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ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) and AVPN Establish Regional Platform to Strengthen Corporate Social Investment and Cross-Sector Collaboration Across Southeast Asia

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Official launch at the AVPN Global Conference 2026 in India to position ASEAN as a leading voice in corporate social investment; ASEAN leadership dialogue planned for the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS)

SINGAPORE, May 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) and AVPN today announced the establishment of the ASEAN CSR Working Group, a regional platform aimed at mobilising corporate philanthropy, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and broader corporate capital, while supporting regional policy dialogue, ecosystem collaboration, and knowledge exchange across ASEAN. This initiative positions the private sector as a key partner in advancing sustainable and inclusive economic transformation in the region. AVPN, Asia’s largest network of social investors, will serve as Secretariat, convening corporate leaders, philanthropic organisations, investors, and ecosystem partners across the region.

Southeast Asia is entering a critical decade for sustainable economic transformation. The region is home to more than 70 million micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), accounting for over 97% of all businesses. Yet, many face structural barriers to scaling, including limited access to mentorship, markets, and capital. Current approaches to CSR and corporate social investment remain fragmented across ASEAN markets, with inconsistent definitions, implementation, and limited coordination across corporates, funders, and ecosystem actors. At the same time, demand for private capital to address regional priorities such as climate transition, health resilience, and inclusive economic growth is rising. This underscores the need for more coordinated and catalytic deployment of capital.

The ASEAN CSR Working Group is designed to address these gaps, marking a significant milestone in strengthening regional collaboration and multi-stakeholder engagement. It reflects a broader ambition to strengthen ASEAN’s regional ecosystem architecture for corporate sustainability, social investment, and cross-sector collaboration. At the same time, it serves as a trusted platform for regional policy dialogue, strategic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and more coordinated deployment of capital among business leaders, philanthropic organisations, policymakers, investors, and ecosystem partners. It also reinforces the private sector’s role in supporting ASEAN’s sustainable development priorities.

By connecting ASEAN-BAC’s institutional influence with AVPN’s regional investment network – spanning corporates, foundations, impact funds, family offices, and development partners across more than 40 markets – the ASEAN CSR Working Group aims to mobilise corporate partnerships and philanthropic resources, enabling catalytic partnerships and cross-border ecosystem collaboration across ASEAN. It will also strengthen and serve as the strategic engine to ensure that ASEAN-BAC’s legacy projects have the long-term capital and policy support they need.

“This collaboration reflects a critical shift from fragmented efforts to a more coordinated, regional approach to corporate social investment. By linking ASEAN’s institutional leadership with AVPN’s ecosystem of capital providers, we can help unlock catalytic capital at scale and position Southeast Asia as a leading hub for corporate-driven impact. ASEAN is one of the fastest-growing markets globally, and its corporate leaders have a real opportunity to shape the future of sustainability and philanthropy through collective regional action,” said Achal Agarwal, Chair at AVPN.

“As Secretariat to the ASEAN CSR Working Group, AVPN brings the strength of our regional network to connect corporate leaders, investors and philanthropies, and advance regional dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning across ASEAN,” added Naina Subberwal Batra, CEO of AVPN. “We are seeing growing momentum among corporates to move beyond traditional CSR towards more intentional and impact-driven social investment. Together with ASEAN-BAC, we aim to build long-term regional collaboration and enable more strategic deployment of capital to support the region’s sustainable and inclusive growth.”

“By establishing this Working Group, ASEAN-BAC is strengthening regional collaboration through more connected ecosystem engagement and multi-stakeholder dialogue. We are creating a regional platform to ensure that corporate capital isn’t just deployed, but is supportive of ASEAN’s broader sustainable development priorities and regional collaboration efforts. We are not just launching a group; we are encouraging stronger regional collaboration and more strategic approaches to corporate social investment across ASEAN,” said Rifki Weno, Executive Director of ASEAN-BAC. “Through the ASEAN CSR Working Group, we aim to better align private sector action with regional priorities, while strengthening partnerships and unlocking capital flows to accelerate inclusive and sustainable growth across Southeast Asia.”

The Working Group builds on early corporate engagement efforts led by AVPN across key ASEAN markets, including Singapore and Vietnam, which surfaced a clear need for greater regional collaboration, shared learning, and more strategic approaches to scaling corporate social investment. These engagements highlighted a growing shift from fragmented, programme-based giving towards more integrated and strategic deployment of corporate capital. Further engagements will be convened across ASEAN markets through both in-person and virtual formats.

Beyond convening, AVPN will lead knowledge and capacity-building initiatives, ecosystem engagement, and the development of corporate excellence frameworks to recognise leadership in social innovation.

The ASEAN CSR Working Group will convene high-level dialogues at two key milestones in 2026:

The official launch at the AVPN Global Conference 2026 in India this 25 to 27 August, positioning ASEAN as a leading voice in advancing corporate social investment and catalytic capital on the global stage; andAn ASEAN CSR Leadership Dialogue at the AVPN Southeast Asia Summit 2026, convened as a side event ahead of the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) in November 2026, focused on strengthening regional dialogue, ecosystem collaboration, and partnership opportunities across sectors.

The establishment of the ASEAN CSR Working Group underscores ASEAN-BAC and AVPN’s shared vision to strengthen regional collaboration, ecosystem engagement, and cross-sector partnerships across Southeast Asia. Through more strategic social investment and coordinated regional action, the Working Group aims to shape the next decade of inclusive growth, one that benefits both people and the environment.

About AVPN

AVPN is the largest network of social investors in Asia, comprising over 700 diverse members across 43 markets. Our mission is to increase the flow and effectiveness of financial, human, and

intellectual capital in Asia by enabling members to channel resources towards impact. As an ecosystem builder, AVPN enables its members to connect, learn, act, and lead social impact efforts across key pillars while improving the effectiveness of deployed capital, bringing local field needs, regional expertise, and policy insights to the forefront. For more information about AVPN and our work, please visit our website and read our latest Annual Review 2024-25.

About ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC)

The ASEAN Business Advisory Council is the official private sector body mandated by ASEAN leaders to provide strategic business insights and policy recommendations that support regional economic integration and sustainable growth. Established in 2003, ASEAN-BAC serves as a platform connecting governments, businesses, and stakeholders across Southeast Asia to strengthen trade, investment, digital transformation, sustainability, and inclusive development. Through dialogues, initiatives, and cross-border collaborations, ASEAN-BAC promotes a competitive, resilient, and people-centered ASEAN economy. The council also champions MSME development, innovation, and public-private partnerships to enhance regional connectivity and economic opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

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SOURCE ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) and AVPN

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Marine Biological Laboratory Appoints Nicole A. Theodosiou as Burroughs Wellcome Director of Education

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WOODS HOLE, Mass., July 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) has appointed Nicole A. Theodosiou, Ph.D., as its next Burroughs Wellcome Director of Education at the Marine Biological Laboratory. She will join the MBL on September 8.

Theodosiou brings more than two decades of experience in science education, academic leadership, and program development. She joins the MBL from Union College in Schenectady, New York, where she held a number of leadership roles focused on curriculum innovation, faculty development, and undergraduate STEM education. Most recently, she served as Special Projects Director for Initiatives in Pedagogy & Course Design. Previously, she directed the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Inclusive Excellence Initiative, led the Biochemistry Program, and served as a faculty member in the Department of Biology.

Throughout her career, Theodosiou has developed interdisciplinary educational programs, led faculty development initiatives, and advanced innovative approaches to teaching and learning. She is a member of the Society for Developmental Biology Academy and served on the Society’s Board of Directors as chair of its Professional Development and Education Committee, where she helped create professional development programs and educational resources for scientists nationwide.

At the MBL, Theodosiou will lead the institution’s educational programs, including its internationally renowned Advanced Research Training Courses (ARTCs), undergraduate and high school programs, and other educational initiatives that support the Laboratory’s mission of advancing biological discovery through research and education.

“Education has been central to the MBL’s mission since our founding in 1888,” said Nipam H. Patel, Director of the MBL. “Nicole brings a remarkable combination of scientific expertise, educational leadership, and strategic vision. Her commitment to experiential learning and developing innovative educational programs makes her an outstanding addition to our leadership team as we work to magnify the MBL’s educational impact for the next generation of scientists. “

Theodosiou has maintained a longstanding connection to the MBL throughout her career. She participated in the Laboratory’s Gene Regulatory Networks course in 2015, collaborated with the Marine Resource Center in support of her research, and has mentored students who have participated in MBL educational programs. She has described the MBL’s educational ecosystem as “unparalleled” and its tradition of learning by doing as closely aligned with her own philosophy of science education.

“The MBL has always been a place where scientific discovery and education go hand in hand,” said Theodosiou. “Its tradition of learning by doing and global community has inspired generations of researchers, including myself. I’m honored to join the MBL community and look forward to strengthening and building on its extraordinary legacy to inspire and train the next generation of scientists. “

Theodosiou earned a Ph.D. in Genetics from Yale University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Swarthmore College. Her research as a developmental biologist has focused on vertebrate evolution and development, while her educational leadership has emphasized creating accessible, research-driven learning environments that integrate science, education, and communication.

About the Marine Biological Laboratory

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) is dedicated to scientific discovery—exploring fundamental biology, understanding biodiversity and the environment, and informing the human condition through research and education. Founded in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, in 1888, the MBL is a private, nonprofit institution.

Media Contact:
Samantha Cummis
Scummis@mbl.edu
973-800-4118

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/marine-biological-laboratory-appoints-nicole-a-theodosiou-as-burroughs-wellcome-director-of-education-302833514.html

SOURCE Marine Biological Laboratory

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Marine Biological Laboratory Appoints Nicole A. Theodosiou as Burroughs Wellcome Director of Education

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WOODS HOLE, Mass., July 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) has appointed Nicole A. Theodosiou, Ph.D., as its next Burroughs Wellcome Director of Education at the Marine Biological Laboratory. She will join the MBL on September 8.

Theodosiou brings more than two decades of experience in science education, academic leadership, and program development. She joins the MBL from Union College in Schenectady, New York, where she held a number of leadership roles focused on curriculum innovation, faculty development, and undergraduate STEM education. Most recently, she served as Special Projects Director for Initiatives in Pedagogy & Course Design. Previously, she directed the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Inclusive Excellence Initiative, led the Biochemistry Program, and served as a faculty member in the Department of Biology.

Throughout her career, Theodosiou has developed interdisciplinary educational programs, led faculty development initiatives, and advanced innovative approaches to teaching and learning. She is a member of the Society for Developmental Biology Academy and served on the Society’s Board of Directors as chair of its Professional Development and Education Committee, where she helped create professional development programs and educational resources for scientists nationwide.

At the MBL, Theodosiou will lead the institution’s educational programs, including its internationally renowned Advanced Research Training Courses (ARTCs), undergraduate and high school programs, and other educational initiatives that support the Laboratory’s mission of advancing biological discovery through research and education.

“Education has been central to the MBL’s mission since our founding in 1888,” said Nipam H. Patel, Director of the MBL. “Nicole brings a remarkable combination of scientific expertise, educational leadership, and strategic vision. Her commitment to experiential learning and developing innovative educational programs makes her an outstanding addition to our leadership team as we work to magnify the MBL’s educational impact for the next generation of scientists. “

Theodosiou has maintained a longstanding connection to the MBL throughout her career. She participated in the Laboratory’s Gene Regulatory Networks course in 2015, collaborated with the Marine Resource Center in support of her research, and has mentored students who have participated in MBL educational programs. She has described the MBL’s educational ecosystem as “unparalleled” and its tradition of learning by doing as closely aligned with her own philosophy of science education.

“The MBL has always been a place where scientific discovery and education go hand in hand,” said Theodosiou. “Its tradition of learning by doing and global community has inspired generations of researchers, including myself. I’m honored to join the MBL community and look forward to strengthening and building on its extraordinary legacy to inspire and train the next generation of scientists. “

Theodosiou earned a Ph.D. in Genetics from Yale University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Swarthmore College. Her research as a developmental biologist has focused on vertebrate evolution and development, while her educational leadership has emphasized creating accessible, research-driven learning environments that integrate science, education, and communication.

About the Marine Biological Laboratory

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) is dedicated to scientific discovery—exploring fundamental biology, understanding biodiversity and the environment, and informing the human condition through research and education. Founded in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, in 1888, the MBL is a private, nonprofit institution.

Media Contact:
Samantha Cummis
Scummis@mbl.edu
973-800-4118

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/marine-biological-laboratory-appoints-nicole-a-theodosiou-as-burroughs-wellcome-director-of-education-302833514.html

SOURCE Marine Biological Laboratory

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Canada’s investment industry and business community welcome Ontario’s commitment to join regulatory passport system

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Industry, business, and professional associations voice strong support for greater regulatory harmonization and a more competitive Canadian economy

TORONTO, July 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Canada’s investment industry and business community welcome Ontario’s commitment to join the country’s securities regulatory passport system, marking a significant step toward greater regulatory harmonization and a more efficient and competitive Canadian capital market.

A coalition of associations representing firms and professionals from across Canada’s capital markets sector, together with a broad cross-section of the business community, strongly supports the announcement by Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy at the recent meeting of Canada’s finance ministers, convened by Federal Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, and supported by their provincial and territorial counterparts.

Ontario’s participation in the passport system will make it easier for firms to operate and raise capital across Canada, while reducing unnecessary regulatory duplication and costs. More broadly, it advances the national effort to remove internal trade barriers, boost productivity and strengthen Canada’s economic competitiveness.

The passport system has already demonstrated that greater regulatory coordination can be achieved while respecting provincial jurisdiction. Participating regulators retain their authority and distinct roles, while firms benefit from a system in which decisions made by a principal regulator are generally recognized across participating jurisdictions.

Ontario’s participation creates an opportunity not only to reduce duplication but also to strengthen the system as a whole. A more integrated model can better leverage the expertise and capabilities of regulators across the country, creating opportunities for greater regulatory specialization and leadership in areas where individual jurisdictions have particular strengths.

For firms, greater harmonization means more predictable regulation, less duplication, and a more efficient regulatory environment. For investors, it supports a framework that maintains strong investor protection while responding more effectively to an increasingly complex and competitive global marketplace. For Canada, it helps create a more attractive environment in which to invest, launch new products and raise capital.

This coalition stands ready to work with governments and securities regulators across Canada to support Ontario’s timely and successful implementation of the passport system and build on the progress already made. We encourage all parties to move quickly to bring Ontario into the existing framework, while preserving the features that have made the passport system work so effectively.

Ontario’s commitment is a milestone and an important step toward a more integrated, efficient and competitive capital market that will strengthen the Canadian economy and better serve Canadian investors and businesses.

About the coalition

The Canadian Bankers Association (CBA) is the voice of more than 60 domestic and foreign banks that help drive Canada’s economic growth and prosperity. The CBA advocates for public policies that contribute to a sound, thriving banking system to ensure Canadians can succeed in their financial goals. 

The Canadian ETF Association (CETFA) is the national voice of Canada’s ETF industry, representing approximately 96 per cent of exchange traded fund (ETF) assets in Canada. CETFA promotes the growth, sustainability and integrity of Canada’s ETF industry. It keeps investment professionals informed about ETF developments, educates investors about ETFs and their benefits, and debunks ETF myths.

CFA Societies Canada is a collaboration of the 12 Canadian CFA Institute member societies, representing over 21,000 CFA charter holders in Canada. Its mission is to lead the investment profession in Canada by advancing the highest professional standards, integrity, and ethics for the ultimate benefit of Canadian society.

Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada) is one of the most influential accounting organizations in the world. As a non-regulatory body comprised of individual CPA members, CPA Canada supports the profession and represents Canadian CPAs at the national and international levels. Nationally, CPA Canada acts in the public interest to promote transparency in financial markets, prepares CPAs for a rapidly evolving business environment through extensive guidance and programming and contributes to standard setting and policy making. Globally, CPA Canada works together with international bodies to build a stronger accounting profession worldwide. Its dedicated efforts help shape public policy, influence regulatory frameworks and establish high professional standards that reflect the evolving needs of the accounting industry.

The Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA) is the global representative of the alternative investment industry, with around 2,100 corporate members in over 60 countries. AIMA’s fund manager members collectively manage more than US$4 trillion in hedge fund and private credit assets. AIMA draws upon the expertise and diversity of its membership to provide leadership in industry initiatives such as advocacy, policy and regulatory engagement, educational programs and sound practice guides. AIMA works to raise media and public awareness of the value of the industry. AIMA set up the Alternative Credit Council (ACC) to help firms focused in the private credit and direct lending space. The ACC currently represents over 250 members that manage US$2 trillion of private credit assets globally. AIMA is committed to developing skills and education standards and is a co-founder of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst designation (CAIA) – the first and only specialized educational standard for alternative investment specialists. AIMA is governed by its Council (Board of Directors). AIMA was founded in 1990, with the AIMA Canada subsidiary formed in 2003.

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is the indispensable partner of business and Canada’s largest, most influential provincial chamber. It is an independent, non-profit advocacy and member services organization representing a diverse network of 60,000 members. The OCC convenes, mobilizes and empowers business and local chambers in pursuit of its purpose: to bring inclusive and sustainable prosperity to Ontario’s businesses, workers, and communities.

The Pension Investment Association of Canada (PIAC) has been the foremost voice for Canadian pension funds in matters related to pension investment and governance since 1977. PIAC is composed of over 130 of the largest pension plans in the country who manage over $3.5 trillion of assets on behalf of millions of Canadians. Its mission is to promote sound investment practices and good governance for the benefit of plan sponsors and beneficiaries.

The Portfolio Management Association of Canada (PMAC) represents over 300 asset management firms that manage more than $4 trillion in assets. Members are all fiduciaries managing investments in the best interests of their clients, which include private individuals, foundations, universities and pension plans. PMAC employs a collaborative information-sharing business model and advocates on behalf of its members on securities regulation and government policy matters. The association’s mission is to advocate the highest standards of unbiased portfolio management in the interest of investors served by members.

The Securities and Investment Management Association (SIMA) empowers Canada’s investment industry. The association, formerly The Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC), is the leading voice for the securities and investment management industry, which oversees approximately $4.5 trillion in assets for over 20 million investors and the Canadian capital markets. Our members–including investment fund managers, investment and mutual fund dealers, capital markets participants, and professional service providers–are committed to creating a resilient, innovative investment sector that fuels long-term economic growth and creates opportunities for all Canadians.

SOURCE Securities and Investment Management Association

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