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  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Disaster Assistance to West Virginians Tops $20 Million

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Disaster Assistance to West Virginians Tops $20 Million

    FEMA Disaster Assistance to West Virginians Tops $20 Million

    CHARLESTON, W

    Va

     — More than $20 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for homeowners and renters in seven West Virginia counties following the impacts of the Feb

    15-18 winter storms

       “Reaching this milestone in less than six weeks highlights the commitment to West Virginians of emergency management at all levels,” FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Mark K

    O’Hanlon said

    “Our FEMA team is proud to work hand in hand with our partners in state and local government and voluntary agencies in getting assistance to the people who need it most

    ”FEMA assistance for individuals and families in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who were affected by the Feb

    15-18, 2025, storms, mudslides, landslides, and straight-line winds can cover home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance

    The deadline to apply for federal assistance is April 28, 2025

     “I want to urge West Virginians who were affected by the February storms to apply for assistance today,” Mr

    O’Hanlon said

    “Registering potentially opens the door to recovery funds that can change lives and help people find a new normal in their lives

    ”  Residents, both homeowners and renters, in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who sustained losses can apply for assistance in several ways:Visiting DisasterAssistance

    gov

    Downloading the FEMA App

    Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Phone lines are open every day and help is available in most languages

    If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service

    Speaking with someone in person at a Disaster Recovery Center

     Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are on the ground in Raleigh County, walking door-to-door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance

    In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and officials in impacted counties, FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Logan, Mercer, McDowell, Mingo, Wayne and Wyoming counties

    At a center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application, and learn about other resources available

    The DRCs located in the table below remain open

     Logan County Disaster Recovery CenterMercer County Disaster Recovery CenterSouthern WV Community & Technical College100 College DriveLogan, WV 25601 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed Sundays  Lifeline Princeton Church of God250 Oakvale Road Princeton, WV 24740 Hours of operation:Monday to Friday: 9 a

    m

    to 5 p

    m

    Saturdays: 10 a

    m

    to 2 p

    m

    Closed Sundays Closed April 26 McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery Center McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center  Board of Education Office900 Mount View High School RoadWelch, WV 24801 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Closed on Saturdays and Sundays Bradshaw Town Hall10002 Marshall HwyBradshaw, WV 24817 Hours of operation:Monday to Saturday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

    Closed SundaysMingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus1601 Armory DriveWilliamson, WV 25661 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on SundaysWyoming Court House24 Main AvePineville, WV 24874 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Saturdays: 9 a

    m

    to 3 p

    m

    Closed on Sundays Wayne County  Tolsia High School1 Rebel DriveFort Gay, WV 25514 Hours of operation:Monday through Friday: 8 a

    m

    to 6 p

    m

     Closed on Saturdays and Sundays  DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

    The easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by phone at 800-621-3362

    The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a

    m

    to 11 p

    m

    , seven days a week

    If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service

    Residents can also apply online at DisasterAssistance

    gov or download the FEMA app to their smartphone or tablet

     April 28, 2025, is also the application deadline for homeowners, renters and business owners to apply for a U

    S

    Small Business Administration physical disaster loan

    Applicants can apply online at sba

    gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba

    gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance

    For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service

    For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd

    wv

    gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4861 and www

    facebook

    com/FEMA

    ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

    For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

    lianza

    yap
    Mon, 04/07/2025 – 13:04

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA to Host Housing Resource Fair Apr. 12 in Berrien County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    FEMA to Host Housing Resource Fair Apr. 12 in Berrien County

    FEMA is hosting a Housing Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, April 12, in Berrien County at the following location:Carrie Dorsey Perry Memorial Library315 W Marion AveNashville, GA 31639The Housing Resource Fair will bring together federal, state and local agencies in one place to offer services and resources to families recovering from Hurricane Helene.  The goal of this collaborative effort is to help connect eligible disaster survivors with affordable housing along with valuable information and resources on their road to recovery.Survivors will meet with local housing organizations, property owners and landlords, as well as get information on the HEARTS Georgia Sheltering Program, and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.The Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity for survivors to: Explore affordable housing options and rental assistance programs. Meet with representatives from local housing organizations, landlords and property managers. Gain access to resources for displaced individuals and families. Learn from community partners about educational funding resources. For FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, the Housing Resource Fair will give survivors a one-on-one experience: “We want survivors to know we are here for them and want to see the best outcome, which is moving into safe, sanitary and functioning housing,” he said. “We will walk them through their options to ensure they are aware of the resources that are available to fit their need.”Everyone affected by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, whether they have applied for FEMA assistance or not, is welcome to attend.
    jakia.randolph
    Mon, 04/07/2025 – 12:38

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Jared Isaacman Senate Nomination Hearing for NASA Administrator

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Jared Isaacman is set to participate in his confirmation hearing to become the next NASA administrator. The hearing will take place before Sen. Ted Cruz, and the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in the Russell Building in Washington. President Trump formally nominated Isaacman for NASA administrator on Jan. 20, 2025.

    For more information about NASA missions, visit: https://www.nasa.gov

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqejrlbfB84

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs travel to Washington DC to discuss transatlantic relations with US counterparts

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament’s delegation for relations with the United States will travel to the US capital from Wednesday to Friday for talks with representatives of the US Congress.

    The visit by MEPs takes place against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of sweeping tariffs on global trade partners. In Washington DC, the delegation, led by Brando Benifei (S&D, Italy), will meet primarily with representatives of the US Congress, in part to prepare for the next Transatlantic Legislators’ Dialogue (TLD), a forum of leading lawmakers designed to strengthen relations between the European Parliament and Congress.

    On Thursday, MEPs will meet with members of the US House committee dealing with strategic competition between the US and China, and with the new leadership of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and members of the House EU Caucus. Discussions are expected to centre on developments in Europe, not least in relation to Ukraine, as well as on bilateral trade, EU-NATO cooperation, the future of transatlantic ties, and relations with China. On Thursday and Friday, MEPs will hold meetings with US State Department representatives, as well as with think tanks and representatives of the US Chamber of Commerce.

    The MEPs taking part in the delegation are members of the Transatlantic Legislators’ Dialogue enlarged bureau. In addition to Mr Benifei, the delegation will comprise: European Parliament Vice-President Sophie Wilmès (Renew Europe, Belgium), Foreign Affairs Committee Chair David McAllister (EPP, Germany), International Trade Committee Chair Bernd Lange (S&D, Germany) and Foreign Affairs Committee standing rapporteur for the US Michał Szczerba (EPP, Poland).

    Press contact travelling with the delegation:

    Karolina Wozniak
    Tel: +1-771-208-9171
    Email: karolina.wozniak@europarl.europa.eu

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: New Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of IDT elected

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, April 7, 2025

    Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed the election of Zimbini Hill as the Chairperson and Professor Raymond Nkado as the Deputy Chairperson of the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

    Hill is the former interim chairperson of the IDT, with 20 years’ experience as an executive leader in sectors ranging from financial services to public sector governance. She holds an MBA in Finance from Cass Business School at the City University of London.

    Professor Nkado is the former Executive Dean for the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at the University of the Witwatersrand, former President of the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professionals. He holds a PMP qualification from the Project Management Institute of the United States.

    “The Minister met with the Board this morning to welcome the latest appointments and wish them success for the remainder of their term,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement on Monday. 

    Thereafter, the Board met with just the trustees to elect a Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson from among its members. 

    “Today’s board meeting brings about much needed stability to the IDT and brings an end to vacancies that have existed at the entity for the last 18 months.

    “The new board will now have to deal with several challenges currently facing the IDT, including ensuring full compliance with the ongoing PWC investigation into the PSA Oxygen Plant Tender, restoring public trusts in the IDT and putting the entity back onto a pathway of good, clean, and transparent governance,” the department said. 

    READ | Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Non-profit entity settles False Claims Act allegations involving Paycheck Protection Loan

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association, Inc. of Woodbridge paid $695,000 to settle False Claims Act allegations that it certified that it was eligible to receive a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which it was not eligible.

    The PPP offered loans to eligible small businesses for economic relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. PPP borrowers were required to provide their income and supporting documents to qualify for the loan amount and for later loan forgiveness.

    The United States alleged that Lake Ridge is a 501(c)(4) tax exempt entity and that such organizations were not eligible to receive funding through the PPP. The United States also alleged that Lake Ridge applied for a PPP loan and certified on its application that it was eligible to receive a loan under the rules in effect at the time the application was submitted.

    The settlement began with a lawsuit, United States ex rel. Wade Riner v Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association, Inc., that was filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The whistleblower will receive a 10-percent share of the settlement.

    This resolution was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Small Business Administration.

    The matter was investigated by former Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina H. Kim.

    A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Case records may be found on PACER under case number 1:24-cv-971.

    The civil claims settled are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Must Convert Global Challenges into Opportunities with a Spirit of Nationalism: Shri PiyushGoyal

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 10:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri PiyushGoyal, on Monday said that India is well poised to convert the current global situation into an opportunity, just as it did during the Covid-19 pandemic and in the late 1990s when the Indian IT sector leveraged the Y2K bug crisis to mark its emergence on the global stage.

    Addressing the foundation day of FICCI,  in Mumbai, Shri Goyal underscored the need for unity and collaboration among nations and industries to tackle evolving global challenges. “We are all in it together. All well-meaning countries and businesses must address these challenges collectively and convert them into opportunities,” he said.

    He emphasized that the collective consciousness of the Indian industry can help drive the country towards self-reliance and sustained growth. “We need to support each other. We need to have a nationalist outlook,” he said, adding that Indian companies must work in the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose.

    Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s 1931 address to FICCI, the Minister said that Indian industry should place nationalism at the heart of its work. “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi truly embodies this spirit through his vision of Viksit Bharat, inclusive growth, and delivering the benefits of economic progress to the last person in the queue,” he said.

    Shri Goyal urged Indian businesses to support each other, focus on quality, and avoid the pitfalls of short-term gains. He warned against predatory pricing and over-dependence on cheap imports. “Low-cost goods may seem attractive today, but in the long run, they can hurt businesses and economies. This has been evident in several parts of the world where supply chains have collapsed due to over-dependence on a single geography,” he noted.

    He pointed out that resilient and diversified supply chains, along with energy and food security, have become global priorities. “More and more developed countries are recognising that this is not just about geopolitics, but about national resilience and self-reliance, especially in critical technologies,” he said.

    The Minister stressed that India’s demographic dividend, a 1.4 billion-strong consumer base, and the fastest-growing economy in the world present an unparalleled opportunity. “From a $4 trillion economy today, India is poised to grow to $30-35 trillion in the next 25 years. We have an opportunity of a lifetime,” he declared.

    Calling on industry stakeholders to seize this moment, he said, “Be a part of the solution, be a part of this moment in history. If we all come together with determination, India is unstoppable.”

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2119919) Visitor Counter : 95

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indigenous Wireless charger for electrical vehicles with ability to charge 90% battery in 3 hours to become a reality; CDAC & VNIT Nagpur’s technology passed on to an Indian firm to commercially develop it

    Source: Government of India

    Indigenous Wireless charger for electrical vehicles with ability to charge 90% battery in 3 hours to become a reality; CDAC & VNIT Nagpur’s technology passed on to an Indian firm to commercially develop it

    Meity join hands with Railways to make an indigenous propulsion system of locomotives boosting railway electrification and industry adoption; Uses high power converters & advanced controlling management systems

    Using CDAC green technology Kerala’s K-DISC marks a milestone in sustainable power innovation making its building energy efficient through Low Voltage Direct Current.

    Research must lead to real-world applications with industry Collaboration: Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY

    MeitY secretary stresses indigenization in power electronics to boost ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ goals

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 7:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Shri S. Krishnan announced the signing of ToT/MoA/MoU among industries for commercialization of technologies developed under the National Mission on Power Electronics Technology (NaMPET) at Electronics Niketan, New Delhi. During the meeting, the Secretary, MeitY, addressed the need for indigenous technology in the areas of Power Electronics.

    The highlights of the event showcased the development of MeitY-supported technologies under the NaMPET programme. These technologies have been developed, deployed, tested, and certified for commercialization. The details of the transfer of technology (ToT), Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed, in the presence of the Secretary, MeitY are as follows:

    Wireless Charger for Electric Vehicle

    Transfer of technology for the indigenous 1.5 kW Wireless Charger technology, developed by C-DAC (T) and VNIT Nagpur, to M/s Global Business Solution Pvt. Ltd: It is capable of operating on a 230V, 50Hz AC single-phase supply and charges a 4.8kWh onboard battery pack at 48V with 30A current in approximately 3 hours, achieving a maximum efficiency of 89.4% within a coil separation of 7.5–12.5 cm. The charger incorporates Silicon Carbide-based MOSFETs operating at 88kHz and includes safety features such as short-circuit and open-circuit protection.

    MoA for the development of an Indigenous Propulsion System for Electric Locomotives

    Collaboration through MoA signed between C-DAC, Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) and industry partners for the indigenization of Indian Railway propulsion system: The collaboration marks a transformative step in India’s rail electrification efforts by developing an indigenous propulsion system for 3-phase electric locomotives with the Indian Railways aiming for full electrification by 2030. The proposed propulsion system integrates two high-power 2.5 MVA Traction Converters, three 130 kVA Auxiliary Converters, and an advanced Train Control and Management System (TCMS), providing enhanced performance, reliability, and operational flexibility for modern locomotives. The industries undertaking the MoA are M/s Daulat Ram Engineering Services Pvt Ltd (Bhopal), M/s JMV LPS Ltd (Noida), and M/s Electro-waves Electronics Pvt Ltd (HP) which demonstrates the strong industry-academia-government synergy driving this initiative. These partners will play a crucial role in testing, product engineering, and prototype deployment, ensuring successful field validation by Indian Railways, ensuring structured industry adoption and commercial rollout.

    MoU with K-DISC for LVDC Systems

    Collaboration through MoU signed between C-DAC and Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC) for the deployment of green and sustainable grid solutions:  The 48V Low Voltage Direct Current (LVDC) system, developed by C-DAC under the NaMPET programme with the support of MeitY, has emerged as a game-changing technology for energy conservation, green energy integration, and cost-effective power distribution. Recognizing its potential, the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC) has implemented this system at its headquarters, making it the first administrative building in Kerala to be powered by 48V DC that could lead to 20–30% energy savings, contributing to Kerala’s Carbon Neutrality Roadmap 2050 and India’s broader Net Zero 2070 vision.

    The ToT/MoU/MoA signing of the above technologies was done at MeitY, New Delhi, in the presence of the Secretary, MeitY, with dignitaries from the Ministry of Power, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), NITI Aayog, Ministry of Railway and industry representatives in the areas of EV chargers, Smart Metering, Rail Propulsion and Renewable Energy

    About NaMPET

    The NaMPET is a unique mission-mode programme of MeitY involving research, development, deployment, demonstration, and commercialization of technologies in the Power Electronics (PE) domain. The programme is being implemented by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Thiruvananthapuram, as the nodal agency with participating agencies from academia, R&D organizations, and Industries. The main focus areas of the programme include Microgrid for powering remote Villages, Green Energy for Community buildings, Empowerment of e-mobility ecosystem, Smart Power Quality Centre in the Distribution Grid, High Voltage Power Electronics for Food processing, Agriculture, Industry, and Health, Technology marketing, and Promotion of Start-ups with the platform for technology outreach.

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    Dharmendra Tewari/Navin Sreejith

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Top 5 Winners of TruthTell Hackathon Announced Ahead of Upcoming WAVES Summit 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Top 5 Winners of TruthTell Hackathon Announced Ahead of Upcoming WAVES Summit 2025

    Teams Unicron, Alchemist, Whooshing Liars, Bug Smashers and Vortex Squad Win Rs.10 lakh for pioneering AI solutions to combat misinformation

    From AI verification tools to detection systems for manipulated media, these innovations will be showcased at the WAVES Summit 2025 in Mumbai, scheduled for 01May to 04 May

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 7:19PM by PIB Delhi

    India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), today announced the top five winners of the TruthTell Hackathon — a global challenge to combat misinformation and manipulated media through technology. This Hackathon is part of the ‘Create in India Challenge’ for the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025. The winners were felicitated at a showcase event held at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, where the top 25 shortlisted innovators demonstrated their working prototypes to a panel of industry experts.

    Selected from over 5,600 registrations from across the globe, the following five winning innovators won a cumulative cash prize of INR 10 lakhs:

    • Team Unicron from Delhi won for their innovative work – Anvesha, in detecting misinformation across text, images, and videos.
    • Team Alchemist from Dehradun was recognized for VeriStream: Fact-First in Every Frame, a holistic solution that uses LangChain-powered NLP, dynamic knowledge graphs, GIS insights, and Explainable AI to detect and correct misinformation in live broadcasts.
    • Team Whooshing Liars from Bengaluru received the award for Nexus of Truth, an AI-powered tool designed to detect deepfakes, fact-check news articles, and flag false content in real time, with multilingual support and live-streaming alerts.
    • Team Bug Smashers from Delhi was awarded for Live Truth: AI Powered Misinformation Detector, a solution that combines local Large Language Models (LLM) and fact-checking APIs to provide real-time credibility scores, along with community-driven validation through GPS-based SMS verification during live broadcasts.
    • Team Vortex Squad from Bengaluru won for Real-Time Misinformation Detection and Fact-Checking System, an AI-driven tool that addresses the challenge of detecting and flagging misinformation during live events, ensuring accuracy and transparency in real time.

    Each of these teams demonstrated innovative approaches aimed at improving media integrity and combating misinformation during live broadcasts. Their solutions, ranging from AI verification tools to manipulated media detection systems, will now be showcased at the upcoming WAVES Summit in Mumbai from 1–4 May 2025. The hackathon forms part of the WAVES 2025 to promote responsible innovation in the media and technology landscape.

    The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & IT and CEO, IndiaAI Mission, and Shri Sanjiv Shankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. The distinguished jury for the TruthTell Hackathon Grand Finale included Shri. Jeet Vijayvargiya, Former CEO, MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), Shri. Vikram Malhotra, Director – AI Tech Strategist at Microsoft India, Shri. Alok Gurtu, Managing Partner at ABG Venture Partners, Dr. Avik Sarkar, Senior Researcher & Visiting Faculty at the Indian School of Business (ISB), and Shri Shashank Vaishnav, Co-Founder & CTO, STAGE.

    Speaking at the event, Mr. Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA, said, ‘India has long witnessed the power of rumour – from village folklore to misguided beliefs and in today’s digital age, misinformation doesn’t walk – it flies. Therefore, stepping into the digital realm to tackle the issue of misinformation is now more crucial than ever. The rapid spread of falsehoods, especially in this digital age, presents a serious challenge. However, with the bright and innovative minds we have here today — including a remarkable 36% female participation — I am confident we will create robust, future-ready solutions. These aren’t just prize-winning ideas; they are blueprints for how India can lead the world in building ethical, AI-driven solutions for complex digital threats.”

    Further congratulating the winners, Mr. Mohindroo said that the journey of the winners is just beginning and he looks forward to seeing their solutions make a real-world impact. He also stated that the ideas presented during the TruthTell Hackathon will continue to push boundaries and lead AI innovation on the global stage.

    Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & IT, GoI, stated, “In an era where AI can convincingly mimic voices, images, and even entire identities, distinguishing fact from fiction has become a pressing challenge. The TruthTell Hackathon is a significant step in addressing this issue, and I commend all the participants for their efforts in developing innovative solutions. The work being done here will contribute immensely to combating the spread of misinformation and protecting society from its harmful consequences. We are committed to supporting initiatives like this, which empower the nation to leverage AI for responsible innovation. I believe these solutions will not only be valuable to India but will also play an essential role in the global fight against misinformation.”

    Congratulating ICEA for organising this hackathon, Shri Singh said that through this hackathon we are investing in preserving trust – currency of our digital future and expressed hope that the top 5 winners will further develop the best solutions to combat misinformation.

    Shri Sanjiv Shankar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, GoI, said, “The TruthTell Hackathon is a vital step towards addressing the challenges posed by misinformation in today’s digital age. As one of 32 challenges under ‘Create in India Challenge,’ this initiative brings together young innovators from across the globe to solve one of the most significant issues affecting the media and entertainment industry. Misinformation can derail societal harmony and disrupt lives, which is why it’s crucial for us to find technological solutions that can flag false content in real-time. I congratulate all the participants for their impressive ideas and encourage them to keep innovating. We look forward to seeing these solutions presented at WAVES 2025, where they will be showcased to an international audience, potentially influencing the future of responsible media. Together, we can shape a more informed, secure digital ecosystem for the future.”

    Launched in October 2024, the TruthTell Hackathon received over 450 unique idea submissions from students and professionals across 300+ cities, with 36% of participants being women. After multiple rounds of screening and mentorship, 25 finalists were selected to participate in the on-ground finale in Delhi. They represent the incredible energy of India’s youth – from Coimbatore to Chandigarh, and from Bangalore to Bhopal.

    Supported by the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY), and the IndiaAI Mission, the TruthTell Hackathon aligns with the Government of India’s broader vision to promote ethical AI and strengthen trust in digital ecosystems through innovation-led problem solving by done India’s young population.

    For more information, visit https://icea.org.in/truthtell

    About ICEA

    ICEA is the premier industry association that works with electronics and technology companies in India. Our vision is to transform India into a global technology powerhouse by fostering seamless integration between hardware and software capabilities. Through our leadership, we are building a dynamic ecosystem that champions innovation and drives excellence.

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Dharmendra Tewari / Navin Sreejith | 87

    (Release ID: 2119864) Visitor Counter : 81

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Beware of Fraudulent Calls Impersonating TRAI

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 4:45PM by PIB Delhi

    There have been several Media Reports in the recent times that the Consumers are being targeted through telephonic calls or messages by fraudsters posing as TRAI officials threatening disconnection of Mobile Connection for being involved in illegal activities and for extraction of money.

    In this regard, it is informed that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) does not initiate communication with Customers regarding Mobile Number disconnection through messages or otherwise. TRAI has also not authorized any third-party Agency to contact Customers for such purposes. Therefore, any form of communication (call, message, or notice) claiming to be from TRAI and threatening Mobile Number disconnection should be considered a potential fraudulent attempt and must not be entertained.

    The disconnection of any Mobile Number due to Billing, KYC or misuse if any, is done by the respective Telecom Service Provider (TSP). Citizens are advised to be vigilant and do not get panicked to fall prey to suspected Fraudsters. They are further advised to cross-verify such Calls by contacting the authorized Call Centres or Customer Service Centres of the respective TSP.

    To prevent the misuse of Telecom Resources for Cybercrime and Financial Fraud, Citizens are encouraged to report suspected fraudulent communications through the Chakshu facility on the Department of Telecommunications Sanchar Saathi platform. This platform can be accessed at https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/. For confirmed instances of Cybercrime, victims should report the incident at the designated Cybercrime helpline number ‘1930’ or through the official website at https://cybercrime.gov.in/.

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    Samrat/Allen

    (Release ID: 2119782) Visitor Counter : 115

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A Decade of Growth with PM Mudra Yojana

    Source: Government of India

    A Decade of Growth with PM Mudra Yojana

    Fueling grassroots entrepreneurship and expanding financial inclusion

    Posted On: 07 APR 2025 4:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    On 8 April 2025, India marks 10 years of the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY). Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), the Flagship Programme of the Prime Minister aimed at Funding the Unfunded micro enterprises and small businesses. By removing the burden of collateral and simplifying access, MUDRA laid the foundation for a new era of grassroots entrepreneurship.

    Across the country, lives have transformed. Kamlesh, a home-based tailor in Delhi, expanded her work, employed three other women, and enrolled her children in a good school. Bindu, who began with 50 brooms a day, now leads a unit producing 500. These are not exceptions anymore. They reflect a larger shift.

    From stitching units and tea stalls to salons, mechanic shops, and mobile repair businesses, crores of micro-entrepreneurs have stepped forward with confidence, enabled by a system that believed in their potential. PMMY has supported these journeys by offering institutional credit to non-corporate, non-farm micro and small enterprises that form the backbone of India’s economy.

    At its core, the MUDRA Yojana is a story of trust. Trust in people’s aspirations and in their ability to build. Trust in the belief that even the smallest dreams deserve a platform to grow.

     

    Achievements under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana

    Since its launch in April 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) has sanctioned over 52 crore loans worth ₹32.61 lakh crore, fuelling a nationwide entrepreneurial revolution. Business growth is no longer confined to big cities—it is spreading to small towns and villages, where first-time entrepreneurs are taking charge of their destinies. The shift in mindset is evident: people are no longer job seekers; they are becoming job creators.

    MSME Credit Boom: A Stronger Business Ecosystem

    The SBI report highlights a significant rise in credit flow to MSMEs, driven by Mudra’s impact. MSME lending surged from ₹8.51 lakh crore in FY14 to ₹27.25 lakh crore in FY24, and is projected to cross ₹30 lakh crore in FY25. The share of MSME credit in total bank credit increased from 15.8 percent in FY14 to nearly 20 percent in FY24, showcasing its growing role in the Indian economy. This expansion has enabled businesses in smaller towns and rural areas to access financial support that was previously unavailable, strengthening India’s self-reliant economy and driving grassroots job creation.

    Financial Inclusion: Empowering Women

    Women account for 68 percent of all Mudra beneficiaries, underscoring the scheme’s pivotal role in advancing women-led enterprises across the country. Between FY16 and FY25, the per woman PMMY disbursement amount increased at a CAGR of 13 percent, reaching ₹62,679, while per woman incremental deposits grew at a CAGR of 14 percent to ₹95,269. States with higher disbursement shares to women have recorded significantly higher employment generation through women-led MSMEs, reinforcing the effectiveness of targeted financial inclusion in enhancing women’s economic empowerment and labour force participation.

    Financial Inclusion: Reaching Socially Marginalised Groups

    PMMY has made significant progress in breaking traditional credit barriers. According to the SBI report, 50 percent of Mudra accounts are held by SC, ST and OBC entrepreneurs, ensuring wider access to formal finance. Furthermore, 11 percent of Mudra loan holders belong to minority communities, demonstrating the scheme’s contribution to inclusive growth by enabling marginalised communities to become active participants in the formal economy.

    Progressive Lending: From Shishu to Tarun

    Over the past ten years, Mudra has facilitated the opening of over 52 crore loan accounts, marking a steady rise in entrepreneurial activity. The share of Kishor loans (₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh) has grown from 5.9 percent in FY16 to 44.7 percent in FY25, indicating a shift from micro to small enterprises. The Tarun category (₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh) is also gaining momentum, proving that Mudra is not just about starting businesses but helping them scale.

    Bigger Loans, Stronger Businesses

    A telescopic view of total loans sanctioned and disbursed under PMMY reveals that the scheme’s Unique Selling Proposition has been well received by a diverse base of intended beneficiaries, thereby strengthening the economic influence of the bottom of the pyramid.

    The average ticket size of loans has nearly tripled—rising from ₹38,000 in FY16 to ₹72,000 in FY23, and further to ₹1.02 lakh in FY25—reflecting growing economies of scale and a deepening of both market depth and width.

    Furthermore, loan disbursal rose by 36 percent in FY23, indicating a strong revival of entrepreneurial confidence across the country.

    Leading States/UTs in PM Mudra Loan Disbursal

    As of February 28, 2025, since the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana in 2015, Tamil Nadu has recorded the highest disbursal among states at ₹3,23,647.76 crore. Uttar Pradesh follows with ₹3,14,360.86 crore, while Karnataka ranks third with ₹3,02,146.41 crore. West Bengal and Bihar have also seen significant disbursals of ₹2,82,322.94 crore and ₹2,81,943.31 crore respectively. Maharashtra stands sixth at ₹2,74,402.02 crore, reflecting the scheme’s broad reach and impact across key states over the past decade.

    Among Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir leads with a total disbursal of ₹45,815.92 crore across 21,33,342 loan accounts. The figures underscore the role of the scheme in expanding access to credit

    and promoting self-employment, not just across states but also in Union Territories.

    Click here for the complete list.

    Funding the Unfunded

    Micro enterprises constitute a major economic segment in our country and provides large employment after agriculture. This segment includes micro units engaged in manufacturing, processing, trading and services sector. It provides employment to nearly 10 crore people. Many of these units are proprietary/ single ownership or Own Account enterprises and many a time referred as Non-Corporate Small Business sector.

    Mission, Vision and Purpose of PMMY

    Salient Features of the Scheme

    Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) under the Micro Units Development and Refinancing Agency (MUDRA) was set up by Government of India for development and refinancing activities relating to micro units. PMMY ensures collateral-free institutional credit up to Rs 20 lakh is provided by Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) i.e. Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs), Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs). 

     

    Under the scheme, three categories of interventions have been formulated which include:

    Tarun Plus: Loans above ₹10 lakh and up to ₹20 lakh (designed specifically for Tarun category, who have previously availed and successfully repaid loans)

    International Recognition

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has consistently acknowledged the impact of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) in expanding financial access and promoting inclusive entrepreneurship in India.

    In 2017, the IMF noted that the scheme has been instrumental in enabling women-led businesses to access finance. It highlighted how PMMY complements PMJDY’s focus on unbanked households by providing collateral-free loans to micro, small, and medium-sized businesses.

    In 2019, the IMF further praised PMMY, stating that the scheme under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency plays a vital role in developing and refinancing micro enterprises by supporting financial institutions that lend to businesses engaged in manufacturing, trading and services.

    By 2023, the IMF highlighted that the collateral-free loan structure of PMMY, with its emphasis on women’s entrepreneurship, has significantly contributed to the growth of women-owned MSMEs, which now exceed 2.8 million.

    In its 2024 release, the IMF reaffirmed that India’s enabling policy environment for entrepreneurship, through programmes such as PMMY, is actively contributing to increased self-employment and formalisation through credit access.

    Conclusion

    In ten years, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has consistently demonstrated the power of financial inclusion and the strength of grassroots innovation. Before 2014, access to credit often favoured the well-connected, while small entrepreneurs faced hurdles like complex paperwork or were forced to rely on informal finance. Banks handed out reckless loans to large corporates, while genuine borrowers lost access to credit. MUDRA stepped into this vacuum, offering a cleaner, inclusive alternative that gave everyone an equal chance.

    With over 52 crore loans sanctioned, the scheme has empowered women, SC/ST/OBC communities, and rural entrepreneurs by expanding access to formal credit. The rise in average loan size, growing share of MSME credit, and the shift from micro to small enterprises reflect its growing impact. PMMY is not only fuelling self-employment and job creation, but also strengthening India’s grassroots economy and advancing equitable growth.

    References

    Click here to see PDF.

    *****

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Anchal Patiyal

    (Release ID: 2119781) Visitor Counter : 114

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, The Great Hall of Royal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    Published: April 7, 2025

    Throughout this Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.

    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: The Great Hall of Royal of Clay County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
    “In 2018, the Ricke family didn’t just start a business—they built a community space where folks gather to make memories,” said Chair Ernst. “Featuring sleek, elegant woodwork, The Great Hall of Royal has a natural historic charm that makes it the perfect space to host any and all social gatherings.”
    In 2018, Sara and Matt Ricke acquired the St. Louis Catholic Church in Royal, Iowa with a vision to preserve the religious landmark while creating a modern event space. Originally from Sioux City, Iowa, the couple dedicated their weekends to renovating the space and transformed The Great Hall of Royal to a beloved destination to host intimate private parties and weddings. This past March, Sara and Matt welcomed their daughters, Jackie, Lexi, and Becky, into the company as partners. The Ricke family and their team look forward to celebrating The Great Hall of Royal’s fifth anniversary in Iowa later this year.
    Stay tuned as Chair Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Netcompany – Reduction of Share Capital in Netcompany Group A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement
    No. 11/2025

                                                    7 April 2025

    At the Annual General Meeting on 4 March 2025, a decision was passed to reduce the share capital by DKK 2,500,000 by cancelling 2,500,000 treasury shares.

    No objections to the share capital reduction have been received. Thus, registration of the share capital reduction was made by the Danish Business Authority on 7 April 2025.

    Following the cancellation of the 2,500,000 shares, the share capital of Netcompany Group A/S has a current nominal value of DKK 47,500,000 divided into 47,500,000 shares with a face value of DKK 1, corresponding to a total of 47,500,000 voting rights.

    Additional information
    For additional information, please contact:

    Netcompany Group A/S
    Thomas Johansen, CFO, + 45 51 19 32 24
    Frederikke Linde, Head of IR, +45 60 62 60 87

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon, Huffman, and Van Hollen Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Fully Fund Special Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Today, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jared Huffman (CA-02) and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) reintroduced the bicameral IDEA Full Funding Act to ensure all children with disabilities can access a free, high-quality public education.In 1975, Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) to provide these essential educational opportunities, and this legislation ensures that Congress fulfills its commitment.

    Under IDEA, the federal government committed to pay 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure for special education. However, that pledge has never been met, and current funding is below 13 percent. The IDEA Full Funding Act would require regular, mandatory increases in IDEA spending to finally meet our obligation to America’s children and schools. It is cosponsored by more than 30 Senators and over 60 House members. Text of the IDEA Full Funding Act can be viewed here.

    “This bipartisan legislation is fulfilling a long overdue promise made by the federal government to support students with disabilities by funding 40% of the cost of special education,” said Rep. Don Bacon. “For far too long that commitment has gone unfulfilled, and now we are taking action to deliver on that promise. I’m honored to co-lead the reintroduction of the IDEA Full Funding Act.”

    “While we’ve made substantial progress to fund special education services in recent years, we still have important work left to do to live up to the original commitment Congress made,” said Rep. Jared Huffman. “All children – no matter their zip code, race, disability, or any other factor – should be able to access a full, exceptional education, and this legislation will help school districts provide thenecessary resources to make this vision a reality. The current chronic underfunding leaves an unfair burden on students, teachers, schools, and families.Our bill holds up the federal government’s end of the bargain to fully fund special education services on apermanent basis and set all students up for long-term success.”

    “Fifty years ago, Congress passed the IDEA Act, and with it, made a promise to children with disabilities and their families – but we have fallen short of that promise every year since. While Donald Trump and Elon Musk are illegally gutting public education in America, we are fighting to strengthen it. Our bill will ensure that Congress finally meets its commitment to fully fund IDEA, putting us closer to delivering equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    Rep. Huffman requested $16.3 million for IDEA Part B Grants to States in FY2024, taking a key step toward securing full federal funding. He will continue to advocate for more federal funding in the upcoming FY2025 appropriations cycle, ensuring that every child can access the resources they need to succeed.

    This bill is co-led in the House by Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), and Mike Bost (IL-12). 

    “As the Trump Administration slashes support for students with disabilities by dismantling the Department of Education, I am proud to join my colleagues in advancing legislation that mandates increased IDEA funding. Together with parents, teachers, and education advocates, we will hold the President accountable for his reckless attacks on accessible education and make sure every kid has the chance to learn, grow, and–ultimately–succeed,” said House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse.

    “For too long, the federal government has fallen short on its commitment to share the cost of education with states for individuals with special needs, placing an unfair burden on schools, teachers, and families,” said Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson. “The IDEA Full Funding Act reaffirms our promise and makes IDEAwhole over the next 10 years. This is a positive step toward ensuring every student with disabilities receives the support and resources they need to thrive.

    “As the mother of a child who benefited from special education, I know firsthand just how lifechanging these programs can be for Minnesota students and their families,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “I’m proud to be co-leading this bipartisan legislation to fully fund special education programs and ensure our special educators and paraprofessionals have the resources they need to keep up this critical work.”

    “Every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to a high-quality education and a fair opportunity to succeed,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “For too long, the federal government has fallen short of its commitment to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), leaving schools and families to shoulder the burden. We’re working to change that through the bipartisan, bicameral IDEA Full Funding Act—legislation that will ensure students in Bucks and Montgomery counties, and across the nation, have access to the full range of resources, support, and high-quality education they need to reach their fullest potential.”

    “Parents of kids with special needs are fresh off of fighting for their kids during COVID, and we won’t stop. We know that every kid has needs – and gifts. No one is disposable and we’re tired of having to fight for the crumbs. Fully fund IDEA. Now,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum.

    “For many parents, raising a child with a disability is a full-time job. Every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, deserves the opportunity to develop skills that will help them lead fulfilling lives. That’s why I’m a proud co-lead of the IDEA Full Funding Act,” said Rep. Eric Swalwell. “Parents have to fight too damn hard to get their child the resources they need, and Congress has fallen short of our promise to support all students as they learn essential skills for adulthood. This bill would require regular mandatory increases in spending to match the needs of America’s classrooms. Fully funding IDEA is a big step in bringing down barriers and stepping up our students for success.”

    “For too long, the federal government has fallen short of its funding commitment to students with special needs, forcing schools to subsidize rising special education costs with general education funds,” said Rep. Pete Stauber. “This leaves every student at a disadvantage. As the parent of a child with special needs, I am proud to continue the fight to ensure Congress fulfills its promise to our special needs students and their parents, so our educators can strengthen special education services while meeting the needs of every American student.”

    This legislation is supported by a broad and diverse group of over 70 national and localorganizations, including by the School Superintendents Association (AASA), theAssociation of School Business Officials International (ASBO), and the Council for Exceptional Children.

    “I see firsthand the critical role special education plays in shaping the future of our students. With the growing needs of students with disabilities, it is more important than ever that we fully fund IDEA. Every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to the education and support they need to thrive. I urge Congress to please find it in their hearts to vote this critical legislation through and support all our beautiful children across this great nation,” said Jaime Green, Superintendent of Trinity Alps Unified School District (TAUSD).

    “AASA is proud to support the IDEA Full Funding Act being introduced today. We strongly support this legislation as a key priority in strengthening our nation’s schools and supporting them in their work to ensure all students—regardless of ability—have an opportunity to access a high-quality education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) represents a critical commitment to help level the playing field for historically disadvantaged populations, students with disabilities. We are proud to endorse the IDEA Full Funding Act, being introduced in both the House and Senate this week, for its work to hold Congress accountable and create a clear path and plan of action. We thank Senator Van Hollen and Representatives Thompson and Huffman for their leadership on this important issue,” said AASA Executive Director Dr. David R. Schuler.

    “School districts everywhere are facing significant financial strain as they strive to educate and serve all students, including those with disabilities. Fully funding IDEA would help schools keep up with rising costs to effectively assess and respond to increasing needs, attract and retain specialized instructional support personnel, and provide assistive equipment and technology to help students learn and succeed,” said Elleka Yost, ASBO Director of Advocacy & Research.

    “As the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) turns 50 years old this year, now is the perfect time for Congress to make good on its pledge to fully fund IDEA,” said Chad Rummel, executive director of the Council for Exceptional Children. “We thank Sen. Van Hollen, Reps. Huffman and Thompson, and all the bill cosponsors for introducing this bill to provide the resources needed to support the infants, toddlers, children and youth served under IDEA,” said Kuna Tavalin, Senior Advisor at the Council for Exceptional Children.

    Additional cosponsors in the House include Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Mike Bost (IL-12), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Judy Chu (CA-28), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), Jim Costa (CA-21), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jason Crow (CO-06), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jim Himes (CT-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John Mannion (NY-22),Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DL-AL), Lisa McClain (MI-09), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01),Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08),Josh Riley (NY-19),AndreaSalinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), PeteStauber (MN-08), Marilyn Strickland(WA-10), Eric Swalwell, (CA-14),Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).

    The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The bill is also supported by: The School Superintendents Association (AASA), AFT, AFL-CI”, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Occupational Therapy Association, American PsychologicalAssociation, Assistive Technology Industry Association, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators, Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE), Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Autism Society of America, Autism Speaks, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, CAST, Center for Learner Equity, Coalition for Adequate Funding for Special Education, Coalition for Community Schools, Consortium of State School Boards Associations (COSSBA), Council for Exceptional Children, Council for Learning Disabilities, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, EDGE Consulting Partners, EdTrust, Education Reform Now, First Focus Campaign for Children, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education, Institute for Educational Leadership, Learning Disabilities Association of America, NAESPA (NationalAssociation of ESEA State Program Administrators), National Association for Music Education, National Association for Pupil Transportation, NationalAssociation of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, NationalAssociation of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS), National Association of Private Special Education Centers, NationalAssociation of School Psychologists, NationalAssociation of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPEID), National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), National Down Syndrome Congress, National Down Syndrome Society, National Education Association, National PTA, National Rural Education Association (NREA), NBJC, Teach For America, TheAdvocacy Institute, TheArc of the United States, TNTP.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Recognizing 100 Years of PA Agriculture, Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum Opens Centennial Celebration with Ribbon Cutting

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 04, 2025 – Lancaster, PA

    Recognizing 100 Years of PA Agriculture, Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum Opens Centennial Celebration with Ribbon Cutting

    The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) and Northern Lancaster Chamber of Commerce today launched the 100th anniversary celebration of Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, recognizing the critical role agriculture plays in Pennsylvania’s past, present, and future. PHMC Executive Director Andrea Lowery joined Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Lisa Graybeal, Site Administrator Shawn Gladden, and Northern Lancaster Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Liz Ackerman to commemorate this milestone.

    “PHMC is honored to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum,” said Andrea Lowery, Executive Director of PHMC. “This museum, born from the Landis brothers’ vision, has grown into a national treasure, offering invaluable insights into Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage. We are dedicated to supporting its continued growth and ensuring that its vital educational mission thrives for the next century.”

    Speaker list:
    Liz Ackerman, Executive Director, Northern Lancaster Chamber of Commerce
    Shawn Gladden, Site Administrator, Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
    Melissa Mann, Director, Bureau of Historic Sites & Museums
    Deputy Secretary Lisa Graybeal, Department of Agriculture
    Andrea Lowery, Executive Director, PHMC
    Stephen Ranck, Outreach Coordinator, Congressman Lloyd Smucker’s Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Shapiro Announces 81 New Main Street Matters Investments to Create Economic Opportunity for Small Businesses and Strengthen Communities Across Pennsylvania

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 07, 2025 – Philadelphia, PA

    Governor Josh Shapiro Announces 81 New Main Street Matters Investments to Create Economic Opportunity for Small Businesses and Strengthen Communities Across Pennsylvania

    Governor Josh Shapiro announced that his Administration is investing in 81 community projects across Pennsylvania through the Main Street Matters program, fulfilling a key promise he made to help revitalize downtowns, support small businesses, and strengthen local economies. This historic investment in Pennsylvania’s Main Streets follows Governor Shapiro’s work to create the new Main Street Matters initiative and secure $20 million for it in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget.

    Governor Shapiro made the announcement at the 2025 National Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia, a national gathering that brings together 1,500 community and neighborhood development professionals, local leaders and volunteers from across the country to share best practices for revitalizing main streets. Main Street Matters, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), received more than 200 applications requesting over $43 million underscoring the demand for strategic investments in Main Streets across Pennsylvania. The Governor’s 2025-26 budget proposal includes another $20 million for this successful initiative.

    “Every community in our Commonwealth rural, urban, or suburban has a Main Street, and I’ve seen firsthand how critical they are to local economies.” said Governor Shapiro. “Our Main Streets are the beating hearts of our communities and the economic strength of our towns and cities is directly tied to the success of small businesses and our Main Streets. That’s why my Administration has made investing in our Main Streets a priority, and today we’re delivering a historic amount of support for dozens of projects across the Commonwealth. Every Main Street matters and I’ll continue bringing people together to invest in and improve our communities.”

    List of Speakers:
    DCED Rick Secretary Siger
    Governor Josh Shapiro

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Opening Remarks of Commissioner Kristin N. Johnson at GAIM Ops AI Summit: Using AI To Combat Cybersecurity and Fraud Risks

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Good afternoon. Thank you to the event organizers for the generous invitation to join you to kick off the AI Summit. The Summit will explore critical topics—data quality and security, good governance for AI, critical third-party service providers, and the integration of generative AI in operating infrastructure, trade execution, clearing, and settlement, and trade surveillance, among others.
    I’d like to highlight two risks implicated by the integration of AI in our markets—cybersecurity and fraud risks. 
    Cyber and fraud risks are ever-present in our markets. Sophisticated AI models have the potential to facilitate high-quality, near-flawless, synthetic content, enabling stunning heists. AI models train, test, and refine their functionality by aggregating and analyzing vast amounts of data, creating enticing targets for cyber intrusion campaigns.
    While the threats are well-documented, we have not yet fully explored the potential for AI to address cyberthreats and AI-driven fraud. In the least, carefully studying coordinated efforts to develop cyber resilience may teach us some important lessons regarding how to use AI to mitigate cyber and fraud threats in our markets. 
    We are witnessing an increasing number of cyber and fraud threats executed using AI technologies. In some instances, the technology that drives these cyber and fraud threats may be an important offensive and defensive tool. 
    Your agenda rightly aims to identify pathways to good AI governance and best practices for individual firms and the broader financial ecosystem.[1]  
    AI and Financial Markets 
    Over the last few years, markets have witnessed the increasing potential for AI to engender efficiencies, reduce costs, harness and analyze vast amounts of data, and enable personalized access to markets. Many firms quickly discovered the potential for AI to streamline trade reporting, anti-money laundering (AML), and other regulatory compliance obligations. Financial services firms have used AI tools for many years, but “maturity in utilization and deployment of AI systems varies by institution and continues to evolve.”[2] 
    In addition, financial services firms use AI tools in both cyber and fraud threat assessments. Integrating innovative AI into legacy systems may, however, create vulnerabilities. 
    In recent years, firms have discovered that AI may become a tool for addressing these vulnerabilities. Machine learning or generative AI may replace or enhance legacy tools for fraud and cyber detection and risk management strategies. AI is enabling firms to educate employees and customers and to identify gaps in their cybersecurity and fraud detection and prevention measures.[3]
    These issues are at the heart of the work of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and its mission[4] and resonate with my experiences as a lawyer in private practice, in-house, and my service as a Commissioner.[5] At the CFTC, I sponsor the Market Risk Advisory Committee (MRAC), a multi-stakeholder group of market participants that examines risk management issues and makes recommendations on how to improve market structure, mitigate risks, and enhance market integrity and stability for global derivatives markets.[6] MRAC has spent a significant amount of time considering cybersecurity and recommendations to enhance cyber resilience.[7] Fraud-related risks and applications are part of these conversations.
    We know that algorithmic models that may be accurately described as AI have long been employed in financial services markets[8] and that these applications include regulatory surveillance and compliance monitoring.[9] In recent years, however, the use and integration of predictive technologies has increased. 
    In January of 2024, the CFTC issued a request for comment seeking to learn more about the uses of AI in CFTC-regulated markets.[10] I applaud the Commission for issuing the RFC as a pathway to increase visibility and better understand the implications of AI use in our markets. This dialogue between the Commission and market participants aims to enable markets and the Commission to leverage the benefits of evolving AI models while mitigating risks.
    AI fraud and cyber threat prevention, detection, and mitigation represent common ground areas where the Commission and market participants are focused on the potential for AI to enhance market integrity.[11] 
    AI Fueled Cyber and Fraud Threats
    About a year ago, the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) released a report on Managing Artificial Intelligence-Specific Risks in the Financial Services Sector.[12] Several of the observations in the Treasury Report are unlikely to surprise this audience—cyber and fraud-related incidents continue to increase and, in parallel, the losses that firms experience as a result of these threats increase.[13]
    Surveyed market participants indicate that cyberthreat actors benefit from lower barriers to entry, increasingly sophisticated automation, and decreasing time-to-exploit.[14] Firms face cyberthreats from actors including opportunistic fraudsters with access to advanced AI tools to sophisticated nation-state hackers who deploy targeted attacks.
    AI-Driven Fraud
    Evidence suggests that hackers are repurposing AI-based tools previously used in cyber defense tactics to identify weaknesses in networks and cybersecurity applications.[15] These weaknesses open back doors for cyber attacks. Generative AI may enable sophisticated actors to execute more convincing phishing campaigns. Deep fakes and similar campaigns may be more difficult to identify. Generative AI may accelerate the creation of new malware variants, lowering the barrier to entry and empowering a greater number of less sophisticated threat actors.[16] As a result, time-to-exploit is shrinking and the overall risk level to financial organizations is climbing. Notwithstanding many AI developers’ efforts to prevent the adaptation of their models to facilitate fraud, there is a rising tide of misuse of AI technologies.
    Vulnerabilities of Technology
    In addition to cyber threats, the vulnerability of AI systems is equally concerning. Through data poisoning, model evasion, and model extractions, those seeking to adapt models may introduce false data, model weights, and similar tactics to corrupt the AI models to manipulate outputs to benefit their outcome and distort or steal from AI-driven processes.[17] These adaptations potentially undermine the reliability of the models as well as features designed to enable cybersecurity and fraud detection. Data privacy also presents a notable concern. 
    Synthetic Identities and Impersonation
    Identity impersonation and synthetic identity fraud are becoming ever more sophisticated. “Fraudsters can use AI to mimic voice, video, and other behavioral identity factors that financial institutions use to verify a customer’s identity.”[18] The ability to generate near-flawless fake credentials and believable digital appearances raises the stakes for banks, insurers, payment processors, and other financial entities that have traditionally relied on physical or behavioral markers for identification. Fraudsters posing as CEOs and CFOs have caused millions in losses by using AI to execute elaborate schemes to develop synthetic identities to convince company employees to make unauthorized transfers.[19] In response to these concerns, the Commission has issued customer education and outreach announcements to enhance market participants and customers’ awareness of these threats.[20]
    Third Party Risks
    Addressing these threats requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach to third-party risk management and data security. 
    According to the Treasury Report, “financial institutions should appropriately consider how to assess and manage the risks of an extended supply chain, including potentially heightened risks with data and data processing of a wide array of vendors, data brokers, and infrastructure providers.”[21] 
    In some instances, there may be high barriers to entry for providing third-party services. For example, few firms have the capability to offer globally accessible cloud-based services that demonstrate the requisite security protocols to enable financial services market participants to comply with substantial data security, integrity, and transfer standards. 
    As a result, only a few service providers may have the capability to deliver the quality of services needed or to respond to the vast amounts of data or information stored or processed by financial services firms. The limited competition for services may lead to a significant percentage of market participants relying on a handful of service providers.
    We may describe these concerns as concentration risks.[22] While CFTC-regulated entities must “assess the risks of using AI and update policies, procedures, controls, and systems, as appropriate, under applicable CFTC statutory and regulatory requirements,”[23] the Commission, as a regulator, should also take an active role in understanding these risks.
    Each of these links in the supply chain introduces potential vulnerabilities, especially with the increasing volume of data and the complexity of AI models. I have repeatedly raised these concerns.[24] It is important that all partners adhere to robust data protection, privacy guidelines, and contingency planning. These protocols are not only essential for safeguarding financial services firms, but also crucial for the resilience of the entire financial system.
    Next Steps 
    The Treasury Report suggested next steps that identify both challenges and opportunities. I’d like to highlight a few of them that resonate with me and some proposals that I have advocated for during my service at the CFTC.
    As I have intimated, as we study market participants’ use of AI, we are increasingly thoughtful about the Commission’s use of AI. As I’ve noted previously:
    The CFTC has on staff surveillance analysts, forensic economists, and futures trading investigators, each of whom identify and investigate potential violations. These groups use supervisory technology (SupTech) in support of their work. Over the past few years, the CFTC has transitioned much of its data intake and data analysis to a cloud-based architecture. This increases the flexibility and reliability of our data systems and allows us to scale them as necessary. This transition will allow the Commission to store, analyze, and ingest this data more cost-effectively and efficiently.[25]
    Coordination
    I have consistently encouraged both inter-agency and international coordination on issues related to AI.[26] 
    I have advocated for “the creation of an inter-agency task force composed of financial regulators…. [to develop] guidelines, tools, benchmarks, and best practices for the use and regulation of AI in the financial services industry.”[27]  As I have noted, “this approach promises efficiencies and a needed clarity for market participants trying to navigate diverse and sometimes divergent regulatory and compliance frameworks.”[28] 
    Financial services firms have indicated a desire to clarify regulatory approaches to innovative technologies. As reported to Treasury, “[s]ome financial institutions, however, expressed concern about the possibility of regulatory fragmentation as different financial sector regulators at both the state and federal level consider regulations around AI. This concern also extends to firms operating under different international jurisdictions.”[29] 
    Collaboration can help address significant issues and problems of scale, as well as some smaller changes that can help along the way. For example, the Treasury Report notes that “[a]s Generative AI increases in usage, there appears to be a significant gap in data available to financial institutions for training their models to prevent fraud….Ramifications of this data divide are especially apparent for anti-fraud use cases where larger institutions generally have much more internal data.”[30] This is not something that can be solved overnight, and will require thoughtful consideration and coordinated efforts.
    The Treasury Report also encourages clarifying how we understand AI by advocating for a common lexicon specific to AI. Developing an agreed upon definition  which would benefit financial institutions, regulators, and consumers alike, to “not only facilitate appropriate discussion with third parties and regulators but could help improve understanding of the capabilities AI systems may have to improve risk management or to amplify new risks,” and “may help address the current lack of clarity around measuring and identifying risks, especially with the rapid adoption of Generative AI. As noted in the introduction, terminology can have implications for the common understanding of AI technology and its associated risks as well.”[31]
    Conclusion
    I usually offer a standard disclaimer at the start of my remarks—something like, my thoughts are my own and do not reflect the perspectives of others. Today, however, I feel compelled to disclose that I used ChatGPT to draft this speech. Just kidding. 
    The research and development of this speech reflects weeks of effort by my staff and their patience with my not-so-gentle editing. However, as someone who spends significant amounts of time reading, studying, and processing data, I am tempted, at times, to defer to an increasingly capable generative AI model to serve as my speechwriter-in-chief. Assuming others will find tempting uses for AI as well, let’s figure out the best, responsible path for bringing this technology into our markets. 

    [1] The thoughts and perspectives that I share with you today are my own; they are not the views and perspectives of my fellow Commissioners, the Commission, or the staff of the CFTC.

    [3] Treasury Report at 12-15.

    [4] See, e.g., 7 U.S.C. § 5.

    [5] See, e.g., Keynote Remarks of Commissioner Johnson for Governing Data at Iowa Innovation and Business Law Center and Yale Law Journal of Law & Technology at Yale Law School: Twin Peaks – Emerging Technologies (AI) and Critical Third Parties (Apr. 4, 2025), https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/SpeechesTestimony/opajohnson16.

    [8] U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (Jan. 25, 2024), https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/PressReleases/8853-24 (citing Commissioner Kristin Johnson, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Financial Markets, Manuel F. Cohen Lecture, George Washington University Law School (Oct. 17, 2023) (describing the historic development and integration of increasingly complex algorithms including supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms in financial markets)).

    [11] For example, a joint letter from trade associations and exchanges referred to the use of AI for compliance processes and controls and the World Federation of Exchanges identified compliance as a use case, stating “AI can be used to reduce manual inputs for trade documentation and regulatory reporting, as well as reducing market manipulation….” See Letter from World Federation of Exchanges to CFTC, Regarding Response to Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (Apr. 24, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73447; Letter from Futures Industry Association, FIA Principal Traders Group, CME Group, Inc., and Intercontinental Exchange Inc. to CFTC, Regarding Release No. 8853-24 (Jan. 25, 2024) Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (Apr. 24, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73444. The Bank Policy Institute stated that “… AI models, including generative AI tools, are being evaluated or piloted [by banking organizations] to enhance operational efficiencies and risk mitigation in the cybersecurity and fraud prevention contexts.” See Letter from Bank Policy Institute to CFTC, Regarding Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC-Regulated Markets (CFTC Release No. 8553-24) (Apr. 17, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73424.

    [12] See Treasury Report. 

    [13] Treasury Report at 10-11. Responses to the CFTC’s RFC also highlighted AI-driven fraud risk. For example, Letter from Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy to CFTC, Regarding Request for Comment on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in CFTC Regulated Markets (Apr. 24, 2024), https://comments.cftc.gov/PublicComments/ViewComment.aspx?id=73457.

    [14] Treasury Report at 16.

    [15] See, e.g., id. at 17.

    [21] Treasury Report at 19.

    [29] Treasury Report at 35.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: More than 2.4 million schoolchildren took part in the financial literacy and entrepreneurship Olympiad

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    This year, high school students joined the Olympiad for the first time. Cases relevant to teenagers were developed for them — from organizing a party to counteracting fraudsters and involvement in droppering.

    The schoolchildren did the best job of completing the task “A Smart Holiday”: they had to draw up an event plan, take into account possible expenses and correctly distribute the budget. 64% of the Olympiad participants coped with this. 49% developed an effective strategy for building eco-friendly facilities to obtain maximum profit in the “Eco-friendly City” simulator.

    The most difficult block was the “Financial Labyrinth”. In it, the participants applied the basic financial concepts in practice in the format of a platform game – money, savings, earnings. The “Fraudsters” task also proved problematic for most schoolchildren. Only 45% did not fall into the scammers’ net.

    “Children are not interested in simply answering questions – they need game mechanics, and they want to solve problems that they may encounter in real life,” said Mikhail Mamuta, head of the Service for the Protection of Consumer Rights and Ensuring Accessibility of Financial Services. “That is why life cases were created for them using algorithms of popular games – for example, procedural generation, where the circumstances of the game change as you progress, you need to overcome obstacles and choose paths. The children had the opportunity to hone their skills in proper financial behavior, including in an artificially created stressful situation.”

    The Olympiad was held on the educational platform Uchi.ru from March 4 to April 3, 2025. Schoolchildren from all over the country solved the competition tasks. Most of the participants were from the Rostov Region, the top five also included the Kemerovo, Volgograd, Moscow Regions and the Republic of Tatarstan.

    The organizers of the Olympiad were the Bank of Russia, ANO National Priorities, the Ministry of Finance of Russia, the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia and the educational platform Uchi.ru in accordance with the goals and objectives of the national project Effective and Competitive Economy. The event is held with the support of the all-Russian public and state movement of children and youth Movement of the First.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23518

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: LECTRA: Monthly declaration of the total number of shares and voting rights composing the company’s capital (at March 31th, 2025)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Monthly declaration of the total number of shares and voting rights composing the company’s capital (at March 31th, 2025)

    This declaration is established in accordance with Article L.233-8 II of the French Code de Commerce and of Article 223-11 of the Règlement Général of the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF).

    Date:

    March 31th, 2025

    Total number of shares composing the capital:

    38,031,057

    Total number of voting rights, gross (1):

    38,223,207

    Total number of voting rights, net (2):

    38,190,853

    (1) In accordance with the second paragraph of article 223-11 of the Règlement Général of the AMF, the gross total of voting rights is based on the total number of shares composing the company’s capital which have voting rights, including shares deprived of their voting rights

    (2) The net total of voting rights is equal to the gross total, minus the number of shares deprived of their voting rights (treasury shares)

    Other than the legal notification requirements for crossing the thresholds established by French law, there is no special statutory obligation.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Coface SA: Disclosure of trading in own shares (excluding the liquidity agreement) made on March 31 to April 4, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COFACE SA: Disclosure of trading in own shares (excluding the liquidity agreement) made on March 31 to April 4, 2025

    Paris, April 7, 2025 – 17.45

    Pursuant to Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of 16 April 2014 on market abuse1

    The main features of the 2024-2025 Share Buyback Program have been published on the Company’s website (http://www.coface.com/Investors/Disclosure-requirements, under “Own share transactions”) and are also described in the 2024 Universal Registration Document.

    Trading session
    of (Date)    		 Number
    of shares    		 Weighted
    average price    		 Gross amount MIC Code Purpose
    of buyback
    31/03/2025 9,000 17.6117 € 158,506 € XPAR LTIP
    01/04/2025 9,000 17.7483 € 159,735 € XPAR LTIP
    02/04/2025 9,000 17.7345 € 159,611 € XPAR LTIP
    03/04/2025 11,000 17.4200 € 191,620 € XPAR LTIP
    04/04/2025 15,000 16.6060 € 249,090 € XPAR LTIP
    Total 31/03/2025 – 04/04/2025 53,000 17.3313 € 918,561 €   LTIP

    CONTACTS

    ANALYSTS / INVESTORS
    Thomas JACQUET: +33 1 49 02 12 58 – thomas.jacquet@coface.com
    Rina ANDRIAMIADANTSOA: +33 1 49 02 15 85 – rina.andriamiadantsoa@coface.com

    FINANCIAL CALENDAR 2025
    (subject to change)

    Q1-2025 results: 5 May 2025 (after market close)
    Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting: 14 May 2025
    H1-2025 results: 31 July 2025 (after market close)
    9M-2025 results: 3 November 2025 (after market close)

    FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    This press release, as well as COFACE SA’s integral regulatory information, can be found on the Group’s website: http://www.coface.com/Investors

    For regulated information on Alternative Performance Measures (APM), please refer to our Interim Financial Report for H1-2024 and our 2024 Universal Registration Document (see part 3.7 “Key financial performance indicators”).

    Regulated documents posted by COFACE SA have been secured and authenticated with the blockchain technology by Wiztrust.
    You can check the authenticity on the website www.wiztrust.com.
     

    COFACE: FOR TRADE
    As a global leading player in trade credit risk management for more than 75 years, Coface helps companies grow and navigate in an uncertain and volatile environment.
    Whatever their size, location or sector, Coface provides 100,000 clients across some 200 markets. with a full range of solutions: Trade Credit Insurance, Business Information, Debt Collection, Single Risk insurance, Surety Bonds, Factoring.
    Every day, Coface leverages its unique expertise and cutting-edge technology to make trade happen, in both domestic and export markets.
    In 2024, Coface employed ~5,236 people and registered a turnover of €1.84 billion.

    www.coface.com

    COFACE SA is listed in Compartment A of Euronext Paris
    ISIN: FR0010667147 / Ticker: COFA

    1 Also in pursuant to Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 of 8 March 2016 (and updates); Article L.225-209 and seq. of the French Commercial Code; Article L.221-3, Article L.241-1 and seq. of the General Regulation of the French Market Authority (AMF); AMF Recommendation DOC-2017-04 Guide for issuers on their own shares transactions and for stabilization measures.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Announces Support for HDR10+ Netflix Shows and Movies on Smart TVs & Monitors

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung support for Netflix shows and movies in HDR10+1 across its smart TVs and monitors. With HDR10+, viewers can enjoy richer contrast, deeper colors and stunning visual depth, making their favorite Netflix titles more immersive than ever.
    “HDR10+ enhances the way we watch content, delivering deeper contrast and more vibrant colors for a truly cinematic experience,” said Taeyong Son, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are excited to bring this technology to Netflix’s 300 million plus members and will continue collaborating with various partners to expand HDR10+ support across our product lineup and the broader streaming ecosystem.”

    HDR10+ is a next-generation high dynamic range (HDR) technology pioneered by Samsung, designed to optimize picture quality scene by scene. By dynamically adjusting brightness and contrast levels, HDR10+ ensures that each frame is displayed with exceptional clarity and detail, staying true to the creator’s intent.
    With this integration, viewers can experience enhanced realism and depth across a growing library of HDR10+ content, making every scene feel more lifelike. HDR10+ content on Netflix will be accessible on 2025 Samsung Neo QLED, OLED and Lifestyle TVs — as well as 2025 and 2024 monitor models — with support for additional models in the future.
    This launch marks a significant step in expanding HDR10+ content, bringing enhanced picture quality to more viewers. In addition to Netflix, Samsung is actively working with a growing network of industry partners to further extend HDR10+ support. For more information on Samsung TVs, please visit www.samsung.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Carbajal, Brownley, Panetta Demand the Trump Administration Halt its Illegal Plans to Close Facilities Vital to the Central Coast

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    Reps. Carbajal, Brownley, Panetta Demand the Trump Administration Halt its Illegal Plans to Close Facilities Vital to the Central Coast

    Washington, April 7, 2025

    Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) sent a letter to Acting Administrator Stephen Ehikian of the General Services Administration over the planned illegal closures of crucial facilities across the Central Coast. The planned closures will impact U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and United States Forest Service (USFS) facilities in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties.

    “These are critical agencies that help support our local economies’ vitality and the American way of life,” wrote the lawmakers. “Efforts to justify these closures as a measure to help better serve the American people is, at best, disingenuous.”

    The full text of the letter is available
    As Representatives of the Central Coast, we write to demand that you halt planned facility closures at the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) that would impact our constituents in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. These are critical agencies that help support our local economies’ vitality and the American people. These indiscriminate closures, done in an arbitrary and capricious manner, are antithetical to our Constitution and values as Americans.
    Trying to shutter the physical locations for these vital agencies is reflective of the illegal actions undertaken by DOGE to undermine the effectiveness of our government rather than working to improve it to better serve our constituents and the American people.
    DOI was created by an act of Congress in 1849 and is critical in managing our nation’s cultural heritage— including our public lands, which have been a boon to our local recreational economies. In fact, California is home to the nation’s largest active outdoor industry economy, contributing $73.8 billion in economic spending annually. This is not by coincidence. California is also home to nine national parks—more than any other state. The Central Coast of California alone is home to the Channel Islands National Park and Pinnacles National Park. The positive contribution to our economies is reflected by the fact that in 2023, 36.2 million visitors to California’s national parks spent $3.2 billion, supporting 39,678 jobs.
    Likewise, NOAA is essential to America’s innovation and economic vitality. Under the Department of Commerce, NOAA is tasked with the critical mission to provide daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and support marine commerce. NOAA’s mission is carried out by some of our nation’s top scientists. The products and cutting-edge research generated by NOAA helps support more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product. Everyday Americans rely on NOAA’s science for basic day-to-day needs like determining the weather. This information is critical for commercial and public safety needs. It is NOAA’s data that helps provide the public with free and lifesaving alerts when Americans are facing natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires.
    Furthermore, with more than $59 billion in agricultural sales, California leads the nation as the top producer of agricultural products in the United States. Throughout the world, California was the world’s largest agriculture producer in 2022. Closing USDA offices only serves to harm American families and our farmers who rely on USDA to ensure food safety, manage our natural resources, and support our food supply chains and economic well-being.
    Finally, the U.S. Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public lands and provides potentially life-saving expertise in fire management. Our constituents are no strangers to wildfires. Fires in the Western United States have only become larger, more destructive and deadly. We cannot pretend that this is not a reality that many Americans are experiencing.
    Efforts to justify these closures as a measure to help better serve the American people is, at best, disingenuous. As outlined above, these agencies are critical to our nations and region’s wellbeing and help maintain our economic vitality to support our way of life. Again, we demand that you cease these office closures. Further we ask that you let us know under what authority are you acting to close these offices without, at the very least, consultation with Congress—a co-equal branch of government.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Information operation on WeChat targeting the 45th General Election

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Summary
    The Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force (TF) has detected an information operation targeting the 45th General Election by Chinese social media platform WeChat’s most popular news account Youli-Youmian (有理儿有面), an anonymous blog that does not disclose its provenance.[i] Intelligence reporting links the Youli-Youmian account to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Chinese Communist Party’s Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission (CPLAC).

    The SITE TF assesses that this information operation was intended to influence Canadian-Chinese  communities in Canada (i.e. speakers of a Chinese language, such as Mandarin, Cantonese, or Hakka) and looked to mould perceptions about the Prime Minister, Liberal Party of Canada (LPC) Leader and LPC candidate for Nepean, Mark Carney.

    The Youli-Youmian account was also responsible for targeting members of Parliament Michael Chong (in June 2023) and Chrystia Freeland (in January 2025).

    Content
    The information operation targeting Mr. Carney is deliberately amplifying narratives in a coordinated and inauthentic way on WeChat, to Chinese audiences, including communities living in Canada. The SITE TF observed large spikes of what is believed to be coordinated inauthentic behaviour on March 10 and 25, 2025.

    Specifically, various contrasting narratives were spread on WeChat about Mr. Carney – first amplifying the candidate’s stance with the United States[ii], then targeting his experience and credentials.[iii]

    Tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs)
    In February 2023, the China Digital Times reported that social media posts from the Youli-Youmian account are frequently assigned to employees at Chinese state-owned enterprises to amplify to wider audiences as part of their work duties.[iv] The SITE TF assesses that similar coordinated inauthentic activity was likely at play in the targeting of Mr. Carney on March 10 and 25.

    The campaign received high levels of user engagement and views, with amplified articles about Mr. Carney receiving between 85,000 and 130,000 interactions, and an estimate of 1 to 3 million views. This level of engagement on WeChat is high when compared with popular state media outlets like the People’s Daily that average only 30,000 interactions per post.

    The articles posted on the Youli-Youmian account on March 25 were amplified in a coordinated and inauthentic way by a group of 30 smaller WeChat accounts that boosted the discoverability of the posts. This amplification occurred over the course of four days, keeping narratives about Mr. Carney in algorithmic feeds, albeit at much lower engagement and views.

    Background
    WeChat developer Tencent reports that the platform has over 1.3 billion monthly active users but has not disclosed how many of those users live overseas.[v] Marketing firms in Canada put the number of Canadian WeChat users at over 1 million.[vi] Despite this popularity, WeChat has remained not well understood by information integrity researchers. The PRC is likely aware of this oversight and may carry out these information operations on WeChat to avoid scrutiny.

    Malign behaviour from the Youli-Youmian account was first identified by Rapid Response Mechanism Canada (RRM Canada) at Global Affairs Canada during federal by-elections taking place in June 2023.[vii] During that period, analysts noted that the popular WeChat account had targeted Mr. Michael Chong, CPC MP for the Wellington-Halton Hills riding at the time, with false narratives.

    The Youli-Youmian entity was also responsible for targeting former LPC leadership candidate Chrystia Freeland in late January 2025.[viii]

    Implications

    The SITE TF assesses that the objective of the information operation is to influence Chinese communities in Canada in the context of the 45th General Election. The information being spread is inauthentic and coordinated, with the goal to manipulate.

    [i] “What are the most-read blogs on China’s WeChat?,” Ginger River Review, February 01, 2023, https://www.gingerriver.com/p/what-are-the-most-read-blogs-on-chinas

    [ii] “The US encounters a ‘tough guy’ Prime Minister,” Youli-Youmian – FreeWeChat, March 10, 2025, https://freewechat.com/a/Mzg3MjEyMTYyNg==/2247656158/1.

    [iii] “Canada’s road to a ‘seeking survival’ election,” Youli-Youmian – FreeWeChat, March 25, https://freewechat.com/a/Mzg3MjEyMTYyNg==/2247656809/1.

    [iv] “Ministry of Truth – February 7 WeChat Moments Forwarding Task, China Digital Times, February 07, 2023, https://chinadigitaltimes.net/chinese/692732.html

    [v] “WeChat revenue and usage statistics (2025),” Business of Apps, January 22, 2025, https://www.businessofapps.com/data/wechat-statistics/.  

    [vi] “Verdict: Harry Rosen builds its Chinese audience on WeChat,” Media in Canada, February 20, 2020, https://mediaincanada.com/2020/02/20/verdict-harry-rosen-builds-its-chinese-audience-on-wechat/.

    [vii] “WeChat account activity targeting Canadian parliamentarian suggests likely foreign state involvement,” Rapid Response Mechanism Canada – Global Affairs Canada, August 09, 2023, https://www.international.gc.ca/transparency-transparence/rapid-response-mechanism-mecanisme-reponse-rapide/wechat.aspx?lang=eng.

    [viii] “Is Trump taking on an ally to get at China?,” Youli-Youmian – FreeWeChat, January 30, 2025, https://freewechat.com/a/Mzg3MjEyMTYyNg==/2247652899/1. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: NHC officials meet with heads of multinationals

    Source: People’s Republic of China Ministry of Health

    Lei Haichao, minister of China’s National Health Commission (NHC), along with vice-ministers Zeng Yixin and Cao Xuetao, recently held separate meetings in Beijing with heads of multinationals attending the 2025 annual meeting of the China Development Forum.

    Those top executives the NHC officials met with included David A. Ricks, chair and CEO of the US-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly; Albert Bourla, CEO of the US-based pharmaceutical company Pfizer; Michael Nelson, CEO of the US-based company Amway specializing in health and wellness; and Sean Stein, president of the US-China Business Council.

    The meetings highlighted China’s commitment to prioritizing people’s health as an important indicator of socialist modernization. The NHC officials presented China’s efforts to implement a health-first strategy, advance the Healthy China initiative and deepen the reform of the medical and health system, which have contributed to a steady improvement in public health.

    It was stated at the meetings that at present, China’s stable economic growth, optimized business environment, expanded opening-up of the medical sector, and unleashed innovation vitality provide multinationals with favorable conditions for long-term investment and growth. China encourages these enterprises to seize new opportunities brought about by Chinese modernization, increase investment and R&D cooperation, and play an active role in building a Healthy China, so as to promote the building of a global community of health for all.

    The heads of multinationals gave presentations on the progress of and future plans for their businesses in China, expressing strong confidence in the country’s development prospects. They pledged to provide better products and services to the Chinese market to support the high-quality growth of China’s health sector.  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The 2025-26 Budget Delivers More Affordability Measures for Saskatchewan Residents

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 7, 2025

    The 2025-26 Budget delivers affordability for the people of Saskatchewan. In this year’s budget, record investments are being made in health care, education and community safety, in addition to delivering more affordability measures than ever before. 

    “This budget follows through on our promise to ensure Saskatchewan remains the most affordable place in Canada to live, work, raise a family and start a business,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Jim Reiter said. 

    The taxation changes introduced in the 2025-26 Budget, including the initiatives in The Saskatchewan Affordability Act, provide over $250 million in tax savings this year. This is in addition to the more than $2 billion in affordability measures in each and every budget.

    Included in these changes are the largest personal income tax reduction in the province since 2008 by raising the basic personal exemption, spousal and equivalent-to-spouse exemption and dependent child exemption by $500 a year for the next four years – over and above the impact of indexation. Upon full implementation, an additional 54,000 residents will no longer be paying provincial income tax. 

    “This year’s budget reduces income taxes for every resident, family and small business in the province,” Reiter said. “It also helps make life more affordable for seniors, families with children, persons with disabilities, caregivers, new graduates, first-time homebuyers, people renovating their homes and more.”

    Families benefit from the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit, helping individuals or couples cover costs associated with fertility treatments. Doubling the Active Families Benefit tax credit and raising the qualifying income threshold to $120,000 will make accessing children’s sports, arts, cultural and recreational activities more affordable. 

    Seniors receive an increase in the senior supplement amount by $500 annually for the next four years, starting in 2025 – over and above the impact of indexation. An increase to the Personal Care Home Benefit will help more than 2,000 low-income seniors with the cost of living in a licensed personal care home. 

    The Graduate Retention Program has also increased, with a maximum benefit of $24,000 for students who live and work in Saskatchewan after graduating from a post-secondary institution. The Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship provides up to $3,000 for Grade 12 students who will be attending post-secondary institutions in the province. 

    Making housing more affordable is also a priority. As a result, all education property tax mill rates have been reduced to absorb the increase in property assessment values and ensure this assessment year is revenue neutral for the province. This change will save property owners in the province more than $100 million annually. Reinstating the Home Renovation Tax Credit saves residents up to $420 and seniors $525 annually in provincial income tax. The First-Time Homebuyers’ Tax Credit maximum benefit increased to $1,575, making homeownership more attainable for first-time homebuyers, and the PST Rebate on New Home Construction was made permanent. 

    The 2025-26 Budget also delivers for individuals receiving income assistance, with a two per cent increase for nearly 20,000 Saskatchewan Income Support clients and more than 18,000 Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability clients. Beginning July 1, 2025, the Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit will increase by five per cent annually for the next four years – over and above the impact of indexation – benefiting more than 300,000 individuals and families in the province. 

    Affordability measures are also increasing for persons with disabilities and caregivers. The Disability Tax Credit and the Disability Tax Credit supplement for children under 18 both increase by 25 per cent, in addition to indexation. The Caregiver Tax Credit also increases by 25 per cent, in addition to indexation, which provides financial support for families who care for adult children or parents with physical or mental impairments.

    In addition to measures that help make life more affordable, the 2025-26 Budget includes measures that support our growing province. The Small Business Tax Rate permanently remains at one per cent, which benefits more than 35,000 small businesses and saves them over $50 million annually in corporate income taxes. The Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit provides a non-refundable tax credit for individuals or corporations that invest in the equity of eligible Saskatchewan small and medium enterprise, while the Saskatchewan Class 1 Truck Driver Training Rebate Program supports individuals seeking their commercial driving licence. 

    To learn more about the Government of Saskatchewan’s affordability measures and other 2025-26 Budget initiatives, visit: budget.saskatchewan.ca.         

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Braddon restaurant awarded for sustainable choices

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Clement Chauvin, Head Chef and sole owner of Les Bistronomes. Photo credit Canberra Times and Gary Ramage.

    Clement Chauvin, Head Chef and sole owner of Les Bistronomes, has taken out the Waste Minimisation Award at the 2024 Climate Choices Business Awards.

    He has been acknowledged for his creative and community-minded sustainability initiatives.

    The Awards recognise climate leaders in the business arena across eight categories.

    Les Bistronomes was celebrated for making sustainable choices for everything from sourcing ingredients to disposing waste.

    “It was wonderful to receive the award,” said Clement.

    “As a chef, I’m aware that my produce comes from mother earth and the land we live on. It makes sense to be considerate of the earth that gives us the food that nurtures and feeds us all,” he said.

    Some of the ideas Les Bistronomes was recognised for as part of the award came about during COVID.

    “It was a difficult time, but it really created community around our restaurant, and led to some great ideas for sustainability and waste minimisation,” Clement said.

    The idea to create a ‘green card’ came about from a woman who donated 80 kilograms of Jerusalem artichokes to Clement. She had an excess and didn’t know what to do with them.

    “I wanted to repay her in some way, and that’s when the idea came,” he said.

    “Local home growers in Canberra can bring in their raspberries, flowers, lemons, rhubarb or homegrown veggies in exchange for a 10 per cent discount at the restaurant.”

    This initiative reduces food waste and grows community connection, as well as limiting food miles.

    Les Bistronomes also gives growers food scraps for their compost.

    This is a way of sequestering carbon and returning nutrients to the soil. Their approach is not only great for the business, but also gives back to the local community.

    Clement has now established strong relationships with a number of locals who love growing fruits and vegetables and who regularly supply food for the restaurant.

    “I now work with two local ladies, and we plan out crops so that the restaurant has a steady and seasonal supply of produce,” he said.

    The Sustainable Business Program

    Clement said the future for Les Bistronomes is to go all-electric and move to solar if he can.

    He has reached out to the ACT Government’s Sustainable Business Program to help him.

    The program has technical experts who can provide all ACT businesses with free advice on ways to improve their energy efficiency; including transitioning off gas with rebates of up to $10,000, installing solar panels and battery storage.

    “The Sustainable Business Program helped me look at what options were available to improve sustainability, but from an infrastructure point of view,” Clement said.

    “We’re looking to switch from gas to electric induction cooking and we’re investigating how we can use solar to offset electricity costs.”

    Find out more about the Sustainable Business Program and the other Climate Choices Business Awards winners.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to New Jersey Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Sinkholes on Interstate 80

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

     WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations affected by the sinkholes on Interstate 80 occurring Dec. 26, 2024. The SBA issued the administrative declaration for an economic injury disaster on April 2.  

    The declaration covers Morris County, as well as the adjacent counties of Essex, Hunterdon, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren, which are eligible for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA.  

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.  

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Beginning Tuesday, April 8th, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Morris County to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.  

    The BRC hours of operation are listed below:

    Business Recovery Center (BRC) 
    Morris County

    Wharton Municipal Building

    10 Robert Street

    Wharton, New Jersey 07885

    Opening:  Tuesday, April 8th: 10:30 a.m. to 5: p.m.

    Hours: Monday – Friday – 8:30 a.m.  to 5 p.m.

    Saturday – 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.

       Sunday: Closed

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.  

    The filing deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 2, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Texas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Spring Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Texas of the May 7, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring from April 26‑June 5, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Bosque, Coke, Delta, Grimes, Madison and Rockwall.

    Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than May 7.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Illinois Businesses, Nonprofits and Residents Affected by South Terrace Apartment Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – In response to an Administrative disaster declaration issued April 2, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for Illinois businesses, nonprofits and residents affected by the South Terrace Apartment fire occurring on Feb. 22.  

    The disaster declaration covers Cook County, which is eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. EIDLs are also available to eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the adjacent counties of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will in Illinois, as well as Lake County in Indiana. 

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.    

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.    

    Businesses and homeowners may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes.  

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. 

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 2.750% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    Beginning Monday, April 7, 2025, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Cook County to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.  

    The DLOC hours of operation are listed below: 

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) 
    Cook County 

    Justice Village Hall 

    7800 S Archer Road 

    Justice, Illinois 60458 

    Opening:  Monday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

    Hours: Monday – Friday – 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

    Saturday – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

    Closed: Sunday  

    Permanently Closing: Saturday, April 19, 2 p.m. 

    “SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) have consistently proven their value to business owners and homeowners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Homeowners and Business owners can visit the DLOC to meet face-to-face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.” 

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan. 

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.  

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 2, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is January 2, 2026. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Government contractor resolves False Claims Act allegations related to the Small Business Innovation Research Program

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc., located in Fairfax, agreed to settle False Claims Act allegations that a company that it acquired made false statements or caused false statements to be made in proposals for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts awarded by four federal agencies. As part of the settlement, the United States received a payment of $600,000.

    SBIR contracts are awarded to small businesses to develop and commercialize new technology.  SBIR contracts are reserved for businesses that have fewer than 500 employees, including employees of any affiliated companies.

    In July 2022, General Dynamics Mission Systems acquired Progeny Systems, LLC (“Progeny”), a defense contractor located in Manassas. Before its acquisition by General Dynamics Mission Systems, Progeny entered into teaming agreements with Quality Support, Inc. and Minimum Entropy, LLC.

    As part of its teaming agreements, Progeny directed and assisted Quality Support and Minimum Entropy with drafting and submitting proposals for SBIR contracts. Progeny also provided Quality Support with personnel, including a principal investigator who performed the research required by an SBIR contract. Similarly, a Progeny employee formed, owned, and operated Minimum Entropy.  In return, Quality Support and Minimum Entropy selected Progeny as their sole subcontractor on all of their SBIR proposals, including six SBIR contracts from four federal agencies.

    The settlement announced today resolves allegations arising from Progeny’s involvement in the submission of proposals for the SBIR contracts awarded to Quality Support and Minimum Entropy. The United States alleged that Progeny made, or caused to be made, false statements about Progeny’s affiliation with Quality Support and Minimum Entropy in the proposals for the SBIR contracts awarded to Quality Support and Minimum Entropy. The United States further alleged that Progeny made, or caused to be made, false statements about Quality Support’s and Minimum Entropy’s statuses as businesses eligible for SBIR awards.        

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division’s Fraud Field Office, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Mid-Atlantic Field Office, and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service’s Economic Crimes Field Office.

    This matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanya Kapoor and Forensic Auditor Peter Melaragni.

    The civil claims settled by this False Claims Act agreement are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.

    A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

    MIL Security OSI –