10 Smartest Companies to Watch 2023

The All-In-One OTT Platform for Media Distribution Automation

Andreas Kisslinger (Founder & CEO), Marlene Kisslinger (Co-Founder & Director of Customer Success)

EDITOR’S DESK

Don'tworkhard,worksmart.”

Thisfamousproverbreferstodoingyourworkeffectivelyand productivelyratherthantoilingforlonghours.Theword SMART=Specific,Measurable,Achievable,Realistic,andTimely.It isallaboutoptimizingthework,streamliningtheprocesses,analyzingwhat operationstakelonger,andimplementingautomationtoreducetime.

So,doesaSmartCompanynotworkhard?Well,aSmartCompany,oranyothercompanyclimbsthe ladderofsuccessbyworkinghard.However,aftertheyhavereachedapointandearnedmuchsuccess, theystartthinkingofgrowthandscalabilityandthisiswheretheworkgetsharder.

Theeasywaytoresolvethisissueisbyhiringtalentanddelegatingthetasks,but,thesmartwayof resolvingthisisbyactingsmart.Turntotechnologies,reinforceanefficientteamflow,make communicationmoretransparent,andtotopitallbroadenthemindsettowardsworkingsmartly

Thecurrentedition,"10SmartestCompaniestoWatch2023"showcasestherobustdemeanorand undyingpassionofacompanythatiswillingtogotheextraworkandbeamodern-daySmart Company.Byimprovingtheirbusinessmodelandintegratingcutting-edgetechnologies,these companiesareundergoingtheeraofcontemporaryevolutionandbecomingthenewfacesofSMART intheirrespectiveindustries.

ByPrioritizingandOrganizingtheirworkinatailor-madeprocessthatbestfitstheircapabilitiesand in-handresources,thesecompaniesarerunningtheirbusinesssmartly

So,theARTofworkingSMARTisheretostay.Continuetoreadthissmart-craftedcontent. Best,

DanielShelby ManagingEditor TheChief'sDigest

Editor-in-Chief : Christina Todd

Managing Editor : Daniel Shelby

Art Director-visualizers

Charles Richard

Sales & Marketing

Jonathan Henry

Business Development Executives

Racheal Williams

Jennifer Morris

Roman Parker

Relationship Manager

Joseph Edward

Advertising Business Head

George Hagen

Publisher

Calvin Lloyd

10SmartestCompaniestoWatch2023

MANAGEMENT COMPANYINBRIEF COMPANYNAME

RankHarvest,LLC

MichaelChagala, Founder&CEO

FundingHopeLLC

DorianDickinson, Co-Founder& ManagingDirector

NetReputation

AdamPetrilli, Founder&CEO

RankHarvestisthehardestworkingteaminSEO.We’veput ourheartandsoulintomakingthisbusinessasuccess–no easytaskinsuchacompetitiveindustry

FundingHopeisaninnovativeinvestmentcrowdfunding platformthatconnectsinvestorstoentrepreneursandSMEs contributingtoasafer,cleanerandhealthierfuturein economicallydisadvantagedandat-riskcommunitiesinthe USand200othercountries.

NetReputation.comisahigh-growthtechnologycompany thatprovideshigh-classonlinereputationmanagement servicesforindividualsandbusinesses.

AdPrime

BarbaraRead, ChiefRevenueOfficer

Adprimeisthelargestonlinehealthplatformforhealthcare companieswithspecializeddigitaladvertisingneeds.

Extrance

WilliamLively, Founder&CEO

EXtranceisaproptechcompanyandthepremier investmentmanagementsystem.Itwasformedto unlockthepotentialofprivateCREinvestments.

AdvancedMedaesthetic Partners

NicoleChiaramonte, Founder&CEO

NetworkofeliteaestheticpracticesintheUSpartnering togetherasthoughtleadersandinnovatorsintheindustry.

Asigra

EricSimmons, CEO

It’stheircloud,butyourbusiness.Ensureyourbackup strategyincludesdataresidinginthird-partycloud applications,platforms,andservices.

DIGITALCOMMERCE BANK

JeffreyJ.Smith, Co-Founder

AndreasKisslinger (Founder&CEO),

DCBankisaSchedule1Canadiancharteredbank.Ourmission istoprovideinnovativepaymentandbankingsolutionstoour clients. Lightcast.com

MarleneKisslinger (Co-Founder&Director ofCustomerSuccess)

SeventeenPools

KurtWittin, CEO

Lightcast.comismulti-platformOVP&OTTproviderwith end-to-endpackagesforthecreationofTVApps,Mobile Apps,WebAppsandSocialAppsanddistributionoflivestreams&on-demandmediatoRoku,FireTV,AppleTV, SmartTVs,AndroidTV,MobileAppsandWebsites.

SeventeenPoolsisdedicatedtobuildingefficient,durable andenvironmentallyfriendlyswimmingpools.Our passionishelpingourcustomerstoseetheirbackyards potentialandbuildingtheperfectgetaway

LLightcast.comisacomprehensiveend-toendmediadistributionandmanagement platformthatprovidescost-efficientand accessiblesolutionsforbusinessesand contentcreatorstoexpandtheirbrands acrossmultipleplatforms,screens,and devices.Theplatformwasfoundedwitha visiontodemocratizemediadistribution, makingitaccessibletoeveryonefrom establishedmediacorporationstosmall businessesandindependentcontent creators.Withitsstate-of-the-art technologyandintegratedmarketingand monetizationtools,Lightcast.commakes multi-platformmediadistribution, management,andpublishingautomation, aswellasadvertisingandmonetization, affordableandaccessibletoall.

Thecompany'sservicesincludehosting, storage,transcoding,CDNdelivery,app andwebsitesetup,metadata,imageand medialibrarymanagement,livestreamingandlinearstreams,and publishingautomationtoallmajordevice platformsandsocialmediasites.The platformcontinuestoevolverapidlyto meetthechangingneedsoftheindustry andthediverserequirementsofitsclients.

DemocratizingMediaDistribution andManagement

Sinceitsearlyyears,Lightcast.comhas remainedtruetoitsvisionof democratizingmediadistributionand management.AsaresultLightcast becameafirst-moverofOTTappson everynewappstoreandstreaming deviceonthemarket.FireTVwas shapedbyLightcast'steamofsoftware architectsandappdevelopersyears

aheadofitslaunchandlaunchedwith over100appsofLightcast'sclientsout ofthegate.Inasimilarfashion Lightcastwasamongthefirstend-toendOTTproviderswhointegratednew deviceplatformssuchasAppleTV, SamsungSmartTV,LGSmartTVand othersintoitsMediaCloudcontent managementmiddleware,and developedproprietaryapptemplates fornewappstores,streamingplayers andsmartTVdevices.Lightcast.com

hascontinuedtoinnovateandexpand itsservicestomeetthechangingneeds oftheindustryandthediverse requirementsofitsclients.

Today,Lightcast.comprovidesa comprehensiveend-to-endmedia distributionandmanagementplatform thatoffersanintegratedapproachto multi-platformmediadistribution, managementandpublishing automation,advertisingand

monetization.Thecompany's proprietaryapptemplateframework, integratedwiththeMediaCloud managementsystem,offerspublishers theabilitytocreate,manage,and submitnewTVapps,mobileapps,and webappswithinamatterofdaysor weeks.Thisstreamlinedprocessallows forsignificanttimesavingscompared totraditionaldevelopmentmethods, whichoftentakemonthsorevenyears tocomplete.Withover9,000apps launchedacrossallmajorappstores, Lightcast.com'sapptemplatesare provenandenjoyafastreviewand approvalprocesswithappstores.

BuildingSuccessintheOTT Industry

AndreasKisslingeristheFounderand CEOofLightcast.com.Hehasbeena serialentrepreneurinthemediaand techindustrysincetheageof19and hasadeepunderstandingofcustomer needsintheOTTspaceandstreaming

industry Andreasisregardedasoneof thesecretpioneersandwhalesinthe OTTspace.Hebelievesthatexcellence intechnologyandproduct developmentiskeytothesuccessof Lightcast.comandstrivestocreatea productthatdeliversgreatserviceand solutionstoitscustomers.

Apartfromhisprofessionallife, Andreasisapassionateindividualwho lovesoutdooractivitiessuchassailing, hiking,skiing,biking,anddiving.He findsinspirationinthedesign, functionality,harmony,and architectureofnature.

KeytoBeingaSmartCompany

Andreasbelievesthatbeingasmart companyinvolvesprioritizingand focusingoncoretasksthatpropelthe businessforward.Heemphasizesthe importanceoffilteringandprioritizing amongthousandsofvendors,ideas, opportunities,andproposalsthatvie

foracompany'sattention.Andreas emphasizesthatwiseselection, prioritization,andfocusarecriticalto engineeringprocesses,software development,andcustomerservice.

Andreasalsorecognizesthatsoftware playsacriticalroleinmakinga companysmart,buthebelievesthatit shouldbetherightsoftwareforthe rightworkflow Asasoftware developer,Andreasunderstandsthe significanceofusingsoftware automationinstreamliningworkflows andimprovingefficiency.Additionally, headvocatesfortheintegrationof softwareservicesfromotherproviders thatarecompatiblewitheachother

ChallengesandBenefitsof Bootstrapping

Lightcast.comfacedthechallengeof fundingitsstartupentirelyfromits ownresourceswithoutanyexternal investments.Thismeantthatthe

companyhadtobeextrasmartwith budgetingandexpensecontrolduring itsinitialyears.Withoutexternal capital,thecompanyhadtostretch everydollartogoasfaraspossible. Thismindsetofresourcefulnesshelped thecompanybecomebetterinmany ways.

However,despitethefinancial challenge,thestartupyearswere enjoyableforthecompany Lightcast.comwasabletofocuson productdevelopmentandbecreative withoutpressurefrominvestors.The passionfordevelopinggreatsoftware andbuildingthebestmulti-platform OVPandMediaManagementSystem forthemid-marketwasadrivingforce duringthestartupyears.

BalancingProductivityandWellbeing

TheworkcultureatLightcast.com valuesproductivityandefficiency

whilealsostrivingforbalanceand avoidingburnout.Thecompany encouragesitsemployeestoprioritize theirtasksandfocustheirenergyon achievingtheirgoalsinordertocreate morefreetimeforsocialinteraction, fun,andrelaxation.Thecompanyaims tostrikeabalancebetweenworking hardandtakingbreaks,acknowledging thatbeingoverworkedcanbe unproductiveandunsatisfying.

Lightcast.comencouragesitsteamsto besmartintheirselectionand prioritizationoftasksthroughoutthe day,andtobreakdownlargerprojects intomanageablegoalsandmilestones. Thecompanyalsoencouragesits teamstobemindfuloftime-drains suchassocialmediaandmedia consumption.Byenforcingthese policies,Lightcast.comseekstocreate aworkenvironmentthatisboth productiveandenjoyableforits employees.

ExpandingReachandGrowing Verticals

Lightcast.comenvisionsitselfasa leadingproviderofmediadistribution automationservicesacrossmultiple screens,devices,andplatforms. Lightcast.comaimstocontinue expandingitsreachandgrowinginits coregrowthverticals.Thecompany planstoaddseveralregionalofficesin emergingmarketstobetterserveits growingcustomerbase.Lightcast.com alsoplanstocontinueinnovatingand improvingitsproprietarymedia managementsystem,theMediaCloud, toofferitscustomersevenmore capabilitiesandfeatures.

Your Partner for Innovative Healthcare Advertising Solutions

Adprimeisaleadingdigital healthcarepublishing platformandprogrammatic providerthathasbeenservingthe industrysinceitsestablishmentin 2006.Thecompanypridesitselfon beingdrivenbytheever-changing technologicalenvironmentand meetingtheneedsofitsclientsby constantlygrowingandevolvingits services.Withafocusonbrandsafety, transparency,quality,andingenuity, Adprimeoffersanextensive programmaticsuiteofproducts, includingitsproprietaryHealth ExchangewithbothU.S.and internationaltraffic,andan exceptionalhealthcareDSP The companyleveragesitsexpertise, extensiveindustryreach,advanced targeting,andunparalleled1stparty datatocreatecustomstrategiesfor healthcaremarketers.Additionally, Adprimeservesasastrategicgrowth partnerforpublishersbyintroducing themtobrandsthataremostrelevant totheircontentandhighlyengaged audiences.

Theinspirationbehindtheinception ofAdprimewastoprovidehealthcare advertiserswithaplatformtoreach physiciansandpatientsonthe internet.ThefoundersofAdprime

recognizedtheneedfora sophisticatedtechnologyplatform, advertisingsalesexecutives,anda clientserviceteamtohelppublishers monetizetheirhealthcontent.They soughttocreateasolutionthatwould enableadvertiserstotargettheir messagetotherightaudiencewhile providingpublisherswithanew revenuestream.Thefoundersbelieved thattherewasanopportunityto leveragetechnologyanddatatocreate aplatformthatwouldbringtogether healthcareadvertisersandpublishers, andthisledtothecreationof Adprime.Throughitsfocuson providingcustomstrategiesfor healthcaremarketersandservingasa strategicgrowthpartnerfor publishers,Adprimehasbecomea leadingdigitalhealthcarepublishing platformandprogrammaticprovider intheindustry

StandingOutfromtheCrowd

Adprimestandsoutfromits competitorsintheartificial intelligenceindustryduetoitsfocus on'promptengineering'andits dedicationtoofferingasafe environmenttoadvertise.Withthe launchofDxCheckuserscantypein theirsymptomsandgetconcise,

accurateresultsimmediately Thisis thefirsthealthcareadvertisingsite usingChatgpt. Thecompany'steam comprisessomeofthebrightestand mostclevermindsintheindustrywho areskilledinmanaging pharmaceuticaladvertisingdemands. WhatsetsAdprimeapartfromother companiesinthisspaceisitsadvanced technologysolutionsthataretailored specificallytotheneedsofhealth advertisers.Thecompanyleverages artificialintelligencetocreatecustom strategiesforhealthcaremarketersand providesunparalleled1stpartydata, advancedtargeting,andextensive industryreach.

Adprime'sfocusonbrandsafety, transparency,quality,andingenuity ensuresthatadvertisershaveaccessto thesafestandmosteffective advertisingsolutionsavailable. Additionally,Adprimeservesasa strategicgrowthpartnerforpublishers, introducingthemtobrandsthatare mostrelevanttotheircontentand highlyengagedaudiences.Withits uniquecombinationofadvanced technology,expertise,anddedication tocustomerservice,Adprimehas becomeatrustedandrespectedname inthedigitalhealthcarepublishingand programmaticproviderindustry

TheWorkCultureatAdprime

TheworkcultureatAdprimeisone ofhighdevotionandcreativity, drivenbyateamofprofessionals whohavebeenwiththecompanyfor morethanfiveyears.Thishighlevel ofemployeeretentionisatestament tothecompany'scommitmentto providinganenvironmentthat fostersgrowth,collaboration,and success.TheteamatAdprimeis knownforitscohesiveness,working togetheracrossdisciplinestoachieve thebestpossibleoutcomesfortheir clients.

Asaprivatecompany,Adprime's focusissolelyonthesuccessofits clients,andthisisreflectedinthe cultureofthecompany,which prioritizeshigh-qualityresultsabove allelse.TheteamatAdprimeis dedicatedtostayingontopofthe latesttechnologiesandtrendsinthe industry,continuallyrefiningtheir skillstoensurethattheyareoffering thebestpossiblesolutionstotheir clients.

StayingAheadoftheCurve throughInnovation

IntheearlydaysofAdprime,the companyfacedchallengesin competingagainstmassivepublic companiesthatwereenteringthe digitalhealthadvertisingindustry andgrabbingmarketshare.To differentiateitself,Adprimefocused onprovidingexceptionalcustomer serviceandimprovedoutcomesfor clients.Thecompanyalso emphasizedhigh-qualityaudience targetingtodeliverbetterresultsfor advertisers.Despitethechallenges, Adprimewasabletoovercomethem bystayingtruetoitscorevaluesof

customerservice,quality, transparency,andingenuity

Asaprivatecompany,Adprimewas abletodeliverexcellencethatwas unrivaledinthehealthcare advertisingandtechnologyindustries. Thecompany'sfocusoninnovation andpremiumsolutionsalloweditto stayaheadofthecurveandcontinue toprovideitsclientswithcuttingedgetechnologyandsolutions.With acommitmenttoprovidingthebest possibleoutcomesforitsclients, Adprimewasabletoestablishitself asaleaderinthedigitalhealth advertisingindustryandcontinuesto thrivetoday.

AspiringtoBecometheLeaderin HealthcareAdvertising

Adprimeseesitselfastheleaderin healthcareadvertisinginthefuture. Thecompanyplanstoachievethis throughitsdemand-sideadplatform, whichoffersbothautomationin programmaticmediabuyingand managedservicemediaofferings. Adprimeplanstocontinuetoinvest ininnovativetechnologysolutions thatwillenabledeeperengagement forpatientsandphysiciansandbetter resultsforpublishersandadvertisers. Thecompanyhassetanambitious targetofbecominga$25M-$45M companyinthenextfewyears.

Byreachingthisgoal,Adprimewill bewell-positionedtodrivemore automationandestablishitselfasthe go-toplatformforhealthcare advertising.Withastrongfocuson innovationanddeliveringvaluetoits clients,Adprimeiscommittedto leadingthewayinthehealthcare advertisingindustryandshapingthe futureofdigitalhealthadvertising.

AbouttheLeader

BarbaraReadistheChiefRevenue

OfficeratAdprime.Withover25 yearsofexperienceinadvertising, publishing,andmarketingindustries, Barbaraisattheforefrontof technologiesinmobile,video, connectedTV,AI,Chatgptplatforms, aswellashealthandwellness. Barbara'sexpertiseandleadership havebeeninstrumentalinAdprime's growthandsuccess.Herexperience workingwithfortune1000 companiesandtheiragencypartners providesawealthofknowledgeand experienceasaspeakerandpanelist inthepharmaceuticalandadvertising technologyindustries.Barbaraisa recognizedindustryexpert,andher insightshavebeenfeaturedinvarious publicationsandmediaoutlets.

Barbara'sexceptionaltalentinhuman engagementandinsightshashelped Adprimecreatecustomstrategiesfor healthcaremarketersandserveasa strategicgrowthpartnerfor publishers.Sheispassionateabout thehealthcareindustryandhelping companiesreachtheirtargetaudience effectivelywhileensuringbrand safetyandtransparency.Withher wealthofexperienceandexpertise, Barbaraisavaluableassetto Adprimeandadrivingforcebehind thecompany'scontinuedsuccess.

Foundedin2022byNicole Chiaramonte,AMPoffersawide rangeofservicesthatcombine medicalexpertisewithadvanced aesthetictechniquestohelpindividuals &businessenhancetheiraesthetic goals.

Withmorethan25yearsofexperience instart-upmanagementandownership ofManagementServiceOrganizations (MSOs)inthelegalandmedical industries,Nicoleisaseasonedserial entrepreneur

Since2012,shehasbeenfocusedonthe AestheticsIndustry,bringingherunique expertiseinbuy-sideandsell-sideM&A transactions.

Nicolebelievesinthepowerof partnershipsandunderstandsthe synergiesthatcanbeachievedthrough strategiccollaborations.

Herfirsthandexperienceinrunning businessesandmanagingacquisitions andmergersmakesheravaluableasset intheaestheticsindustry

Afterrunningandrehabbingaesthetics practicesforoveradecade,Nicolewas inspiredtofoundAMPtoprotecther businesspartners,employees,andtheir patients.

TheprimarygoalforAMPisto establishaworld-classplatformthat couldserveasanexampleof“best practices”forallaspectsofaesthetic medicine,fromcomprehensiveclinical trainingtotop-notchsupportservices, includinghumanresources, managementandcustomerservice training,marketing,andtechnology solutions.

WhatMakesAMPaSmart Company?

AMPiscommittedtoproviding exceptionalaesthetictreatmentsand comprehensivesupportservicestohelp itspartners.

Whetherit'strainingandeducationfor clinicalstaff,businessmanagement support,ormoderntechnology solutions,AMPoffersopportunitiesfor thegrowthofitspartnersinthemedical aestheticsindustry.

Withcutting-edgesolutions,AMPisthe smartandmostreliablecompanyamong itscompetitors.

AccordingtoNicoleChiaramonte:

“To me, a smart company is an efficient, responsive company with high employee retention and great culture”.

Thefieldofaestheticsoftenfaces challengessuchasredundancy, inefficiency,andhighturnoveratthe locationlevel.AdvancedMedAesthetic Partners(AMP)addressestheseissues byassemblingaspecializedand experiencedteamthatminimizesthe needfor"do-overs"ormulligans.

AMPbelievesindoingthingsrightthe firsttimearoundandinvestsinthetime andresourcesnecessarytoensurethat.

OneofAMP'suniqueapproachesisits unwaveringcommitmenttoemployee professionaldevelopment.

Teammembershaveaccessto comprehensivetraining,education,and mentorshipopportunities,creatinga clearcareerpathwithinthecompany Thisunprecedentedlevelofinvestment inemployeegrowthandadvancement setsAMPapartwithintheindustry.

AMPbelievesthatbyprovidingitsteam memberswiththetoolsandresourcesto excelintheirroles,theycanbuilda highlyskilledanddedicatedworkforce, reducingturnoverandpromotinglongtermsuccessforbothemployeesandthe companyasawhole.

ALearningCurveBehindAMP Establishment

A cutting-edge medical aesthetics company that specializes in providing advanced aesthetic treatments.

Let'steardownNicoleChiaramonte's journeyforAMPestablishment:

“Acquiring knowledge in a new industry, particularly in the field of medicine, proved to be a formidable challenge.

Equally challenging was the task of leading and managing diverse groups of women, after having worked predominantly with men for over a decade.

In order to balance this dynamic, I sought out opportunities for "girl time" and discovered valuable insights about others and myself in the process.

With each step towards progress and growth, my motivation stemmed from the desire to create employment opportunities or extend assistance to struggling new partners.

The fear of failing them propelled me forward.

Rather than being solely driven by financial gain, I continually reinvested

profits into the business, prioritizing the well-being of those involved over monetary considerations”.

Nicolehasgivenasneakpeekatwhat holdsforAMPinthefuture.Shestated:

What

DrivesAMPinTermsofWork Culture?

AMPhasacompassionate, performance-basedculturedrivento achieveanddeliverexcellenceforits partnersandpatients.“ClearisKind” isamottotheyfollownotonlyaspartof ensuringhealthyculturebuttopromote workingsmart.

Withtherightinformation,AMPmakes reliabledecisionsandexecutesthemina clearmanner

Asyouscale,onecannolongerwearall thehats.Properdelegationwithan exceptionalteam,allowsAMPtofocus onitsareaofgenius.Itisarecipefor smartoperationsandkeepstheteam fromburningout.

HowAMPMakesaDifference Worldwide?

AttheheartofAMP'smissionisthe unwaveringcommitmenttodeliver valueatthelocallevel.Oneofthemost thrillingadvantagesforindividualswho becomepartofAMPisthepotentialto propeltheircareerstonewheights beyondwhatwaspreviouslyattainable attheindividuallocationlevel.

AMPhasthecapacitytocreatepositive transformationsinthelivesofits employees,andwhenreplicated consistently,thishasameaningful impactonaglobalplatform.

Theyarededicatedtoempoweringtheir teammemberstoreachtheirfull potential,andtheybelievethatthese collectiveadvancementscontribute significantlytoAMP'soverarching visionandgoals.

FutureofAMP

“At less than a year old, AMP is growing faster than our most aggressive projections. It is exciting how many top-level physicians understand and believe in the vision.

Over the next few years, I see AMP becoming the standard bearer for best practices in the aesthetic industry by running the most comprehensive internal clinical and leadership training program; operating the healthiest and most successful practices; and showing the world what an organization of fully aligned partners can create. I believe a rising tide raises all ships, and this is what we are doing for our practices and the industry as a whole”.

AMPunderstandsconsolidationtrends intheaestheticsindustry,makingit harderforsinglephysiciansandsmall practicestothrive.That'swhereAMP comesin.

OneofthethingsthatexcitetheAMP's teamisatrainingplatformtocover aesthetics,dermatology,plastics,anda fullrangeofhealth&wellnessservices. Itwilladdsignificantvalue-addfor aestheticproviders.

AMPisexcitedtogetachieveandbring togetherthebestofthebestinthe industry

Let'shopeforanAMP'sremarkable future.

“We know how to get the highest rank in the shortest time possible.”

Eric Simmons, CEO

Inaworldwheredatalosscanbe catastrophic,Asigraemergedas thebrainchildofDavidFarajunin 1986,drivenbyapersonalexperience oflosingpreciousworkdueto inadequaterecoveryoptions.This captivatingtaleofresilienceand innovationgavebirthtoaleading cloud-baseddatabackupandrecovery solution,revolutionizinghowa companycanprotectitsinvaluable information.Renownedasavisionary, innovator,andphilanthropist,David Farajunremainsdevotedtohisfamily, friends,andthecontinuedsuccessof Asigra.

EricSimmons:InnovatorDriving CloudBackupSuccess

AtthehelmofAsigraInc.isEric Simmons,aseasonedCEOwitha remarkabletrackrecordofpropelling customer-centric,technology-focused companiestonewheights.Withhis extensiveexperienceandstrategic acumen,Erichasbeeninstrumentalin guidingAsigraasaleadingproviderof cloudbackupandrecoverysolutions. BeforejoiningAsigra,heservedasthe ChiefStrategyOfficeratIMCandheld thepositionofCEOatAltumHealth,a divisionoftheprestigiousUniversity HealthNetwork.

Eric'sexpertiseextendsbeyond healthcare,ashehasalsomade significantcontributionstothe automotiveindustrywhileservingas theHeadofInnovationforautomotive atCanadianTire.Hehasalsoheldthe esteemedroleofGeneralManagerof theRogersCommunicationsIoT business.Withadiversecareer,Eric hasheldseveralleadershippositionsat DellTechnologies,furthersolidifying hiscomprehensiveunderstandingof thetechnologylandscape.

Recognizedforhisindustryinsights andexpertise,Erichasservedonthe boardsoftheContinentalAutomated BuildingsAssociation(CABA)and Bialik.Alongsidehisprofessional pursuits,Ericremainsdeeply committedtohisfamily,friends,and theongoingsuccessofAsigra, embodyingthecorevaluesof dedicationandinnovation.

WhatDoesMakeAsigraStandOut AmongitsCompetitors?

Intheworldofsuccessfulcompanies, AsigraInc.standsoutasaprime exampleofintelligenceandsavvy Theyrecognizethatbeingjustlike theircompetitorsisnotthepathto triumph.Instead,theyunderstandthe

importanceofstandingoutintheareas thatmattermosttotheirtargetmarket. Byfocusingonthesekeyaspects, Asigradistinguishesitselffromthe competitionandpavesthewayforits remarkablesuccess.

Overthepast37years,Asigrahas continuouslyevolvedandgrown, learningfromvariousexperiencesthat havecontributedtomakingAsigraa strongerandmorerefinedcompany today.Starting,Asigraencountered numerouschallenges.However,when armedwithahighlysought-after solution,theexcitementandinspiration grewasmomentumbuiltandnew customersweregenerated.Itbecomes anexhilaratingjourneyfilledwith promiseandmotivation.

FromMotivationtoInspiration:A ParadigmShiftthatTransformed AsigraOrganization'sCulture

Simmonsemphasizesthepowerof askingoneself, "Is what I am doing or saying inspiring or not?" This paradigmshifthasproventobea catalystforremarkablechange.He notes, "It marks a profound difference. Motivation is about using rewards and consequences to drive behavior. However, inspiration ignites a deeper

A leading software company providing cloud-based data backup and recovery solutions for organizations of all sizes

connection, encouraging individuals to find purpose and meaning in their actions."

DrawinguponthewisdomofLance Secretan,Simmonssharesaquotethat resonatesdeeplywiththeir transformativejourney: "Leadership is a serving relationship with others that inspires their growth and makes the world a better place." Thisquotehas playedapivotalroleinshapingthe company'sculture,profoundly impactingthelivesofindividuals withintheorganization.

HowDoesAsigraStayRelevantina VolatileMarket?

Relevancyinacrowdedmarketis achievedbyembracingunique differentiatorsthathelpyourbusiness riseabovethenoise.Thisinvolves activelylisteningtocustomers,

analyzingmarkettrends,andadaptingto themostvaluableelements.

AtAsigra,asransomwareattacks emergedasasignificantchallenge,the companyembarkedonamissionto becometheworld'smostsecurebackup andrecoveryorganization.Asigrahas integratednumerousexclusivesecurity featuresthatsetthemapart,ensuring robustprotectionforcustomerdatathat surpassesanyotherbackupcompany

Asigrahasalwaysbeenahighly innovativecompany,possessingaunique foresighttoidentifyfuturetrendsand proactivelydevelopcutting-edge capabilitiestoleadthemarket.A remarkableexampleisAsigra's upcomingplatformlaunch,allowing companiestoeffortlesslybackupdata frommultipleSaaSapplicationsusinga singleuserconsole.

Itiscrucialtonotethatmanyusersare unawarethatSaaSapplicationsoften disclaimresponsibilityforend customers'dataintheirEULAor Terms&Conditions,exposing valuablecorporatedatatosignificant risks.Aspioneersinthisrealm, Asigra'snewofferingissettotapintoa multi-billion-dollarmarket, revolutionizingdataprotectionfor businessesworldwide.

Asigra'sVisionforUpcomingYears

Attheforefrontofthedataprotection market,thiscompanyhasbecomea catalystfornecessarychange.Witha steadfastcommitmenttobeinga thoughtleaderandinnovator,they consistentlytackletheindustry's evolvingchallengeshead-on,paving thewayforgroundbreakingsolutions.

WrappingUp

Asigrastandsasatruetrailblazerin databackupandrecovery.Their unwaveringdedicationtoinnovation, customer-centricity,andsecuritysets themapart.Withaforward-thinking approachandacommitmentto meetingtheevolvingneedsof businesses,Asigracontinuesredefining thedataprotectionlandscape.Their transformativesolutionsandsteadfast leadershipmakethematrustedpartner fororganizationsworldwide.Asigra's remarkablejourneyofexcellenceand itsongoingpursuitoftechnological advancementsinspireconfidenceand admirationforitsindustry-leading capabilities.

Jeffrey J. Smith, Co-Founder

A financial institution that offers a range of banking and financial services to individuals & businesses

DigitalCommerceBank (“DCBank”)conductsthe majorityofitsoperations electronically,withoutbrick-and-mortar branches,allowingcustomerstoaccess theiraccountsandconducttransactions throughonlineandmobilebanking platforms.DCBankhasdevelopeda bespokedigitalinfrastructureallowing clientstoaccessdigitalbankingand paymentservicesdirectlyintegratedinto theirowntechnologyandsolutions.

Foundedin2008,bySusanM.Anderson andJeffreyJ.Smith(Co-founders)who haveextensiveexperienceinpayments andbankingtechnologybusinesses.Such asonlinepaymentbusinessandbanking solutions,toprovideefficient, convenient,anduser-friendlypayments andbankingexperiencesfortheir customers.

In2008JeffandSusansawamarket opportunityoftheseservicesnotbeing offeredbytraditionalfinancial institutions.

Forthepast+15years,Digital CommerceBankhasbeenactively growingthedigitalpaymentsand bankingsectorsinCanada.

Thecompany'stechnologyisbasedon digitalpaymentsolutionsforcorporate onlinepaymentsandbanking, empoweringbusinessesandFinTech entrepreneurstoeffortlesslyscaletheir businesses.

DCBankhasbeensuccessfulin understandingclients'businessneeds& requirementsandthenfollowingthrough efficientlyandeffectivelywithout compromisingquality.

ServingCustomerCentricSolutions

DigitalCommerceBankembracesagility andflexibilityaskeyprinciples,adapting torapidlychangingcustomerdemands, technologicaladvancements,and regulatoryrequirements.

DCBankhasbeendoingthisworking closelywithitscustomersandfintechsto bringinnovativenewproductsand servicestotheCanadianmarket.

DCBankacceleratesbusinesseswith fintechpaymentsolutions,suchasaccess toelectronicfundtransfers,wire transfers,directdepositservices, automateddigitalaccountandsubaccountcreationandbillpaymentsto facilitateefficientandsecurefinancial transactions.

DigitalCommerceBankalsooffers digitallydeliveredandintegratedinto individualclient'ssoftwaredebitand creditcardslinkedtoacustomer's accountandwallet.Thesedebitcardscan beusedforeverydaytransactions,such asmakingpurchasesonlineorinperson, withdrawingcashfromATMs,and managingaccountbalances.Thisenables clientstoeasilybuildoutfinancial servicesandwalletsfortheirendusers.

Thedevelopmentofthesedigitalwallets, prepaidcardsandthefactDCBankhas itsowndirecttransactionprocessing solutionscoupledwithafullpublicAPI stackhavedrivenDCBank'ssuccessto date.

Themeaningfulandprofitable collaborationbetweenFintechPrize,My FirstBicycleandFundicahasopened doorstoprovidesupportfortheCalgary andCanadiancommunity.

DCBankhasastrongmandatetodevelop andcontributetothecommunitiesand organizationsthatprovidethemarketfor DCbank'sproductsandservices.Tothat endDCBankisthefundingsponsorof theDigitalCommerceFintechAwards whichrewardsthewinningFintechswith 300,000innon-dilutivecashtogrow theirbusiness.Wearecommittedto Fintechsandtheirsuccess.Pleasevisit https://calgaryfintechaward.com/.

Inaddition,DCBankistheprimarydonor oftheMYFirstBicycleFoundation, whosemissionistodonateabicycle, helmetandlocktofinancially disadvantagedchildreninCanada.In 2022,MFBgaveawayapprox.650bikes andin2023isaimingtogiveawayover 1000.Pleasehavealookatthewebpage www.myfirstbicycle.ca.

DCBankisalsokeenonsupportingour customersandthoselookingforfunding, andtothatendhassetupadedicated searchtoolenablingorganizationsto searchforgovernmentgrants.Thetoolis

freeandavailableontheDCBank webpage.Pleasesee https://www.dcbank.ca/business-funding.

TalentedExpertsattheCore

DCBank'sfoundationandsuccessis fundamentallyaboutateamoftalented professionalsworkingtogethertosolve clientneeds.

Nosurprise,TheDCgroupofcompanies hasarichhistoryinthepaymentindustry thattracesbackto1997whenDirect CashPaymentsInc.wasestablished.

Itpioneeredaffordableandprofitable ATMsforretailersintheCanadian market,markingthebeginningofthe DigitalCommerceGroup'sjourney Sincethen,unwaveringcommitmentto innovation,agility,andcustomercentricityhaspropelledDCBtoexpand itsoperations,addnewproductsand services,andgrowbusinessonanational andinternationalscale.

Overtheyears,DCPaymentshasmade significantstridesintheATMbusiness, buildingitfromasingleATMinCanada toaformidablefleetofapproximately 25,000ATMsacrossfivecountries worldwide,makingitoneofthelargest operationsintheworld.

In2017,DigitalCommerceGroupsold theATMbusinesstoCardtronics,the largestglobalATMoperator,after20 yearsofdedicatedgrowthandsuccess.

Throughoutthejourney,DCGrouphas remainedfocusedonproviding innovativefinancialsolutions, prioritizingcustomerneeds,andadapting totheevolvinglandscapeofthepayment industry.

DigitalCommerceBankcontinuestobe drivenbyacommitmenttoexcellence, anditsremarkablehistoryservesasa strongfoundationastheyventureinto newopportunitiesandavenuesinthe dynamicworldofpayments.

EfficientlySolvingCustomer'sCutthroatChallenges

Theteamoftalentedprofessionalshas spentdecadesbuildinganecosystemof ease&reliability. WiththehelpofDigital CommerceBank,businessesand individualscanmakedigitalpayments, suchasperson-to-person(P2P)transfers, billpayments,andmobilewalletpayments, providingconvenientandsecurewaysto managetheirfinancialtransactions.

DCBank'sfullyAPIenabledpaymentsand bankingfeaturesareavailableforclientsto easilyintegrate.

DCBhelpsitscustomerstoplanasecure futureandprovidesallnecessaryresources tomaketheirbusinesssuccessful.

Arguably,likeanyotherenterpriseDigital CommerceBankhaditsownarrayof challenges&upsanddowns.

OneofthebiggestchallengesthatDigital CommerceBankhasfacedisbuildingand nurturingpeoplecapital.

Beautifully Summed up by Jeffrey Smith:

The success, as well as the failures, of a business, are directly tied to the skills and abilities of the team, and I believe this holds true for most businesses.

Creating an effective and high-performing team requires significant time and resources, and while it's one of the most rewarding aspects of my role, it's also incredibly challenging as the bar for performance keeps rising.

What was considered excellent yesterday may be seen as mediocre tomorrow, so continuous improvement is imperative.

As a business owner, the ultimate motivation for me in starting and operating a business for the long term is developing and executing a plan with a team of motivated individuals, and witnessing the

incremental progress we make that eventually translates into tangible results for our stakeholders.

It's the small, repeated steps forward that bring about meaningful outcomes and drive our business toward success.

5YearsGoals

• TechnologyadvancementinDigital CommerceBank

• Launchdigitalsmallbusiness productsandservices

• Growourbrand

• Automatedregulatoryprocessand performance

• Increasedpaymentandbanking access

HowdoesDigitalCommerceBankstay relevanttoconsumerinterestsand needsinthishighlyvolatilemarket?

JefferySmithSummeduptheinterview withatime-provensuggestion.

Listen, listen, listen… And talk less.

I'll go back to our philosophy of working side-by-side and really getting a deep and thorough understanding of our client's needs. We don't just see our clients as dollar values.

Digital Commerce Bank is typically the frontrunner in innovation and enabling fintech. We believe fintech is our partner, not our competitor. Saying “no” is easy, but we make it our mission to say “yes” and embrace any challenges that come our way

William Lively, Founder & CEO

Elevating Real Estate Investment with Advanced Technology

EXtranceisaleadingproptech

companythathas revolutionizedtheinvestment managementsystem.Thecompany wasfoundedwiththeobjectiveof unleashingthepotentialofprivate CREinvestments,anditsinnovative platformhasmadeitthepremier choiceforfundmanagers.Withafocus oneaseofuseandultra-security, EXtranceutilizescutting-edge BlockchainandAltechnologyto deliversuperiordataaccess,analytics, andautomation.Byprovidingasingle accessportal,EXtranceoffersfund managersexponentialefficienciesthat amplifybestpracticesandlower administrationcosts.Ultimately,this resultsinlowerinvestorexpenses, betterprofits,andreturns.The platform'ssuperiorfeaturesand benefitshavemadeitthego-tochoice forfundmanagerslookingto streamlinetheiroperationsand maximizetheirreturns.

AboutWilliamLively:CEO, Extrance

WilliamLivelyisthefounderand CEOofEXtrance.Priortoestablishing EXtrancein2020,Livelyworkedat DCICapitalAdvisors,oneofthefirst blockchaininvestmentfirmsinthe UnitedStates.Hethenco-founded SyndEXLabs,afinancialservices

technologyfirmthatfocusedonglobal commercialrealestate,wherehe servedasCEOandChairmanforthree years.Underhisleadership,the companygrewfroma"garagestartup" toa$25millioncompany AtSyndEX Labs,Livelyoversawthedevelopment ofthefirstblockchain-based commercialrealestateinvestor ecosystem,provideddivestment servicesforlargefamilyoffices,and builtastrategicpartnershipwithIBM andAmericasGroup.

Afterachievingincrediblesuccessat SyndEX,Livelyresignedfromday-todaymanagementofthecompanyand shiftedhisfocustoEXtrance.He partneredwithindustryleadersinbig data,machinelearningandAI, commercialrealestate,fund administration,andentrepreneurial managementspecialiststoexpand EXtrance'soperations.Lively's experienceinthefinancialtechnology andrealestateindustries,coupledwith hisexpertiseinblockchain-based investmentsolutions,hashelpedhim driveEXtrance'ssuccessasapremier investmentmanagementsysteminthe commercialrealestateindustry

TheOriginofEXtrance

EXtrancewasestablishedbyWilliam afterherecognizedtheinefficiencies

andinadequaciesincommercialreal estate(CRE)investmentmanagement. DuringhistimeatDCICapital,he identifiedtheproblemsassociatedwith limitedpartnershipsincomparisonto REITsandothertypesofalternative investments,suchasalackof transparencyandlimitedliquidity options.Hewassurprisedtoseethat advancedtechnologieslikeAI, machinelearning,datamodeling,and blockchainwerenotbeingappliedto therealestateindustryyet.William wasinspiredtoaddresstheseissuesby establishingEXtrance,acompanythat utilizesinnovativetechnologiesto improveinvestmentmanagement practicesandprovidebetterreturnsto investors.

Thecompany'sfocusisonaddressing theoutdatedandarchaicpracticesthat lendthemselvestohumanerror, unnecessarycosts,andlonglatency timesinCREinvestmentmanagement. EXtranceautomatesprocesseslike sendingoutnotices,dividend payments,andautomaticallycalculated waterfalldistributionstoimprove efficiencies.Bringingofflineprocesses online/on-platformcreatesmore efficiencies,suchasofferingsecure paymentsupportforonlinecapitalcall fulfilmentsanddividendspaidoutto investorsviatheEXtranceplatform.

StumblinguponChallengesinthe InitialPhase

Duringitsearlyyears,thecompany facedsignificantchallengesinproduct development.Inordertobuildthe EXtranceplatform,thecompanyhadto workwiththreedifferentsoftware developmentteams,eachspecializedin differentareasoftechnology.Whilethe companyhadinitiallylaidthe foundationoftheplatformwithone teambasedoutofNewYork,itsoon realizedthatitneededtoengagewith morespecializedteamstobuildthe innovativesolutionitenvisioned.

Workingwithnewteamspresented unexpectedchallengesandsetbackthe company'stimeline.However,the companyremainedmotivatedbyits confidenceinitsvisionforEXtrance, believingthatitcouldofferan industry-leadingsolutionthatwent beyondwhatwascurrentlyonthe market.Toachievethisvision,the companyengagedwithtwoadditional softwaredevelopmentteams simultaneously,onespecializingin datamodelingandUI/UXdesignand theotherinAIandmachinelearning.

Despitethechallengesitfaced,the company'sunwaveringfocuson achievingitsoverallvisionfora technologicallyinnovativeproduct allowedittoovercometheseobstacles andpositionitselfcompetitivelyinthe marketuponlaunch

ExpandingtheHorizonofthe Company

Duringtheideationandinception phaseofEXtrance,thecompany's primaryfocuswasprovidinginvestors andfundmanagerswithvisibilityand insightthroughKPIcalculationsand visualizations.However,thecompany's visionforEXtranceexpandedover timeastheyrecognizedthepotential

fortheplatformasatoolforfund managerstobringtheirentire operationontoasingleplatform, includingdistributionsandcapital calls,onlinebanking,andautomated payments.

Toachievethisvision,EXtrancetooka specializedandtechnologically advancedapproachtoproduct development,consultingwithfund managersandworkingcloselywith twospecializedsoftwaredevelopment teams.Nowthatproductdevelopment iscomplete,thecompany'spriorities haveshiftedtowardsmarketingand salestocommunicatetheadvantages ofthemorerobustplatformtothe market.

AbouttheDreamTeamatEXtrance

EXtrancehasaleanteamandadiverse BoardofAdvisors,andthisunique teamstructureallowsthecompanyto leveragetheexpertiseofwellestablishedleaderswhilemaintaininga smallcoreteam.Thecompanyvalues smarkwork,whichinvolvesfindinga balancebetweenefficiencyandbeing lean.

Duetothesmallsizeoftheteam, EXtrance'scoreteamworksclosely witheachotherandmaintainsahigh levelofcommunication.Theteam sharesthesamevisionforthecompany andisequallycommittedtoitssuccess. Additionally,theyhavehighgoalsand expectationsforthecompanyandare confidentintheproductandtheteam. Overall,thecompanyhasa collaborativeanddedicatedwork culture.

TheSmartWayofDoingBusiness

EXtrance'sdeepunderstandingofthe complexitiesofinvestment management,customizations,androle managementmakesitstandoutfrom

itscompetitors.Thecompanyworks closelywithclientstocreate customizedsolutionsthatcatertotheir specificneedsandproviderelevant insightsandtools.Thecompany employssoftwaredevelopment resourcestomakechangesand additionsnecessaryforitsclients.This levelofserviceishigherthanthatofits competitors,eliminatingtheneedfor softwarecompetencyandreducingthe learningcurve.Thecompany'suserfriendlyapproach,employingsomeof thebestfrontenddevelopment resources,isanotherfactorthatmakes itstandout.

PavingWayfortheFuture

Thecompanyseesitselfasthepremier investmentmanagementsolutioninthe market,withitsuniquebenefitsand competitiveadvantagesbecoming industrystandard.Thecompanyaims toexpanditsplatformandinvestor ecosystemtoservemorealternative investmentstrategiessuchasventure capital,privateequity,andhedge funds,alongwiththeirinvestorswho arefacingchallengeslikeilliquidity, costlymanagement,andalackof transparencyandsecurity.

Byprovidingacustomizableand client-centricsolution,thecompany aimstostaynimbleandcatertothe evolvingneedsofthemarketandits clients.Ultimately,thecompanyaims tobecomethego-tosolutionfor investmentmanagement,settinghigher standardsintheindustryand amplifyingbestpracticesinfund management.

Co-Founder & Managing Director

A Dialogue with Dorian, Co-Founder of FundingHope, LLC, On Achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal Targets in Disadvantaged Communities

PriortotheCOVIDlockdownsof 2020,Co-founderDorian Dickinsonwasworkingon severaleconomicandruraldevelopment programsindevelopingcountriesand conflictzones.WhenCOVIDhit,his businesswentfrom100to0in48hours. ThelockdownperiodgaveDickinson theopportunitytolookathowhecould usehisbusinessdevelopmentskills closertohome.

Whenhelookedattheoverridingcauses ofeconomicinequality,poverty,and lackofhopeindisadvantagedareasof theUS,thesignskeptpointingtoalack ofaccesstocapitaltospark entrepreneurialinnovation,growsmall businesses,andimprovethequalityof lifeinstrugglingcommunities. FundingHopewasbornandremains theonlyinvestmentcrowdfunding platformfocusedentirelyonconnecting investorswithentrepreneurs contributingtosustainabilityin distressed,at-risk,andrural communitiesacrossAmerica.

Excerpts from The Chief's Digest interview with Dorian

Inthismodernbusinessworld,what exactlydoesa“SmartCompany” meantoyou?

In2023,beingasmartcompanymeans

havingastrategicapproachthat leveragesadvancedtechnologies,data, andanalyticstoimproveoperational efficiency,enhancecustomer experiences,driveinnovation,and createasustainable,customer-centric, andinnovativebusinessmodel.

Howsuccessfulwasyourfirstproject rollon?Doyouthinktherehasbeena changeinyourprioritiessincethen?

Entrepreneursandsmallbusiness ownersindisadvantagedcommunities havereceivedtheFundingHope investmentcrowdfundingplatform favorably Theseinnovatorsaresomeof thebrightestmindsinAmerica,and untilnowhavebeenhistoricallyleft behindbytraditionalbanksandWall Street.Ourprioritieshaveremainedthe samefromdayone;helpentrepreneurs andsmallbusinessownersinchallenged communitiesgetthecapitaltheyneed andbridgethegapbetweenaccessto capitalandachievingasustainable futureeverywhere.

Whatchallengesdidyoufaceinyour initialyears?Whatwasthenumber onemotivatingfactorthatkeptyou movingforward?

Theinitialchallengesallinvestment crowdfundingplatformsface,including FundingHope,arecreatingawarenessof

theplatform,andbuildingtrustamong investorsontheplatform,creating awareness.Wehavebeenovercoming thesechallengesbyleveragingthe extensivebusinessdevelopment experienceourfoundersbringtothe business.Wehavestrategicallylooked ateveryaspectofourbusiness, completeddetailedcompetitiveanalyses ofourcompetition,andbuiltabetter crowdfundingmodelthanhadbeenin themarket.

Thenumberonemotivatingfactorthat haskeptusmovingforwardisknowing thatwearedevelopingacutting-edge, out-of-the-boxalternativeinvestment marketplacethatwillputcapitalinthe handsofsmallbusinessownerswho willmakeapositiveandsustainable differenceinthecommunities.

Howwouldyoudescribethework culturewithinyourorganization? Howdoyoudifferentiatebetween smartworkandhardwork?

Ourteamisapassionate,dedicated,and driventeamofexperienced professionals.Wecommunicate constantly,shareideas,andbringan entrepreneurialmindsettothebusiness. Weareallentrepreneurswhoare focusedonunderstandingwhat entrepreneursinchallenging environmentsarelookingfortogrow

theirbusinesses.Wearealwaysaiming toworksmartinsteadofhard.That meansfindingthemosteffectiveand efficientwaytoachieveourcustomers' goals.Wefocusonusingourtime, resources,andskillsinthemostefficient waypossibletoachieveourcustomers' desiredoutcomes.

Asaquestiononadaptability,howdo youstayrelevanttoconsumer interestsandneedsinthishighly volatilemarket?

FundingHopestaysrelevantby remainingcurrentwiththelatesttrends andchangesinthealternative investment,communitydevelopment, andruraldevelopmentsectors.Weadapt andevolveourbrandpositioningand messagingtostayaheadofthecurve.

Whatarethefactorsthatmakeyour brandoneoftheSMARTESTand why?

FundingHopehasdevelopedaclearand compellingvalueproposition,strong brandmessaging,andadeep understandingofourtargetaudience. FundingHopecanconnectwithits

audienceinameaningfulandauthentic way,whilealsodifferentiatingitself fromitscompetitorsintheinvestment crowdfundingspace.

Weremainauthenticandgenuineinour interactionswithissuersinneedof fundingandpotentialinvestorsinthose businesses.Wealwayscommunicatein atransparent,honest,andtrustworthy way.Overall,wehaveadeep understandingofourtargetaudiences andcommunicateourvalueproposition inawaythatresonateswiththem.We buildtrustandloyaltywithourissuing companiesandinvestors,whilealso stayingrelevantandinnovativeina rapidlychangingmarketplace.

What'syourtakeontheinvolvement ofcompaniesinsocialwelfare/CSR activities?Doesitmakeapositive contributiontothebusiness?

CSRplaysacrucialrolein FundingHope'sbrandperception; attractivenesstoinvestorsandissuer companiesinneedofcapital; opportunitiesforglobalgrowth;and overallsuccessofourbusiness.

Whathaveyouenjoyedthemost whilesailingthroughtheupsand downsofyourbusiness?

Themostenjoyablepartofdeveloping andgrowingFundingHopehasbeenthe engagementIhavebeenabletohave withentrepreneursindisadvantaged communities.Learningfromthem, understandingtheirneeds,and demonstratinghowFundingHopecan assistthemingrowingtheirbusinesses, andhopefullycreatinggenerational wealthfortheirfamiliesareexperiences thatIamproudtohaveasprofessional memories.

Wheredoyouseeyourcompanya fewyearsfromnow?

FundingHopeispositionedforstrong

growthintheUnitedStatesandin severalinternationalmarkets.We envisionFundingHopeasaglobal leaderintheinvestmentcrowdfunding sector,andadisruptiveforcein alternativeinvestmentmarkets.Weare driventooutpacecompetitors,secure additionalpartnershipswithstrategically alignedstakeholders,andbuildastrong brandreputationwithglobalawareness.

DorianDickinson,Co-Founder,and ManagingDirector

Dorianbeganhiscareerinlaw enforcementbeforeestablishinghimself asaleaderinthedevelopmentof innovativebusinessstrategiesinvarious consumerproductsectors.Forthepast 15years,hehasdedicatedhiscareerto creatingandbuildingeconomic developmentactivity,sustainability programs,andimprovedhealthand sanitationinitiativesinruraland economicallychallengedcommunities intheUS,Mexico,SouthAmerica,the MiddleEast,Africa,andSoutheastAsia.

DickinsonisacommissionedKentucky Colonel,thehighesttitleofhonor bestowedbytheGovernorofKentucky, asrecognitionofhisnoteworthy accomplishmentsandoutstanding servicetothecommunity,state,nation, andplanet.HewastwicenamedIllinois AgribusinessLeaderoftheYear,wasa charterboardmemberoftheCouncilof theGreatLakesRegion,andhasbeen recognizedbyCanada'sGovernor General,theRightHonourableDavid Johnston,asacross-bordereconomic developmentleader

“FundingHope exists to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners contributing to sustainability in distressed, at-risk, and rural communities to take charge of their finances and set themselves up for success to grow their businesses and communities.”

World-Class Online Reputation Management Services to Help Your Company Look Its Best Online

Inthedigitalera,whereeveryone canshareopinionsonjustabout anything,brandsshouldknowthat customersaresavvyenoughtospot authenticityinaninstant.Thesedays, havingagreatwebsiteandstrong socialmediapresenceisn'tenoughto cultivateandearnconsumertrust. Businessesmustalsopayclose attentiontohowtheirbrandis perceivedacrosstheweb.

That'swhereNetReputation.com comesin.Theindustryleaderin customORMsolutions,NetReputation helpsbrandsbuildamorecompelling onlinereputationwhilecultivatinga healthypartnershipwithcustomers, prospects,andthepublic.

NetReputation.comwasfoundedwith thegoalofprovidingbusinessesand individualsacomprehensiveonline reputationmanagementsolutionbuilt aroundtheirneedsanddesignedto achievetheirlong-termobjectives.

“We saw a need in the market for customized and robust ORM that could help people and organizations take control of their online image for the long term, and that's what inspired us to develop and launch the

NetReputation ORM service suite,” saysAdamPetrilli,Founder/CEO, NetReputation.com

A conversation with Adam Petrilli

Inthismodernbusinessworld,what exactlydoesa“SmartCompany” meantoyou?

Tome,a"smartcompany"isonethat leveragestechnologyanddatatomake informeddecisions,drivegrowthand deliveramemorable,results-based experiencefortheclient.Smart companiesneverstopseekingwaysto improveprocessesandmakethemost oftechnologicaldevelopmentto achieveresultsfasterandbetterthan thecompetition.Theyvaluesuch principlesasinnovation,collaboration, andagility,andarecommittedto creatingapositiveimpacton employees,clients,andtheworld.

Howsuccessfulwasyourfirstproject rollon?Doyouthinktherehasbeen achangeinyourprioritiessince then?

Ourfirstprojectdeliveredavery successfuloutcome,anditgaveusthe confidencetokeeppushingforward

andbuildonthethingswehaddone right.Sincethen,ourprioritieshave definitelyshifted,primarilybecauseof thescaling-upprocessandthe considerableexperienceandinsights we'vegainedaboutGoogle,digital technologies,andthelargeronline reputationmanagementlandscape.Our primaryfocusisonprovidingclients withthebestpossibleserviceand solutionsandstayingaheadofthe curvebyutilizingthebesttechnology andinnovationsoutthere.

Whatchallengesdidyoufaceinyour initialyears?Whatwasthenumber onemotivatingfactorthatkeptyou movingforward?

Wefacedanumberofchallengesin ourearlyyears,includingbuildinga greatcoreteam,establishinga successfulbrandinahighly competitiveindustry,andfiguringout themosteffectivewaystoreachand servebusinessesandbrandsaroundthe world.Butwhatkeptusmoving forwardwasourpassionforthework, helpingbusinessesnavigatethe challengesofanunpredictabledigital climatewhilebuildingtrustandsetting theirbrandsapart.Ittooksomedoing, butweestablishedasolidfootholdin

theORMmarketandhavebeenrising eversince.

Howwouldyoudescribethework culturewithinyourorganization? Howdoyoudifferentiatebetween smartworkandhardwork?

Theworkculturewithinour organizationisoneofcollaboration, innovation,andintegrity Wevalue bothhardworkandsmartwork,and weencourageouremployeestofind themostefficientandeffectivewaysto achievetheirgoals.Wealsoencourage in-houseinnovation,takinginitiative, andprovidingourstaffthetoolsand freedomtoleveragetheirrespective talentstopushtheenvelopeanddeliver anindustry-leadingexperience. Throughcollaboration,open communication,andbenchmark incentivization,westrivetomaintaina smartworkenvironmentthat continuallypositionsusforsuccess.

Asaquestiononadaptability,how doyoustayrelevanttoconsumer interestsandneedsinthishighly volatilemarket?

Stayingrelevanttoconsumerinterests andneedsisalwaysachallenge.Still, wedoourbesttostayontopof industrytrends,engagewithourclients andprospects,andcontinually innovateandrefineourservice offerings.

Whatarethefactorsthatmakeyour brandoneoftheSMARTESTand why?

OurbrandisoneoftheSMARTESTin theORMspacebecausewecombine cutting-edgetechnologyanddata analysiswithadeepunderstandingof theevolutionofonlineinformation.We alsoconsiderthehumanelementof reputationmanagementthroughout

“Our goal is to provide world-class Online Reputation Management Services to our clients using the latest technology and processes. Through various methods, we work to restore, improve, or create a positive online reputation for businesses and individuals.”

eachprocessanddecision,allowingus toaddauniquebutpowerfultouch othersintheindustrycan'tmatch. We'recommittedtoprovidingour clientswithcustomized,results-driven solutionsthattrulymakeadifference.

Howdoesyourcompanycontribute tothecompetitiveglobalplatformat large?

Asaleadingbrandintheonline reputationmanagementspace,we contributetotheadvancementof globalORMservicesbyhelping businessesandindividualstakecontrol oftheironlineimage,andbyproviding themwiththetoolsandinsightsthey needtosucceedinanincreasingly digitizedworld.

What'syourtakeontheinvolvement ofcompaniesinsocialwelfare/CSR activities?Doesitmakeapositive contributiontothebusiness?

Webelievethatcompanieshavea responsibilitytogivebacktotheir communitiesandtosupportinitiatives

thatmaketheworldabetterplace.Our aimistoencourageandempower employeestobeactive,supportive membersoftheirlocalcommunityand toconstantlystrivetobeadifferencemakerwhenandwhereverpossible.

Whathaveyouenjoyedthemost whilesailingthroughtheupsand downsofyourbusiness?

ThethingI'veenjoyedmostwhile runningthisbusinessisseeingthe impactwe'vebeenabletomakeonour clients'livesandbusinesses.It's incrediblyrewardingtoknowthat we'remakingarealdifferencefor entrepreneursandbrandsintheworld.

Wheredoyouseeyourcompanya fewyearsfromnow?

Inafewyearsfromnow,Isee NetReputation.comcontinuingtogrow andevolve,andexpandingourservice offeringstomeetthechangingneedsof themarket.We'recommittedto remainingaleaderintheonline reputationmanagementspace,and helpingbusinessesandindividuals succeedinanincreasinglydigital world.

AboutAdamPetrilli

AdamPetrilliservesasFounderand CEOatNetReputation.com,whichhe builtfromthegroundup.Petrilliis knownforhisresults-drivenleadership styleandbuildinginnovativedigital strategiesthatempowerindividualand businesssuccessontheweb.

Michael Chagala, Founder & CEO

Helping You Scale Up Your Business, Reach Untapped Markets & Create Meaningful Customer Relationships

Withtheriseinpopularity oftheinternet, smartphones,and internet-connecteddevices, customershavebecometech-savvy. Hence,businessesneedtoinvestin digitalstrategiesandcraftcampaigns thataccuratelyrespondtotheirtarget demographic'sneedsanddemands.

There'sanoceanofopportunitiesin reach,buttherearealotofdecisions tomake.That'swhereRankHarvest SEOcomesintohelpbusinesses findtherightsolutionstoimprove theirbrandawarenessanddrive qualifiedleads.

Excerpts from The Chief's Digest interview with Rank Harvest SEO team

WhatqualifiesRankHarvestSEO asa'smartcompany'?

Priortotheinternet,marketing agencieslookedlikesomethingyou mightseeonMadMenwhere executivesinexpensivesuitspitch ideastolargebrandsfromfancy officesdesignedtoconveystatusand success.Theentirestaff,ranging

fromgraphicdesigntocopywriting, satunderthesameroof,justoutside theexecs'offices.Whatworkedwell withthismodelwasqualitycontrol; nothingleftthedoorthatwasn't carefullyscrutinized.Thismodelwas carriedoverintotheinternetagebut didn'tsurvive.

Fast-forwardseveralyearsandthe pendulumswungincompletelythe otherdirection.Theinternetbrought awaveofnewsmalltomid-sized businessesthatcouldnotaffordthe high-ticketcampaignsoflegacy firms.Newmarketingagencies sprungupwithouttheoverheadof expensiveofficeleasesandc-level executives.Theyquicklyatethe legacyfirms'lunchandmadethem obsoleteovernight.Butthecostcuttingdidn'tendwithleasesand execs;manyofthesenewmarketing agencieswerenothingmorethan frontcompanieswhocloseddealson oneendandoutsourcedeverythingto thelowestbidderontheother.This resultedinhigh-profitmargins,but alsofragmented,disjointed marketingcampaignsandlowqualitywork.

RankHarvestSEOlandsrightinthe middle,takingthegoodfromeach modelandleavingbehindthebad. Wehaveapermanentstaffwhere qualityandexpertisearerequired,we arealsoquicktooutsourcewhenit's therightfit.Thismodelisn'texactly ground-breaking–alotofagencies aredoingthesame.Butwhatmakes usdifferentisthesizeofthe outsourcetalentpoolwehave cultivated.Whileotheragencies outsourcetothesamesmallgroupof dataentry,virtualassistants,content writers,designers,andthelike,we havehundredsofquality professionalsatourfingertipsin everyimaginableniche.Forexample, ifacustomerneedstheirhomepage copyrewritten,they'llgetourlocal, in-housecontentwriterwithadegree fromUCSD.Butiftheyneed500 productdescriptionswrittenfortheir onlinefurniturestore,we'lloutsource tosomeonelessexpensivewho specializesinthisniche(yes,there arewriterswhospecializeinwriting aboutfurniture).Becausewehavean in-houseteam,we'reabletotightly controlqualitywhilesavingour clientsthousandsofdollars.Thisis whyweareasmartcompany

Whatchallengesdidyoufacein yourinitialyears?

Ourfounder,MichaelChagala, startedhiscareerliterallysweeping theserverroomfloorasanunpaid internatasoftwaredevelopment companyandworkedhiswayup fromthere. Afteryearsofwriting codeincubicles,followedby managementandthenaDirectorrole atoneofthefastest-growing companiesintheUnitedStates,he's seenitall. Todayhe'sjustas comfortabletalkingbusinessstrategy asheiswritingcode,whichmakes himaperfectfitasadigitalagency owner.

ButstartingRankHarvestSEO wasn'teasy.Withtheskillstoboth runthebusinessanddothework, MichaelsetouttocreateRank HarvestSEOwithoutinvestors, partners,orbusinessloans. He startedbuildingaclientelewithfree adsonCraigslistandgrewfrom there.Whilestillemployedfull-time

tofundtheproject,Michaelworked RankHarvestfrom4amuntilhisday jobbegan,thencamehomeand worked4morehoursintheevening, and12hourseachontheweekends. Nearly2yearslater,with2kidsand amortgage,Michaelquithisdayjob andRankHarvestSEOwasofficially launchedasafullyoperationaldigital marketingagency TodayRank HarvestSEOhasservicedover2500 customers,wonnumerousindustry awards,andemploysafullstaff. TodayMichael'sroleisthatofhead strategist,butinsistshespendsmost ofhistime“tryingtostayrelevant surroundedbystaffsmarterandmore talentedthanme.Thisusuallyresults inmeddlingwhereI'mnotneeded”.

Whatisnewonthehorizonfor RankHarvestSEO?

Almostbyaccident,we'vefound ourselvesspecialistsinthewellness nichesurroundingcannabisSEOand psilocybinSEO(psilocybinisa fancywayofsayingshrooms,or magicmushrooms).Whencannabis firststartedbecominglegalizedin pocketsaroundtheUnitedStates,it tendedtobeinsmallmarketsthat didn'tgenerateenoughrevenueto supportdigitalmarketingbudgets. Andeveniftheyhadthebudget,they foundthemselvesblockedbybanks andcreditcardsfrombuying professionalservicesascannabiswas stillillegalatthefederallevel.

Todaythecannabisindustryiswellestablishedandmatured,and psilocybinisnext.However,they bothcontinuetobeunderservedby thedigitalmarketingindustryin general.Aslongastheyareoperating legally,we'veacceptedthemwith

openarmsandhaveprobablyserved 100customersbetweenthetwo–makingusleadersinthisspace.It'sa funspacetoworkin;ownersare oftenextremelywell-fundedyetlaid back.They'rewillingtotakeriskson creativenewideas.

Wheredoyouseeyourcompanyin afewyears?

We'regrowingfast.There'snevera timewe'renothiringoronboarding newclients. Butthere'sacompany culturewewanttoprotect;everyone isgettingpaidwell,nobodyis overworkedorpullingall-nighters, ourclientsarehappy…Sometimes growingbiggerjustmovesyou furtherawayfromthis. We'retrying togrowcarefullysowe'rethesame companyinafewyearsthatweare now,justbigger.

MichaelChagala,Founder&CEO

Michael'scareerbegansweepingthe serverroomfloorasanunpaidintern atasoftwaredevelopmentcompany, laterprogressingfromsoftware engineertodigitalmarketingthen leadership.Michaelwasanexecutive atoneofthefastestgrowing companiesintheUnitedStates helpingbringasmallenergy companyfrom$20millionannual revenuetonearly$70aspartofa smallteamofDirectors.

“We know how to get the highest rank in the shortest time possible.”

Kurt Wittin, CEO

Shipping Container Pool company that offers

and customizable pool options as in shipping containers.

KurtWittinisapioneerinthe containerpoolindustry, havingstartedthecontainer poolphenomenonin2011.With15 yearsofexperienceintheLos Angelesfilmindustry,KurtWittin transitionedtothecontainerpool buildingindustry.BasedinWinnipeg, Manitoba,Canada,KurtWittin continuestobuildcontainerpoolsin theregion.

HowKurtWittinCameUpwith SeventeenPoolsIdea

DoyouknowhowKurtWittin unleashhispotentialwithan extraordinarybusinessandfounded SeventeenPools?

Well,onastormysummernightin 2012,oneoftheshippingcontainers, whichwasbeingusedforother purposes,wasinadvertentlyleftopen, andthenextmorning,thestaff noticedthatithadfilledwithwater

Thisincidentsparkedtheideaand birthoftheshippingcontainerpool concept.

Afterextensiveexperimentationand aboutayearandahalfoftesting, Poolssuccessfullydevelopedand perfectedthedesignandoverall appearanceoftheircontainerpools throughdiligenttrialandeffort.

AccordingtoKurtWittin:

"Unlock the keys to business success with a winning formula that addresses immediate user needs, offers competitive compensation, solid financials, healthy cash flow, and effective marketing strategies. But it's the unbeatable power of your team's knowledge and experience that truly makes it all work, ensuring your business thrives beyond expectations.”

Andwehavewitnessedhiswords exceptionalandpracticalapproachin SeventeenPools.

Anotherremarkablepieceofadvice fromKurtWitten:

"The first project is often the toughest, but with unwavering teamwork and unrelenting

commitment, no challenge is insurmountable. Together, as a cohesive and determined team, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness, proving that with collective effort and dedication, anything is possible at the end of the day."

WhatMakesSeventeenPoolsthe Top-NotchContainerPool Company?

TheSeventeenPoolscompanystays aheadofthecurvebyconstantly innovatingandbringingfresh, creativeideastothetable.Theystrive toofferunique,cutting-edgedesigns andfeaturesthatsetthemapartfrom thecompetition.

Thequalityofthecontainerpool itselfiscrucial.TheSeventeenPools usehigh-grade,durablematerials,and employskilledcraftsmanshipinthe constructionprocesstoensureasafe andreliableendproductthatwill withstandthetestoftime.

SeventeenPoolsalsounderstandthat everycustomerisunique,andthey

cost-effective, durable,

offercustomizationoptionstocaterto individualneedsandpreferences.

Thisincludestheabilitytochoose fromvarioussizes,shapes,finishes, andadditionalfeaturestocreatea trulypersonalizedcontainerpoolthat meetsthecustomer'srequirements.

Everytop-notchcompanyhasgreat customerserviceandsodoesthe SeventeenPool. Theyprioritize promptcommunication,attentive listening,andresponsivesupport throughouttheentirecustomer journey,frominitialinquirytoaftersalesservice,toensureapositive experiencefortheirclients.

SeventeenPoolshasexperienced professionalswhopossessthe necessaryskillsandknowledgein containerpooldesign,construction, andinstallation.

Theystayupdatedwithindustry trendsandregulations,andprovide expertadviceandguidanceto customers,helpingthemmake informeddecisions.

SeventeenPoolshasearnedthrough consistentdeliveryofquality productsandservices.Thiscompany hasatrackrecordofsatisfied customers,positivereviews,and referrals,showcasingitsreliability andtrustworthinessinthemarket.

Butwasitalwayssimpletobuild SeventeenPool?Probablynot.

“Despite facing initial skepticism and laughter from others when I started building with shipping containers, I remained determined to pursue my idea. Many believed it would never work and dismissed it

as a dead-end concept. However, my business has surpassed all expectations and goals, proving the naysayers wrong. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and unwavering belief in one's vision”.

KurtWittin

WhatisthePreferredapproachat SeventeenPools?HardWorkor SmartWork?

Thiscompanyhasembracedasmart workculturewhichistheoptimal approachwhentheteamexcelsat whattheydobest.

Withtheteam'sproficiencyand expertise,hardworkbecomes seamless,astasksarecompleted efficientlyandaccuratelywitha specializedskillset.

Thissynergybetweenskilland efficiencyeliminatestheneedfor excessivelabor,allowingworktobe accomplishedswiftlyandwith precision,ultimatelyleadingto success.

Besidesacompetitivemindsetand therightskills,SeventeenPools companysurelyisthesmartest amongitscompetitors.Theyhavea verysmallfootprintonyourproperty. Theyusematerialsthatarebeing repurposed.Thepricepointon containersarequitecompetitiveand providecustomerswithagreat savings.

WhatstepsdoesSeventeenPools ontheglobalstage?

Theyarehighlycompetitiveonthe globalstageduetotheirsustainable

productoffering.Seventeenpools haveasmallenvironmentalfootprint, makingapositivecontributiontothe overallenvironment.

Whiletheyutilizebrandnew shippingcontainersforpools,they alsotakeprideingivingoneless shippingcontaineroutof commission,repurposingitintoa functionalandeco-friendlysolution. Thiscommitmenttosustainability setsthemapartandpositionsthemas leadersintheindustry.

Whatdoesthefutureholdfor SeventeenPoolscompany?

Byconsideringinnovation& differentiation,expansionofservices, andmarketsegmentation,Seventeen Poolsisproactivelyplanningfor growthandcreatingapromising futureoutlook.

Certainly,withacommitmentto excellence,innovation,andcustomer satisfaction,SeventeenPools companyispoisedforabrightfuture ofcontinuedgrowthandsuccessin theindustry.

GoodLuckSeventeenPools!