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Commission announces finalists of REGIOSTARS 2025

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Europe Champions Innovation: 25 Projects Vie for REGIOSTARS Awards

From green tech to social inclusion, visionary initiatives showcase EU’s regional development excellence

Europe’s commitment to impactful regional development is on full display as 25 groundbreaking projects have been selected as finalists for the prestigious REGIOSTARS Awards. These initiatives, spanning five diverse categories, highlight innovative solutions to pressing challenges across the continent.

Recognizing Regional Prowess

The REGIOSTARS Awards, established in 2008, have become a hallmark of excellence for EU-funded projects demonstrating significant regional development impact and inclusivity. This year’s finalists represent the forefront of European ingenuity, driving forward policy and inspiring new regional strategies.

Spotlight on Innovation Categories

The competition is fierce across five key areas. In “A Competitive and Smart Europe,” projects range from digital television collaboration (DigiTVC) involving Spain, France, and Portugal, to advanced satellite radar-based fertilisation maps from Poland.

Category 1: A Competitive and Smart Europe

  • DigiTVC (Spain, France, Portugal)
  • PlantaSYST – Centre for plant systems biology and biotechnology (Bulgaria)
  • Satellite radar-based fertilisation maps (Poland)
  • Smart Marine – Contemporary harbours with soft energy technology (Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Sweden)
  • TYPICALP – Typicity, Innovation, Competitiveness in Alpine dairy products (Italy, Switzerland)

The “A Green Europe” category features initiatives like AGEo – Atlantic Geohazard Risk Management, a multi-country effort including Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. CARE Peat from Belgium, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the UK, focuses on peatland restoration.

Category 2: A Green Europe

  • AGEO – Atlantic Geohazard Risk Management (Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, United Kingdom)
  • CARE Peat (Belgium, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, United Kingdom)
  • EcoX – Recycling of Food Oil Used through Green Chemistry (Portugal)
  • NAWAMED – Nature based solutions for domestic water reuse in Mediterranean countries (Italy)
  • Re-water (Italy, Greece)

Connectivity and digital transformation are central to “A Connected Europe.” Lithuanian efforts in creating an effective digital community (Connected Lithuania) and Poland’s project to improve island connections via a tunnel under Swina highlight this category.

Category 3: A Connected Europe

  • Connected Lithuania – Effective, Safe and Responsible Lithuanian Digital Community (Lithuania)
  • Construction of a tunnel under Swina – Improving the communication connection between the islands of Uznam and Wolin in Swinoujscie (Poland)
  • MONOCAB OWL – New mobility on old tracks (Germany)
  • SIS Santé – Emergency services connected (France)
  • Zheleznitsa Modern Tunnel Systems (Bulgaria)

Promoting social equity and inclusivity, “A Social and Inclusive Europe” includes projects like Early support for families at risk in Czechia and the Social Inclusion Incubator from Poland. The sharing factory in Belgium aims to create urban hubs for social inclusion and circular economy principles.

Category 4: A Social and Inclusive Europe

  • Early support for families at risk (Czechia)
  • Oyapock Health Cooperation Phase 1 (French Guiana, Brazil)
  • I.U. Su.Pr.Eme — Individualised exit routes from exploitation (Italy)
  • Social Inclusion Incubator (Poland)
  • The sharing factory: new urban hotspot for social inclusion & circular economy (Belgium)

Bringing Europe closer to its citizens, the final category, “A Europe Closer to Citizens,” features initiatives like Metropolitan Heritage Days in Portugal and MoBiLait, expanding reading access via Lithuanian Libraries for people with print disabilities.

Category 5: A Europe Closer to Citizens

  • Metropolitan Heritage Days (Portugal)
  • MoBiLait – Expanding Reading Access via Lithuanian Libraries for People with Print Disabilities (Lithuania)
  • Preserving and showcasing the cultural and natural heritage of North Courland (Latvia)
  • Shankill Shared Women’s Centre (Ireland, United Kingdom)
  • Toldi Reborn – A Story of Unity & Culture (Romania, Hungary)

The REGIOSTARS Awards are a testament to the transformative power of regional development funding. In 2022, EU cohesion policy supported over 1.5 million jobs across the bloc, demonstrating its tangible impact on citizens’ lives (European Commission Funding & Tenders Portal).

Next Steps for Finalists

The public will soon have a chance to cast their votes for the Public Choice Award, with voting opening on September 2nd on the REGIOSTARS website. Finalists will present their projects to a jury during the 23rd European Week of Regions and Cities, with the winners set to be unveiled at an award ceremony on October 15th.

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Business

Interreg: Mediterranean Climate Action & Projects

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

EU Climate Action Funding Bolsters Resilience in the Mediterranean

Table of Contents

The European Union’s commitment to climate action is paying dividends in the Mediterranean, where a wave of innovative projects are building resilience against a changing climate.Between 2014 and 2020, 318 cooperation initiatives, backed by €528 million in EU funding, tackled the climate crisis across the region, involving nearly 1,900 partners in 22 participating countries [1].

Mediterranean Climate Initiatives: A Deep Dive

These initiatives, documented in the keep.eu database and analyzed through a study of 17 Interreg and European Neighbourhood instrument Cross-Border Cooperation (ENI CBC) programs, demonstrate a dual approach to climate challenges: adapting human activity to new environmental realities and mitigating future disasters.

Adaptation Strategies: cultivating Resilience

On the adaptation front, projects like INTESA and EauSIRIS are helping farmers cultivate drought-resistant olives and citrus fruits. BLEU-ADAPT is transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities by developing markets for invasive species like blue crab.

Mitigation and Prevention: Cost-Effective Solutions

Mitigation and prevention measures are also being developed across borders, including circular aquaculture systems (CELAVIE) and innovative wastewater recycling for irrigation (PROSIM). These projects consistently demonstrate that mitigation and prevention offer a higher cost-effectiveness than post-disaster responses.

did You Know? The EU budget for 2014-2020 aimed to allocate 20% of funds to climate-related action [3].

Leaders in Climate Investment

The Interreg program connecting Spain, France, and Portugal stands out by dedicating 40% of its total budget and 42% of its projects to climate resilience measures. The Interreg Italy-Tunisia corridor has emerged as an innovation laboratory, producing groundbreaking solutions like MENAWARA’s system for repurposing wastewater to sustain agricultural irrigation.

Pro Tip: Mitigation and prevention strategies are more cost-effective than post-disaster responses.

The Role of Youth in Climate Action

A particularly encouraging aspect of these projects is the meaningful involvement of younger generations. Data shows that 39% of all projects explicitly engaged youth participants, with 17% giving them intensive roles that went beyond symbolic participation, to include active design and implementation responsibilities.

As the 2021-2027 EU cohesion policy expands climate-focused projects – reaching 29% of Interreg selected cooperation projects – one lesson resonates across the Mediterranean: the most effective solutions refuse to choose between past wisdom and future innovation.

Across the region, traditional water management is being enhanced by sensor networks, and ancient practices like artisanal salt production are being reimagined through modern sustainable techniques. This blending of timelines may represent the Mediterranean’s most valuable innovation in its fight against climate extremes.

Key Metrics of EU Climate Action in the Mediterranean (2014-2020)
Metric Value
EU Funding €528 million
Cooperation Initiatives 318
Participating Countries 22
Projects Engaging Youth 39%

Blending Tradition and Innovation

the most effective climate solutions in the Mediterranean region are those that combine ancestral knowledge with cutting-edge tools.This approach allows for sustainable and resilient practices that are tailored to the specific needs of the region.

what innovative climate solutions are you most excited about?

How can communities better integrate traditional practices with modern technology to combat climate change?

Evergreen Insights: The enduring value of climate Action

Climate change poses a notable threat to the Mediterranean region, impacting its ecosystems, economies, and communities. The EU’s commitment to funding climate action is crucial for building resilience and promoting sustainable advancement. By supporting innovative projects and fostering collaboration,the EU is helping the Mediterranean region adapt to the challenges of a changing climate and mitigate future risks.

Frequently asked Questions About EU climate Action Funding

What is the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD)?

The EAFRD is a fund through which EU countries implement funding for rural development programs, some of which may address climate change adaptation [1].

What are the EU’s green investment needs?

The EU requires substantial green investment to achieve a climate-neutral economy by 2030 and beyond. This includes investments in decarbonizing the economy and adapting to the impacts of climate change [2].

Share this article and join the conversation! What other regions can learn from the Mediterranean’s approach to climate resilience?

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Technology

Google Korea Hiring 2025: Company Deep Dive & Outlook

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor
written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Google korea Focuses on AI Innovation and Digital Responsibility

Table of Contents



Google Korea is doubling down on artificial intelligence (AI) and ethical digital practices to bolster its internet service offerings, according to recent company statements. The company is actively investing in AI development,fostering collaborations with local AI startups,and reinforcing its commitment to responsible technology use.

AI-Driven Innovation and Startup Ecosystem

Google Korea is prioritizing the advancement of AI technology through several key initiatives. These include:

  • Developing innovative AI services and solutions.
  • Cooperating with domestic AI startups to foster growth and innovation.
  • Running the Google for Startups accelerator program to support promising AI ventures.

These efforts aim to strengthen Google Korea’s position in the rapidly evolving internet service landscape, where AI is becoming increasingly integral. According to a 2023 report by McKinsey, companies that actively integrate AI into their operations are seeing important gains in productivity and efficiency [1].

Digital Responsibility and Ethical Practices

Recognizing the importance of ethical considerations in the digital age, Google Korea is actively managing its digital ecosystem responsibility. This includes:

  • Operating a Digital Responsibility Committee to address AI ethics, content regulations, and user protection.
  • Promoting responsible digital innovation and sustainable ecosystem development.
  • Responding to the responsible use and social impact of technology.

Did You Know? Google’s AI principles emphasize fairness, accountability, and transparency in AI development and deployment.

Financial Performance and Strategic Focus

Google Korea’s financial strategy revolves around several key areas:

  • Increasing global sales share.
  • Driving growth in cloud services.
  • Boosting advertising sales.
  • Expanding investment in new technologies.
  • Promoting sustainable management practices.

The company’s advertising sales and cloud businesses are steadily growing in the domestic market, contributing to a stable profit base despite changes in the operating environment. Investment in cloud services and AI technology is also a priority, with a focus on promoting new business opportunities. According to Statista, the cloud services market in South Korea is projected to reach $4.8 billion in 2024 [2].

Key Events and Initiatives

Google Korea is involved in several key events and initiatives, including:

  • The Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program, supporting 11 promising AI startups in Korea.
  • The Build Weed AI event, a global platform for AI technology sharing and collaboration held in 120 countries.
  • Operation of the Digital Responsibility Committee, involving 43 experts from IT, law, media, and policy.

Pro Tip: Participating in industry events and accelerator programs can provide valuable networking and learning opportunities for startups.

Google Korea’s Strategic Outlook

Looking ahead, Google Korea plans to strengthen its competitiveness in both domestic and overseas markets by expanding its search, advertising, and cloud businesses. The company will also continue to strengthen its responsibility management and realize social value through the expansion of the Digital Responsibility Committee. Strategic cooperation with domestic startups will remain a key focus, promoting innovation and discovering new business opportunities.

Financial Key Indicators

Key financial keywords for Google Korea include global sales share, cloud growth, advertising sales, investment expansion, and sustainable management.

Here’s a summary of Google Korea’s recent activities:

Area Focus
AI Technology Development of innovative AI services and solutions
Digital responsibility Strengthening social responsibilities through the Digital Responsibility Committee
Startup Support Expanding the AI ecosystem through the Google for Startups Accelerator
Financial Strategy Increasing global sales share and driving growth in cloud services
Strategic Outlook Strengthening competitiveness in domestic and overseas markets

Google Korea is contributing to the sales of global headquarters, and the company’s advertising sales and cloud businesses are steadily increasing in the domestic market. Investment from the expansion of cloud services is also active and is focused on promoting new businesses through AI technology. Despite changes in the operating environment, the company maintains a stable profit base, and is trying to expand the management of environment, social, and governance (ESG).

Evergreen Insights

The internet service industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by advancements in search, advertising, cloud computing, and AI technology. In South Korea, digital transformation and the adoption of AI are key trends, with increasing emphasis on data protection and ethical considerations. Companies are enhancing their market competitiveness by focusing on technological innovation and improving user experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Google Korea focusing on in terms of AI technology?
Google Korea is prioritizing the development of innovative AI services and solutions through artificial intelligence development and collaboration with domestic AI startups.
How is Google Korea managing digital ecosystem responsibility?
Google Korea operates a Digital Responsibility Committee to strengthen social responsibilities related to AI ethics, content regulations, and user protection.
What startup support initiatives does Google korea have?
Google Korea supports domestic innovation startups and expands the AI ecosystem through programs like the Google for Startups Accelerator.
What are the key financial focuses for Google Korea?
Key financial areas for Google Korea include global sales share, cloud growth, advertising sales, investment expansion, and sustainable management practices.
How is Google Korea expanding its AI-based services?
Google Korea plans to strengthen its competitiveness in domestic and overseas markets by expanding its search, advertising, and cloud businesses with AI integration.
What is Google Korea’s approach to digital responsibility and social value?
Google Korea is committed to responsible digital innovation and sustainable ecosystem development through its Digital Responsibility Committee and proactive responses to the social impact of technology.
How does Google Korea collaborate with startups?
Google Korea fosters innovation and discovers new business opportunities through close collaboration with the domestic startup ecosystem.

What are your thoughts on Google Korea’s focus on AI and digital responsibility? How do you see these initiatives impacting the future of internet services in South Korea?

Do you want to find out more? → Full text of the original article.

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World

Kalpataru Funding: GIC & Bain Capital Invest ₹708 Crore

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Kalpataru Secures ₹708 Crore from Anchor Investors Before IPO Launch

Table of Contents

Mumbai-based realty developer Kalpataru has successfully raised ₹708 crore (approximately $85 million USD) from nine anchor investors,paving the way for its initial public offering (IPO). The anchor investors include prominent names such as GIC Singapore, Bain Capital‘s GSS Opportunities Investment, SBI Mutual Fund, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund, SBI General Insurance, Aditya Birla Sun Life, and 360 ONE WAM.

Details of the Anchor Investment

The company allotted over 1.71 crore shares to these anchor investors at ₹414 per equity share,which is the upper end of the IPO price band. Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC and Bain Capital subscribed to a significant portion of the anchor investor allocation.Othre participants included Taurus Mutual Fund and private investment firm Ayushmat Ltd.

Did You know? Anchor investors are typically large institutional investors who are allocated shares in an IPO before it is open to the general public, providing stability and confidence in the offering.

Kalpataru IPO Details

The public issue, aiming to raise a total of ₹1,590 crore (approximately $191 million USD), is scheduled to open on Tuesday and close on Thursday. the price band for the IPO is set between ₹387 and ₹414 per equity share, with a face value of ₹10 each. Prior to this, the promoters injected ₹1,440 crore into the company at ₹517.25 per share.

Use of IPO Proceeds

Kalpataru intends to utilize the net proceeds from the IPO to repay or prepay certain borrowings availed by the company and its subsidiaries, as well as for general corporate purposes. A substantial portion, amounting to ₹1,192.5 crore, is specifically earmarked for debt repayment, which is expected to strengthen the company’s balance sheet and facilitate future growth.

Pro Tip: Companies ofen use IPO proceeds to reduce debt, which can improve their financial stability and attract more investors.

Financial Advisors

ICICI Securities, JM Financial, and Nomura Financial Advisory and securities (India) are serving as the book running lead managers for the IPO. These firms are responsible for managing the IPO process and ensuring its successful execution.

Kalpataru IPO: Key Metrics
Metric Value
Funds Raised from Anchor Investors ₹708 Crore
IPO size ₹1,590 Crore
Price Band ₹387 – ₹414 per share
Debt Repayment Allocation ₹1,192.5 Crore

What are your thoughts on Kalpataru’s growth prospects after the IPO? How do you think the debt repayment will impact its future performance?

Real Estate Market Trends and ipos

The Indian real estate market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by urbanization, rising incomes, and government initiatives promoting affordable housing. IPOs in the real estate sector have become increasingly common as developers seek to raise capital for expansion and debt reduction. the success of these IPOs often depends on factors such as the company’s financial performance,growth potential,and overall market conditions. According to a report by IBEF, the real estate sector is expected to contribute 13% to India’s GDP by 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions About IPOs

What is an IPO?

An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process by which a private company offers shares to the public for the first time. This allows the company to raise capital and become publicly traded on a stock exchange.

What are anchor investors?

Anchor investors are typically large institutional investors who are allocated shares in an IPO before it is open to the general public. they provide stability and confidence in the offering.

What is a price band in an IPO?

The price band is the range within which investors can bid for shares in an IPO. The final issue price is determined based on the demand received within this band.

Why do companies launch IPOs?

Companies launch IPOs to raise capital for various purposes, such as expansion, debt repayment, acquisitions, and research and development.

What is debt repayment and why is it important?

Debt repayment is the process of paying back outstanding loans or borrowings. Reducing debt can improve a company’s financial stability, lower interest expenses, and increase its creditworthiness.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

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World

Costa Rica: Earthquake Hotspot – Ranking Among World’s Most Seismic Zones

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Costa Rica Ranks Among Top Countries for Earthquake Frequency in 2024

Table of Contents

Costa Rica experienced notable seismic activity in 2024, placing it among the top 30 countries with the most earthquakes worldwide. Ranking Royals published the list in May 2025,using data from earthquakelist.org. The report indicated that Costa Rica recorded 241 earthquakes with a magnitude of 4 or greater, securing its 24th position [1].

Why is Costa Rica Prone to Earthquakes?

Costa Rica’s location at the meeting point of the Cocos and Caribbean tectonic plates makes it susceptible to frequent seismic events. while most are moderate and cause minimal damage, stronger earthquakes have occurred, causing concern among the population.

Did You Know? The strongest earthquake in Costa Rica during 2024 measured 6.2 and occurred in the North and Central Pacific region,approximately 41 km northwest of Tamarindo,in October.

Global Earthquake Hotspots

Mexico topped the list with 1,971 recorded earthquakes in 2024. Indonesia (1,872) and Japan (1,563) followed, highlighting the constant tectonic activity in these regions due to the convergence of multiple geological plates. The strongest earthquake in Japan during 2024 struck the Ishikawa-ken region of Toyama on January 1, registering a magnitude of 7.5 [2].

Other Latin American countries with high seismic activity include Chile, guatemala, Peru, and El Salvador.

Country Number of Earthquakes (Magnitude ≥ 4)
Mexico 1,971
Indonesia 1,872
Japan 1,563
Costa Rica 241

Pro Tip: Stay informed about earthquake preparedness measures in your area. Knowing what to do during an earthquake can significantly reduce your risk of injury.

Understanding Earthquake Measurement

Earthquakes included in the count had to have a magnitude equal to or greater than 4 and occur within 300 kilometers of the evaluated country. The United States Geological survey and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre provided the data for the report.

Earthquake History and Tectonic Plates

Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. These plates are constantly shifting, and when they collide, slide past each other, or subduct (one plate sliding under another), stress builds up. When this stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, it releases energy in the form of seismic waves, causing an earthquake.

costa Rica’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur, contributes to its high seismic activity. The Cocos Plate is subducting beneath the Caribbean Plate in this region, leading to frequent earthquakes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Earthquakes in Costa Rica


What steps do you take to prepare for earthquakes? Share your tips in the comments below!

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Sport

Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund: Apply Now to Unlock New Opportunities!

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund Opens 2025 Request Cycle

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund (MYLSF) has announced its 2025 scholarship cycle,offering a valuable possibility for graduating high school seniors and recent graduates in Michigan pursuing higher education. Applications are due May 1, 2025.

This prestigious programme provides financial assistance to deserving students who have demonstrated a commitment to the state’s agricultural community through participation in livestock exhibitions. The scholarships are funded through proceeds from the annual Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-Abration auction and generous charitable donations. An 11-member board of volunteers from Michigan’s agricultural community, including representatives from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Advancement (MDARD), governs the fund.

As its inception in 2000 at the Michigan State Fair, MYLSF has awarded a remarkable $840,255 in scholarships and educational awards. In 2024 alone, a total of $50,500 in scholarships were awarded to 43 students. This year’s program promises even greater opportunities, with a select number of applicants invited to interview for larger scholarships, potentially reaching awards up to $5,000, at the discretion of the MYLSF board, prior to the Sale-Abration event.

Two distinct scholarship categories are available: the general MYLSF scholarship and the statewide scholarship. Applicants for the general scholarship must have exhibited at the Michigan Livestock Expo or the Michigan Dairy Expo for at least three years prior to applying. The statewide scholarship requires a minimum of three years of youth exhibition participation at local, county, or statewide events.

The 2024 MYLSF scholarship winners highlight the program’s impact: Madalyn Laskowski of Bad Axe received a $5,000 scholarship; samuel Jones of Reading, $4,000; Olivia Black of Eagle and Maddux Locke of Albion each received $3,000; and several other students received awards ranging from $2,000 to $500. Chloe Steiner of Mecosta received a $1,000 statewide scholarship, and Chloe Lawrason of Beaverton and Katlyn cunningham of Corunna each received $500 statewide scholarships.

Applications and qualification requirements for the MYLSF and the statewide scholarship are available online. Applications must be submitted electronically no later than 11:59 p.m. on May 1, 2025.

For inquiries, contact Jeff Haarer, MDARD’s Commodity Section Manager, at 517-896-2236 or HaarerJ@Michigan.gov, or Sheila Burkhardt, Michigan Milk Producers Association, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, at 248-474-6672 or sheila.burkhardt@mimilk.com.

the MYLSF scholarship program represents an critically important investment in the future of Michigan’s agricultural community, providing vital financial support to promising young leaders. the deadline of May 1, 2025, is fast approaching, so interested students are encouraged to apply promptly.

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