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Entergy Launches $100,000 Power Your Future Scholarship To Support Technology Students at HBCUs

“Do It Scared”: Ryn Scull’s Sweet Small Business Side Hustle 

Leidos Enhances UK Mod Supply Chain With Secure Cloud Migration

<img alt="Students in the lab" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71c4fe65-d8c8-4fce-9017-698466238c2e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/STEM_PSEG_032525.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1000" loading="lazy" />We’re proud to expand our partnership with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/students2science/" target="_blank">Students 2 Science</a> to provide over 450,000 New Jersey students with hands-on experiences and career guidance to shape their futures in STEM.  
Students 2 Science is on a mission to level the education gap by bringing high-quality STEM education to students in need. As part of our longstanding relationship, our <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=psegfoundation&amp;highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7306403802138460160" target="_blank">PSEG Foundation</a> has awarded them with a $250,000 grant to support an expansion of their STEM programs Improving Student and Aptitude for Careers in STEM (ISAAC) and the Career Advancement Program.  
This expansion will allow Students 2 Science to run 300 elementary school sessions, 300 middle and high school ISAAC days and a summer program for students in grades 3-12.  
Visit <a href="http://spr.ly/60410nc6F" target="_blank">http://spr.ly/60410nc6F</a> to learn more.

View original content <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/pseg_stem-psegfoundation-activity-7306403802138460160-lKs-/?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAAACuHX0B_8exHEeyvRwmSoxObmkHGHY9tFQ" target="_blank">here</a>.

PSEG Supports STEM Education With Students 2 Science

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a1661c53-10ff-4eb6-950e-6f92f4de5d81" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ASU_GoDaddy_3.26.25A.png" width="640" height="720" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Argentina Ung sets the ball during a matchup against the University of Arizona in Desert Financial Arena on Oct. 9, 2024. Photo courtesy of ASU Knowledge Enterprise</figcaption></figure><a href="https://news.asu.edu/20250325-business-and-entrepreneurship-asu-and-godaddy-launch-studentathlete-venture-studio" target="_blank">Originally published by Arizona State University News</a>

By <a href="https://news.asu.edu/users/sleander" target="_blank">Sandy Keaton Leander</a>

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering college athletes beyond their playing careers, Arizona State University and GoDaddy (NYSE: GDDY) teamed up to launch the first-of-its-kind <a href="https://entrepreneurship.asu.edu/programs/studentathleteventurestudio/" target="_blank">Student-Athlete Venture Studio</a>.

The program helps student-athletes navigate the rapidly changing landscape of name, image and likeness licensing by providing them with the tools, mentorship and resources to develop, launch and grow business ventures.

Initiated and designed by the <a href="https://entrepreneurship.asu.edu/" target="_blank">J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute</a> at ASU, GoDaddy and Sun Devil Athletics, this collaboration combines ASU’s entrepreneurial resources with GoDaddy’s digital expertise to help student-athletes build their brands.

“The Student-Athlete Venture Studio enables collegiate athletes to become entrepreneurs and provides a proactive approach to navigating NIL successfully,” said Jeff Kunowski, associate director of innovation programs at Edson E+I Institute. “By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across ASU and leveraging sport as a platform, we are helping athletes develop ventures and lifelong skills to help them excel beyond their careers as college athletes.”

Following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 2021, student-athletes have been navigating what is a relatively new entrepreneurial landscape. College athletes can now benefit financially from their name, image and likeness with no penalty from the NCAA, but figuring out how to do so can be complicated and time-consuming.

As part of this program, student-athletes will benefit from in-person and online educational content, opportunities to compete for grant funding, and a collaborative working space at Mountain America Stadium, a significant location due to its proximity to Sun Devil Athletics administration, facilities and the athletes themselves. This convenient location allows athletes to easily schedule and drop in for hands-on mentoring sessions. Dedicated workstations and conference rooms provide a professional environment where they can actively develop their ventures.

GoDaddy helped found the initiative through its global social impact program, <a href="https://www.godaddy.com/godaddy-for-good/empower" target="_blank">Empower by GoDaddy</a>, and will provide more than 650 student-athletes with free access to digital branding tools, including GoDaddy Airo, the company's AI-powered solution for developing an online presence in minutes. These resources, consisting of more than $1 million in combined cash and in-kind support to be distributed to students in 2025, allow athletes to establish a professional online presence, launch ventures quickly and easily scale their ideas.

“We’re thrilled to combine the business-building power of GoDaddy Airo with the drive and immense potential of these enterprising student-athletes, ” said Jared Sine, chief strategy and legal officer at GoDaddy. “According to our research, 50% of Gen Z aspire to become entrepreneurs, and through Empower by GoDaddy, we’re accelerating this journey for these young innovators by providing them with the tools they need to bring their business dreams to life off the field."

The program’s inspiration came from a collaboration between Kunowski and Kate Fitzgerald, a former ASU women’s beach volleyball player and founder of <a href="https://vbamerica.shop/" target="_blank">VBAmerica</a>, a volleyball lifestyle clothing brand.

“NIL regulations and ASU’s innovative resources allowed me to launch VBAmerica and build opportunities for life after sport,” Fitzgerald said. “As student athletic council president, I saw a need to help other athletes access these same resources: launching businesses, securing grants and building networks. The Student-Athlete Venture Studio embodies this mission, empowering athletes to thrive through NIL and entrepreneurship.”

Athletes in the program will pitch their venture ideas for seed funding during a Demo Day each academic year.

About The J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU 
The J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU is a high-impact, driver and supporter of the entrepreneurial ecosystem at ASU, in greater Phoenix, and nationally. We are a network of people, support systems, collaborative resources and tools for students, leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators in the community. We are nimble by design, scale rapidly, and are continually building our abilities to be the conduit that provides support to you where and when you need it.

About GoDaddy 
GoDaddy helps millions of entrepreneurs globally start, grow, and scale their businesses. People come to GoDaddy to name their idea, build a website and logo, sell their products and services and accept payments. GoDaddy Airo®, the company's AI-powered experience, makes growing a small business faster and easier by helping them to get their idea online in minutes, drive traffic and boost sales. GoDaddy's expert guides are available 24/7 to provide assistance. To learn more about the company, visit <a href="https://www.godaddy.com/" target="_blank">www.GoDaddy.com</a>.

ASU and GoDaddy launch Student-Athlete Venture Studio

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0f7fb7d4-b55f-4641-8d52-07f196ceb510" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/precision-agriculture-3_CNH_32525.jpg" width="640" height="853" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Tashkent workshop participants learning about the capabilities of the Case IH Magnum</figcaption></figure>Following World Water Day on March 22, <a href="https://www.cnh.com/" target="_blank">CNH</a> brands - <a href="https://www.caseih.com/en-gb/unitedkingdom" target="_blank">Case IH</a> and <a href="https://agriculture.newholland.com/en-gb/europe?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=paidsearch&amp;utm_campaign=always-on-search&amp;placement=Google_PaidSearch&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwqIm_BhDnARIsAKBYcmtg9XpClbvdMNVm_J1sJ23cfOLNEEGEojbsCRhiVWRosd94hr55NysaAiDeEALw_wcB" target="_blank">New Holland</a> - continue to lead the way in breaking new ground in precision agriculture.

As part of the Drops of the Future initiative, CNH has teamed up with Italy-based agri tech company, xFarm, to develop a pilot project in Uzbekistan to show how precision technology and data from their machines can help farmers increase productivity and save water.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21fb18fb-7dc4-42f6-ba03-a06090742521" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/precision-agriculture-1_CNH_32525.jpg" width="640" height="1707" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Gianluca Feligini, Tim Kraenzlein (OSCE) and Daniela Ropolo at the Drops of the Future event in Vienna, Austria.</figcaption></figure>The Drops of the Future initiative is tackling water scarcity in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan by empowering young professionals through innovation and collaboration. It has been set up by The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which focuses on addressing a wide range of security-related concerns that include economic, environmental and human aspects. It is the first time OSCE has worked with private companies on the topic of water, agri-food production and energy to increase environmental efforts around water use, while improving production efficiency.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ab5775f-2e03-4eab-ba58-21e70415144d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/precision-agriculture-2_CNH_32525.jpeg" width="640" height="960" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Experts, policy makers and industry leaders at the Tashkent Workshop in Uzbekistan</figcaption></figure>It started in September 2024 with the Tashkent Youth Workshop in Uzbekistan, which featured experts, policymakers, and industry leaders – including CNH. This ongoing project is delivering real impact.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f17495cc-fd53-4228-8aa8-9fa5d5f7d482" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/precision-agriculture-4_CNH_32525.jpg" width="640" height="960" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Our team and representatives of xFarm setting up an xSense Pro weather station. </figcaption></figure>To find out more about the Drops of the Future Initiative and the xFarm pilot project in Uzbekistan, visit: <a href="https://bit.ly/BreakingNewGround_en" target="_blank">bit.ly/BreakingNewGround_en</a>

View original content <a href="https://media.cnh.com/EMEA/cnh/cic-latest-news/how-cnh-s-precision-technology-is-helping-farmers-tackle-water-scarcity/s/b6d10e44-5b48-4bd2-87fb-1034648b6622" target="_blank">here</a>.

How CNH’s Precision Technology Is Helping Farmers Tackle Water Scarcity

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="94dab8e6-28ed-4298-9d7c-2602bda59d0f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Partnership-Nature_Conservancy_BathandBodyWorks_032425.png" width="640" height="854" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>As a Central Ohio company, it’s part of Bath &amp; Body Works’ long-standing culture to give back to the communities where their associates live and work.</figcaption></figure>As a Central Ohio company, it’s part of Bath &amp; Body Works’ long-standing culture to give back to the communities where their associates live and work. That’s why Bath &amp; Body Works is proud to partner with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to reduce the pollution of lakes and restore streams in the region.

“Central Ohio has been home to Bath &amp; Body Works for more than 34 years, and we’re honored to join The Nature Conservancy and other likeminded companies that are working to protect and preserve this region’s precious water resources,” said Jeff King, Group Vice President and Head of ESG at Bath &amp; Body Works. “We look forward to seeing the progress of this project as we support a brighter future for our local community and planet.”

Bath &amp; Body Works is among four companies providing a combined $1.2 million for the project, which is expected to divert runoff from more than 700 acres of mostly farm fields through a restored wetland. TNC will collaborate with Licking County Soil and Water Conservation District to restore the wetland and expects the effort to begin in early 2026. The project aims to filter and store runoff before it flows into nearby Buckeye Lake by using the restored wetland to naturally filter out the overabundance of nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment.

Under the project, water flowing through a straightened agricultural ditch passes through a restored wetland, naturally treating the runoff from farm fields before the water flows downstream to Buckeye Lake. The project builds on the success of past partner efforts that have been effective in reducing nutrient pollution and harmful algal blooms in the lake in recent years.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture estimates this project has the potential to remove 6,107 pounds of nitrogen and 315 pounds of phosphorous preventing it from being delivered into Buckeye Lake each year, helping to preserve the health of Ohio waters. It will also serve as an important step in utilizing TNC’s science and local relationships to establish regional priorities for stream and wetland restoration in Central Ohio.

“There are tangible impacts we are experiencing from climate change, including warmer summers and heavier rainstorms, which are washing fertilizers and sediment from farms and into the water creating ideal conditions for harmful algae blooms,” said Adam Lehmann, Central Ohio water manager for TNC in Ohio. “Wetlands act as nature’s kidneys, filtering out excess nutrients and sediment, and by restoring this crucial natural infrastructure, we can help reduce the extent and severity of these algal blooms and improve water quality by using nature as a solution.”

As a global leader in home fragrance and personal care, Bath &amp; Body Works is committed to shaping a future that's resilient and responsible, creating meaningful impact for a brighter future. Learn more about this initiative <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/newsroom/central-ohio-wetland-collaboration/#:~:text=The%20Nature%20Conservancy%20leads%20%241.2M%20collaboration%20with%20private%20sector,support%20healthy%20lakes%20and%20streams." target="_blank">here</a>.

Supporting Local Wetlands in Partnership With the Nature Conservancy

<img alt="A group posed on a beach" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="622a6a71-a49b-4d8c-82e3-a3ca663854bf" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/world-water-day-2025_DP-WORLD_032025A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="853" loading="lazy" />As the world prepares to observe World Water Day on March 22, 2025, the focus sharpens on the indispensable role of freshwater and the escalating challenges it faces.

Initiated by the United Nations, World Water Day celebrates this vital resource while sounding an urgent call to action against the growing water crisis. The day serves as a reminder for the world to recommit to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal6" target="_blank">SDG 6</a> (Clean Water and Sanitation) and <a href="https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/14-life-below-water/" target="_blank">SDG 14</a> (Life Below Water).

This year's theme, “Glacier Preservation,” underscores the critical importance of glaciers, whose meltwater is essential for drinking water, agriculture, industry, clean energy production, and healthy ecosystems. With rapidly melting glaciers causing uncertainty in water flows, the urgency for action has never been greater.

Currently, 703 million people—approximately 1 in 11 globally—lack access to clean water. By 2025, half of the world's population could be living in areas facing water scarcity, with projections indicating that up to 700 million people could be displaced by intense water shortages by 2030.

Our World, Our Future

DP World, a global leader in supply chain solutions, is taking decisive steps to address these challenges, integrating sustainability into port operations, community outreach, and global partnerships. Our sustainability strategy, “<a href="https://www.dpworld.com/sustainability" target="_blank">Our World, Our Future</a>,” lays the groundwork for our approach, focusing on reducing our environmental footprint and advancing global water-related goals.

As a business that enables prosperity to flow around the globe, we have a key role to play in safeguarding ocean health, increasing access to clean water and hygiene, managing our water use and protecting aquatic biodiversity.

Recognizing this urgency, we have woven sustainable water management into the fabric of our operations and community engagements worldwide.

Sustainable Port Operations

DP World Americas is taking decisive steps to minimize water pollution, improve wastewater management, and safeguard marine biodiversity. By integrating sustainable practices into its port operations, the company is leading the industry in responsible water use and environmental protection.

One initiative is DP World’s issuance of a <a href="https://www.dpworld.com/news/releases/dp-world-becomes-the-first-company-in-the-middle-east-to-issue-a-blue-bond/" target="_blank">$100 million Blue Bond</a>—the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region. This investment will fund water-positive projects, including port infrastructure improvements, coastal resilience initiatives, and marine pollution reduction efforts.

In addition, the company has pledged to positively influence 100 water-stressed basins by 2030, aligning with the UN Global Compact <a href="https://ceowatermandate.org/" target="_blank">CEO Water Mandate</a>. This commitment reinforces our dedication to water conservation through strategic investments in waste reduction, water efficiency, and innovative sustainability solutions.

Community &amp; Conservation Partnerships

DP World recognizes that protecting water resources requires collaboration. Across the Americas, we are spearheading conservation projects that restore waterways, preserve coastal ecosystems, and educate communities on water stewardship. Here are three projects worth highlighting as we celebrate World Water Day.

Mangroves as a Nature-Based Solution in Ecuador

In Ecuador, we are <a href="https://www.dpworld.com/en/canada/news/latest-news/championing-mangrove-conservation#:~:text=In%20response%2C%20DP%20World%20partnered,and%20protecting%20them%20from%20erosion." target="_blank">restoring mangrove forests</a> in partnership with the CALISUR Foundation. These ecosystems act as natural carbon sinks, filter water pollutants, and provide essential habitats for marine life. In November, we completed <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/Tracker?data=ItR4XT5QDM6QGE66qCM0YdzO91YhOOcPggWaLinJu2oJ6LPYE7OyCTyKJy01Os8l_W8a8F8lNL3_uEm4xEu9qChPAxIwGE8J5kyoWHgWkXDv_kneTYgnbbeFrd3R32h8aS2vdYby90tO0oPb9PteRolqBzIkwVpG4k-uJBQdmTiJGqlRdDvDLuqSBSJeY6Tz" target="_blank">a major mangrove restoration initiative</a> that involved planting 250,000 mangrove seedlings across 105 hectares in El Morro and Isla Puná, capturing 50,719 tons of CO2 and directly benefiting more than 160 members of local fishing groups.
<img alt="A person holding a plant in a natural environment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2313d416-438c-4bde-9b38-67fcb7ab04d1" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/world-water-day-2025_DP-WORLD_032025B.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="853" loading="lazy" />Marine Environmental Stewardship in Canada

DP World actively participates in the Marine Environmental Water Quality program and the Marine Environmental Water Quality Advisory Working Group at the Port of Prince Rupert. Through this program, water quality monitoring is conducted across Prince Rupert Harbor, measuring key parameters such as turbidity, nutrients, metals, bacteria, and hydrocarbons. This data helps assess the harbor’s overall water conditions and the impact of various activities on the marine environment.

Earlier this month, we reinforced our commitment to marine conservation by announcing a <a href="https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/818396-dp-world-partners-eastern-charlotte-waterways-target-invasive-species" target="_blank">multi-year investment</a> in research and preservation efforts within the Musquash Estuary Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Eastern Canada. Our support will contribute to managing invasive plant species, enhancing biodiversity, and implementing conservation strategies to protect this vital marine ecosystem.

Supporting River Health in the Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, DP World has partnered with the Santo Domingo Water Fund (FASD) to fund the conservation of the Brujuelas River micro-basin. Since October 2022, DP World has invested over 6.3 million pesos in conservation efforts, including interventions on 20.42 hectares, planting 22,491 trees, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices to restore the ecosystem and ensure water availability. These nature-based solutions support biodiversity, manage climate change risk and maximize environmental, social and economic benefits.

Global Stewardship, Local Impact

At DP World, we believe in a “<a href="https://www.dpworld.com/sustainability/water#:~:text=of%20climate%20change.-,SOURCE%2DTO%2DSEA,-Human%20activities%20have" target="_blank">Source-to-Sea</a>” approach to sustainability, integrating restoration efforts, investment in water sanitation infrastructure, and biodiversity protection.

On World Water Day 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting water resources, advancing global water security, and building a more sustainable future. Through educational initiatives, community workshops, and strategic partnerships, we're laying the groundwork for a water-secure world.

<a href="https://www.dpworld.com/sustainability" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about DP World’s global sustainability initiatives.

World Water Day 2025: DP World's Commitment to a Sustainable Water Future 

<img alt="Kenesha Lewis working" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af2afd91-90b8-40e6-b259-8b961c0ada70" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/rural-entrepreneurs_Mastercard_031925.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="533" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/perspectives/2025/remote-access-for-rural-entrepreneurs-it-s-a-struggle-to-click-into-the-digital-economy/" target="_blank">Mastercard</a>

Working as a waitress in Greenville, a small city of less than 30,000 nestled in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Kenesha Lewis thrived off the strong connections she created with her regular customers and dreamed of one day starting her own business.

After working her way up to become a restaurant manager and later district training manager, she transitioned to a career in finance and banking. But entrepreneurship still beckoned, and in 2018, she started making fruit arrangements and then began experimenting with making smoothies after work to kick a life-long sugar addiction. And before long, she solidified her idea that would mix her passion for people with her growing interest in healthy eating.

When people started lining up at 6 a.m. for a taste of her fruit concoctions, Lewis and her husband Jason decided to use their savings to start their own smoothie shop.

But they quickly realized running a business demanded more than hospitality experience. They turned to the <a href="https://higherpurposehub.org/" target="_blank">Higher Purpose Hub</a> and <a href="https://wceams.com/delta-compass/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Delta Compass</a> — two local organizations with roots as business development organizations, whose resources, such as training and mentorship, help create economic opportunities in rural Mississippi.

Based an hour north of Greenville, Higher Purpose is one of several dozen business development organizations, known as BDOs, backed by <a href="https://www.lisc.org/rural/" target="_blank">Rural LISC</a>, the rural arm of Local Initiatives Support Corporation, one of the biggest community development financial institutions in the country. CDFIs are specially certified financial institutions with a mission to provide services to vulnerable communities — from urban centers to rural regions often overlooked by traditional banks.

For entrepreneurs like Lewis, CDFIs like Rural LISC are a vital stepping stone to building the financial and digital skills needed to develop small businesses that are the lifeblood of rural areas where one in five Americans live.

Set up 30 years ago, Rural LISC focuses, in part, on helping business owners deal with challenges such as small markets, inadequate financing opportunities and, in recent years, lack of technology and internet connectivity, says Nadia Villagran, Rural LISC director and LISC vice president.

The child of Mexican immigrant parents who worked around the clock to provide for their family, Villagran understands the need for CDFIs to match the “sweat equity” people invest in their businesses with appropriate services and resources.

“In rural communities, people have these great ideas, but it’s a struggle to build the muscle of being a business owner,” Villagran says.

Organizations like Rural LISC are uniquely positioned to reach these entrepreneurs — not only with financial access but technical support, such as digital upskilling and access to digital tools, says Sandy Fernandez, who leads <a href="https://www.mastercard.us/en-us/business/overview/striveusa.html" target="_blank">Mastercard Strive in the U.S.</a>, which aims to equip small businesses with the digital tools to build resilience and grow, in part through partnerships with CDFIs.

“Their deep-rooted local relationships enable them to customize solutions for their communities, helping deploy digital payment systems, cybersecurity resources, and other technology solutions more effectively,” Fernandez says. “Their community-centric approach builds trust and allows them to serve businesses operating on slim margins.”

Higher Purpose Hub helped the Lewises build the business leaderships skills they needed to get ahead, and it introduced them to local banks, opened the doors to getting the financing they needed, and sponsored billboards to support <a href="https://kayskutefruit.com/" target="_blank">Kay’s Kute Fruit</a>.
<img alt="Kenesha Lewis working" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d14615e8-eb4f-497d-b694-2f302d1b8974" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/rural-entrepreneurs2_Mastercard_031925.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="853" loading="lazy" />They now employ five staff members to serve acai bowls, veggie wraps and smoothies made with kale, pineapple, mango and other fresh produce.

A few years later, Higher Purpose and the entire community proved once again to be invaluable. When the smoothie bar was broken into and vandals wreaked havoc in 2023, the town’s outpouring of financial and emotional support allowed them to quickly repair the damage and re-open their doors.

“I don’t know if we would have survived or succeeded the way that we have without Higher Purpose,” says Lewis, who juggles running the business with being a mother of two boys — one a high school senior and the other a six-month-old.

<blockquote>
"You can’t be in a business just for the money, as it won’t last. If your passion is there, love what you do and stick with it. You have to water your ground for it to grow.”

Kenesha Lewis
</blockquote>

Rural LISC helps people develop business plans and strategize social media, and it makes sure they are ready to apply for bank loans. “We want to be the first ones in,” Villagran says, “but we don’t have to stay if they get so much attention they’re able to come to the market and be supported by the traditional world of small business investing.”

Now Mastercard is stepping up its collaboration with Rural LISC and other CDFIs to scale support for small businesses across rural America.

Ensuring that rural businesses have access to both short-term working capital and long-term growth financing remains a top priority, Fernandez says, but Mastercard is also helping equip rural businesses to compete more strongly in a digital-first economy. That includes supporting BDOs with technical assistance and peer learning networks, developing localized strategies to address unique challenges, such as a lack of broadband access, and even using Mastercard’s data-driven insights to help all CDFIs optimize lending, track impact and identify funding gaps areas.

Back in Greenville, Mississippi, Lewis pays her community forward by talking to local school children about building healthy eating habits and acting as mentor to others looking to start on their own business journey.

“The advice I give people is, you can’t be in a business just for the money, as it won’t last. If your passion is there, love what you do and stick with it,” she says. “You have to water your ground for it to grow.”

<a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/perspectives/2025/remote-access-for-rural-entrepreneurs-it-s-a-struggle-to-click-into-the-digital-economy/" target="_blank">Originally published by Mastercard</a>

<a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/" target="_blank">Follow along Mastercard's journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.</a>

Remote Access: For Rural Entrepreneurs, It’s a Struggle To Click Into the Digital Economy

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd8c9b64-2a66-456e-b3a4-54dd71c759cb" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/MMU_FedEx_31025.jpg" width="640" height="842" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Heart to Heart International uses their mobile medical vehicles to respond to disasters and to carry out community health programs.</figcaption></figure>There was a television commercial decades ago that asked viewers how they spelled the word relief. The answer was given by spelling out the name of a health product, emphasizing each letter.

In reference to helping in the aftermath of a disaster, or meeting ongoing health needs, one way to spell relief is “M-M-U” which stands for Mobile Medical Unit.

In 2023, FedEx donated a new MMU to Heart to Heart International. It is the largest vehicle in their fleet. The 45-foot unit brings medical supplies, medicine, equipment, and staff to disaster sites across the continental United States.

The donation of the MMU was made as part of the FedEx Cares Delivering for Good program. It’s a philanthropic initiative where FedEx provides in-kind shipping services and financial donations to support global disaster relief organizations.

The MMU increases Heart to Heart International’s capacity to respond to major disasters. It also equips them to meet ongoing health needs in communities. These include community health programs that bridge healthcare gaps and empower women to take control of their well-being, for example, by providing breast and cervical cancer screening.

The photo with this story shows the MMU, and a Mobile Medical Van, ready to serve people in St. Joseph and Buchanan County, Missouri in March 2025.

For thirty years, FedEx and Heart to Heart International have teamed up to provide relief to people in disaster stricken areas around the world. With 700 airplanes, and 200,000 vehicles on the world’s roads, FedEx can transport relief materials where they are urgently needed.

When natural disasters hit, and when community health programs are needed, how do you spell relief? “M-M-U.”

Click <a href="https://fedexcares.com/" target="_blank">here</a> to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

There was a television commercial decades ago that asked viewers how they spelled the word relief. The answer was given by spelling out the name of a health product, emphasizing each letter.

How Do Heart to Heart International and FedEx Spell Relief?

<img alt="&quot;2025 Global Inclusive Growth Summit: April 24, 2025&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3679758-796a-4687-85b5-0d76f3abe897" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Inclusive-Growth-Summit_Mastercard_032525.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="726" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://connect.mastercard-emailb2b.com/webmail/163061/1719683977/ab3aa814e40c74d58de3226da106d91f4fad3a2d8bdfb0f3246637d48844218a" target="_blank" title="Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth">Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth</a> 

Get first access! On Thursday, April 24, 2025, we start sharing content from our annual <a href="https://connect.mastercard-emailb2b.com/e/163061/2025-03-20/v2mw9c/1719683977/h/fIyaQh-n45JE07jIZBJ88Bkqx-Xi1EjeH894teOZNaE" target="_blank">Global Inclusive Growth Summit</a>.

This annual event, hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, will explore how we can build strong growth and economic opportunity for all.

This year, we’ll explore the transformative potential of technology, including AI, how to build jobs and productivity, the potential of small business to support communities in the U.S. and around the world, how to build financial health for people and create resilience for people and businesses from the threats they face, and how business can support the type of growth we need.

Public- and private-sector leaders will come together to engage in thought‑provoking conversations and insightful debates — showcasing how innovative and creative leadership is shaping a better future. We are pleased to announce an extraordinary lineup of speakers at this year’s event, including Michael Miebach, Jon Huntsman, Mike Froman, Ade Adepitan, Andréa Vieira, Dr. Andy Kuper, Monica Brand Engel, Henry Timms, Rich Lesser, Shamina Singh, Colin Mahony and Michelle Meyer, with more names to be announced in coming days.

Through partnership and collective action, the 2025 Global Inclusive Growth Summit looks to push today’s disruptive forces toward a positive future. How can we advance economic prosperity for all while protecting nature and our planet?

Sign up below to gain unlimited on‑demand content to a bold and diverse group of private‑, public‑ and social‑sector leaders.

<a href="https://connect.mastercard-emailb2b.com/e/163061/tm-id-CFIG-utm-content-organic/v2mw98/1719683977/h/fIyaQh-n45JE07jIZBJ88Bkqx-Xi1EjeH894teOZNaE" target="_blank">Gain access to unlimited on-demand content — sign up now</a>

<a href="https://connect.mastercard-emailb2b.com/webmail/163061/1719683977/ab3aa814e40c74d58de3226da106d91f4fad3a2d8bdfb0f3246637d48844218a" target="_blank">Originally published by Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth</a>

Follow the <a href="https://www.3blmedia.com/track?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.3blmedia.com%2Ftrack%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.3blmedia.com%252Ftrack%253Fu%253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.3blmedia.com%25252Ftrack%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.mastercardcenter.org%2525252F%2525253Fcmp%2525253Dpaid.partner.syndicated.engagement.website.all.global.3bl.article%252526n%25253D1262746%2526n%253D1267571%26n%3D1268556&amp;n=1274406" target="_blank">Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth's</a> journey to advance equitable and sustainable economic growth and financial inclusion around the world by following us on <a href="https://www.3blmedia.com/track?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.3blmedia.com%2Ftrack%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.3blmedia.com%252Ftrack%253Fu%253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.3blmedia.com%25252Ftrack%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.linkedin.com%2525252Fshowcase%2525252Fthe-mastercard-center-for-inclusive-growth%2525252F%252526n%25253D1262746%2526n%253D1267571%26n%3D1268556&amp;n=1274406" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="https://www.3blmedia.com/track?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.3blmedia.com%2Ftrack%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.3blmedia.com%252Ftrack%253Fu%253Dhttps%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.3blmedia.com%25252Ftrack%25253Fu%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.instagram.com%2525252Fcntr4growth%2525252F%252526n%25253D1262746%2526n%253D1267571%26n%3D1268556&amp;n=1274406" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.

This annual event, hosted by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, will explore how we can build strong growth and economic opportunity for all.

Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth: 2025 Global Inclusive Growth Summit

We’re proud to expand our partnership with Students 2 Science to provide over 450,000 New Jersey students with hands-on experiences and career guidance to shape their futures in STEM. 

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