News & Opinion

Beginning July 19, fans attending The Basketball Tournament in Kentucky can scan a QR code on the jumbotron to access exclusive meet-and-greets, free memorabilia, special discounts, future releases, and more    Top Tier Authentics (TTA), transforming how brands, athletes and artists authenticate products and create new consumer experiences, and Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company (MMBC), announced a significant partnership. This collaboration will introduce TTA’s state-of-the-art technology across a series of exclusive Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon product releases and fan experiences.    The partnership kicks off at The Basketball Tournament (TBT) on July 19 in Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky. Fans attending these games will have the opportunity to scan a QR code displayed on the jumbotron to claim their TTA Attendance Badge, which includes benefits like a chance to win limited-edition sports memorabilia authenticated by TTA and a one-on-one meet & greet and shootaround with Louisville basketball legend and Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon Founder, Russ Smith.    Following the TBT activation, Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon will release multiple specialty bottles featuring TTA’s advanced authentication technology. By scanning the TTA QR code on each bottle, consumers can guarantee product authenticity while unlocking access to exclusive future releases, special discounts, private barrel picks and more.    “This collaboration with Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon exemplifies the potential of TTA’s experiential platform to revolutionize consumer interactions with premium products,” said Dima Azarenko, CEO and Co-founder of TTA. “Our technology not only guarantees the authenticity of their bourbon, but also enriches the consumer experience through unique and unmatched benefits, including access to exclusive meet-and-greets, special barrel picks, future product releases, and more. Partnering with TTA allows brands to redefine consumer experiences and elevate their brand to new heights.”    In addition to the TBT activation and specialty bottle releases, TTA and Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon are also exploring opportunities to integrate TTA’s technology into other high-profile projects, including collaborations with multiple NIL programs supporting college student-athletes, custom wedding experiences with labels designed by Co-Founder Cecy Linzey, and a partnership with the famous rescue dog Ethan Almighty, raising funds to fight against animal abuse.    “Partnering with TTA allows us to bring a new level of innovation to the bourbon industry, exclusivity and trust to our brand,” said Russ Smith, Founder of Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon. “This advanced authentication technology not only protects the integrity of our products and eliminates counterfeiting in the industry, but also enables us to engage our loyal customers in unique and memorable ways. Through this partnership, our customers can expect new transformative experiences, featuring unparalleled access to significant personalized benefits, custom labels, barrel picks and more. By claiming a Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon TBT Attendance Badge, consumers will also gain exclusive first-access to our upcoming collaborative bottles with the University of Tennessee and the University of Louisville.”    About Top Tier Authentics  Top Tier Authentics (TTA) has developed the world’s first Experiential Authenticity Platform, enabling instant verification of any product, artwork or collectible while powering new and immersive digital experiences, unique benefits, and interactive features.     The simple, turn-key solution can increase the value and enhance the experience of any item – or event – while empowering brands and individuals to connect with consumers, collectors and fans on a deeper level. TTA’s end-to-end platform also enables robust behavioral analytics from every touchpoint to identify key trends and opportunities.     Consumers enjoy an entirely new way to interact with their favorite brands, athletes and artists. This includes behind-the-scenes videos captured in the moment – such as when the signing occurred, the creation of the art, or the story behind the brand, artist or athlete – as well as personalized content, redeemable offers, and exclusive access to community events and activations. TTA gives each product and experience a one-of-a-kind and engaging life of its own, to share with friends and other collectors who hold similar treasures.     To shop the memorabilia collections, visit the TTA store at https://shop.toptierauth.com/.    Learn more about TTA’s services and technology at https://www.toptierauth.com/    About Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company (MMBC)  Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Company (MMBC) was founded by Russ Smith in 2019 and is co-owned by Cecy Linzey. Smith spent 7 years mentoring in the industry and shadowing some of the biggest names in Kentucky Bourbon before ever bottling his first batch. Holding over 100,000 barrels, MMBC is a private partnership between Smith and legendary distillers from across Kentucky. Smith is known globally for his success on the basketball court, but MMBC is his full time passion and a labor of love for all things bourbon, whiskey, and Kentucky. A Brooklyn, NY native, basketball brought Smith to Kentucky in 2010 and it has been a marriage in the making ever since.    Visit https://mrandmrsbourbon.com/ for limited edition TBT bottles. 

NBC Sports Bay Area & NBC Sports California to Televise Five Live San Francisco Unicorns MLC Matches to Fans Starting July 10   Willow by Cricbuzz, offering more live, streaming and on-demand cricket than any other sports service, today announced a partnership with NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California, to present five live San Francisco Unicorns Major League Cricket (MLC) matches this season.   Starting tomorrow, Wednesday, July 10, fans in Northern California can enjoy live coverage of high-octane MLC matches featuring the San Francisco Unicorns on NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California. The networks, which already televise over 600 live events annually, will enhance their diverse sports programming by including these high-energy cricket matches, catering to the growing appetite for cricket in the region.   “NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California are perfect platforms to showcase the San Francisco Unicorns’ Major League Cricket matches,” said Todd Myers, COO of Willow by Cricbuzz. “The unforgettable run by USA Cricket in the T20 World Cup ignited a nationwide cricket fandom, and we’re ready to keep that flame burning. Fans can now watch their World Cup heroes play for their hometown team. This partnership will bring these electrifying matches directly to fans, attracting new audiences and further integrating cricket into the Northern Californian sports scene.”   “We are the home for Northern California sports and the Unicorns, along with their Major League Cricket opponents, deliver unique and exciting content for our viewers and partners,” said Ben Rodrigues, Senior Director of Multiplatform Programming for NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California. “We’re pleased to partner with the Unicorns to build on our already robust portfolio of live sports content and further our position as the top source of live sports in the Bay Area and beyond.”   Willow by Cricbuzz will distribute all MLC matches this season on TV and its dedicated streaming app. To learn more, please visit www.willow.tv.   2024 San Francisco Unicorns on NBC Sports Bay Area & NBC Sports California: Wednesday, July 10: Unicorns vs. Texas Super Kings at 12 PM PT – NBC Sports Bay Area Saturday, July 13: Los Angeles vs. Unicorns at 12 PM PT – NBC Sports Bay Area Monday, July 15: Orcas vs. Unicorns at 12 PM PT – NBC Sports Bay Area Thursday, July 18: MI New York vs. Unicorns at 5:30 PM PT – NBC Sports Bay Area Saturday, July 20: Unicorns vs. Orcas at 5:30 PM PT – NBC Sports California Monday, July 22: Unicorns vs. Washington Freedom at 5:30 PM PT – NBC Sports Bay Area Plus   About Willow by Cricbuzz Willow by Cricbuzz is the premier destination for cricket in the United States and Canada, boasting the most comprehensive live, streaming, and on-demand cricket coverage available. Guided by its mission to make cricket globally accessible, Willow by Cricbuzz combines cricket’s rich heritage with innovative broadcasting to offer an unmatched viewing experience.   Dedicated to excellence and innovation, Willow by Cricbuzz provides cricket enthusiasts with HD-quality live streaming, interactive scorecards, and extensive coverage from nearly every major cricket board and tournament worldwide.   Willow by Cricbuzz’s TV network is also available through top providers such as DISH, Sling, Fios, Spectrum, Xfinity, Optimum, DIRECTV, DIRECTV Stream, and FuboTV, and also offers a dedicated streaming app available on all major CTV devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, Android TV, Chromecast, Google TV, and more, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the action.   Explore the ultimate cricket experience at www.willow.tv.   About Cricbuzz Cricbuzz is the global leader in cricket content, accessible across the web, iOS, and Android platforms on mobile and connected TV. Offering 360-degree comprehensive cricket coverage, Cricbuzz delivers ball-by-ball text commentary, compelling video analysis by the best cricket experts worldwide, timely news, match reports, editorials, statistics, rankings, and live match streaming in several regions. With over 125 million monthly active users globally and more than 495 million downloads as of January 2024, Cricbuzz is the largest single sport app in the world.   About NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Sports California, both part of NBC Sports Regional Networks, serve more than four million households in Northern California, Nevada, Southern Oregon, and Hawaii.  NBC Sports Bay Area, the television home of MLB’s San Francisco Giants, NBA’s Golden State Warriors and NBA G-League’s Santa Cruz Warriors, and the official regional sports network of the San Francisco 49ers, also features a robust lineup of Emmy Award-winning news, analysis, and original programming. NBC Sports California offers live coverage of MLB’s Oakland Athletics, NBA’s Sacramento Kings, NHL’s San Jose Sharks and NWSL’s Bay FC. Collectively, these networks deliver more than 600 live game broadcasts per year.  The NBC Sports app provides live steams of the games and pre-and postgame shows, digital coverage of the hometown teams with original stories and content from a team of “Insiders,” breaking news, up-to-the-minute game previews/recaps, highlights, and multimedia video clips.  Follow both networks on social media –Twitter: @NBCSAuthentic; Instagram: NBCSAuthentic; and Facebook: facebook.com/NBCSAuthentic.

Willow by Cricbuzz Announces Comprehensive MLC Coverage and Partnerships with Regional Sports Networks; Free Sunday Night Matches to Start July 7   Willow by Cricbuzz, offering more live, streaming and on-demand cricket than any other sports service, today announced comprehensive broadcasting plans for the 2024 Major League Cricket (MLC) season. Cricket fans across North America can look forward to unparalleled access to live MLC matches on Willow by Cricbuzz and their regional sports network, in addition to special free-to-view broadcasts on Sunday nights on www.willow.tv, www.cricbuzz.com, the Cricbuzz app, and the Willow app.   In addition to airing all MLC matches on Willow by Cricbuzz, the company has partnered with various regional sports networks to bring regular season matches to local markets. Now, fans can rally behind their hometown teams and root for many of the same players who thrilled them during the USA’s unforgettable ICC T20 World Cup run.   Partnered Regional Sports Networks Include: Monumental Sports Network (DC Freedom) YES Network (MI New York) ROOT SPORTS (Seattle Orcas) Bally Sports Southwest (Texas Super Kings) Bally Sports Los Angeles (LA Knight Riders)   Three Sunday night matches on July 7, 14, and 21 at 8:30 PM EDT will be available for free viewing on Willow by Cricbuzz (www.willow.tv), www.cricbuzz.com, the Cricbuzz app, the Willow app, Sling Freestream, and Fubo TV, providing unprecedented access for fans nationwide, all at no cost.   Free Sunday Night Matches Schedule: Sunday, July 7: Los Angeles Knight Riders vs. San Francisco Unicorns at 8:30 PM EDT Sunday, July 14: MI New York vs. Texas Super Kings at 8:30 PM EDT Sunday, July 21: MI New York vs. Los Angeles Knight Riders at 8:30 PM EDT   “Riding the momentum from the USA’s unforgettable T20 World Cup run, Major League Cricket is poised for a spectacular future,” said Todd Myers, COO of Willow by Cricbuzz. “Our partnerships with regional sports networks provide fans unprecedented access to watch their favorite World Cup players on local teams, critically weaving the sport into the fabric of local communities. The addition of free Sunday night viewings also broadens access, energizing a vibrant and rising fan community eager to support their hometown heroes. This is the beginning of a new chapter in North American cricket, with boundless growth potential.”   About Willow by Cricbuzz Willow by Cricbuzz is the premier destination for cricket in the United States and Canada, boasting the most comprehensive live, streaming, and on-demand cricket coverage available. Guided by its mission to make cricket globally accessible, Willow by Cricbuzz combines cricket’s rich heritage with innovative broadcasting to offer an unmatched viewing experience.   Dedicated to excellence and innovation, Willow by Cricbuzz provides cricket enthusiasts with HD-quality live streaming, interactive scorecards, and extensive coverage from nearly every major cricket board and tournament worldwide.   Willow by Cricbuzz’s TV network is also available through top providers such as DISH, Sling, Fios, Spectrum, Xfinity, Optimum, DIRECTV, DIRECTV Stream, and FuboTV, and also offers a dedicated streaming app available on all major CTV devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, Android TV, Chromecast, Google TV, and more, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the action.   Explore the ultimate cricket experience at www.willow.tv.   About Cricbuzz Cricbuzz is the global leader in cricket content, accessible across the web, iOS, and Android platforms on mobile and connected TV. Offering 360-degree comprehensive cricket coverage, Cricbuzz delivers ball-by-ball text commentary, compelling video analysis by the best cricket experts worldwide, timely news, match reports, editorials, statistics, rankings, and live match streaming in several regions. With over 125 million monthly active users globally and more than 495 million downloads as of January 2024, Cricbuzz is the largest single sport app in the world.

Washington Freedom’s Major League Cricket Matches to be Broadcast Live on Monumental Sports Network Starting July 6   Willow by Cricbuzz, offering more live, streaming and on-demand cricket than any other sports service, and Monumental Sports Network (MNMT) announced a groundbreaking partnership to broadcast Washington Freedom matches this upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) season. The first match available to fans on Monumental Sports Network will be the Freedom’s season opener vs MI New York on July 6, 2024, at 3:00 PM ET. The Freedom are the first professional cricket team to represent Washington, D.C. and began play in 2023.   The network’s slate will feature seven matches from July 6 to July 22. Monumental Sports Network is the exclusive local television media rights holder for the NHL’s Washington Capitals, the NBA’s Washington Wizards, and the WNBA’s Washington Mystics. It also boasts a comprehensive schedule of original programming and live men’s and women’s college basketball, college football, college volleyball, high school basketball, and esports, as well as Washington Spirit (NWSL), Old Glory DC (Major League Rugby), Hershey Bears (AHL), and Annapolis Blues (NPSL) games.   “Washington Freedom matches are an electric addition to our summer programming lineup,” said Caitlin Mangum, Vice President, Content & Programming at Monumental Sports Network. “Cricket is undergoing a surge of popularity in the U.S. and we’re excited for a new audience to get exposure to the plethora of live, local sports programming on our air.”   “The unexpected success of the US national cricket team in the T20 World Cup has vividly shown us the untapped potential of cricket in America,” said Todd Myers, COO of Willow by Cricbuzz. “We are now at a pivotal turning point where we can leverage the country’s excitement and passion for the sport to build a broader, more engaged fan base nationwide. Our partnership with Monumental Sports Network is key in this transformative era, bringing premier cricket directly to American viewers and giving them a hometown team, the Washington Freedom, to cheer for.”   Fans within the network’s footprint can watch Washington Freedom matches live on Monumental Sports Network, which is available on both linear TV and streaming platforms. Viewers from Delaware to Richmond, VA can access these matches through their Pay TV subscription, directly on monumentalsportsnetwork.com, or by using the Monumental Sports Network streaming app, compatible with iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV devices. For those without a Pay TV subscription, Monumental Sports Network offers direct-to-consumer subscription memberships, which can be purchased monthly or annually either on their website or via the Monumental Sports Network app.   Willow by Cricbuzz will also distribute all MLC matches this season on TV and its dedicated streaming app. To learn more, please visit www.willow.tv.   2024 Washington Freedom Matches on Monumental Sports Network: Saturday, July 6 MI New York at 3:00 PM ET Monday, July 8 Texas Super Kings at 3:00 PM ET Thursday, July 11 at Seattle Orcas at 8:30 PM ET Sunday, July 14 LA Knight Riders at 3:30 PM ET Tuesday, July 16 at MI New York at 8:30 PM ET Friday, July 19 Texas Super Kings at 8:30 PM ET Monday, July 22 San Francisco Unicorns at 8:30 PM ET   About Willow by Cricbuzz Willow by Cricbuzz is the premier destination for cricket in the United States and Canada, boasting the most comprehensive live, streaming, and on-demand cricket coverage available. Guided by its mission to make cricket globally accessible, Willow by Cricbuzz combines cricket’s rich heritage with innovative broadcasting to offer an unmatched viewing experience.   Dedicated to excellence and innovation, Willow by Cricbuzz provides cricket enthusiasts with HD-quality live streaming, interactive scorecards, and extensive coverage from nearly every major cricket board and tournament worldwide.   Willow by Cricbuzz’s TV network is also available through top providers such as DISH, Sling, Fios, Spectrum, Xfinity, and Optimum, and also offers a dedicated streaming app available on all major CTV devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, Android TV, Chromecast, Google TV, and more, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the action.   Explore the ultimate cricket experience at www.willow.tv.   About Cricbuzz Cricbuzz is the global leader in cricket content, accessible across the web, iOS, and Android platforms on mobile and connected TV. Offering 360-degree comprehensive cricket coverage, Cricbuzz delivers ball-by-ball text commentary, compelling video analysis by the best cricket experts worldwide, timely news, match reports, editorials, statistics, rankings, and live match streaming in several regions. With over 125 million monthly active users globally and more than 495 million downloads as of January 2024, Cricbuzz is the largest single sport app in the world.   About Monumental Sports Network??? Monumental Sports Network is wholly owned and operated by Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE). The network holds exclusive local television media rights for the NHL’s Washington Capitals, NBA’s Washington Wizards and WNBA’s Washington Mystics games. Monumental Sports Network is also the TV and digital home to the NBA G League’s Capital City Go-Go and the NBA 2K League’s Wizards District Gaming as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes content and original sports and entertainment programming. The network also boasts the most comprehensive regional high-school and regional collegiate Division II-and-under sports programming in the greater Washington D.C. metro area.? For more, visit:?www.monumentalsportsnetwork.com.  

Bob Gold & Associates, a 27-year-old boutique PR & Marketing services agency, focused on Technology, Media and Telecom, is expanding its core PR practice areas with the establishment of a streaming media and pay TV communications group to be led by Eric Becker in Denver. The new venture extends the agency’s strategic communications counsel for media, entertainment and content technology companies in the streaming era.   Becker, a former SVP at Starz and strategic communication agency, ICR, has an extraordinary success record and well-established relationships in the media and entertainment space. He will report to company VP & GM Chris Huppertz, and work closely with Bob Gold.   The company’s streaming media and pay TV communications group specializes in providing comprehensive strategic communications counsel for its clients, including account-based PR, corporate messaging development, PR and communications execution through earned media, speaker placements and awards, new product and service launches, executive communications and thought leadership campaigns that are critical to generative AI searches.   “I have known Eric Becker professionally and personally for 25 years. He is a consummate professional who specializes in ‘pulling rabbits from a hat’ look easy and yet unexpected. In truth, he works tirelessly and always from the heart. He is simply extraordinary, and our clients are so lucky to have him lead their PR agency efforts,” said Bob Gold, founder of his eponymous agency.   “Entertainment media – and the technologies and companies that get it to viewers – is a huge, demanding and dynamic business. Now, more than ever, thoughtful strategic corporate messaging and campaigns are needed for companies to break through industry noise and disruption,” said Becker.  “We see great opportunities to tell stories and drive sales. Bob’s vision, track record of success, and passion for the business is legendary. I am thrilled to collaborate with Bob and his amazing team and truly make a difference for the benefit of our clients.”    

Viamedia Extends Ad Sales Expertise from Cable to Streaming, Partnering with Willow by Cricbuzz, the Home of Cricket in North America   Viamedia, the largest independent advertising rep firm in the U.S., today announced a groundbreaking partnership with Willow by Cricbuzz, offering more live, streaming and on-demand cricket than any other sports service. As part of this partnership, Viamedia will provide programmatic ad sales representation for Willow by Cricbuzz. This marks a significant expansion for the company into the programmatic streaming space, promising a new era of growth and innovation for both Viamedia and Willow by Cricbuzz.   Viamedia will completely transform the ad inventory management for Willow by Cricbuzz, leveraging its advanced suite of programmatic technologies. This strategic move allows the company to offer its advertising spaces through modern, automated channels, surpassing traditional direct ad sales. Implementing these sophisticated programmatic strategies is poised to significantly enhance the accuracy, efficiency and revenue potential of each streaming service’s programmatic ad sales, setting a new standard for the industry. Advertisers can expect improved targeting, increased reach, and higher ROI from their ad campaigns.   “Viamedia’s strategic partnership with Willow by Cricbuzz signifies a major advancement into the streaming media landscape,” said David Solomon, CEO of Viamedia. “Our profound expertise in ad sales places us at the cutting edge of digital advertising evolution and positions our partners for unprecedented success. By integrating programmatic technology, we are redefining the reach and precision of advertising and enhancing revenue streams, setting a new pace for innovation in the advertising industry and expanding our footprint in the programmatic streaming sector.”   “We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Viamedia and leverage their expertise to enhance our ad sales strategy,” said Todd Myers, COO of Willow by Cricbuzz. “Viamedia’s advanced programmatic capabilities will streamline our ad sales process and provide our advertisers with more precise targeting options. This partnership will drive substantial growth for our platform and ensure our audiences receive the most pertinent content.”   About Viamedia Viamedia is the nation’s largest independent champion for video service providers’ advertising needs. The company places over 1 million ads daily in more than 130 zones in 28 states across 60+ markets nationwide, aggregating all types of TV audiences and providing a single point of sale to more than 6,000 local, regional, and national advertisers. It provides a comprehensive portfolio of audience and impression-based local video cross-media advertising solutions that bridge the gap between linear TV and digital programmatic advertising.   Viamedia’s patented, cloud based QTT® platform utilizes a proprietary technology stack and is designed to enable ad campaigns to be more efficient and easier to execute, by utilizing rich data to deliver targeted, dynamic ads to consumers via linear television.   Viamedia offers a complementary suite of impression-based digital products for streaming, mobile, display, email, search, social and more. Headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, the company’s success is built on its people, processes and proprietary software.   For more information, please visit https://viamediatv.com.   About Willow by Cricbuzz Willow by Cricbuzz is the premier destination for cricket in the United States and Canada, boasting the most comprehensive live, streaming, and on-demand cricket coverage available. Guided by its mission to make cricket globally accessible, Willow by Cricbuzz combines cricket’s rich heritage with innovative broadcasting to offer an unmatched viewing experience.   Dedicated to excellence and innovation, Willow by Cricbuzz provides cricket enthusiasts with HD-quality live streaming, interactive scorecards, and extensive coverage from nearly every major cricket board and tournament worldwide.   Willow by Cricbuzz’s TV network is also available through top providers such as DISH, Sling, Fios, Spectrum, Xfinity, and Optimum, and also offers a dedicated streaming app available on all major CTV devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, Android TV, Chromecast, Google TV, and more, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the action.   Explore the ultimate cricket experience at www.willow.tv.   About Cricbuzz Cricbuzz is the global leader in cricket content, accessible across the web, iOS, and Android platforms on mobile and connected TV. Offering 360-degree comprehensive cricket coverage, Cricbuzz delivers ball-by-ball text commentary, compelling video analysis by the best cricket experts worldwide, timely news, match reports, editorials, statistics, rankings, and live match streaming in several regions. With over 125 million monthly active users globally and more than 495 million downloads as of January 2024, Cricbuzz is the largest single sport app in the world.

Latest Collaboration from NEC X’s Elev X! Venture Studio Enables AI-powered ‘Voice of Customer’ Analysis to Accurately Predict Diverse Audience Responses   Consumer insights and personalization platform Qualitative Intelligence (QI) unveiled advanced new social sentiment analysis and brand risk management capabilities, powered by NEC’s Semantic Model Technology. QI’s Voice of Customer AI SaaS solution, VoxQI, can now rapidly identify and analyze hundreds of multi-channel videos, images and texts in minutes, empowering brands to accurately predict audience responses while minimizing compliance and social risk.   The new features are crucial today, as brands and advertisers navigate increased scrutiny and heightened sensitivity to shifting customer expectations and social trends. Brands invest billions of dollars into consumer insights, content testing, and customer intelligence to build equity and loyalty, and still get it wrong. With QI's AI-powered platform, companies can test content and messages in real time, analyze sentiment at scale, and accurately forecast risks faster and more cost effectively than resource intensive research methods like surveys and focus groups.   “Traditional testing and monitoring tools and methods are falling short, exposing even well-established brands to the risks of backlash from poorly received campaigns. The need for rapid and accurate social sentiment analysis is clear," says JD Rico, CEO of QI. "Our partnership with NEC X is focused on developing and optimizing advanced AI and NLP technologies for sentiment analysis. This collaboration aims to provide brands with the tools to navigate online sentiment effectively, ensuring their reputation and creative integrity are protected. With QI, we're moving towards a future where brands can engage with their audiences confidently, backed by precise and insightful technology."   This is the latest development in an ongoing collaboration between NEC and QI, which graduated from NEC X’s Silicon Valley venture studio program, Elev X! Ignite, in spring 2023. Elev X! provides access to NEC X’s comprehensive startup ecosystem and resources, including funding, hands-on support and mentorship, advanced technology integrations, skill-development workshops, strategic collaborations and more.   “QI is empowering brands and advertisers to be bold and creative, without risking their perception. In today's marketplace, where a single ad can shift public favor, this technology is indispensable,” said Shintaro Matsumoto, president and CEO, NEC X. “This collaboration showcases the powerful technological synergies we foster at NEC X. We’re proud to support QI and are excited to see them achieve new heights.”   VoxQI enables real-time message testing and risk assessment, allowing brands to create personalized and engaging communications while anticipating the audience’s response. The SaaS platform uses Voice of Customer AI to analyze anonymous data from past and current campaigns, customer reviews, real-time social trends, compliance and brand voice to create digital clones of target customers. The digital clones are then used to test marketing concepts and optimize messaging, streamlining the process and significantly reducing the financial risks associated with marketing campaigns.   QI’s predictive analytics lead to faster time-to-market for campaigns, and significantly reduced testing and impact costs.   NEC’s Semantic Model Technology is a proprietary machine learning algorithm and part of its growing portfolio of cutting-edge AI technologies. For this integration, the Semantic Model Technology is being used to increase the efficiency of QI’s large language model, training the platform in real-time to identify critical information and trends in user-generated content.   More information about QI can be found at https://www.voxqi.com/.  

Apply Now to Transform Your Vision into a Seed-Ready Startup with NEC’s Unmatched Support, Resources and Up to $200K Equity Funding    NEC X, the Silicon Valley innovation accelerator backed by NEC’s portfolio of advanced technologies, is once again accepting applications for Elev X! Ignite, its venture studio program that transforms early-stage founders into seed-ready startups.    Startups have until July 7, 2024, to apply for the upcoming cohort, Batch 12, of NEC X’s coveted venture studio program, which will commence in Q3 2024 following a multi-phase selection process.    “We're honored to welcome the next wave of visionaries to apply for Batch 12 and join NEC X's robust and growing ecosystem,” said Shintaro Matsumoto, President and CEO of NEC X. “It’s always inspiring to see the innovative ideas that emerge from our applicants, and even more inspirational to see their evolution and growth throughout our programs. I'm eager to see what the newest batch will create.”    Why Join Elev X! Ignite     Elev X! Ignite transcends traditional venture studio models, providing a unique blend of strategic collaboration, engineering expertise, extensive R&D resources, comprehensive support services and up to $200K in equity funding to propel transformative startups to success. The customized program is ideal for entrepreneurs and founding teams in the ideation or prototyping phase and is designed to fast-track innovations that synergize with NEC’s technologies, have a clear vision and the potential for substantial market impact.    During the six- to nine-month program, startups work closely with NEC X’s innovation team and engineers, NEC researchers, industry experts, coaches, mentors and advisors to refine their product. This collaborative journey includes conducting Customer Discovery and Validation with customer interviews, developing compelling Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), verifying Proof-of-Concept (POC), and engaging paying customers and investors.     Upon completion, participants will have validated a problem-solution fit and solution-product fit with a refined business model, a strong team, and scalable solutions, positioning them to generate recurring revenue and secure new funding.    While entrepreneurs and founding teams from all industries are eligible, NEC X has a particular strength and focus on B2B software and SaaS startups innovating in the fields of AI/ML, climate and agriculture, healthcare and digital health, marketing, and public safety.    How to Apply    Qualified candidates are those working on new business ideas, developing problem-solution hypotheses, or prototyping an MVP. It is not required to have launched a product or generated revenue. Submissions will be evaluated on innovation, market potential and scalability.     Approximately 30 applicants will be selected to advance to a pitch round and a pre-program of workshops and mentorship, followed by a final selection of six to eight startups to join Elev X!    Interested parties can learn more about the program by attending an introductory webinar.    For application information, materials, and deadlines, click here.    Fueling Startup Success    Since 2018, NEC X has helped launch and grow more than 100 startups. Past graduates of Elev X! include Metabob, eCommerceInsights.ai (now Indellia), Beagle Technology, NavigateIO, Flyhound, Qualitative Intelligence (Q.I.), WeWalk and many more.    Manny Cerniglia, Co-founder & CEO , Flyhound (Batch 6): “We were impressed with the continued support of our business by NEC X. From facilitating investor introductions, connecting us with partners, and helping us grow, they have been an incredible ally and a key figure in our success.”    Nipun Kumar, CEO, Chekable (Batch 10): “The program structure – with pre customer discovery, customer discovery, and validation – helped me to think about how I could find a product that would be extremely profitable and business worthy. The great thing about pre discovery is that you get access to top coaches and mentors and you get a preview and a taste of what it's like to work with NEC.”    Tiffany Walling McGarity, CEO, Metapyxl (Batch 11): “The value of collaborating with NEC X has catalyzed our business scaling efforts by providing crucial insights into efficient operational practices and go-to-market strategies. This engagement has enriched our team’s capabilities in business acumen and strategic planning. Moreover, NEC X has fostered a vibrant network of peer companies, creating a collaborative community from which we all learn and grow. Their recognition of our efforts has also elevated our company’s profile, providing us with invaluable exposure and credibility in the industry.”    Jean-Claude Junqua, Founder and Owner, CE2Innovate (Program Advisor): “Via the Elev X! program, a new venture or early-stage startup will have access to high quality workshops and expert guidance. They will also be able to experience a range of new perspectives while sharpening their problem solution fit via customer interviews. In a short period of time they will realize the power of a problem-centered approach. They will be able to do so with the guidance needed to be successful.”    To learn more about the Elev X! Program, please visit: https://elev-x.com.    About NEC X?  NEC X is an innovation powerhouse and curator of disruptive startups backed by the global technology leadership of NEC. Leveraging 125 years of IT and network technologies expertise, NEC X’s startup-focused approach transforms visionary ideas into commercial successes that revolutionize how we work and live. Since its inception in 2018, NEC X has helped launch and grow more than 100 startups.?    Their Silicon Valley programs – Elev X! Ignite and Elev X! Boost – equip early-stage startup founders with the tools to fast-track their tech development and adoption. Elev X fuels startup success from inception to launch, connecting innovators with NEC’s 45,000 patents; global network of partners, mentors and advisors; reach into 55+ international markets; and $8 billion R&D ecosystem.   For more information, visit https://nec-x.com and https://www.elev-x.com.?    About NEC Corporation NEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential.     For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com.    NEC is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Other product or service marks mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners. ©2024 NEC Corporation. 

Willow by Cricbuzz, offering more live, streaming and on-demand cricket than any other sports service, today announced an exclusive free preview of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup. From June 1st to the 7th, cricket enthusiasts can enjoy a full week of non-stop cricket action featuring 13 exhilarating matches at no cost.   This promotion is available exclusively to subscribers of Verizon, DIRECTV consumers and DIRECTV for Business, and Optimum, providing an unmissable opportunity to experience the electrifying action of the ICC T20 World Cup, showcasing the world’s top cricket talent in one of the most highly anticipated tournaments of the year. From close finishes to standout performances, this free preview promises to deliver all the excitement cricket has to offer, introducing the sport to new fans and rekindling the passion of cricket’s most dedicated followers.   Additionally, Optimum and Verizon viewers will be able to tune into News 12 throughout the week for special news coverage of the tournament, including segments and content related to the ICC T20 World Cup and the South Asian culture and community, airing across all News 12 networks. News 12 is the preeminent hyperlocal news source across the New York tri-state area and is available to viewers across the country through the News 12 New York streaming service.   “This free preview is a critical step in making cricket more accessible and opening the door to new fans in the U.S.,” said Todd Myers, COO of Willow by Cricbuzz. “By providing access to the T20 World Cup, we’re showcasing the world’s top cricket talent and introducing new fans to the full spectrum of what the sport has to offer. This preview will ignite a passion for cricket among new viewers and enhance the experience for our loyal fans, ultimately expanding the cricket community and bringing the thrill of the sport to a broader audience.”   How to Continue Enjoying Willow by Cricbuzz After the Free Preview: DIRECTV: Willow by Cricbuzz is included in the DIRECTV Sports Pack for consumers, which offers up to 40 regional and specialty sports networks (RSNs) for just $14.99/month + tax. *Willow by Cricbuzz is also available to DIRECTV for Business customers covering more than 300,000 commercial venues, including restaurants, bars, hotel lounges, retail shops, and other venues. Verizon (Fios TV): Fios TV customers can add Sports Pass for $14/month or the Hindi Plus package for $34/month to their Fios TV plan to access Willow by Cricbuzz. Optimum: Willow by Cricbuzz is available through the $15/month Sports Package.   Watch the Following Matches for Free on Willow by Cricbuzz: June 2, 2024 (ET): United States vs Canada, 1st Match, Group A at 8:30 PM West Indies vs Papua New Guinea, 2nd Match, Group C at 10:30 AM June 3, 2024 (ET): Namibia vs Oman, 3rd Match, Group B at 8:30 PM Sri Lanka vs South Africa, 4th Match, Group D at 10:30 AM June 4, 2024 (ET): Afghanistan vs Uganda, 5th Match, Group C at 8:30 PM England vs Scotland, 6th Match, Group B at 10:30 AM Netherlands vs Nepal, 7th Match, Group D at 11:30 AM June 5, 2024 (ET): India vs Ireland, 8th Match, Group A at 10:30 AM Papua New Guinea vs Uganda, 9th Match, Group C at 7:30 PM June 6, 2024 (ET): Australia vs Oman, 10th Match, Group B at 8:30 PM United States vs Pakistan, 11th Match, Group A at 11:30 AM Namibia vs Scotland, 12th Match, Group B at 3:00 PM June 7, 2024 (ET): Canada vs Ireland, 13th Match, Group A at 10:30 AM New Zealand vs Afghanistan, 14th Match, Group C at 7:30 PM   About Willow by Cricbuzz Willow by Cricbuzz is the premier destination for cricket in the United States and Canada, boasting the most comprehensive live, streaming, and on-demand cricket coverage available. Guided by its mission to make cricket globally accessible, Willow by Cricbuzz combines cricket’s rich heritage with innovative broadcasting to offer an unmatched viewing experience.   Dedicated to excellence and innovation, Willow by Cricbuzz provides cricket enthusiasts with HD-quality live streaming, interactive scorecards, and extensive coverage from nearly every major cricket board and tournament worldwide.   Willow by Cricbuzz’s TV network is also available through top providers such as DISH, Sling, Fios, Spectrum, Xfinity, and Optimum, and also offers a dedicated streaming app available on all major CTV devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, Android TV, Chromecast, Google TV, and more, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the action.   Explore the ultimate cricket experience at www.willow.tv.   About Cricbuzz Cricbuzz is the global leader in cricket content, accessible across the web, iOS, and Android platforms on mobile and connected TV. Offering 360-degree comprehensive cricket coverage, Cricbuzz delivers ball-by-ball text commentary, compelling video analysis by the best cricket experts worldwide, timely news, match reports, editorials, statistics, rankings, and live match streaming in several regions. With over 125 million monthly active users globally and more than 495 million downloads as of January 2024, Cricbuzz is the largest single sport app in the world.   *Requires CHOICE package or higher for RSNs. Some base packages also include some DIRECTV Sports Pack channels.