Duke Energy

Guiding Stars Licensing Company LLC

PBF Energy

Building Momentum: Duke Energy Partners With Local Economic Development Organizations to Market High-Potential Industrial Sites in Connersville, Westfield

Guiding Stars: Natural GLP-1 Boosters

PBF Energy Releases 2024 Sustainability Report

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<figcaption>Image by Freepik*</figcaption>
</figure>

<a href="https://guidingstars.com/fitness-and-weight-loss/natural-glp-1-boosters/" target="_blank">Originally published on Guiding Stars Health &amp; Nutrition News</a>

by <a href="https://guidingstars.com/author/kbroihier/" target="_blank">Kitty Broihier</a>

If you’re taking a GLP-1 hormone medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, Victoza, or Mounjaro (or a <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/guidance-compliance-regulatory-information/human-drug-compounding" target="_blank">compounded version</a>), you already know its positive effects. Decreasing your appetite, calming cravings, reducing “<a href="https://guidingstars.com/health-and-wellness/food-noise/">food noise</a>,” and helping you feel full. Simply put, the medication makes it easier to lose weight because you’re not hungry very often. (<a href="https://guidingstars.com/nutrition-science/nutrition-while-taking-glp-1-medications-for-weight-loss/" target="_blank">Learn more here about how to eat well on GLP-1s</a>.) Unfortunately, these medications are not without side effects, such as nausea and stomach discomfort.&nbsp;So is there an alternative—is it possible that eating certain foods can deliver similar benefits without the downsides?

What Does GLP-1 Do?

GLP-1 is an acronym that stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1. We all have the GLP-1 hormone in our bodies. It’s primarily produced in the intestines, pancreas, and hypothalamus area of the brain. And taking a GLP-1 medication increases the amount of the hormone in your body.&nbsp;

GLP-1 levels naturally rise and fall in response to eating. When food enters the gastrointestinal system, GLP-1 releases as part of the body’s mechanism to help us moderate food intake. It’s a signal to tell us to slow down now that food has arrived on the scene. GLP-1’s combined effects help promote satiety, and include:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Slowing gastric emptying</li>
	<li>Decreasing food cravings and desire for alcohol</li>
	<li>Improving blood sugar control, especially for people with type-2 diabetes</li>
	<li>Reducing appetite</li>
</ul>

What Foods Help Increase the GLP-1 Hormone?

<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8235588/" target="_blank">Studies suggest that certain types of foods</a> can stimulate the release of GLP-1 and other appetite-regulating hormones. They are proven to help promote fullness and even potentially help with weight loss. And the use of food to support GLP-1 minimizes the potential adverse side effects that typically come with GLP-1 medications.

High-Fiber Foods

Many GLP-1-secreting cells are located toward the end of the intestines. Foods with ample fiber reach the lower intestine more readily than other foods because they don’t digest as quickly. Soluble fiber directly stimulates release of the GLP-1 hormone. And insoluble fiber can also help by supporting satiety and contributing to a healthy gut environment. All plant foods contain fiber—in general, the more fruits and veggies you eat, the better for your health overall. Good sources of soluble fiber include oats, beans, peas, barley, bananas, ground flax, nuts, and chia seeds.

Protein Foods

When we eat foods with protein, the digestion process breaks the proteins down into units called peptides and amino acids. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8634310/" target="_blank">Some peptides and amino acids trigger the release of GLP-1</a> in the intestines. Proteins take a while to digest, and therefore reach those GLP-1-secreting cells that are further along in the intestinal tract. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32929230/" target="_blank">Research also suggests</a> that certain peptides help extend the biological activity of GLP-1, essentially keeping it around longer. Protein is already considered the most satiating of all the macronutrients and is often linked with weight loss. It also increases other satiety hormones in the body, so it’s a wise choice when you’re pursuing weight management.

Both animal protein and <a href="https://guidingstars.com/our-dietitian/plant-based-proteins-roundup/" target="_blank">plant-based protein sources</a> can impact GLP-1. Our advice: choose lean proteins such as <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814620310505" target="_blank">eggs and egg whites,</a> which show potential for positive effects in some studies. Low-fat dairy products are good options as well—they deliver protein, and their calcium can enhance GLP-1 too. And protein shakes, fish, and seafood are always good choices for lean protein. Among plant-based proteins, soy protein shows GLP-1-enhancing effects and there are many ways to <a href="https://guidingstars.com/recipe-roundup/celebrating-soy/" target="_blank">incorporate soy protein into meals</a>. Other <a href="https://guidingstars.com/nutrition-science/what-are-the-pros-of-plant-based-eating/" target="_blank">plant-based protein-containing foods</a> like nuts, pulses, beans, and certain grains are also a-ok, and have the advantage of providing fiber as well as protein. Overall though, it’s more about getting protein throughout the day—and less about exactly which foods provide it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Foods Rich in Monounsaturated Fats

Numerous <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10357731/">studies</a> indicate that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11181530/" target="_blank">monounsaturated fatty acids trigger GLP-1 release</a>. Many of these studies tested with olive oil, but other oils are also good sources of this healthy fat. Avocado oil, safflower oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil, to name a few. Plus, there are foods that contain <a href="https://guidingstars.com/health-and-wellness/a-quick-guide-to-heart-smart-fats/">monounsaturated fats</a>. Almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds (as well as nut and seed butters made from them), and avocados. Whenever possible, use monounsaturated oils instead of less-healthy saturated fats to help boost GLP-1 levels and keep your heart happy.

<a href="https://guidingstars.com/" target="_blank">About Guiding Stars</a>

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet <a href="https://guidingstars.com/about/" target="_blank">transparent nutrition criteria</a> earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in <a href="https://guidingstars.com/store-finder/" target="_blank">more than 2,000 grocery stores</a> and through the <a href="https://food.guidingstars.com/" target="_blank">Guiding Stars Food Finder</a> app.

*Image by <a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/legumes-fruit-salmon-fish-pieces-wooden-chopping-board_6446220.htm#from_element=cross_selling__photo" target="_blank">Freepik</a>

<img alt="car" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5eb7ca5d-c901-4dd6-8a03-d96f5ae75603" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/SDV_Keysight_091525.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy">
By <a href="https://www.keysight.com/blogs/en/authors/carrie-browen" target="_blank">Carrie Browen</a>

The global digital transformation is reshaping the automotive industry, and at the center of this shift is the&nbsp;software-defined vehicle (SDV). While the concept is not entirely new, it has rapidly gained momentum and is redefining how vehicles are designed, built, and experienced.

The Software-Defined Vehicle: More Than Just a Buzzword

Think of SDVs as smartphones on wheels: always connected, ready for the next update, and full of apps and features!

A software-defined vehicle is one whose features and functions are primarily based on software. The transition from traditional vehicles to SDVs involves decoupling software from hardware and establishing a layered, zonal architecture, creating vehicles that are safer, more intelligent, connected, and field upgradable. This enables continuous improvements via&nbsp;over-the-air (OTA)&nbsp;updates, real-time data integration, and a more personalized, intelligent driving experience — a car that feels more like a smartphone than a heavy machine.

From Hardware to Software: The New Automotive Paradigm 
Traditionally, vehicles have been hardware-centric machines. Innovation was driven by mechanical engineering, with software playing a supporting role, often locked into individual Electronic Control Units (ECU) with limited flexibility.
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<figcaption>Figure 1. The architectural transition from traditional vehicles to software-defined vehicles</figcaption>
</figure>

The SDV flips this model. Today, most vehicle functions, from infotainment to driving dynamics, are enabled, controlled, and continuously updated through software. This is made possible by a modular and zonal architecture that decouples software from hardware.

In essence, a software-defined vehicle is characterized by:

<ul>
	<li>A zonal architecture with centralized computing, typically featuring one or two high-performance computers (HPCs) that replace the large number of traditional ECUs. Zonal gateways complement this setup by integrating multiple physical and virtual ECUs at the edge.</li>
	<li>Modular software stacks &nbsp;allowing for faster innovation on scalable and flexible platforms enabling new features to be added over time.</li>
	<li>Extended connectivity including 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi 7, UWB and planning for NTN and 6G enabling always connected and broadband access.</li>
	<li>OTA updates &nbsp;delivering new features and bug fixes and security updates that will improve the user experience.</li>
	<li>Cloud backend integration &nbsp;enabling real-time data and services with the large amount of data gathered.</li>
	<li>New sets of functions and features, including AI, are transforming the car into a digital experience space.</li>
</ul>

This transformation not only drives technological progress, but it also unlocks entirely new business models and ecosystems. Automakers and partners can create ongoing revenue streams, build new customer touchpoints, and extend the vehicle lifecycle far beyond the point of sale. 
 
The Race Is On 
SDVs are no longer a futuristic concept, they’re already here. Leading original equipment manufacturers (OEM) are investing heavily in software platforms, cloud infrastructure, and next-generation vehicle architecture as well as embedded AI computing capabilities. At the same time, new companies are entering the automotive space with bold ambitions and fresh perspectives. The result is a race to redefine what a vehicle is and what it can become.

The SDV is not just a new type of car. It represents a fundamental shift in how we think about mobility, innovation, and customer engagement. For those ready to lead, the opportunities are vast.

In the next article of our SDV Blog Series, we’ll take a closer look at the architectural transformation behind SDVs, and how the shift from domain-based to zonal and service-oriented architectures is enabling the future of SDVs.

SDV Series Episode 1: What Is an SDV?

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<a href="https://news.3m.com/3M-helps-shape-a-new-age-of-nuclear-energy" target="_blank">Originally published on 3M News Center</a>

The global demand for energy continues to surge, driven by population growth, urbanization, energy-intensive AI models and the increasing electrification of industry and transportation. Amid this evolving energy landscape, nuclear power is emerging as a pivotal component, offering a safe, reliable, and low-carbon source of electricity.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.iea.org/reports/the-path-to-a-new-era-for-nuclear-energy/executive-summary" target="_blank">The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that nuclear capacity could double by 2050</a>, and with advancements in reactor technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and fundamentally safe designs, nuclear energy is poised to play a crucial role in meeting global demand, alongside renewables and other innovative energy solutions.&nbsp;

3M’s long support of commercial nuclear applications

3M has supported commercial nuclear applications since 1988, <a href="https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/power-generation-us/solutions/nuclear-energy/" target="_blank">delivering solutions throughout the nuclear fuel cycle</a>. In fact, 3M is one of just a few commercial sources in the world to maintain facilities for separation of boron isotopes, offering secure, consistent supplies and products for water chemistry, neutron absorption, emergency shutdown, fuel control and fuel storage.&nbsp;

“3M remains a leader in providing solutions that drive energy security for the world and nuclear energy remains one of the safest and most reliable sources of power, providing a stable, low-carbon baseload of electricity to the grid,” said Stefanie Engbrocks, business director for energy solutions at 3M.&nbsp; “We will continue to work with our customers in the nuclear industry to advance materials science innovations that meet the growing global energy demands.”&nbsp;

How 3M’s existing technology helps in the future

Existing 3M technology can help the industry meet upcoming advancements in nuclear reactor design and technology today, by providing enriched boron compounds, advanced metal matrix composites (AMMCs), and technical ceramics solutions that cannot be procured from any other known source in the world. 3M is ready to help shape the future of nuclear energy by working with industry leaders to apply 3M’s global materials science expertise—enhancing modular reactor construction, accelerating construction, and improving material quality.&nbsp;

In addition to materials solutions, 3M has products to <a href="https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/worker-health-safety-us/solutions/industrial-safety-products/energy-utilities-ppe/" target="_blank">help support the safety of workers in the nuclear industry</a>. 3M offers a comprehensive range of personal safety equipment, <a href="https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/2326011O/3m-nuclear-ppe-brochure-emea-online.pdf" target="_blank">including respiratory protection, fall protection, and communications/hearing protection</a>, to help enhance worker health and safety.&nbsp;&nbsp;

3M’s ongoing commitment to nuclear energy

While nuclear energy is a key focus, 3M's commitment extends to broader energy solutions, including energy production, transmission and distribution, EVs and mobility solutions, the built environment and energy efficiency, and waste reduction. 3M’s innovative materials and technologies are designed to deliver scalable impacts that can help shape the future of energy across the value chain.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

3M Helps Shape a New Age of Nuclear Energy

<img alt="Lenovo logo and logo for the 2025 &quot;Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion&quot; award" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="324f12f0-9a00-4cbc-b6e7-194963ab156a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Disability-Inclusion_Lenovo_082825_1.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1280" loading="lazy">
October 3, 2025 /CSRwire/ - Lenovo announced it has once again been named a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion” by the Disability Index®, the world’s most comprehensive benchmarking tool for measuring disability workplace inclusion. This year marks Lenovo’s fifth consecutive year of recognition in the United States, and the second year the company is honored in both the United Kingdom and Brazil. The repeated recognition across these global markets highlights Lenovo’s ongoing commitment to cultivating an inclusive and accessible workplace for all.
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<figcaption>Ada Lopez, Senior Manager Inclusive Product Design Office, Lenovo &amp; Adam Wexelbaum, Program Manager Responsible Procurement, Lenovo at the 2025 Disability:IN Global Conference</figcaption>
</figure>

“At Lenovo, we believe disability talent brings&nbsp;unique perspectives, resilience, and creativity&nbsp;that are essential to driving innovation and shaping an inclusive culture,” said Calvin Crosslin, Chief Inclusion Officer, Lenovo. “Being recognized once again by the Disability Index is a testament to this inclusive culture we’re building every day. Through our global programs and employee resource groups like we are working to ensure that everyone can thrive at Lenovo and help us deliver on our mission to create smarter technology for all.”

The 2025 Disability Index measured six key performance indicators: Culture &amp; Leadership; Enterprise-Wide Access; Employment Practices; Community Engagement; Supplier Inclusion; and Responsible Procurement.

The Lenovo’s Disability Advantage Initiative is one of the global programs launched two years ago. It contributes to shape a more inclusive global workplace by raising awareness, building resources, and embedding disability inclusion and accessibility into Lenovo’s workplaces. Informed by a global self-assessment conducted with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the initiative has led to the creation of market-specific action plans and a global HR task force focused on driving awareness, resources, challenge the status-quo.

In the three markets recognized, the Lenovo teams organized local initiatives promoting and supporting disability in the workplace:

<ul>
	<li>United States: In Raleigh, North Carolina, ABLE hosted a ComMotion event with the LatinX ERG, HOLA, in March 2025 to deliver an adaptive dance group workout to Latin music from seats and then adaptive standing with the Governor Morehead School for the Blind students.</li>
	<li>United Kingdom: In its Farnborough and Glasgow offices, Lenovo offered its employees access to Autism Reality Experiences and Virtual Dementia Tours. These experiences help employees, specifically people managers, understand the needs of these groups, helping to foster a more inclusive mindset and a more empathetic workforce.</li>
	<li>Brazil: In its Indaiatuba factory, Lenovo started a “Be an Inclusive Buddy” program, which aims to support the integration of new employees with disabilities. The Buddy is a volunteer colleague who offers practical guidance and welcoming support daily.</li>
</ul>

These local efforts together with global programs are driving lasting cultural change and impact reinforcing Lenovo’s commitment to disability inclusion across its workforce. You can learn more about Lenovo’s accessible innovations and inclusive workplace in&nbsp;<a href="https://investor.lenovo.com/en/sustainability/sustainability_reports.php" target="_blank">Lenovo’s FY 2024/25 Environment, Social and Governance Report</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

About Lenovo&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lenovo is a US$69 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #248 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company&nbsp;with a full-stack portfolio of AI-enabled, AI-ready, and AI-optimized devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets), infrastructure (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), software, solutions, and services.&nbsp;Lenovo’s continued investment in world-changing innovation is building a more equitable, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lenovo.com/" target="_blank">https://www.lenovo.com</a>, and read about the latest news via our&nbsp;<a href="http://storyhub.lenovo.com/" target="_blank">StoryHub</a>.&nbsp;

About the Disability Index®

The Disability Index® is the leading independent, third-party resource for the annual, confidential benchmarking of disability inclusion policies and programs in business. Now trusted by over 70% of the Fortune 100 and nearly half of the Fortune 500, the tool helps companies determine data-driven actions that can achieve tangible business impact.

For 2025, participation and scored benchmarks are open to companies operating in&nbsp;Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, the Philippines, The United States&nbsp;and the&nbsp;United Kingdom.

About Disability:IN

Disability:IN is the leading nonprofit resource for business disability inclusion worldwide. With the world’s leading companies as partners, Disability:IN drives progress through initiatives, tools, and expertise that deliver long-term business impact.&nbsp;<a href="https://disabilityin.org/" target="_blank">Are You IN</a>?

Lenovo Recognized Again as a Best Place To Work for Disability Inclusion by the Disability Index® in the US, the UK and Brazil

<img alt="Sustainability Reporting Webinar Series 2025" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bd31f64-144c-49ff-8b51-48f1a95f48ea" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sustainable%20Reporting%20Webinar%20Series%202025%20email%20header.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="313" loading="lazy">
Sustainability reporting is in a new era, driven by fast-evolving regulations and heightened stakeholder scrutiny. Following the recent publication of exposure drafts for the UK Sustainability Disclosure Standards by the UK Government, and in line with the global shift toward adopting the ISSB framework, businesses are increasingly pressured to comply with regulatory requirements while ensuring their reports remain relevant, consistent, and useful.

To help organisations stay ahead, the UN Global Compact Network UK has partnered with MHA to deliver the Sustainability Reporting Webinar Series 2025. In this four-part webinar series, each session will focus on a critical dimension of sustainability reporting, reflecting the intersecting requirements of emerging regulatory frameworks and shifting stakeholder priorities. Participants will gain tools to enhance reporting processes and data management, strengthen governance frameworks, and build long-term resilience.

<a href="https://www.unglobalcompact.org.uk/sustainability-reporting-webinar-series/" target="_blank">REGISTER NOW</a>

Sessions include:

<ul>
	<li>Navigating Regulations: Lessons from CSRD Implementation, and What Comes Next for Sustainability Disclosures in the UK and EU? – Wednesday, 8 October, 14:00 – 15:15 BST. Gain clarity on the UK Sustainability Reporting Standards exposure draft, differences between UK SRS and CSRD, implementation lessons, and the latest EU Omnibus Directive updates.</li>
	<li>Reporting on Emissions and Transition Planning: The Advancing Landscape for Businesses – Wednesday, 15 October, 14:00 – 15:15 BST. Explore best practices in emissions reporting, case studies on aligning with the Transition Plan Taskforce Guidance, and practical approaches tailored for businesses of all sizes.</li>
	<li>A Hallmark of Better Business: Social Sustainability Reporting to Shape Resilience and Drive Innovation – Wednesday, 22 October, 14:00 – 15:15 BST. Discover how social sustainability reporting is evolving, including updates on CSDDD and the global standards for social impact disclosures.</li>
	<li>Reporting as a Strategic Asset: How to Get the Most from Your Resource, and Build Stakeholder Trust – Wednesday, 29 October, 14:00 – 15:15 GMT. Learn to leverage sustainability data for governance, risk management, audit compliance, and cost efficiency.</li>
</ul>

To learn more about each session, please visit the UN Global Compact Network UK website <a href="https://www.unglobalcompact.org.uk/sustainability-reporting-webinar-series/" target="_blank">here</a>.

Best wishes, 
UN Global Compact Network UK

<a href="https://www.unglobalcompact.org.uk/sustainability-reporting-webinar-series/" target="_blank">Read More</a>

Stay Ahead of New Regulations and Transform Your Sustainability Reporting: Join UN Global Compact Network UK’s Expert-Led Webinar Series

<img alt="Two people inspecting a product in a delivery." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58ab3e78-e5a1-4289-8790-2c1d5841a8ec" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Advocating%20for%20Financial%20Inclusion_Principal%20Financial%20Group_8.4.25A%207.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="800" loading="lazy">
<a href="https://www.principal.com/sustainability" target="_blank">Originally published in Principal Financial Group 2024 Sustainability Report</a>

Advocating for financial inclusion

Inclusive financial access

We believe financial education and opportunity can lift up people of all backgrounds, all around the world. We’re working to reach them with information and resources that resonate, with additional support from Principal® Foundation.

Our approach

It’s important to us to meet people where they are on their financial journey and develop pathways to economic mobility and financial empowerment. To do this, we need to better understand the barriers of reaching financial security across the globe—and why certain groups are more affected than others. This helps inform the role we can play to broaden access to financial security.

One of our core strategies is to better serve diverse businesses, which historically have had barriers to access financial products and services. In 2021, together with Principal Foundation,1 we committed to double the number of diverse small and midsize businesses (SMBs) we support through product access, capital access programs,2 community development, and financial education by 2025. At the beginning of 2024, we increased that goal to triple the number of diverse SMBs and entrepreneurs by 2025 from our 2020 baseline.

Progress towards our updated 2025 diverse SMB goal

<ul>
	<li>Progress: 26,794</li>
	<li>Goal: 30,000</li>
</ul>

We’re working toward this goal by:

<ul>
	<li>Making insurance and savings products more accessible to diverse business owners</li>
	<li>Advocating for more equitable access to capital for diverse businesses 
	and entrepreneurs</li>
	<li>Providing insights, education, and support for diverse SMBs to tackle common obstacles and take action on issues that are important to them</li>
	<li>Providing financial education that empowers diverse SMBs to make informed financial decisions, manage risks, and position their businesses for long-term success and sustainability</li>
</ul>

Our actions and performance in 2024 
Our progress

Out of our total number of SMB customers in the U.S. in 2024, 9.7%3 were owned by diverse business owners, namely women and people of color. In 2024, we ended the year supporting 12,049 diverse SMBs and entrepreneurs, exceeding our annual target of 7,700. We’re at approximately 89% of our goal heading into our last year.

<ul>
	<li>6.6%: SMBs owned by women in 2024</li>
	<li>3.2%: SMBs owned by people of color in 2024</li>
</ul>

This year Principal continued to provide support to SCORE, a nonprofit organization that aims to foster vibrant small business success, offering content, tools, and mentorship at no cost to business owners and entrepreneurs.

Principal sponsored two webinars on the SCORE platform related to starting and growing a business, as well as four articles on the SCORE website. Principal also sponsored five competitions across the U.S. where small business founders pitched their company for cash awards. These initiatives continue to provide valuable resources to the small business community to help overcome barriers to access and resources in hopes of promoting their sustained success.

<ul>
	<li>Find resources for <a href="https://www.score.org/" target="_blank">entrepreneurs</a></li>
</ul>

Elevate by Principal continued to support the growth of small and midsize businesses (SMBs) with data-driven insights, one-on-one consultations, and discounts on products and services businesses use every day.

This free platform unlocks time and resources empowering business owners to grow their business with confidence. To date, we’ve helped more than 1,250 businesses through Elevate by Principal.

<ul>
	<li>Access these <a href="https://www.elevatebyprincipal.com/" target="_blank">resources</a></li>
</ul>

Extending reach to international markets

Our international offices offer local education and support to their communities to enhance financial access in the regions where we reside and operate outside the U.S.

Our Principal Investment Opportunities video series in Thailand provides investment outlooks, market updates, fund recommendations, and other key insights.

In 2024, volunteers from Principal and Cuprum supported Fondo Esperanza, offering education to 80 entrepreneurs and business owners in Chile. They also provided a “Household Economy Workshop” to the student community in schools for families with limited financial resources.

The workshop covered budgeting and prioritizing home expenses across five cities impacting more than 100 individuals.

Through a volunteer initiative in Brazil, employees are empowered to teach financial education and business classes to public high school and elementary school students in São Paulo. To expand access to financial education across other Brazilian states, and with support from Principal Foundation, the project developed a free mobile app-based game to allow young people to learn about financial literacy in an entertaining way with over 13,500 downloads at the end of 2024.

FuturEd, our free virtual financial education platform in Brazil, offers a course with three modules (financial planning, private pension, and investments), 19 lessons, and more than two and half hours of content. In 2024, we impacted 4,500 users through the platform.

What is the GFII?

Global Financial Inclusion Index

Clear and consistent measures of progress matter in financial inclusion. This means using data-driven insights to understand the barriers to financial security and setting goals and establishing accountability to address gaps.

This year we continued our partnership with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) to release the Global Financial Inclusion Index (Index). The Index ranks 41 markets on three clearly defined pillars of financial inclusion: government support, financial system support, and employer support. Now in its third year, the report provides a comprehensive and comparative evaluation of financial inclusion on a global scale.

This year’s results demonstrated that financial inclusion has improved globally for the second consecutive year.

Employers in young Asian economies have stepped up to help consumers and businesses weather local market economic challenges and Latin American markets saw an increase in financial inclusion with advancements in digital financial infrastructure.

Even as governments, financial systems, and employers are taking measures to increase financial support, consumer perception of financial inclusion has fallen as people felt the effects of inflation, economic contraction, and wider financial strain.

Principal continues to work toward increasing financial inclusion by bolstering the collective efforts to increase access to useful and affordable financial products and services alongside governments and others in the private sector.

<ul>
	<li>Global Financial Inclusion Index: <a href="https://secure02.principal.com/publicvsupply/GetFile?fm=EE12612&amp;ty=VOP&amp;_gl=1*1w3enmx*_ga*R0ExLjIuR0ExLjIuMTA3NDE3NDc0My4xNjkwNDY4NjIx*_ga_GP3ZP21MGH*MTczODA4MDg1OS41NDkuMC4xNzM4MDgwODU5LjAuMC4w" target="_blank">2024 report</a></li>
</ul>

To learn more, read the <a href="https://www.principal.com/sustainability" target="_blank">Principal Financial Group 2024 Sustainability Report</a>.

Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc ("Principal® Foundation") is a duly recognized 501(c)(3) entity focused on providing philanthropic support to programs that build financial security in the communities where Principal Financial Group, Inc. ("Principal' operates. While Principal Foundation receives funding from Principal, Principal Foundation is a distinct independent, charitable entity. Principal Foundation does not practice any form of investment advisory services and is not authorized to do so. © 2025 Principal Foundation.

Insurance products issued by Principal National Life Insurance Co (except in NY) and Principal Life Insurance Company®. Plan administrative services offered by Principal Life. Principal Funds, Inc. is distributed by Principal Funds Distributor, Inc. Securities offered through Principal Securities, Inc., member SIPC and/or independent broker/dealers. Referenced companies are members of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392.

1Principal Community Relations supports the communities where affiliates of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392 operates. Insurance products and plan administrative services provided through Principal Life Insurance Company®, a member of the Principal Financial Group, Des Moines, IA 50392. Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc. (‘Principal® Foundation’) is a duly recognized 501(c)(3) entity focused on providing philanthropic support to programs that build financial security in the communities where Principal Financial Group, Inc. (‘Principal’) operates. While Principal Foundation receives funding from Principal, Principal Foundation is a distinct, independent, charitable entity. Principal Foundation does not practice any form of investment advisory services and is not authorized to do so.

2Capital access programs refer to investments in and grant-making to third-party organizations that provide access to capital. Grants are made from Principal® Foundation. Diverse SMBs include businesses owned or controlled by women, people of color, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with different abilities.

3Represents small and mid sized businesses in the U.S. owned by women or people of color. Not captured here is approximately 0.1% of small and midsized businesses that are owned by people of color who are also women.

4720857–082025

Principal Financial Group®: Advocating For Financial Inclusion

<figure role="group" class="caption caption-img align-center">
<img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="38f93aaf-0348-4fad-9072-7b9119ac4707" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Breast-Cancer-Community_Mary-Kay_100625_1.jpg" width="640" height="1707" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Mary Kay employees embody the Go-Give Spirit, packing HOPE Kits for cancer patients during their Surprise &amp; Delight employee recognition event. (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)</figcaption>
</figure>

Originally published on <a href="https://newsroom.marykay.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">newsroom.marykay.com</a>

On September 10th, 2025, <a href="http://www.marykay.com" target="_blank">Mary Kay Inc.</a> employees came together in the true spirit of giving to support women served by <a href="https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org" target="_blank">National Breast Cancer Foundation</a> (NBCF). As part of a HOPE Kit Packing Party, employees assembled 100 thoughtfully curated care packages designed to provide comfort, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that no one faces breast cancer alone.

Each HOPE Kit included cozy socks, a journal and pen, soothing lotions, and other essentials to ease the cancer journey – along with handwritten notes of encouragement by Mary Kay employees to uplift patients during difficult days.
<figure role="group" class="caption caption-img align-center">
<img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba37f0a6-dbd9-4449-8867-14d793475aaf" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Breast-Cancer-Community_Mary-Kay_100625_2.jpg" width="640" height="1707" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>One in three women will be diagnosed with cancer in her lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. Mary Kay employees are dedicated to supporting women undergoing cancer treatment with care packages of love and support. (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)</figcaption>
</figure>

The afternoon was filled with energy, laughter, and heartfelt conversations as colleagues from across departments rolled up their sleeves to give back. What began as an afternoon of volunteering quickly became a meaningful reminder of the impact possible when people come together with a shared purpose.

To add a touch of fun, the event coincided with Mary Kay’s Surprise &amp; Delight employee recognition celebration, where employees enjoyed a refreshing ice cream treat on their way to or from the packing party.

“At Mary Kay, enriching women’s lives through the Go-Give Spirit is at the heart of who we are. Supporting National Breast Cancer Foundation’s HOPE Kit Packing Party allowed our employees to come together in a meaningful way and make a tangible difference for women facing cancer across the country – offering comfort, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that compassion is everyone’s color,” said <a href="https://marykayglobal.com/leadership/melinda-foster-sellers/" target="_blank">Melinda Foster Sellers</a>, Chief People Officer at Mary Kay Inc.

HOPE Kits are created for breast cancer patients who have recently been diagnosed or are currently in treatment. Each item is carefully chosen to help with the side effects of treatment, providing not only practical comfort but also emotional support.
<figure role="group" class="caption caption-img align-center">
<img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="295d924d-b7c9-46a8-98d7-6e71da61f128" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Breast-Cancer-Community_Mary-Kay_100625_3.jpg" width="640" height="1333" loading="lazy">
<figcaption>Each box contained a thoughtful handwritten note of encouragement from employees, accompanying the box of perfectly curated self-care items provided in partnership with the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s HOPE Kits. (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.)</figcaption>
</figure>

“At National Breast Cancer Foundation, our mission has always been to provide help and support for individuals affected by breast cancer at every stage. We are proud to partner with Mary Kay to assemble and distribute HOPE Kits that help bring comfort and encouragement to those undergoing treatment,” said Brooke Adams, Sr. Director, Charitable Giving &amp; Strategic Partnerships with National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. “HOPE Kits are more than supplies—they represent hope, compassion, and community. Together with Mary Kay, we can ease the journey for patients, reminding them that no one faces breast cancer alone.”

To learn more about National Breast Cancer Foundation and HOPE Kit Packing Party opportunities, visit <a href="https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/nbcf-programs/hope-kit/" target="_blank">here</a>.

Did You Know:

<ul>
	<li>National Breast Cancer Foundation was founded to fill in the gaps of cancer care, ensuring every woman has the access and information she needs to get through every step of her breast cancer journey. Over the last 5 years[1], NBCF has provided over 539,000 screening and navigation services, reached over 93,000 breast cancer patients with HOPE Kits, and served over 80,000 individuals with life-saving breast health education.</li>
</ul>

****

About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. Learn more at <a href="https://marykayglobal.com/" target="_blank">marykayglobal.com</a>. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/marykayglobal" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marykayglobal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/marykayglobal/mycompany/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, or follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryKayGlobal" target="_blank">X</a>.

About National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.®

Recognized as one of the leading breast cancer organizations in the world, National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is Helping Women Now® by providing early detection, education, and support services to those affected by breast cancer. A recipient of Charity Navigator’s highest 4-star rating for 19 years, NBCF provides support through their National Mammography Program, Patient Navigation, breast health education, and patient support programs. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/" target="_blank">www.nationalbreastcancer.org/</a>

# # #

[1] FY2021-FY2025

On September 10th, 2025, Mary Kay Inc. employees came together in the true spirit of giving to support women served by National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). 

Mary Kay Employees Dish Out Ice Cream and Support at Hope Kit Packing Party Benefiting Breast Cancer Community

<img alt="mountain road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="642d706e-ccea-4bdb-ab89-400947f03dd8" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/stc-boosted-sustainability_Lenovo_100225.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1024" loading="lazy">
<a href="http://www.savethechildren.org.uk/" target="_blank">Save the Children</a> is a global charity operating in 115 countries. Founded after the First World War, it is committed to providing <a href="https://www.savethechildren.org/us/about-us/why-save-the-children#:~:text=In%202023%20alone%2C%20Save%20the,know%20you%20share%20it%2C%20too." target="_blank">over 100 million children</a> worldwide with vital resources from food and medical care to education. In recent years the organization has increasingly had to react to environmental disasters, as outlined in its ‘<a href="https://www.savethechildren.net/born-climate-crisis" target="_blank">Born into the Climate Crisis</a>’ report. For example, in late 2024 the charity’s Spanish arm, headquartered in Madrid, jumped into action after an extreme weather event caused dramatic flooding in the Valencia region, with 164,000 young people requiring assistance.

The charity relies on technology to provide the best care and support for children in need. It is also acutely aware that children born in 2020 will face <a href="https://www.savethechildren.net/born-climate-crisis" target="_blank">up to seven times</a> more heatwaves and extreme weather events than their grandparents. So, when Save the Children Spain was looking for a partner to support with a device refresh for its frontline workers, this indispensable charity needed to know that its commitment to environmental and social responsibility would be held as an uppermost priority, with device reuse and recycling utilized wherever possible. To make this possible, it turned to Lenovo.

“We are committed to equipping our frontline teams with the tools they need to support children, while doing so in the most sustainable way possible,” said a Save the Children spokesperson. “Our goal is to deliver impact today without compromising the world future generations will inherit. We use digital tools to help ensure every child’s right to survival, learning and protection. It was vital that we approached our technology refresh in a cost-effective and environmentally conscious way, ensuring that our workers have the right equipment to deliver for children in Spain and around the world.”

A circular approach

Given the nature of its work, the charity also needed to safely dispose of outdated devices – as it handles sensitive information – and required a solution with low operational overheads. With just 200 staff across the country and no dedicated IT support team, it was essential that the chosen approach included reliable, ongoing technical assistance to keep systems running smoothly.

John Stamer, Vice President &amp; General Manager, Global Product Services at Lenovo says: “At Lenovo, we believe technology should not only drive innovation but also serve a greater purpose. We’re proud to support Save the Children Spain by providing affordable and more sustainable IT solutions that align with their climate goals while empowering their frontline teams to continue their vital work with vulnerable children. Through Lenovo services like Asset Recovery and CO2 Offset, we’re helping to reduce the environmental impact of their devices while making sure those doing the most important work have the tools they need to do so effectively.”

To manage the responsible disposal of its end-of-life IT equipment, Save the Children Spain selected <a href="https://techtoday.lenovo.com/us/en/asset-recovery-services" target="_blank">Lenovo’s Asset Recovery Services</a> (ARS). ARS provides secure, documented disposal of devices, regardless of brand, ensuring IT equipment can be recycled or reused wherever possible to minimize environmental impact.

In addition to supporting its environmental commitments, ARS enabled Save the Children to recover $7,000 in value from their existing devices, which was reinvested into the new technology deployment.

To align technology choices with its climate advocacy work, the charity further chose <a href="https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/co2-offset-services/?srsltid=AfmBOopegkD0TMXnMmfHUV3rgyj0FOc3APFWcySbJ9iEOC_7Y1HluyX9" target="_blank">Lenovo CO2 Offset Services</a> to offset the carbon footprint of its new hardware across the full lifecycle, from production and transportation to energy consumption, bolstering its broader climate advocacy goals. This choice reflected its commitment to responsible practices across all aspects of its operations, including how they are powered.

On the ground, where every minute matters, Lenovo deployed 200 <a href="https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/p/laptops/thinkpad/thinkpade/thinkpad-e16-16-inch-intel/len101t0066?srsltid=AfmBOoo9gVPG4CBwSaA8b81CpzpXuycBCoq0cfb-FgfWzs3gir-N8aya" target="_blank">Lenovo ThinkPad E16</a> laptops, delivering the performance frontline workers need to support children in Spain and beyond. To keep devices running smoothly and improve support efficiency, Save the Children Spain also opted for Premier Support Plus, giving its users direct access to expert technicians for fast, unscripted resolutions to both hardware and software issues. If a problem can’t be solved remotely, Lenovo provides on-site assistance by the next business day, ensuring smooth operations without pulling staff away from their core mission.

Premier Support Plus also includes Accidental Damage Protection (ADP), which is particularly relevant for devices used in the field, where they may be more susceptible to accidental drops or other physical damage. ADP and other features of Premier Support Plus, such as Sealed Battery Warranty Extension, help extend device usability and promote repair over replacement. This supports waste reduction, and CO2 offset credits are applied to all ADP

A Save the Children spokesperson said: “With Lenovo Premier Support Plus, we were able to provide our teams with always-on access to the digital resources they need.”

Making an impact

For Save the Children, the impact of partnering with Lenovo goes beyond logistics; it’s about aligning operational efficiency with its broader mission. Through a secure, cost-effective process for recycling and reusing end-of-life devices, the organization supports a more circular approach to IT while responsibly managing IT asset disposal, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. More importantly, frontline staff are now equipped with reliable, high-performance tools to support children across Spain and strengthen their advocacy for those facing crisis around the world. In this way, Lenovo technology plays a practical role in helping the charity advance its mission.

A Save the Children spokesperson added: “Save the Children’s campaigns on climate change meant that it made sense to choose a solution which enabled us to support the circular economy. With Lenovo’s help, our staff are equipped not only with the devices they need, but with 24-hour support to help them deliver for sick, impoverished and hungry children across the world.”

<a href="https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/case-studies-customer-success-stories/save-the-children" target="_blank">Read more about Lenovo’s work with Save the Children</a> 
<a href="https://techtoday.lenovo.com/us/en/asset-recovery-services" target="_blank">Learn more about Lenovo Asset Recovery Service</a>s

<a href="https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/co2-offset-services/?srsltid=AfmBOopegkD0TMXnMmfHUV3rgyj0FOc3APFWcySbJ9iEOC_7Y1HluyX9" target="_blank">Learn more about Lenovo CO2 Offset Services</a>

<a href="https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/premier-support-plus/" target="_blank">Learn more about Lenovo Premier Support Plus</a>

LENOVO and THINKPAD are trademarks of Lenovo. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2025 Lenovo.

Save the Children is a global charity operating in 115 countries. Founded after the First World War, it is committed to providing over 100 million children worldwide with vital resources from food and medical care to education.

How Save The Children Boosted Sustainability With Lenovo Asset Recovery Services

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