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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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Health

Colorado Planned Parenthood Resumes Medicaid Coverage – Temporary Fix

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Colorado Planned Parenthood Clinics Resume medicaid Services amidst Funding Uncertainty

Planned Parenthood clinics in Colorado have temporarily resumed treating patients covered by Medicaid, a move that follows a week-long halt in primary care services for approximately 5,000 individuals. The disruption stemmed from a new congressional tax-and-spending law, dubbed the “One big Beautiful Bill Act,” which prohibits Medicaid payments for a year to organizations that provide abortions and also received at least $800,000 in federal funding two years prior.

The law’s provision had forced clinics to cancel appointments for over 900 patients. Adrienne Mansanares, chief executive of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, expressed relief at the temporary resumption of services but cautioned that this is merely a “temporary fix.” She highlighted the destabilizing effect of such fluctuating access on communities and the “rollercoaster” experience for both patients and providers.

The ability for clinics to resume services is due to a temporary restraining order issued by a federal judge, which halted the provision for two weeks. However, this order is set to expire soon, meaning appointments could be canceled again for Medicaid patients after Monday. A spokeswoman confirmed that clinics will continue scheduling patients with this caveat.

It’s crucial to note that federal funds have long been restricted from covering most abortions under the Hyde Amendment. However, these funds could previously be allocated to other essential services like cancer screenings. Planned Parenthood officials cited Colorado’s law, which prevents providers from accepting cash payments from medicaid patients, as a key reason for the initial appointment cancellations.

The impact of these funding uncertainties affects a significant number of Coloradans. Around 5,000 individuals rely on Planned Parenthood clinics as their primary care provider through medicaid, with as many as 14,000 Medicaid patients receiving care from the institution annually across its 11 Colorado clinics, including those in Denver.

What are your thoughts on the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare providers like Planned Parenthood in accessing essential funding? Share your viewpoint in the comments below, and subscribe to world Today News for more updates on critical health policy issues.

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Business

IndiGo Ventures marks first close of its fund at Rs 450 crore, invests in Hyderabad startup

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

IndiGo Ventures Takes Off with Maiden Fund

First investment targets aerospace manufacturing startup Jeh Aerospace.

IndiGo Ventures, the venture capital division of India’s largest airline IndiGo, has announced the initial closing of its first fund with Rs 450 crore. The fund will focus on early-stage startups in aviation and related industries.

Key Investment Details

IndiGo Ventures, which gained approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in August 2024 to raise Rs 600 crore, will target startups from pre-Series A to Series B stages. Their approach centers on ensuring strategic alignment for the long haul.

The company also announced its first investment: an undisclosed amount in **Jeh Aerospace**, a Hyderabad-based startup specializing in high-precision aerospace and defense manufacturing.

**Jeh Aerospace** plans to use the funds to expand its digital manufacturing capabilities, improve its AI-driven production optimization and enhance its supply chain integration platforms, as well as recruit top talent.

According to data released in May 2024, early-stage investments make up 77% of deal volume in India’s startup ecosystem (LiveMint 2024).

What They’re Saying

“This investment empowers us to scale production capacity to meet growing demand from our global customers, ensuring flawless, on-time delivery of high-precision components. **Venky** and I are thrilled to collaborate with IndiGo, a global aviation leader, and are deeply honored by the opportunity to drive innovation and shape the future of aerospace together,” said **Vishal Sanghavi**, CEO of **Jeh Aerospace**.

“Through IndiGo Ventures, we are excited to partner with **Jeh Aerospace**, a homegrown brand that shares our vision and spirit of strengthening the Indian aviation ecosystem. By combining our technical expertise and global footprint, this partnership will propel use of nextgeneration technology in the aerospace and aviation sector,” said IndiGo CEO **Pieter Elbers**.

About Jeh Aerospace

**Jeh Aerospace**, founded by industry veterans **Vishal Sanghavi** and **Venkatesh Mudragalla**, both alumni of Tata’s joint ventures with Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Sikorsky, has rapidly grown since its inception. The company boasts a team of 100 engineers and technicians and has delivered over 100,000 flight-critical aeroengine components and precision tools meeting AS9100 aerospace standards. They have already secured $100 million in long-term contracts from global aerospace firms.

**Jeh Aerospace** previously raised $2.75 million in seed funding in January 2024, in a round led by General Catalyst with support from angel investors including **Pratyush Kumar** and **Dwarkanath Srinivas**.

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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

Wiom Secures $40M Funding: Expansion Plans for Delhi Internet Firm

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

Wiom Lands $40 Million Investment to Bridge India’s Digital divide

Wiom, a tech innovator focused on democratizing internet access, has announced a triumphant $40 million funding round. The investment, spearheaded by Bertelsmann India Investments, Accel, Prosus, and promaft Partners, with participation from RTP Global, will fuel Wiom’s mission to connect underserved middle-income households in India with affordable internet.

Wiom’s Mission: Affordable Internet for All

Founded initially as i2e1 in 2015 and rebranded as Wiom in 2021, the company operates a unique asset-light platform. This platform integrates seamlessly with India’s existing internet infrastructure, utilizing the government’s PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) framework as a licensed Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA). The company was co-founded by satyam Darmor, Nishit Aggarwal, Ashutosh Mishra, and Maanas Dwivedi.

Wiom’s strategy involves partnering with local internet service providers to extend broadband access to communities where traditional connectivity is not economically feasible. The newly acquired capital will be strategically allocated to enhance product development, bolster team capabilities, and expand operational reach.

Did You Know? Only about 10% of India’s 200 million households have access to affordable, unlimited internet, highlighting the significant digital divide Wiom is addressing.

Investment to Accelerate Digital Inclusion

According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), India had 881.25 million internet subscribers as of March 2023, showcasing ample growth but also revealing the vast potential for further expansion, especially in underserved regions [[1]].

Satyam Darmora, Founder of Wiom, emphasized the company’s commitment to making data accessible to everyone at minimal cost, stating, “This funding is not just capital-it’s a step forward in building a more inclusive digital future.”

Rohit Sood, Partner at Bertelsmann India Investments, highlighted Wiom’s innovative approach, noting, “Using its unique asset-light, scalable approach, Wiom is laying the foundation for digital infrastructure that can serve the next 500 million Indians.”

strategic Use of Funds

The funding will enable Wiom to expand its product offerings, invest in talent acquisition across various departments, and accelerate its rollout across digitally underserved cities and districts in India.

Pro Tip: Look for companies that leverage existing infrastructure and government initiatives to scale their impact and reduce costs.

Wiom’s Hiring spree

As Wiom scales its operations, the company is actively recruiting across engineering, operations, and business development roles. This expansion reflects Wiom’s commitment to building a robust team to support its enterprising growth plans.

Key Metrics

Metric Value
Funding Secured $40 Million
Year Founded 2015 (as i2e1)
Target Audience Underserved middle-income households in India

The Future of Affordable Internet in India

Wiom’s success in securing this significant funding round underscores the growing investor confidence in companies addressing the digital divide in India. By leveraging technology and strategic partnerships, Wiom is poised to play a pivotal role in connecting millions of Indians to the internet, unlocking new opportunities for education, economic empowerment, and social inclusion.

What innovative strategies do you think are most effective in bridging the digital divide? How can governments and private companies collaborate to ensure affordable internet access for all?

The Landscape of Internet Access in India

India’s internet penetration has grown significantly over the past decade, driven by increasing smartphone adoption and decreasing data costs. Though, disparities persist, particularly in rural areas and among lower-income households. Initiatives like PM-WANI aim to address thes gaps by promoting the deployment of public Wi-Fi networks.

The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of internet access for education, healthcare, and economic activities, accelerating the demand for affordable and reliable connectivity solutions. Companies like Wiom are crucial in meeting this demand and ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy are accessible to all Indians.


Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered financial or investment advice.

Share your thoughts in the comments below and subscribe to World Today News for more updates on technology and innovation in emerging markets!

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Technology

ForSight Robotics Secures $125M Funding – Israel Medtech Innovation

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

ForSight Robotics Secures $125M to Revolutionize Ophthalmic Surgery

Table of Contents

Israeli medtech innovator ForSight Robotics has successfully closed a $125 million Series B funding round, spearheaded by Eclipse, to propel its ORYOM™ platform, the world’s first robotic surgery system designed for cataract adn other eye-related ailments, into its next phase of growth. This funding will support upcoming first-in-human clinical trials [1].

ORYOM™ Platform: Aims to Transform Eye Surgery

The ORYOM™ platform is engineered to enhance surgical precision, broaden patient access to top-tier treatment, and alleviate the physical demands on surgeons. The funding round saw meaningful investment from an undisclosed strategic investor, Dr. Fred Moll, the Adani Group, Reiya Ventures, and existing investors, bringing ForSight Robotics’ total funding to $195 million.

Did You Know? The global ophthalmic market is projected to reach $68.7 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2022 [2].

AI-Powered Precision for Cataract and Beyond

specifically designed for consistent and highly precise ophthalmic procedures, starting with cataract surgery, the ORYOM™ platform leverages artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithms, advanced computer vision, and micromechanics. This robotic surgery platform offers unprecedented dexterity and maneuverability, while also improving the ergonomic experience for surgeons. The platform can access any point within the human eye, enabling surgeons to navigate complex angles and access both anterior and posterior segments, paving the way for glaucoma and retinal surgical treatments.

Addressing the Global shortage of Ophthalmologists

The rise of ForSight Robotics comes at a crucial time. Globally, there are only 31.7 ophthalmologists per million population and just 14.1 cataract surgeons per million population. By 2035, a 12% decline in ophthalmologists is expected, while demand is projected to increase by 24%. Currently, over 600 million people worldwide suffer from cataracts, but only 30 million receive surgical treatment.

Pro Tip: Early detection and treatment of eye conditions can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

Key Metrics: Ophthalmologists and Cataract Patients

Metric Current Status Projection (2035)
Ophthalmologists per million population 31.7 Decline of 12%
Cataract Surgeons per million population 14.1 Data Not Available
Cataract Patients 600 Million Demand Increase of 24%
Cataract surgeries Performed 30 Million Data Not Available

How will robotic surgery impact the accessibility of eye care in underserved communities? What are the potential long-term benefits of AI-powered surgical precision for patients?

The Growing Need for Advanced Ophthalmic Solutions

The increasing global population, coupled with longer life expectancies, is driving a surge in age-related eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Conventional surgical methods, while effective, can be physically demanding on surgeons and may not always be accessible to patients in remote or underserved areas. This has created a pressing need for innovative solutions that can enhance surgical precision, improve patient outcomes, and expand access to quality eye care.

Robotic surgery platforms like ORYOM™ represent a significant step forward in addressing these challenges. By leveraging AI, advanced imaging, and microrobotics, these systems can provide surgeons with enhanced control and precision, enabling them to perform complex procedures with greater accuracy and efficiency. furthermore, the potential for remote surgery and telemedicine applications could extend the reach of specialized ophthalmic care to patients in even the most remote locations.

Frequently Asked questions About Robotic Ophthalmic Surgery

What is the ORYOM™ platform, and how does it work?

The ORYOM™ platform is a robotic surgery system developed by ForSight Robotics for performing cataract and other eye surgeries. It uses AI-based algorithms,advanced computer vision,and micromechanics to enhance surgical precision and improve the ergonomic experience for surgeons.

What are the potential benefits of robotic surgery for cataract patients?

Robotic surgery offers several potential benefits for cataract patients, including increased surgical precision, reduced risk of complications, faster recovery times, and improved visual outcomes.

How does ForSight Robotics plan to address the global shortage of ophthalmologists?

By enhancing surgical efficiency and expanding access to quality eye care, the ORYOM™ platform can help address the global shortage of ophthalmologists. The platform’s ability to improve surgical precision and reduce physical strain on surgeons may also attract more individuals to the field of ophthalmology.

What is the current status of clinical trials for the ORYOM™ platform?

ForSight Robotics is preparing to launch first-in-human clinical trials for the ORYOM™ platform this year.These trials will evaluate the safety and efficacy of the platform in performing cataract and other eye surgeries.

How much funding has ForSight Robotics raised to date?

with the completion of the $125 million Series B funding round, ForSight Robotics has raised a total of $195 million to date. This funding will support the continued advancement and commercialization of the ORYOM™ platform.

What other eye conditions could be treated using the ORYOM™ platform in the future?

While the ORYOM™ platform is initially designed for cataract surgery,it has the potential to be used for treating other eye conditions,such as glaucoma and retinal diseases. The platform’s ability to access any point within the human eye makes it a versatile tool for a wide range of ophthalmic procedures.

Disclaimer: This article provides general details about ForSight Robotics and its ORYOM™ platform and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your medical treatment.

Share this article and join the discussion! What advancements in medical technology are you most excited about?

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