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Akeneo Partners with ChannelEngine to Drive Multichannel eCommerce Growth

Akeneo

Product experience management (PXM) leader Akeneo, announced a new strategic partnership with marketplace syndication pioneer, ChannelEngine. Together, the two companies will provide a scalable and flexible solution for brands, retailers and distributors to unlock growth opportunities from global marketplaces and 200+ sales channels while ensuring consistently engaging product experiences across all customer touchpoints. Global marketplace sales surged 29% in 2020 to $2.68 trillion, representing almost two-thirds of all eCommerce spending. Direct to consumer (DTC) brands, omnichannel retailers, and distributors are rushing to capitalize on the opportunity, with six out of ten online retailers now selling on marketplaces, up from less than half in 2017. But the marketplace boom also brings new challenges; brands must manage and syndicate product information — including SKUs, product specs, and variant products — across an ever-expanding global ecosystem. To solve that problem, Akeneo and ChannelEngine are joining forces to create a single centralized source of truth capable of aggregating, standardizing, enriching, localizing, and managing product content for experience-optimized syndication. With support for all the world’s most powerful marketplaces — including Amazon, Shopify, eBay and many others — the new partnership empowers brands to deliver consistent but tailored product information wherever they meet their customers. While giving users native plugins for eCommerce platforms and marketplaces, the partnership enables them to manage all aspects of their multichannel product content with a single connection. The result is a dramatic increase in productivity, enhanced sales conversion rates, and a reduction in product returns due to richer and more accurate product data. Helping global brands, retailers, and distributors to rapidly bring products to new markets, the Akeneo and ChannelEngine partnership also facilitates more responsive holiday-season sales strategies. Meanwhile, automated localization workflows streamline the process of launching in international markets and enable teams to easily translate and customize product data for use in new markets and regions. “Product information is the lifeblood of eCommerce, and the key to delivering amazing customer experiences,” said Scott Rogers, Akeneo’s Vice President Global Channels & Alliances. “The marketplace boom represents a huge opportunity for global merchants, but only if they can win customers’ loyalty and trust by delivering brand consistency and product content synchronization across all channels. We’re excited to partner with ChannelEngine to provide our clients with peace of mind and scalability, so that wherever customers interact with their products, and however many marketplace channels they operate in, they can provide unbeatable product experiences.” "With the eCommerce market rapidly shifting towards global marketplaces and other third-party sales channels, for brands and retailers, selling on and keeping control of these marketplaces is a huge opportunity as well as a complex challenge,” said Niels Floors, Head of Partnerships & Sales at ChannelEngine. “Akeneo and ChannelEngine represent the perfect partnership for helping brands and retailers to control content over all these global sales channels. This results in faster time-to-market, revenue growth and technology alignment." About Akeneo Akeneo is a global leader in Product Experience Management (PXM) helping businesses with products to sell to unlock growth opportunities by delivering a consistent and compelling product experience across all channels, including eCommerce, mobile, print, points of sale and beyond. With its open platform, leading PIM, add-ons, connectors and marketplace, Akeneo PXM Studio dramatically improves product data quality and accuracy, simplifies catalog management, and accelerates the sharing of product information across channels and locales. Leading global brands, manufacturers, distributors and retailers, including Staples Canada, Fossil, Air Liquide and Myer trust Akeneo to scale and customize their omnichannel commerce initiatives. Using Akeneo, brands and retailers can improve customer experience, increase sales, reduce time to market, go global, and boost team productivity. About ChannelEngine: ChannelEngine makes the rapidly globalizing e-commerce world accessible to all brands, distributors, and retailers. By building a complete solution for companies of all sizes, ChannelEngine enables companies to expand their reach, connect with more consumers and grow their business. Currently, ChannelEngine enables the sale of more than three million products from 1,500 brands in more than 200 marketplaces and other 3rd party sales channels. There is the ability to integrate the store, WMS, ERP, or PIM with major marketplaces, click & ad channels, or product feeds. Contact Details Ran Xu +1 213-309-2373 ran@rosebudpr.io Company Website https://www.akeneo.com

November 18, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

CSG Systems International Approves Quarterly Dividend

CSG

CSG ® (NASDAQ: CSGS) today announced that its Board of Directors approved the Company’s quarterly cash dividend payment of $0.25 per share of common stock to be paid on December 17, 2021 for shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 3, 2021. About CSG CSG is a leader in innovative customer engagement, revenue management and payments solutions that make ordinary customer experiences extraordinary. Our cloud-first architecture and customer-obsessed mindset help companies around the world launch new digital services, expand into new markets, and create dynamic experiences that capture new customers and build brand loyalty. For nearly 40 years, CSG’s technologies and people have helped some of the world’s most recognizable brands solve their toughest business challenges and evolve to meet the demands of today’s digital economy with future-ready solutions that drive exceptional customer experiences. With 5,000 employees in over 20 countries, CSG is the trusted technology provider for leading global brands in telecommunications, retail, financial services and healthcare. Our solutions deliver real world outcomes to more than 900 customers in over 120 countries. To learn more, visit us at csgi.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Copyright © 2021 CSG Systems International, Inc. and/or its affiliates (“CSG”). All rights reserved. CSG® is a registered trademark of CSG Systems International, Inc. All third-party trademarks, service marks, and/or product names which are referenced in this document are the property of their respective owners, and all rights therein are reserved. Contacts: John Rea Investor Relations CSG +1 (210) 687 4409 john.rea@csgi.com Contact Details Tammy Hovey +1 917-520-2751 tammy.hovey@csgi.com Company Website https://www.csgi.com

November 18, 2021 06:30 AM Mountain Standard Time

Simple Tips to Save Time this Holiday Season

YourUpdateTV

Thanksgiving is by far the most delicious holiday of the year, but if you’re hosting a house full of people — or even just preparing dinner for a few friends — it can be a lot of work. Recently, Chief Business Officer and Holiday Shopping Expert at Shipt, Rina Hurst, participated in a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss Shipt’s ‘Thanksgiving Most Forgotten List’ and much more. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/Al5gBSOboTc Thanksgiving is the official kick-off to the holiday season, which means days get shorter and the to-do lists get longer. Through their recent Thanksgiving Shopping Survey, Shipt uncovered that a majority of Americans - more than 80% - will be preparing or cooking their Thanksgiving meal this year, which means they need to get their lists in order ASAP. It turns out that more people than we think forget important holiday necessities, in fact over half of Americans (61%) surveyed admit to forgetting to buy a food or seasonal ingredient needed for their Thanksgiving meal. The three most commonly forgotten Thanksgiving food items include: 1. Cranberries (33%) 2. Fragrant spices (such as thyme, basil, etc) (30%) 3. Beverages (21%) Another recent trend is buying ready-made items for Thanksgiving and holiday meals. One quarter of Americans are purchasing elements of their meal ready-made from the store, with over half (52%) purchasing their Thanksgiving bread loaves or rolls rather than baking from scratch. One of the biggest resources this holiday season will be home delivery services, like Shipt. They have a dedicated force of Shipt Shoppers that provide a personalized shopping experience and bring the store to your door - with more than 130 retailers nationwide, which can offer same-day delivery of groceries, essentials, pet items, apparel, office supplies and more. To view the Thanksgiving Most Forgotten List, Shipt users can visit Shipt.com or the Shipt app, where the shoppable list will be available in the shelf category icons. About Rina Hurst: Rina Hurst is the Chief Business Officer at Shipt, leading the company’s Business Development, Partner Success and Digital Site Experience teams. In this role, Rina helps spark connections by delivering an easy-to-shop digital site, launching new and innovative partnerships, and building creative strategies alongside retailers and CPGs to continually meet their unique needs for success. Rina received her MBA from Georgetown University and her undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech. About YourUpdateTV: YourUpdateTV is a social media video portal for organizations to share their content. It includes separate channels for Health and Wellness, Lifestyle, Media and Entertainment, Money and Finance, Social Responsibility, Sports and Technology. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

November 17, 2021 01:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Video

Agora Data Introduces First-Ever Reducing Rate Line of Credit

Agora

Agora Data, inventor of the first crowdsourced securitization for the Buy Here Pay Here industry, launches another financing innovation with the first-ever reducing interest rate line of credit. This new product offers unlimited borrowing capacity, the lowest interest rates, and the highest advances. It provides Buy Here Pay Here dealers and small to mid-size finance companies the ability to exponentially grow and compete. Agora's game-changing approach to funding addresses an immediate need in the marketplace and allows entrepreneurs to access the same borrowing advantages as mega-sized dealers. The Buy Here Pay Here industry has traditionally struggled to obtain capital at affordable interest rates, and by removing restrictive barriers and utilizing data-driven metrics, dealers are gaining the freedom and resources to realize exponential growth. With AgoraCapital's reducing rate line of credit, dealers start benefiting from the interest savings and generous advances as soon as approved. Over time, interest rates decrease while other advantages increase, such as no personal guaranty or recourse, flexibility to draw cash as needed as well as no origination or unused line fees. AgoraCapital is designed to support revenue-generating functions and empowers dealers to better manage their portfolios, operate with confidence, and gain market share. "Agora is already making a positive difference for the BHPH industry by helping our members strengthen their financial footing and realize unprecedented growth, knowledge, ability to compete and ultimately build wealth," Steve Burke, CEO of Agora Data, said. "With AgoraCapital, we remove the obstacles dealers confront in traditional lines of credit and empower them with the same secret sauce enjoyed by larger national dealer groups. Agora's innovative, best-in-class financing options and robust data analytics is leveling the playing field for an underserved and underbanked industry." About Agora Data, Inc: Agora Data's platform delivers a suite of tools to empower Buy Here Pay Here dealers and finance companies to finance their subprime customers. Agora's family of auto finance products provides a wide range of critical funding paths so originators can obtain the cash they need to fuel growth, compete, and build wealth. Powered by patent pending technology, originators now have access to robust data analytics and planning resources to help optimize the performance of their portfolio. Agora Data made history by closing the first-ever Crowdsourced Subprime Auto Securitization in 2020 and followed that up with its second transaction in early 2021. For more information, visit agoradata.com or contact us at 877-592-4672. Contact Details Shelly Vandeven +1 682-282-4130 media@agoradata.com Company Website https://agoradata.com/

November 17, 2021 09:03 AM Eastern Standard Time

Comcast Increases Xfinity Internet Speeds in Houston

Comcast Houston

Comcast has increased speeds for its highest-residential speed tier for Xfinity Internet – Gigabit Pro – providing an extra boost for both current and new customers in Houston. Beginning this month, Gigabit Pro speeds will increase from 2 gigabits-per-second (Gbps) upload and download speeds to 3 Gbps symmetrical speeds nationwide. Xfinity is the country’s largest Gigabit network, delivering speeds faster than a Gig. Gigabit Pro uses enterprise-grade, fiber-based ethernet technology to make it possible for Xfinity Internet customers to receive symmetrical multi-gigabit speeds so you can stream or game in 4K in multiple rooms in your home. “Faster speeds will give Xfinity customers added capacity to power all their connected devices, in addition to the cybersecurity protection, in-home WiFi controls, and wall-to-wall WiFi coverage Xfinity already provides customers,” said Demian Voiles, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Comcast Houston Region. In addition to delivering the fastest speeds, Comcast provides unmatched value to Xfinity Internet customers through: Superior WiFi coverage – WiFi coverage with the xFi Advanced Gateway that is WiFi 6-capable and can deliver speeds faster than a gig, and xFi Pod s, which together creates a mesh network that reaches every corner of the home. Control connected devices – Using the Xfinity app, customers who lease an xFi Gateway have total control of their home network; manage device access, set parental controls, and pause WiFi. Advanced cybersecurity protection – xFi Advanced Security helps to protect all connected devices at the gateway level from malware and other cyber security threats. 4K streaming device with voice search – Xfinity Flex, a 4K streaming device with an award-winning voice remote to seamlessly watch and search for content from the Xfinity Stream app, Peacock, Netflix, Hulu, Prime, and other popular streaming services. Xfinity Mobile Xfinity Internet customers can get Xfinity Mobile, which combines the nation’s best 5G network with the power to auto-connect to millions of Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country. Starting at $45 for one line, the lowest entry price for 5G unlimited data in the market, unlimited pricing for Xfinity Mobile is $80 for two lines, $100 for three lines, and $120 for four lines ($30 per line). Peacock Premium and thousands of hours of free content – Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, delivering originals, libraries of hit TV shows like “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” plus films from Universal Pictures, Focus Features, DreamWorks Animation, Illumination and Hollywood’s biggest studios. Over the last decade, Comcast has invested nearly $30 billion to build an expansive, fiber-dense network that carries an immense amount of traffic and has demonstrated extraordinary performance throughout the pandemic. The company has doubled network capacity every 2.5 years to stay well ahead of demand. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Foti Kallergis +1 832-986-0196 Foti_Kallergis@comcast.com Company Website https://houston.comcast.com/

November 17, 2021 08:00 AM Central Standard Time

Small-town Charm, Seasonal Twinkle in Belmont, N.C.

Belmont Tourism Development Authority

This holiday season, return to traditions and twinkling lights in Belmont, N.C. From small-town celebrations to family-friendly festivities that shimmer and shine, our region shares ample charm and memory-making through the New Year. “The holidays provide a perfect opportunity for Belmont to proudly display its commitment to community, history and tradition,” said Ted Hall, chairman of Belmont Tourism Development Authority. “Belmont’s small town charm glistens as brightly as the colorful bulbs. We cannot wait to welcome families to our city for another year of Christmas cheer.” Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden ushers in its annual Holidays at the Garden, Nov. 26 to Jan. 2. Experience magic and whimsy among festive blooms at this family-friendly event. The exhibition returns with traditions and topiary displays, sparkling cherry trees and rolling lights across the Piedmont Prairie. Festivities also include wintertime tunes, food truck fare, holiday beverages and seasonal shopping. Significant COVID-19 precautions are in place at the Garden throughout the holidays, such as staggered entry times to reduce crowding. Advance tickets are required and available at dsbg.org. Continue celebrating the holidays in nearby Christmas Town U.S.A. as McAdenville, N.C., transforms for a 66th year. Nostalgia and traditions ring loudly in Christmas Town, which presents more than 150 decorated homes alongside sparkling streetscapes from Dec. 1-26, 5:30-10 p.m. each night. In addition to memorable strolls and drives throughout town, the ChristmasTown 5k, Tree Lighting Ceremony and Yule Log Parade return to the McAdenville merriment this year. In Belmont, the holidays unfold brightly beginning in November. Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 27 offers a chance to experience the city’s brick-lined sidewalks and quaint boutiques while finding those perfect presents. On Nov. 29, the City of Belmont Tree Lighting Ceremony kicks off the season’s glow as well as the fourth annual Festival of Trees, a jolly display of Christmas trees across historic downtown that runs until Jan. 3. The 72nd Annual Belmont Christmas Parade – Nov. 30, 3:30 p.m. – ushers in festive floats, marching bands, tradition, joy and Santa Claus! And on Dec. 4, in the heart of downtown, Belmont Christmas Village evokes the holiday spirit with s’mores stations, holiday music, horse-drawn carriage rides and more. Also on Dec. 4, nearby Belmont Abbey College presents its annual “Christmas at the Abbey” with two show times featuring secular and sacred music, poignant readings and lighthearted comedy. “Everyone can use a bit of holiday cheer this year,” added Hall. “Belmont is ready to deck the halls with it.” More information about all of the city’s festive celebrations available at VisitBelmontNC.org. About Belmont, N.C. Belmont, N.C., is located in Gaston County, 15 minutes west of Uptown Charlotte. Whether you’re visiting us for the first time for a vacation getaway or returning for a daytime adventure, you’re sure to enjoy a truly unique experience in Belmont. Once a place where textile industries served as the lifeblood of the community, the city now stands as a successful example of commerce and redevelopment, while maintaining charm and hospitality. With picturesque nuances brushed throughout the town, Belmont offers a scenic view of historical homes, vintage streetlamps, red brick sidewalks and memories of a simpler time. It’s a community that embraces entertainment, the arts, unique local retail, destination restaurants and a variety of special events. For more information, visit us online at www.visitbelmontnc.org. Contact Details Melinda Skutnick +1 704-525-3937 mskutnick@lyerly.com

November 17, 2021 08:17 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Comcast Increases Fastest Xfinity Internet Speeds Across Oregon/SW Washington

Comcast Oregon / SW Washington

Comcast has announced increased speeds for its highest Xfinity Internet speed tier, Gigabit Pro, that will provide an extra boost for both current and new customers across Oregon/SW Washington. Effective immediately, Gigabit Pro speeds will increase from 2 gigabits-per-second (Gbps) upload and download – or symmetrical – speeds to 3 Gbps symmetrical speeds nationwide. Xfinity is the country’s largest Gigabit network, now delivering speeds up to 3 Gbps to residential customers. Gigabit Pro uses enterprise-grade, fiber-based ethernet technology to make it possible for Xfinity Internet customers to receive symmetrical multi-gigabit speeds to stream or game in 4K in multiple rooms throughout the home. “At Comcast we understand that high speed Internet connectivity is always top of mind for students, families and others who are still navigating the pandemic,” said Matt Quantz, Vice President of Xfinity Residential Marketing for Comcast in Oregon/SW Washington. “Our commitment to continuous Internet innovation – including speed increases and capacity and reliability enhancements – continues to make our customers’ connectivity experience better than it has ever been before.” This speed increase follows Comcast’s announcement in April of this year, of increased Internet speeds for customers. In addition, the company has continued to make progress toward the 10G (gigabits-per-second or Gbps) industry initiative, which leverages new standards and technology to dramatically increase speeds. In addition to delivering the fastest speeds, Comcast provides unmatched value to Xfinity Internet customers through: Superior WiFi coverage – WiFi coverage with the xFi Advanced Gateway that is WiFi 6-capable and can deliver speeds faster than a gig, and xFi Pod, which together creates a mesh network that reaches every corner of the home. Control connected devices – Using the Xfinity app, customers who lease an xFi Gateway have total control of their home network; manage device access, set parental controls, and pause WiFi. Advanced cybersecurity protection – xFi Advanced Security helps to protect all connected devices at the gateway level from malware and other cyber security threats. 4K streaming device with voice search – Xfinity Flex, a 4K streaming device with an award-winning voice remote to seamlessly watch and search for content from the Xfinity Stream app, Peacock, Netflix, Hulu, Prime, and other popular streaming services. Xfinity Mobile – Xfinity Internet customers can get Xfinity Mobile, which combines the nation’s best 5G network with the power to auto-connect to millions of Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country. Starting at $45 for one line, the lowest entry price for 5G unlimited data in the market, unlimited pricing for Xfinity Mobile is $80 for two lines, $100 for three lines, and $120 for four lines ($30 per line). Peacock Premium and thousands of hours of free content – Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, delivering originals, libraries of hit TV shows like “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” plus films from Universal Pictures, Focus Features, DreamWorks Animation, Illumination and Hollywood’s biggest studios. Over the last decade, Comcast has invested nearly $30 billion to build an expansive, fiber-dense network that carries an immense amount of traffic and has demonstrated extraordinary performance throughout the pandemic. Comcast has doubled network capacity every 2.5 years to stay well ahead of demand and remains committed to investing in increased Internet connectivity. ABOUT COMCAST CORPORATION:Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Amy Keiter +1 503-407-9109 amy_keiter@comcast.com Company Website https://corporate.comcast.com/

November 16, 2021 08:20 AM Pacific Standard Time

Auto Lenders Selects LevLane as Agency of Record

LevLane

Auto Lenders, the leading pre-owned car dealer in NJ and one of the largest pre-owned dealership groups on the East Coast, announced recently it has named LevLane as its new Agency of Record and Agency Partner. Auto Lenders awarded LevLane its marketing business in anticipation of the car dealer’s aggressive expansion plans for both its car selling and car buying divisions. Since its establishment in 1990, Auto Lenders — an independent, family-owned company, currently based in Voorhees, NJ — has experienced substantial growth in the region. The company’s car selling division currently operates eight showrooms across Southern New Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia area. ALgo, Auto Lender’s car buying division, currently operates in 20 states. LevLane will play a key role in both divisions’ ambitious plans to expand by leading marketing strategy and execution for both brands. LevLane will handle all creative strategy and execution, SEO, SEM, media, and content marketing during the client’s expansion. The full-service advertising agency will work collaboratively with the Auto Lenders team to build brand awareness while supporting the company’s mission and vision for the future of car buying and selling. “Auto Lenders is at an inflection point,” said Brad Wimmer, President of Auto Lenders. “We are ready to grow, but knew we needed to find the right marketing partner to make that a reality. When we started our search, we wanted to find an agency that got us and understood our goals and our culture. The process was competitive, but LevLane’s research, insights, expertise, and their inspired creative and branding work went unmatched. Finding LevLane was that final piece we needed to complete the puzzle.” “Auto Lenders is a brand we are very familiar with in the Philadelphia region. So, when they called us, we knew they were a client we wanted to work with" said Josh Lev, SVP of Brand Engagement. "When two companies come together whose culture and goals align as ours do, great work happens. We believe this will be a successful partnership and we are honored to be selected as the team that will help them during this exciting time.” About LevLane LevLane is an award-winning, full-service, independent advertising agency in Philadelphia, PA that has been building brands that people love for nearly 40 years. About Auto Lenders Auto Lenders is an independent, family-owned car company that has been streamlining the auto buying process since 1990. Auto Lenders uses direct relationships with regional banks to cherry-pick the best pre-owned vehicles and offer quick credit options for buyers with all types of budgets. About ALgo ALgo is the auto buying division of Auto Lenders. ALgo’s mission is to make selling a car fast and easy for everyone by being transparent throughout the process and offering top prices for sellers. Contact Details Lauren Stralo +1 215-825-9692 lstralo@levlane.com Company Website https://www.levlane.com

November 16, 2021 11:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

First Ever Sizing Study Reveals 11.5 Million Americans Participate in the Creator Economy, Earning Money from Platforms Like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram

MBO Partners

A new study from MBO Partners® shows that 2021 is the year of the creator. In the first-ever study of this segment, MBO Partners reveals that there are 11.5 million Americans in the creator economy and that 61%, or 7.1 million people, earned money the last year by doing so. This sector is poised for explosive growth, with another 3.2 million planning to become content creators over the next two years. This new Research Brief is being released in advance of MBO Partners’ 11 th annual State of Independence in America report, the country’s longest-running end-to-end study of the American independent workforce. As retailers harnessed technology to go direct-to-consumer (DTC), U.S. workers enacted their own version by selling their creative skills and talents directly to consumers and companies. The broader independent workforce grew to over 51 million in 2021, an unprecedented 34% growth in a single year. The growth of the creator economy subset mirrors this trend. The shift out of traditional occupations and into the creator economy has people like Wade Forbes pivoting their career paths. Forbes, an artist, and illustrator, spent 16 years working in cyber security and consulting with the DoD before jumping into the creator economy to pursue his lifelong passion of bringing concepts to life through his artwork. “I loved drawing as a kid but did not believe I could make a living as an artist,” Forbes said. “It is a dream to now be able to fulfill my passion while using the skills and expertise from across my entire career.” Technology news site The Information estimates that venture capital firms invested $2 billion in creator economy startups in the first half of 2021, and the venture capital firm Antler reports there are over 220 firms that cater to creators. This rapidly growing ecosystem of creator economy products and support services makes it easier, cheaper, less risky, and more attractive to become a successful content creator. “The Creator Economy validates the trend that more and more workers are realizing the freedom and wellbeing that comes from taking career control into their own hands,” said Miles Everson, CEO, MBO Partners. “Savvy organizations and politicians must realize the workforce of the future will be fueled by independent professional solo-entrepreneurs, choosing to design careers on their own terms. Creators are just one example of how the American workforce is changing at a rapid pace.” The report revealed several key insights about this fast-growing segment of the American workforce, including: Cash on the horizon. While 7.1 million are earning income in the creator economy, another 4.4 million are part of the segment but have not yet earned income. Diversity of talent. The creator economy skews young, with 75% of creators identifying as Gen Z or Millennial. The creators themselves are slightly more diverse than the American population at large, with 19% identifying as Black, compared to just 12% of the overall American population. Let’s collab. Creators are all about the collab with over half (55%) reporting that they are teaming up with other content creators on projects compared to only 21% of independent workers who aren’t content creators. Further, 36% of content creators have hired freelance contractors to help with their business, while only 14% of independent workers overall have done so. The struggle is real. The pressure to engage and reinvent are constant struggles for content creators, along with setting work/life boundaries. A third of all content creators (34%) report struggling with boundaries and burnout versus only 21% of independent workers. From punch the clock to TikTok. Almost six out of ten (59%) independent content creators are punching a clock at a traditional job. In fact, 46% have full-time jobs and 13% have a part-time job. The majority (63%) report working part-time as content creators, while 37% of income-earning digital content creators are doing it full-time. MBO Partners will release the full 2021 State of Independence study in December. To obtain a copy of the brief, please visit https://www.mbopartners.com/state-of-independence/. About MBO Partners® MBO Partners is a deep job platform that connects and enables independent professionals and microbusiness owners to do business safely and effectively with enterprise organizations. Its unmatched experience and industry leadership enable it to operate on the forefront of the independent economy and consistently advance the next way of working. For more information, visit mbopartners.com Contact Details Words For Hire Karen Swim +1 586-461-2103 pr@mbopartners.com Company Website https://mbopartners.com

November 16, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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