

1,246

9.0

%

1,533

16.2

%

3,387

36.3

%

Non-GAAP Adjusted operating expenses

$

8,082

58.5

%

$

13,328

141.2

%

$

8,834

94.8

%

 

Velo3D, Inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

 

The three months ended March 31,

2026

2025

Revenue

3D Printer and parts

$

12,021

$

7,523

Recurring payment

—

—

Support services

1,269

1,790

Other

526

7

Total Revenue

13,816

9,320

Cost of revenue

3D Printer and parts

10,225

7,540

Recurring payment

—

12

Support services

1,210

1,071

Total cost of revenue

11,435

8,623

Gross profit

2,381

697

Operating expenses

Research and development

2,695

2,059

Selling and marketing

1,721

1,086

General and administrative

4,912

9,076

Total operating expenses

9,328

12,221

Loss from operations

(6,947)

(11,524)

Interest expense

(733)

(1,070)

Loss on fair value of warrants

—

(1,044)

Loss on warrant cancellation

—

(11,357)

Other income (expense), net

708

(11)

Loss before income taxes

(6,972)

(25,006)

Provision for income taxes

(26)

(8)

Net loss

$

(6,998)

$

(25,014)

Net loss per share:

    Basic and Diluted

$

(0.28)

$

(1.87)

Shares used in computing net loss per share:

    Basic and Diluted

25,021,065

13,398,104

 

Velo3D, Inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

 

March 31,

December 31,

2026

2025

Assets

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$

16,564

$

39,013

Accounts receivable, net

6,732

6,263

Inventories, net

28,104

27,083

Contract assets

4,120

2,039

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

9,650

5,722

Total current assets

65,170

80,120

Property and equipment, net

16,387

13,094

Equipment subject to operating lease, net

1,054

1,629

Other assets

9,793

10,505

Total assets

$

92,404

$

105,348

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable

$

9,089

$

10,301

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

6,655

7,915

Debt – current portion

3,135

6,305

Contract liabilities

7,739

9,281

Total current liabilities

26,618

33,802

Long-term debt – less current portion

6,037

24,710

Contingent earnout liabilities

1

1

Warrant liabilities

109

109

Other noncurrent liabilities

8,099

8,570

Total liabilities

40,864

67,192

Stockholders’ equity:

Common stock, $0.00001 par value  – 500,000,000 shares authorized at March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, 26,216,822 and 24,607,630 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively

5

5

Additional paid-in capital

556,676

536,294

Accumulated deficit

(505,141)

(498,143)

Total stockholders’ equity

51,540

38,156

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

92,404

$

105,348

 

Velo3D, Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

 

The three months ended March 31,

2026

2025

Cash flows from operating activities

Net loss

$

(6,998)

$

(25,014)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities

Depreciation and amortization

762

995

Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing costs

17

48

Stock-based compensation

1,889

3,596

Loss on fair value of warrants

—

1,044

Loss on warrant cancellation

—

11,357

Non-cash lease expense

59

28

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

Accounts receivable

(469)

(846)

Inventories

672

1,989

Contract assets

(2,081)

(795)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

(3,928)

(3,407)

Other assets

648

1,224

Accounts payable

(5,504)

(860)

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

(1,032)

1,195

Contract liabilities

(1,542)

(2,671)

Other noncurrent liabilities

(471)

(232)

Net cash used in operating activities

(17,978)

(12,349)

Cash flows from investing activities

Purchase of property and equipment

(940)

—

Net cash used in investing activities

(940)

—

Cash flows from financing activities

Proceeds from convertible secured notes

—

15,000

Repayment of 2025 equipment loan

(496)

—

Repayment of secured notes

(3,039)

—

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

(3,535)

15,000

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

(1)

7

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

(22,454)

2,658

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

39,641

1,840

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period

$

17,187

$

4,498

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets to the total of such amounts shown on the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows:

The three months ended March 31,

2026

2025

Cash and cash equivalents

$

16,564

$

3,870

Restricted cash (Other assets)

623

628

Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash

$

17,187

$

4,498

 

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SOURCE Velo3D, Inc.

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Technology

182 Chandigarh University Animation & Multimedia Students Secure Jobs in Top Animation, VFX, Gaming, Digital Media & Filmmaking Studios

Published

12 minutes ago

on

August 1, 2026

By

120 Leading Companies Recruit Chandigarh University Students for Key Roles in Animation and Multimedia Industry

CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chandigarh: With the ever-rising demand for skilled professionals in animation, visual effects (VFX), gaming and digital content creation, Chandigarh University’s 182 Animation and Multimedia students have secured jobs with prestigious companies, studios, advertising agencies, media houses and other organizations in the past three years.

Sharing details, Deepinder Singh Sandhu, Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University said 146 students of undergraduate programs (B Sc Animation, VFX & Gaming and Digital Film Making) along with 36 students from the post-graduate program (M Sc Animation & Multimedia Technology) have secured jobs during 2024, 2025 and 2026 with the highest package of Rs 6 Lakh Per Annum (LPA).

He said the top recruiters among 120 companies which have hired Chandigarh University’s Animation and Multimedia students during this period included Adfine Media and Designix, XPAND LABS, Kahr Customize GmbH (Austria),  AdGlobal360, Creative Eye Production House, NB Media Productions, Nishabd Entertainers, Antier Solutions, Prepper Media, VR Expert Animation Studio, Arena Animation, Creative Ascent Studio, Shabd Production House, Dashtoon, Nextilo Pvt. Ltd., Chhapdoh, Chinmastika Cares Foundation, Digify Consultant Pvt. Ltd., ITM Dehradun, Coding on the Rocks and several other leading organisations.

On domain-wise placements, Sandhu said, “104 Animation and Multimedia students have secured jobs as video editors and graphic designers, 17 students have secured job as 2D and 3D artists, journalists, graphic designers, visualizers and animators. Eight Animation and Multimedia students have secured roles as content creators, content writers and creative designers. Several other students have secured roles in animation, VFX, app design, cinematography and editing, emote design and animation, sketch artistry, UI/UX design, AI automation, gaming, and other specialized multimedia fields. This apart, CU’s 12 Animation and Multimedia students have launched successful startups including Tiny Heads, Saltlady Motion Pictures, Goofymation Studios, None MadebyUs, and Suyansh Studio,”.

Highlighting the University’s strong emphasis on experiential learning, Sandhu said for grooming Animation and Multimedia students into successful professionals for animation, visual effects, gaming, immersive media, and digital content creation, Chandigarh University has facilitated internships with prestigious studios, companies, institutions, and advertising agencies for over 174 students, including 142 students of UG programs and 32 students of PG program during, the past three years, providing  industry exposure and hands-on experience beyond classroom teaching

“At Chandigarh University, we understand that imagination has the power to shape worlds. Our Animation, VFX, and Gaming programs are designed to challenge creative minds, stretch artistic boundaries while transforming passion into professional expertise. We provide students with cutting-edge tools, industry-driven training, and an environment of innovation to create breathtaking visuals, worlds, and stories that will shape the future of the global creative industry,” he added.

Deepinder Singh Sandhu said, “Chandigarh University’s Department of Animation and Multimedia under the University Institute of Film and Visual Arts prepares students for successful careers in animation, visual effects, gaming, immersive media and digital storytelling. The curriculum promotes industry exposure and has been designed to create the next generation of visual storytellers by emphasizing creative arts, cinematic storytelling and advanced technologies in animation and multimedia. The Department of Animation & Multimedia follows a studio-based learning approach supported by AI-integrated curricula, enabling students to master emerging technologies in animation, VFX, game design and virtual reality.

He said Chandigarh University’s Department of Animation & Multimedia is equipped with world-class laboratories and equipment to help students upgrade their skills in most sought-after specializations.

“The Department of Animation & Multimedia houses a total of 22 labs and studios including world-class computer labs, VFX Labs, 2D and 3D Animation Labs, Cell Animation Labs, Pre-Production Labs, VR and Gaming Labs, Sound Studios, Chroma Studios, and AR/VR Studios to offer students a creative and industry-simulated learning environment to bring their imaginations to life. These 22 labs and studios provide CU students training on the latest software and technologies used in the industry. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of real-world exposure, the department organizes studio visits and field trips twice a semester, enabling students to effectively navigate the rapidly changing world and utilize cutting-edge technological tools,” Sandhu said. 

He said through an industry-focused curriculum, project-based learning, expert mentorship, AI-enabled tools  and state-of-the-art laboratories, the Department of Animation and Multimedia at Chandigarh University is preparing students for the creative and digital world of the future. The program covers all key aspects of visual storytelling and game design, using cutting-edge technologies and professional software widely adopted across the animation and gaming industry.

“Expert sessions are regularly organized to connect students with industry professionals and pave the way for successful careers in the animation, gaming, and digital media sectors. In recent years, the department has hosted renowned figures such as Biren Ghose (Managing Director, Technicolor Group, and Executive Director for Asia-Pacific & Global ExCom), Rohit Tiwari (Actor, Director, Writer), Vidit Kundra (Assemble Entertainment), Vaibhav Kumaresh (International Animation Filmmaker), Viren Patil (Zebu Animation), Shyam Deshpande (Krafton), Druhin Mukherjee (Godspeed Games), and Manvendra Shukla (CEO, Lakshya Digital). These professionals have mentored students by sharing their professional experiences and insights into emerging technologies, industry trends and career opportunities. Chandigarh University aims to cultivate a future generation of skilled animators, VFX artists, and game creators capable of showcasing their talent in alignment with international standards,” Sandhu said.

He said Chandigarh University’s Department of Animation and Multimedia offers modern, industry-oriented courses including B Sc in Animation, VFX & Gaming, B Sc in Digital Filmmaking and M Sc in Animation & Multimedia Technology for grooming students into successful professionals. The curriculum of these programs is aligned with the industry demands and future technologies in animation, gaming, AI Art, interactive media, filmmaking, digital entertainment and advertising.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: https://www.cuchd.in/

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Planet Classroom Network features solar pioneer Andrew Blakers on path to 100% clean energy

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August 1, 2026

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“We Have Everything We Need”: Renewable Energy Pioneer Says the World Already Has the Technology for a 100% Clean Energy Future

Australian National University professor and co-inventor of PERC solar cell technology tells youth climate audiences that the clean-energy transition is no longer a technological challenge—it is a matter of action.

NEW YORK, Aug. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Planet Classroom Network and the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement today announced a new episode of the acclaimed global series Net Zero Speaks featuring Professor Andrew Blakers AO FAA FTSE FRSN of the Australian National University, one of the world’s leading renewable energy researchers and co-developer of the PERC solar cell technology used in much of today’s global solar industry.

Hosted by youth climate advocate Ivan Ransom, the episode explores one of the defining questions of our time:

Can the world really run on 100 percent renewable energy?

According to Blakers, the answer is unequivocal.

“We have everything we need. We don’t need to invent anything. It’s just a matter of getting out and doing it.”

Throughout the conversation, Blakers argues that the transition to clean energy is no longer constrained by technology. He describes a future powered by what he calls “clean, cheap energy forever” and notes that “most countries are their own Saudi Arabia of solar and wind.” Drawing on decades of research, he explains why solar power, wind energy, pumped hydro storage, batteries, and electrification technologies can work together to create reliable, affordable, zero-carbon energy systems at global scale.

A Global Voice on Renewable Energy

Professor Blakers is internationally recognized for helping develop the Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) solar cell, a breakthrough that dramatically increased solar panel efficiency and accelerated the global adoption of solar energy.

The technology became the foundation for much of the modern solar industry and contributed to the dramatic decline in solar energy costs worldwide.

Today, Blakers leads research on large-scale renewable energy systems and the Global Pumped Hydro Atlas, which identifies hundreds of thousands of potential energy storage sites around the world capable of supporting renewable electricity systems.

His work has helped governments, utilities, researchers, and policymakers better understand how nations can achieve deep decarbonization while maintaining reliable and affordable energy systems.

From Solar Panels to “Gravity Batteries”

One of the episode’s central themes is energy storage.

Blakers explains how pumped hydro systems—often described as giant “gravity batteries”—can store renewable energy by moving water between two reservoirs at different elevations.

His team’s research identified approximately 820,000 potential pumped hydro sites globally, providing vastly more storage capacity than would be required for a fully renewable energy future.

The discussion explores how these systems can help balance solar and wind generation while maintaining grid reliability and affordability.

The episode also addresses some of the most persistent misconceptions surrounding renewable energy, including concerns about land use, energy storage, raw materials, waste, reliability, and grid stability.

Why Youth Voices Matter

For more than fifty episodes, Net Zero Speaks has connected youth climate leaders with many of the world’s foremost scientists, policymakers, engineers, economists, and environmental advocates.

Produced by the Planet Classroom Network in partnership with the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement, the series gives young people direct access to the experts shaping the global transition to a net-zero future.

Each episode explores practical solutions, emerging challenges, and the latest scientific developments affecting climate action worldwide.

“Net Zero Speaks was created to give young people a seat at the table in one of the most important conversations humanity has ever had,” said C. M. (Cathy) Rubin, Founder and CEO of Planet Classroom. “Professor Blakers reminds us that many of the solutions we need already exist. The challenge now is accelerating action.”

Watch the Episode

Net Zero Speaks to Andrew Blakers premieres on the Planet Classroom Network YouTube channel.

About Net Zero Speaks

Net Zero Speaks is Planet Classroom’s acclaimed climate interview series produced in partnership with the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement. Through conversations between youth climate leaders and leading scientists, policymakers, innovators, and environmental experts, the series explores the solutions, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the global transition to net zero.

More than 50 episodes have been produced, giving young people direct access to the experts helping shape the future of our planet.

About the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement

The Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement mobilizes young people worldwide to advance climate solutions, support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and protect threatened ecosystems.

Through education, storytelling, advocacy, and youth engagement, POP empowers the next generation to become active participants in building a more sustainable future.

www.cmrubinworld.com 

 

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SOURCE Planet Classroom Network

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Xiamen Builds Multi-Dimensional Development Platform to Smooth the Path for Hong Kong and Macao Talent to Pursue Dreams in the City

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August 1, 2026

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XIAMEN, China, July 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This is a news report by Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group Limited:

The seventh annual Xiamen Talent Service Month, held without interruption, has officially kicked off. Centered on this year’s theme for young talent — “Young • Talented • Future-oriented” — the event features over 40 supporting activities, creating a platform for domestic and overseas young talent exchanges and development that reaches out globally and connects closely with Hong Kong and Macao. From top-level collaborative announcements to offline on-the-ground matchmaking, the initiative deepens Xiamen–Hong Kong sci–tech synergy in all dimensions, attracting young innovators from Hong Kong and Macao to put down roots in the island city.

On July 9, the launching ceremony of the “2026 Xiamen Talent Service Month” was officially held in Xiamen, Fujian, China. More than 200 participants gathered on site, including industry experts from home and abroad, research institutes, young entrepreneurs, and representatives of Hong Kong and Macao talent. The ceremony showcased the latest achievements of young researchers in science and technology, unveiled multiple youth talent development programs, and premiered the city’s talent promotional video “Stride into Youth, Strive in Xiamen”, extending a sincere invitation to young talent from Hong Kong, Macao, and around the world to start businesses, pursue innovation, and realize their dreams in Xiamen.

Xiamen has been consistently expanding its network of international talent service stations, including those in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area, and proactively engaging with top-notch sci–tech innovation resources in Hong Kong and Macao. At the ceremony, the “Hong Kong Young Scientists Xiamen Science and Technology Service Program” was unveiled as a major initiative, becoming a key lever to deepen sci–tech integration between Hong Kong and Xiamen and bring in innovative forces from Hong Kong. In its first phase, the program has joined forces with four cutting-edge innovation platforms: the State Key Laboratory of Display and Optoelectronics at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), the State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases at the University of Hong Kong, the Jockey Club Innovative Laboratory for Future Energy Systems at City University of Hong Kong, and the Physics Artificial Intelligence Research Center at HKUST. The collaboration focuses on industry–university joint technological breakthroughs, transfer and commercialization of research outcomes, and co–establishment of joint laboratories. Mr. Lin Yanhong, Assistant Director of the HKUST State Key Laboratory of Display and Optoelectronics, noted that the laboratory has already worked with Xiamen “Double-Hundred Plan” talent enterprise StarCent Integrated Technology to overcome the industry bottleneck of “difficulty in balancing small size and high optical power.” He added that the program will continue to organize Hong Kong young scientists to bring high-quality research projects to Xiamen for follow–up landing and implementation.

Concurrently, Xiamen launched the “International Youth Sci–Tech Envoys Exchange Program,” which builds an open and collaborative international network for young sci–tech innovators through talent development programs, joint research initiatives, and BRICS sci–tech innovation cooperation. Tan Kah Kee Innovation Laboratory introduced the “30+ Entrepreneurship Talent Project,” selecting key youth sci–tech innovation projects worldwide in fields such as hydrogen energy, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and next–generation displays, providing top–tier research facilities and incubation support for young research teams at home and abroad. All districts and municipal departments are rolling out a rich array of supporting activities, fostering a sustained “every month is a service month” atmosphere for talent attraction and improving the whole–chain service system for bringing in, nurturing, retaining, and utilizing young talent from both within and outside China.

As a key on–site activity under the “Hong Kong Young Scientists Xiamen Science and Technology Service Program,” the “Young • Talented • Future-oriented — Hong Kong Young Scientists Xiamen Tour & Tong’an Youth Talent Integration and Innovation Event” opened successfully on the morning of July 21. Thirty–two young Ph.D. holders and postdoctoral researchers from HKUST’s key laboratories and the Hong Kong Young Scientists Association gathered in Xiamen, Fujian, China, for a two–way, in–depth sci–tech dialogue between the two cities.

At the event, multiple municipal and district authorities jointly held a dedicated policy briefing. On the one hand, they presented Xiamen’s talent policies, sci–tech innovation support measures, and investment–promotion regulations, delivering comprehensive and detailed policy information to the attending Hong Kong young doctors. On the other hand, with a focus on key industrial sectors such as optoelectronics, new energy, and new materials, they gave a full picture of Xiamen’s well–developed industrial innovation chain, showcasing the city’s appealing ecosystem for young professionals to live and work in. During the achievement–sharing and project roadshow segment, Xiamen talent enterprise StarCent Integrated Technology shared practical experience in commercializing research results, while five Hong Kong young doctors presented high–potential sci–tech projects in optoelectronic displays, new materials, and new energy frontiers, detailing their core technologies, mature research outcomes, and industrialization plans in Xiamen. On–site government bodies, enterprises, and research institutions engaged in targeted matchmaking with the Hong Kong teams, exploring diverse cooperation opportunities.

During their stay in Xiamen, the Hong Kong young scientist delegation conducted field visits to frontline industries, touring leading companies such as Meitu, Hithium, and Contemporary Amperex Technology (Xiamen) to gain first–hand insights into industry development and enterprise needs. They also visited high–end research facilities including the Xiamen Science City Incubator and Tan Kah Kee Innovation Laboratory, experiencing firsthand Xiamen’s comprehensive industrial support, innovation platforms, and youth entrepreneurship nurturing systems.

In addition, our reporter learned that the “Gathering Talent in Fujian, Attracting the World — 2026 Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition” is being hosted by Xiamen.

Since its registration announcement in May, the competition has drawn widespread attention from overseas innovators and entrepreneurs. Aligned with Fujian Province’s “555X” industrial system, the competition features three tracks — electronic information, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing — and offers special talent policy support, aiming to discover and cultivate outstanding talent and projects. A total of 1,756 overseas talents from 53 countries and regions worldwide registered, with 1,184 meeting the eligibility criteria, including 142 from Hong Kong and Macao, of whom 60% hold doctoral degrees. The submitted projects are concentrated in frontier fields such as artificial intelligence, high–end medical devices, and new materials, closely matching Fujian’s key development industries. During the registration period, the organizing committee also held a dedicated promotional event in Hong Kong to help talent better understand the competition and prepare thoroughly.

Currently, the organizing committee is accelerating the preliminary rounds and will hold the finals in Xiamen in September during the China International Fair for Investment and Trade, accompanied by supporting activities including investment–financing matchmaking and industrial site visits, so as to connect participating talent teams with landing resources and expand their development opportunities. The committee sincerely invites Hong Kong and Macao talent to keep following the competition’s progress, actively engage in project matchmaking, and share in Fujian’s innovation–driven development opportunities.

Young people are the core driving force behind scientific and technological innovation. From the launch ceremony of the Xiamen Talent Service Month, which unveiled a long–term Xiamen–Hong Kong sci–tech cooperation mechanism, to the simultaneous provincial–level “Gathering Talent in Fujian, Attracting the World” Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition that creates new talent–attraction channels, and to the dedicated events that seamlessly connect policy briefings, project roadshows, and industrial site visits — this series of initiatives has broken down multiple barriers between talent, industry, research, competitions, and commercialization across the two cities. It truly achieves the goal of “gathering talent through competitions, attracting wisdom through talent, empowering through wisdom, and boosting industry through innovation.” Leveraging international talent service stations, cross–border sci–tech cooperation programs, regular talent exchange activities, and provincial–level entrepreneurship competition platforms, Xiamen continues to build a one–stop, multi–dimensional development platform for Hong Kong and Macao youth, smoothing the passage for outstanding talents from Hong Kong and Macao to pursue their dreams and careers in Xiamen. Backed by a strong industrial foundation, high–quality talent policies, comprehensive research facilities, and an inclusive urban environment, Xiamen is deepening collaborative development for talent from both home and abroad, and eagerly looks forward to welcoming more young scientists from Hong Kong and Macao to settle and grow in the city, joining hands to create a future of scientific and technological innovation.

 

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SOURCE Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group Limited

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