Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2026-06-04T08:01:00

(BPT) – Are you getting everything your body needs to feel and function at its best? Many Americans assume their diet covers the basics, but research shows that more than 80% aren’t getting enough omega-3s — vital nutrients that play a critical role in whole-body health.^† Now, it’s easy for everyone to get high-quality omega-3 support with premium Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Minis available at Costco stores nationwide.

What are omega-3s and why do they matter so much? Here’s what to know, and a new, simple, value-add way to get more of them in your daily routine to support your health and wellness goals.*

What are omega-3s and why are they so important?

Omega-3 fatty acids are key nutrients that support overall health. The omega-3s EPA and DHA are among the few nutrients that support every single cell in the body. And, essentially, whatever your body does or doesn’t do well greatly depends on the health of your cells, making omega-3s critical to your heart health, brain function, immune system and overall everyday well-being.* Basically, they show up everywhere in your body, doing important work.

Unfortunately, current research shows that more than 80% of Americans aren’t getting enough omega-3s through their diet.^† Americans simply aren’t consuming enough omega-3-rich foods. For example, you would need to eat at least 3 ounces of salmon every single day or 76,000 chia seeds each day to get a common daily serving of 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA, which are the most critical omega-3s bodies need. But you have to rely on your diet because the human body can’t efficiently make EPA and DHA on its own. Omega-3s EPA and DHA are primarily found in cold-water fatty fish (e.g., salmon, sardines, mackerel) and algae — foods that typically aren’t an abundant part of the everyday American diet.

How can you get more omega-3s?

Meeting your daily omega-3 needs is vital to reaping the full benefits of your other healthy lifestyle efforts. Eating foods rich in the omega-3s EPA and DHA is a great place to start. This can include cold-water fatty fish like salmon, anchovies and sardines. But, as studies have shown, it’s incredibly difficult to get enough omega-3s through food sources alone.

This is why adding a high-quality omega-3 supplement to your daily routine can help ensure you’re meeting your omega-3 needs to get all of those whole-body benefits.

For shoppers looking for both quality and value, there’s good news. For the first time, Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega^® Minis are available in Costco stores nationwide. To learn more, visit https://www.costco.com/p/-/nordic-naturals-ultimate-omega-fish-oil-110-mini-softgels-lemon-flavor/4201002165?langId=-1.

What should you look for in an omega-3 supplement?

Not all omega-3 supplements are created equal. Quality, freshness and absorption are all important factors to consider. A trusted brand like Nordic Naturals — the No. 1 selling omega-3 company in the U.S.^‡ — sets high standards for purity, strength and freshness.

“Every Nordic Naturals fish oil product is rigorously tested for purity, strength and freshness to confirm virtually undetectable levels of environmental contaminants such as PCBs and heavy metals; that active ingredient amounts always match what’s shown on the label; and that oxidation values are well below international standards to ensure great taste with no fishy aftertaste,” said Kate Turner, MA, RD, CPT, nutrition specialist at Nordic Naturals.

As part of Nordic Naturals’ commitment to transparency, the brand offers a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every product, which you can access by scanning a QR code on the box, so you can see exactly what you’re getting.

If you’ve avoided fish oil in the past due to a fishy taste, smell or “fishy burps,” it simply means the fish oil you took was exposed to oxygen, making it go rancid and creating that awful experience. Nordic Naturals addresses this by carefully purifying and concentrating its fish oils in an oxygen-controlled environment, helping ensure exceptional freshness and a clean taste.

As with starting any new supplement, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider first.

A new way to get omega-3s

With more accessible options, closing the omega-3 gap doesn’t have to be complicated. Check out Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega^® Minis now in Costco stores nationwide, giving consumers access to a premium omega-3 product at a great value. To learn more, visit https://www.costco.com/p/-/nordic-naturals-ultimate-omega-fish-oil-110-mini-softgels-lemon-flavor/4201002165?langId=-1.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

†Murphy RA, et al. BMJ Open. 2021.11

‡Based on Stackline, Nielsen and SPINS annual sales data in the U.S.

2026-06-04T08:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• A 529 college savings plan is a great gift for all occasions.
• A college savings account plan is a valuable tool that can help defray the cost of higher education.
• Gifting a child in your life a college savings account teaches them financial responsibility, is simple to give, can be used for various education expenses and appreciates over time.

Deciding what gift to give a child for graduations, birthdays, holidays and other gift-giving occasions can be challenging. Traditional gifts like computers, phones, gift cards and clothing may be appreciated in the moment, but they don’t have the potential to appreciate in value over time.

This year, instead of giving a traditional gift, consider starting or contributing to a student’s 529 college savings plan account to help save for future education.

The rising cost of education

The cost of college has risen substantially over the past 20 years.

According to the College Board Trends in College Pricing, the cost of a four-year undergraduate education — which includes tuition, room and board — increased by 68% at private colleges and universities between 1994 and 2024. For public colleges and universities, the cost increased by 78% during the same period.¹

Given the rise in college costs, it’s no surprise that helping a student save for college has become more popular. In fact, 79% of parents would welcome a contribution to their child’s college savings account in lieu of traditional gifts, according to Fidelity’s 2025 College Gifting Study.

Beyond the monetary value, there are other benefits of gifting to a college savings plan account. Below are just a few of the many reasons why a 529 plan may be one of the best gifts you can give a child of any age in 2026.

It teaches financial values

Opening or contributing money to a college savings account can be a great opportunity to teach a child or teen financial literacy.

Start by showing them the account and discussing how much you and other family members can contribute toward their college costs. For those with older children who are working part-time, encourage them to contribute part of their paycheck to their college savings account, so they can feel ownership over their plan.

It’s easy to give

In many cases, setting up a 529 savings plan account is simple and can be done online. For example, when you visit the Fidelity website, you can choose a plan, select the investments and set up automatic fund payments.

On your plan page, you can make it easy for other family members to contribute, too. Grandparents are especially keen to contribute to their grandchildren’s education.

According to Fidelity’s study, 35% of grandparents have contributed to a savings account for a child’s education instead of a traditional gift. However, for those who haven’t contributed, many said they want to but don’t know how.

If you have a 529 plan account managed by Fidelity, you can make it simple for anyone who wants to contribute to your student’s savings plan to do so year-round.

Log in to your account and visit your gifting dashboard, or set one up here. Once you’re done, you can share a link to your personalized college gifting page. Anyone with the link can click the “Give a gift” button and make a contribution to the savings plan using their checking account.

They’re flexible

One of the benefits of a 529 college savings plan is that a student can use it for more than just traditional college tuition. In fact, they can use it not just for college, but to pay for vocational and trade school expenses.

Some 529 qualified education expenses include:

• College tuition and fees
• Room and board
• Books and supplies
• Technology
• Special needs expenses
• K-12 qualified expenses up to $20,000 in 2026

Under certain conditions, you can transfer funds tax- and penalty-free up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 in a 529 to a Roth IRA opened by the 529 beneficiary, which offers some flexibility in the event the student doesn’t use all the funds.²

It’s a gift that means a lot today and more tomorrow

When you give or contribute to a college savings plan, you’re demonstrating your own investment in a child’s educational future.

Starting an account early is recommended, but don’t be deterred if you feel you’re too late. Any earnings grow federal income tax–deferred. Plus, they’ll get tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. It’s a meaningful gift, and even a little today can grow to more tomorrow.

Bonus: Contributing to a 529 savings account can be a gift for you, too! If you want to contribute to a friend or family member’s 529 plan, individual contributions up to $19,000 annually and up to $38,000 per married couple are not subject to the federal gift tax, and some states may even offer tax incentives for contributions by state residents.

To learn more about how to gift to a 529 plan account this year, visit Fidelity.com/529-Plans/College-Gifting.

1. The College Board Trends in College Pricing 2024; Table CP-2 https://research.collegeboard.org/trends/college-pricing

2. Beginning January 2024, the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 (the “Act”) provides that you may transfer assets from your 529 account to a Roth IRA established for the Designated Beneficiary of a 529 account under the following conditions: (i) the 529 account must be maintained for the Designated Beneficiary for at least 15 years, (ii) the transfer amount must come from contributions made to the 529 account at least five years prior to the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer date, (iii) the Roth IRA must be established in the name of the Designated Beneficiary of the 529 account, (iv) the amount transferred to a Roth IRA is limited to the annual Roth IRA contribution limit, and (v) the aggregate amount transferred from a 529 account to a Roth IRA may not exceed $35,000 per individual. It is your responsibility to maintain adequate records and documentation on your accounts to ensure you comply with the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has not issued guidance on the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer provision in the Act but is anticipated to do so in the future. Based on forthcoming guidance, it may be necessary to change or modify some 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements. Please consult a financial or tax professional regarding your specific circumstances before making any investment decision.

529 distributions for qualified education expenses are generally federal income tax free. 529 assets may be used to pay for (i) qualified higher education expenses, (ii) qualified expenses for registered apprenticeship programs, (iii) up to $10,000 per taxable year per beneficiary for tuition expenses ($20,000 for expenses beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) in connection with enrollment at a public, private, and religious elementary and secondary educational institution. Although such assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 qualified withdrawal ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) limit will be aggregated on a per beneficiary basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, (iv) amounts paid as principal or interest on any qualified education loan of a 529 plan designated beneficiary or a sibling of the designated beneficiary. The amount treated as a qualified expense is subject to a lifetime limit of $10,000 per individual. Although the assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 withdrawal limit for qualified educational loans payments will be aggregated on a per individual basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, and (v) tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the enrollment or attendance in a recognized postsecondary credential program as defined under Section 529 of the Code and identified by the Secretary of the Treasury as being such a reputable program. Any earnings on distributions not used for qualified higher educational expenses or that exceed distribution limits may be taxed as ordinary income and may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Some states do not conform with federal tax law. Please check with your home state to determine if it recognizes the expanded 529 benefits afforded under federal tax law, including distributions for elementary and secondary education expenses, apprenticeship programs, postsecondary credentialing programs, and student loan repayments. You may want to consult with a tax professional before investing or making distributions.

Fidelity does not provide legal or tax advice. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact investment results. Fidelity cannot guarantee that the information herein is accurate, complete, or timely. Fidelity makes no warranties with regard to such information or results obtained by its use, and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated and may change based on market and other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author, as applicable, and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments.

Recently enacted legislation made a number of changes to the rules regarding defined contribution, defined benefit, and/or individual retirement plans and 529 plans. Information herein may refer to or be based on certain rules in effect prior to this legislation and current rules may differ. As always, before making any decisions about your retirement planning or withdrawals, you should consult with your personal tax advisor.

Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation.

Please carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. For this and other information on any 529 college savings plan managed by Fidelity, contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

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2026-05-29T17:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

• Recent graduates are struggling in today’s job market, with fewer entry-level positions available and more competition than ever — making graduation feel less celebratory and more stressful.
• Unlike traditional civilian pathways, the U.S. Army’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) can cover the cost of higher education and guarantees a defined career path following graduation, coupled with competitive salaries, extensive benefits, advanced technical training and immediate leadership responsibilities.
• Cadets can pursue an Army career that aligns with their individual goals by commissioning into the Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard as Officers, the leaders of the Army who are responsible for planning missions, managing resources and guiding teams.

Graduation season has always promised new beginnings, but for many recent grads, the hard-earned diploma feels less like a golden ticket and more like an incomplete puzzle. With a tightened job market, scarce entry-level positions and fierce competition, the pressure for young adults to land the “right” role at the beginning of their career has never been greater.

For those mired in uncertainty, the U.S. Army offers something increasingly rare in today’s market: a clear path forward. From competitive pay and comprehensive benefits to on-the-job training and career development opportunities, the Army provides the stability that many young adults are looking for. At the beginning of their Army journey, young Soldiers build experience in a wide range of fields, develop transferable skills and can even pursue new career paths over time — all while gaining financial security and leadership experience early on.

One path to Army service is through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Offered at more than 1,000 college campuses nationwide and producing about 60% of all Active Duty Officers, ROTC helps Cadets invest in their future by easing the cost of college, all while building the skills needed to become the next generation of leaders in the Army and beyond. After graduation, ROTC Cadets walk away with a reliable job and immediate leadership responsibilities, as they commission into the Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard as Officers.

The following list represents just a few of the many choosing this path — from twin brothers who are extending their family’s tradition of service, to a father obtaining the degree he always wanted, to a rising senior with her eyes on a career in healthcare. They all demonstrate how Army service can transform uncertainty into opportunity:

Twin brothers, 2nd Lts. Alex and Luke Rogers, continue their family’s legacy of service

2nd Lts. Luke and Alex Rogers knew from an early age that Army service could help shape their futures and provide a deeper sense of purpose. Inspired by their father, who participated in ROTC at Florida State University before serving in the Army, they chose to apply for ROTC scholarships at the University of Kansas — a decision that would help them pursue higher education while lowering the cost of college.

For both brothers, ROTC provided more than just tuition assistance. As a high school football and track athlete, Alex says, “I immediately fell in love with it,” finding that the program mirrored the teamwork he found in sports, and offered structure, accountability and a close-knit community of like-minded Cadets. Luke notes that the experience strengthened his self-belief, saying, “I’ve gained a lot of confidence in myself through ROTC. I am a better public speaker and more physically fit (because of the experience).”

At KU, Alex followed his passion for health and fitness by earning a degree in exercise science on a pre-physical therapy track, while Luke majored in electrical engineering, earning several accolades along the way, including the Outstanding Senior Award, where he was recognized by faculty as the top student in his class. Outside of the classroom, both brothers took full advantage of their ROTC opportunities, including morning physical training (PT) with their unit and participating in specialized Army training, including Airborne School, where they were trained in parachute jumps, and Air Assault School, where they focused on helicopter insertion, rappelling and sling-load operations. Alex also completed the Sapper Leader Course, a rigorous program that teaches advanced combat tactics, demolitions and mountaineering, which he describes as one of the most demanding, yet rewarding, times of his ROTC journey.

After graduating from KU in May 2026, their commissioning paths reflect the various ways ROTC Cadets can serve. Luke has commissioned into the Kansas Army National Guard while he pursues a master’s degree in radar systems, allowing him to advance his education while serving part-time and making a direct impact on his community. Alex commissioned as an Active Duty Infantry Officer (11A), where he will lead Soldiers in offensive and defensive operations when they are in the field, while pursuing his strength and conditioning certificate.

Cadet Madeline Dively forges her path to a healthcare career

Originally from Pine Bush, New York, Cadet Madeline Dively knew that she wanted to become a nurse. What she did not initially envision was a career that would allow her to practice healthcare while serving in the Army. That possibility first came into focus during her freshman year at the University of Kentucky, when an ROTC recruiter invited her to the Cadet orientation, also known as Zero Week, where she made a spontaneous decision to join the program. When she was offered a scholarship at the end of her first semester, she fully committed.

“It was very out of the blue,” she says, “but once I pictured it in my future and saw how many opportunities it would bring to me, I was completely sold.”

Balancing a rigorous nursing curriculum with ROTC duties is demanding, but what sustains her is the tight-knit community she has with her fellow Cadets. “It’s nice to have someone who understands both nursing and ROTC,” she says of the bond that she shares with the three other nursing majors in her ROTC class. She has also received invaluable mentorship from a local Brigade Nurse who meets with her each semester and helps her navigate the ins and outs of Army nursing.

But perhaps Dively’s most notable transformation has been in developing her leadership and confidence. What started as a reluctance to be in the front of a room has evolved into her naturally stepping into leadership roles, including serving as a platoon sergeant her sophomore year and leading the unit’s PT profile.

“Who I thought I was capable of becoming has completely expanded,” she says. “One day it clicked, and I didn’t even realize I was doing it.”

Now entering her senior year, she plans to commission into the Army after graduation and combine her love of nursing with the adventure of serving her country. If she could share one piece of advice with someone just starting out, she says, “You’re going to be scared, but you just have to do it. Before you know it, you’ll be on the other side and a completely new person.”

2nd Lt. Juan Loera Rogers discovers his purpose and path to leadership

As he neared the end of his high school career, 2nd Lt. Juan Loera Rogers was seeking direction and stability, and with only a month until graduation, he made the decision to enlist in the Army as a Carpentry and Masonry Specialist (12W). As the first Soldier in his family, he says, “I wanted to challenge myself, and create a better future not only for myself, but for my family. Becoming a first-generation Soldier was something that gave me a strong sense of purpose and pride.”

While in the Army, Loera Rogers took advantage of countless leadership and training opportunities, including Air Assault School, Sapper Leader Course, and, perhaps most notably, the grueling U.S. Army Ranger School, where candidates are trained in small-unit tactics, mountaineering, reconnaissance and waterborne operations. He recalls, “I really leaned on my people, and that’s where the basis of my leadership skills came from. Those moments when I was leading a platoon as a 20-year-old Sergeant gave me the confidence that I could lead anybody through anything.”

After serving in the Army for several years, 2nd Lt. Juan Loera Rogers utilized the Army’s Green to Gold program to earn his degree and become an Officer.

Wanting to further his career, Loera Rogers explored the possibility of earning a degree through the Army’s Green to Gold program, a scholarship designed for enlisted Soldiers to earn a higher education degree while serving as Cadets in their chosen school’s ROTC program. Upon graduation, they commission back into the Army as Officers. He was accepted into the program and earned a bachelor’s degree in applied management from Grand Canyon University in May 2026.

Now, as he prepares for his new role as an Army Officer, Loera Rogers has his eyes set on building a sense of belonging and camaraderie within his unit. He is also continuing to challenge himself physically, including through CrossFit. For students who may be in the same position he once was — uncertain about the future but ready for something more — Loera Rogers offers direct advice. “Take that leap,” he says. “I know it’s daunting, but just three to four years can change the trajectory of your life forever.”

2nd Lt. Josey Arbogast continues a family legacy while finding her voice

Although she grew up in an Army family, 2nd Lt. Josey Arbogast arrived at Coastal Carolina University wanting to forge her own path. Throughout her freshman year, she made friends while doing well in school and pursuing a degree in physics, but something was missing. “I just felt very unfulfilled,” she says. “I wasn’t serving a common purpose or common goal.”

That summer, Arbogast made the decision to try ROTC and quickly found what she was looking for. “I loved it,” she says. “The other Cadets became some of my best friends, and everybody was working towards the same purpose, which was really fulfilling.”

Her studies benefited, as well. “The busier I was, the better I did with school. Whenever I had a second, I would get on top of my homework, and I think it helped a lot with my relationships with my professors.”

ROTC accelerated Arbogast’s leadership development, moving her from quiet observer to instructor within just a few years. By senior year, she was designing and teaching coursework to fellow Cadets. Through programs like Leader Challenge — an experiential learning initiative that originated at the United States Military Academy — she helped Cadets examine real scenarios from Army leaders and brought them firsthand insight into how critical decisions are made under pressure.

Arbogast’s most meaningful growth came from a personal realization. Early in her ROTC journey, her instinct was to direct and react. Over time, she discovered the power of genuine listening. By pausing to understand her peers’ backgrounds, concerns and motivations rather than simply telling them what to do, she fundamentally transformed her leadership approach.

Following graduation in May 2026, she is now preparing to begin her career as an Active Duty Logistics Officer (90A), with the goal to eventually become a Space Operations Officer.

2nd Lt. Ryan Sanders finds stability and camaraderie through service

During the uncertainty of COVID-19, 2nd Lt. Ryan Sanders enlisted in the Army as a Combat Engineer (12B) to provide stability and support for his young family. At 27, he had already developed a strong foundation of adaptability and resilience, but he says, “The Army pushed me to become mentally and physically stronger, placing me in the best shape of my life while also teaching me that age is only a number.”

His age did not slow him down, and he quickly moved through challenging Army training programs, including Ranger School, Air Assault School, Airborne School and Sapper Leader Course. But his most transformative experience came through the Green to Gold program, which made it possible for him to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from his dream school, Texas Christian University.

At TCU, Sanders excelled academically while continuing to pursue high-level Army training as a member of the Ranger Challenge team, an elite group of Cadets who compete against other schools’ ROTC programs in a variety of skills, including land navigation, physical fitness and casualty care. In 2025, for the first time in school history, TCU advanced to the international Sandhurst Competition at West Point, a grueling two-day event that tests the most elite squads from around the world. This year, the team went back-to-back and placed in the top 20, a testament to their dedication and teamwork. “The morale and camaraderie were always there,” Sanders reflects. “We didn’t get there because just one guy showed up.”

After graduating in May 2026, Sanders continues to live by the philosophy of relying on your team — a belief that is more important than ever as he begins his career as an Infantry Officer (11A). For him, his leadership is rooted in the responsibility Soldiers have to one another. “You have to lean so much on the men and women to your left and right to ensure that everybody comes home,” he says. “You’re not focusing on yourself; you’re focusing on the people around you.”

To find out more about ROTC and the career opportunities available in the Army, visit GoArmy.com.

2026-05-21T12:00:00

(BPT) – By Eric Yu, Lenovo’s SVP & GM, CPC and SMB Segment

As we mark Small Business Month, it’s a moment to take stock of how quickly AI has moved from hype to everyday business tool. Across the SMB landscape, we’re seeing how far technology has come, from basic automation tools that handled repetitive tasks, to today’s AI systems that can generate content, analyze customer data in real time and support decision-making. Small business leaders are now entering a new phase of their AI journey, turning early adoption into lasting business value.

Notably, three quarters of SMBs are using AI and more than half are using generative AI, however, only 14% have integrated its capabilities into core operations, according to Goldman Sachs. The question is no longer whether to use AI, but rather, how to make it deliver results.

Despite rapid adoption, many are still struggling to turn experimentation into measurable business impact.

Three practical lessons can help SMBs move from adoption to impact:

1. Start with business outcomes

For small businesses, every technology decision must tie directly to outcomes. With limited resources and lean teams, there is little room for experimentation without clear return.

From an application standpoint, AI PCs provide a low-friction starting point, enabling capabilities such as transcription, summarization, predictive assistance and content generation, without heavy infrastructure investment. For lean teams with limited time and resources, this can mean replacing manual notetaking and review with AI-powered transcription and summarization that automatically highlight key decisions and actions in real time, freeing up capacity for strategizing and planning. This lowers the barrier to entry and allows entrepreneurs to move quickly from experimentation to tangible productivity gains.

The takeaway for SMBs: Begin with clear workflow bottlenecks, such as sales follow-ups, customer support, content creation and inventory management, and apply AI where it drives measurable impact. The most effective deployments are focused, targeted and tied to immediate business needs.

Ultimately, beginning with outcomes ensures AI is tied to business value from day one, creating a clear path to ROI and scalable growth.

2. AI succeeds when people are trained and workflows are redesigned

Technology alone will not drive measurable impact. Research shows that employee upskilling and effective human-AI collaboration are critical to successful AI implementation, underscoring the importance of investing in people alongside technology. Without this balance, even the most advanced tools risk being underutilized or operating in silos.

Instead of using AI tools sporadically, businesses should integrate them in ways that feel natural, intuitive and easy to adopt. For SMBs in particular, smart collaboration tools can be a good start. Imagine asking your AI assistant to schedule a meeting for 10 people and it automatically secures a room big enough to hold everybody and sends calendar invites. When the meeting starts, it provides real-time transcription, activates noise cancelation on the microphone, focuses the camera on the speaker, summarizes key messages, sends out action points, and more. What once could become a source of stress is now eliminated.

Equally important is ensuring these tools fit seamlessly into how people already work, particularly in hybrid work environments. AI adoption is more likely to succeed when tools are user-friendly, reduce friction and complement existing habits and processes rather than forcing employees to completely change how they operate. Early success in these areas can help build momentum and scale adoption across teams.

The bottom line: AI delivers value when it becomes part of how people work, not just a tool they occasionally use.

Companies like Lenovo offer the right combination of devices, solutions and support that is critical in helping SMBs operationalize AI effectively.

3. Embracing mentorship and Backing Every Business

Technology alone can’t close the gap between adoption and impact. Many SMBs understand the potential of AI, but lack the resources, tools or strategic direction to scale it effectively. Closing this gap requires not just technology, but guidance and partnership.

Initiatives like Lenovo’s Backing Every Business are designed to provide that support, connecting SMBs with mentorship, funding and technology to help them scale with confidence. In partnership with actress, producer, entrepreneur and social advocate Eva Longoria, Lenovo is spotlighting small business owners through its global “Twinning” campaign, connecting them with peer-to-peer mentorship, grant funding and AI-powered technology to help them grow and adapt in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

This approach recognizes a broader truth: SMBs don’t just need more technology; they need the right support and context for using it. That includes practical guidance on where to start, how to scale and how to align AI investments with business goals.

The most successful small businesses will be those that combine technology adoption with an external perspective and expertise.

Conclusion

AI adoption among small businesses is no longer the barrier; unlocking its full potential is.

As AI continues to evolve, the small businesses that succeed will be those that move beyond experimentation and embed these technologies into the fabric of how they operate. Those that do this effectively will turn AI from a tool into a true driver of growth.

2026-05-20T00:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• PR and MarCom professionals strive to achieve AI visibility for brands in today’s zero-click world, and need a way to measure their AI impact
• Brandpoint’s first-to-market solution, Brandpoint Optimize™, shows exactly where your brand appears in AI-generated answers and provides clear guidance on how to improve that visibility.
• Compounding paid and earned also builds AI authority.
• Turn your paid and earned content into real-time communications strategies for a competitive edge in AI visibility.

In the AI-driven digital landscape of 2026, how consumers seek information has fundamentally changed. Half of consumers use AI-powered search today, and because they now receive AI summaries, they no longer click on search results, leading to today’s zero-click phenomenon. AI is having a huge impact, with Gartner predicting that mass adoption of LLMs instead of traditional searches will lead to a doubling of PR and earned media budgets by 2027.

This leaves PR and Marcom professionals asking: How can you measure a brand’s AI visibility? After working hard to create content that tells a brand’s story, how do you know if your sponsored content and earned media placements are showing up in AI?

Brandpoint has the answer: Brandpoint Optimize™, the industry’s first all-in-one solution to create, distribute and measure brand campaigns across paid and earned media. This innovation helps to provide smart strategies to understand and enhance your brand’s AI visibility.

“The comms industry is rapidly evolving, with AI now deciding what consumers see in search results,” said Lisa Jilek, CEO of Brandpoint. “While PR and marketing professionals have trusted our network to get their content in front of the right audiences for 30 years, Brandpoint’s new suite of predictive intelligence tools is changing the face of MarCom planning today.”

Compounding paid and earned

Brandpoint’s solution creates well-structured paid content to create a searchable footprint, building authority and engagement signals that AI systems recognize. Added to that is earned coverage, which gets re-syndicated via paid channels to validate that footprint and further enhance AI visibility.

How to assess the quality of a brand’s AI visibility

Brandpoint helps PR and marketing pros prove the impact of their work with the first-to-market, all-in-one solution for effective brand storytelling, offering premium content placement, earned editorial coverage and measurable AI visibility.

In addition, Brandpoint now connects every campaign directly to measurable AI visibility with Brandpoint Optimize™, providing actionable intelligence on how campaigns performed, and — more importantly — on what to do next.

With the launch of Brandpoint Optimize™, brands can distribute branded content at scale, drive earned media pickup and see how their content surfaces in AI-driven searches.

Reports that measure branded content’s impact on AI search

For the first time, PR and MarCom leaders will have access to reports that help them understand the quality of their AI visibility as well as how audiences and competitors behave, and can use those insights to plan and execute smarter campaigns. This is the capability the industry has needed, and a category only Brandpoint could create.

“Since the AI revolution swept the industry, our clients have been asking, ‘How do we know our content is showing up in AI, and how do we prove it?'” said Stacy Stusynski, chief commercial officer, Brandpoint. “Nobody had a good answer, so we created one.”

Why only Brandpoint could create this solution

Building this capability required Brandpoint’s 30 years of experience and expertise that no competitor can replicate overnight:

• Three decades of learning from PR industry insights and MarCom behavior data.
• A proprietary network of high-authority news and media publications.
• The infrastructure to connect distribution and editorial coverage to measurable outcomes.

That foundation makes the difference, and is the reason Brandpoint was the only company that could deliver the solution.

“Brandpoint doesn’t just place content; it places content where the results can expand,” explained Stusynski. “Premium distribution builds editorial presence, and editorial presence builds AI visibility.”

Gaining a competitive edge in AI visibility

Brandpoint Optimize™ helps turn your paid and earned content into real-time communications strategies, giving your brand a competitive edge. AI visibility is what builds brand authority in 2026, and now, for the first time, enterprise leaders can measure every step of that chain and act on what the data shows.

Frequently asked questions:

How can you make content appealing to AI crawlers?

Content that is well-written, clearly structured, timely and credible will be perceived as more authoritative. Creating subheads similar to common queries, using bullet points, citing credible sources and using relevant quotes are all methods that help content be more “visible” to AI.

Brandpoint aims to create and distribute high-quality, human-written content that meets all of these criteria, speaking directly to your target audience with clarity, authority and authenticity.

What is included in Brandpoint Optimize™?

• Paid Placement: Article placement and companion release on Brandpoint’s exclusive, highly indexable, 800+ premium publisher network.
• Earned Media: Turn that distribution into earned editorial coverage promoted to thousands of editors.
• AI Visibility Report: Measure the impact on your brand’s AI visibility with actionable insights and recommendations on what to do next.

What does Brandpoint Optimize™ report on?

The AI Visibility Report offers numerous insights, including:

• Your brand’s visibility in leading AI search engines.
• How your brand’s visibility is impacted by content distribution.
• Share of voice in your product category.
• Brand sentiment within AI responses.
• Recommendations for content and distribution strategies.

PR and MarCom professionals are at the forefront of the new AI visibility economy, and Brandpoint’s innovation has created the industry’s first AI visibility solution at scale.

“We’re not just keeping pace with how brands get found today,” said Jilek. “We’re leading it.”

Learn more about how to measure your brand’s AI visibility at Brandpoint.com.

2026-05-14T06:31:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Scoring seats to watch your favorite football team play doesn’t have to break the bank.
• Simple tips like choosing the right games, using deal-finding apps, taking advantage of rewards programs, and planning for game-day expenses can help you have a great time on a budget.
• You can visit sites or apps like Vivid Seats to find NFL football tickets at some of the lowest prices.

Fans across the country are gearing up for football season! If you’re one of them, it’s time to start planning which games you’ll attend in person, picking your seats and finding your fan gear so you can cheer your team on to victory.

As you plan your game day, think about ways you can save on your day out. To help get you started, check out these four expert tips that can help you have a great time at the stadium without breaking the bank.

Choosing the right games for value

The game you choose can make a huge difference in ticket prices.

Primetime matchups, particularly those played on Thursday and Monday nights, often come with a premium price tag for fans. Data suggests that opting for a Sunday game can offer meaningful savings. On average, tickets for Sunday matchups are about 6% cheaper than Monday Night Football games and around 4% cheaper than Thursday Night Football games, making them a more budget-friendly choice for fans looking to cut costs.

Also, consider looking beyond marquee matchups, games featuring popular or high-performing teams and players. Instead, buy tickets for games featuring lower-ranked teams, which are often more affordable. No matter the matchup, you’re guaranteed to have fun at an NFL game. The game day experience is what it’s all about.

Buy tickets from deal-finding apps

Not all ticket sites or apps offer the same ticket prices or customer service experience. Look for affordable tickets to see your favorite NFL teams on apps like Vivid Seats.

Bought your tickets and then thought you found better prices somewhere else? Don’t worry. If you bought tickets on the Vivid Seats app, you can take advantage of its in-app Lowest Price Guarantee*. If you spot the same NFL ticket for less on a qualifying competitor site, Vivid Seats will match the price.

Always make sure you are buying from a trusted source. Look for third-party credentials to confirm that the site is legitimate and a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB). When you purchase a ticket from a trusted brand like Vivid Seats, you can count on transparent ticket prices thanks to its all-in pricing model, which shows the full ticket price, including all fees, up front. That means the price you see when choosing your seats will be the same price you’ll see at checkout, no surprises, so you can choose seats that best match your budget.

Using rewards to offset costs

Just like you would for hotels and flights, don’t forget to look into loyalty and rewards programs. If you plan to attend more than one football game throughout the season, choose a site or app that rewards repeat customers.

For example, the Vivid Seats Rewards program allows football fans to earn rewards on every purchase, which they can redeem for free tickets, while also getting surprise seat upgrades and other game-day exclusives.

Budgeting tips beyond tickets

Ticket prices aren’t the only expenses you need to budget for when going out to a football game. Costs like parking and concessions can quickly add up, especially when you’re going out as a group or family.

A simple way to save on parking can be to purchase or reserve a spot ahead of time to avoid day-of prices. Not only can you save on parking at or around the stadium, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to waste time looking for a spot, and you can look at options like tailgates to make the most of your game day visit. You can also research whether the stadium offers a park-and-ride service that will drop you off right in front of the gates. Many of the apps and sites you use to find tickets can also help you find affordable parking options.

Stadium concessions can also put a strain on your wallet. The good news is that many stadiums offer discounts and value meals, so you can enjoy a drink or two and a hot dog while staying on budget.

Ready to kick off an affordable football season?

Cheering on your favorite football team doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Using these four tips, you can enjoy watching live football and save some money while you’re at it. To learn more about ticket pricing and find games for your favorite football teams, visit VividSeats.com/NFL.

*Submit claim within 1 hour to get 115% of the price difference as a Vivid Seats credit. Valid only on comparable tickets at eligible marketplaces. Limit $200 Vivid Seats credit per claim; 2 claims per year. Additional restrictions and terms apply. See full terms.

2026-05-07T05:01:00

(BPT) – Before most people wake up, millions of Americans are already at work. Electricians loading vans in the dark. Utility crews restoring power after a storm. Contractors hauling equipment to a job site before sunrise. These are the workers — and the small businesses behind them — that keep the country functioning, often without fanfare.

Now, the automaker that builds more work trucks and vans for U.S. businesses than any other is offering those customers something typically reserved for its own employees: internal pricing on the vehicles they depend on every day.

From now through July 6, Ford Pro is launching “Employee Pricing: From Our Business to Yours,” giving commercial and small business customers access to what Ford employees actually pay — well below MSRP — on eligible Ford Pro vehicles. No negotiation, no rebate hunting. The price is the price.

Why Ford Pro, and why now?

Ford has been building vehicles designed for work since 1905. Today, its Transit vans and Super Duty trucks are operated by more small businesses than those of any other automaker in America. Ford Pro, the company’s commercial vehicle and services division, exists specifically to serve these customers — the plumbers, general contractors, municipal fleets and first responders who rely on their vehicles not as luxuries, but as essential tools.

The timing is intentional. With operating costs rising across the board — fuel, insurance, parts, labor — Ford says it wants to ease the financial pressure on the businesses and workers that form the backbone of local economies.

“This isn’t a promotion,” said Alicia Boler Davis, president of Ford Pro. “It is a sign of mutual respect. It is our way of easing the burden on the businesses and unsung heroes that carry the weight of this country on their shoulders.”

A personal connection to the work

For Boler Davis, the initiative is more than corporate strategy. She grew up in a blue-collar home in the Detroit area, where her father and grandfather both worked in automotive manufacturing during their careers at Ford. She later joined the company herself as an intern.

“I feel immense pride when I reflect on the work that they did to provide for our family; the long shifts were the foundation to my education and paved the way for my career,” she said. “This is why I came to Ford Pro. I am committed to helping make a difference for today’s essential workers.”

What’s included?

The program covers eligible Ford Pro commercial vehicles and work-site staples, including:

• Super Duty — Ford’s heavy-duty work truck lineup
• Transit Van — the full-size commercial van used across trades and fleets
• F-150 — America’s best-selling truck, a staple for contractors and small business owners
• Maverick and Ranger — smaller-footprint trucks for businesses that need versatility without the bulk

Specific trim eligibility and full vehicle details are available at FordPro.com or through local Ford dealers.

What it comes down to

Ford’s commercial customers already keep the company’s trucks and vans on the road longer and harder than most. This program flips the script — instead of asking businesses to navigate incentive stacks and dealer markups, Ford is simply offering them the same deal its own people get.

Whether you’re a one-truck operation or managing a fleet, the math is simple: employee pricing means real savings on the vehicles your business already runs on.

The “Employee Pricing: From Our Business to Yours” program runs now through July 6, 2026. For details, visit FordPro.com or contact your local Ford commercial vehicle dealer.

2026-05-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – Rising grocery bills, higher gas prices, insurance premiums ticking up; all of it adds up to more Americans feeling financially squeezed. So, when the country’s largest employer of hourly U.S. autoworkers says it is opening its employee pricing to the public, it’s worth understanding what’s on the table and what’s behind the announcement.

Starting May 1, Ford is launching a new pricing program “American Value for American Values” which will run through July 6 and offer employee pricing on most new 2025 and 2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles to all U.S. customers. You pay what a Ford Motor Company employee pays, which is their pricing, well below the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. The program can save buyers anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the vehicle.

To get the price, you won’t need to hunt down and wait for a rebate, clip a coupon or negotiate on the lot. The price is the price.

The initiative from Ford is tied to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary — the semiquincentennial — and the company says it’s not just a limited-time sale; it’s a gesture of gratitude toward the customers and communities that have supported Ford for over a century.

“You are not just customers to us. You are the reason we show up to work,” said Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue and Model e. “We want to treat you like family, and that extends to employee pricing on our new vehicles.”

Ford has been building vehicles in America for nearly 125 years — almost half of the country’s entire history. The company employs more U.S. hourly autoworkers and assembles more vehicles domestically than any other automaker, a legacy that traces back to Henry Ford’s introduction of the $5-a-day wage in 1914, a move widely credited with helping build the American middle class.

That history is central to the campaign’s message.

This isn’t just about discounts on vehicles — Ford is anchoring it to something bigger: the idea that in a moment when the country feels loud and divided, there’s value in leaning into the things that still hold people together — hard work, community and showing up for your neighbors.

What vehicles are included?

The list is broad. Most new 2025 and 2026 Ford and Lincoln models are eligible, including some of the brand’s most popular nameplates:

• Trucks: F-150, Maverick, Ranger, Super Duty (select trims)
• SUVs: Bronco, Bronco Sport, Explorer, Expedition, Escape
• Cars: Mustang
• Electric vehicles: Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, E-Transit
• Commercial: Transit Van
• Lincoln: Corsair, Nautilus, Aviator, Navigator

Some specialty and limited-production models are excluded, including the Raptor lineup, Mustang GTD and certain high-trim Super Duty configurations. A full list of eligible vehicles is available at Ford.com or through local dealerships.

What about electric vehicles?

Electric vehicle buyers can not only save with employee pricing but also take advantage of Ford’s ongoing Power Promise program, which includes a complimentary home charger and standard installation, a frequently cited hurdle for first-time EV owners. The Power Promise also includes 24/7 EV support, roadside assistance, access to over 25,000 Tesla Superchargers via an available adapter and an 8-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty.

Ford has a long history of investing in U.S. workers, factories and communities, so it’s not just a promotion with a patriotic bow on it.

“Value is not only about what you pay,” Frick noted. “It is also about what a company stands for, where it invests and who it shows up for.”

Whether or not you buy the sentiment, the math is straightforward: Employee pricing means real savings on vehicles that millions of Americans already depend on for work, family life and everything in between.

The American Value for American Values program runs from May 1 through July 6, 2026. If you’ve been in the market for a new truck, SUV or EV, this is one of the rare moments where a major automaker is offering its internal pricing to the public — no strings, no negotiation, no catch.

For more details, visit Ford.com or contact your local Ford dealer.

2026-04-28T13:26:30

(BPT) – As small businesses across the country grapple with rising costs, payroll volatility, and global uncertainty, many are seeking new ways to adapt and thrive. The latest Chase Small Business Pulse report paints a nuanced picture: while profitability for the median Chase business remains stable, the pressures of payroll and non-payroll expenses are mounting, and the impact of higher fuel prices is already rippling through sectors like freight trucking.

Payroll: A Barometer of Optimism and Challenge

Payroll trends offer a window into the mindset of small business owners. After a sharp decline in January, payroll growth rebounded in February 2026 — a sign of renewed optimism and a willingness to invest in talent. This growth was not uniform, however. Sectors such as finance, construction, and transportation saw the highest median payroll growth rates, while others lagged behind, reflecting an uneven recovery and persistent caution in parts of the economy. Meanwhile, non-payroll expenses remain historically elevated, adding another layer of complexity to business planning.

Technology as a Lifeline

In this environment, technology is emerging as a lifeline. Digital solutions like Invoicing with QuickAccept, contactless payments, cash flow tools, and industry insights are designed to give leaders greater visibility and control, which are essential in a world where volatility is the new normal.

Jameson Troutman, Head of Product at Chase for Business, sees this shift firsthand through years of working with small business owners. “We hear it directly from small businesses every day; new technology is playing a major role in bolstering their operations.” He added, “Chase for Business is dedicated to providing practical support and tools to help customers navigate key business decisions, such as cash flow challenges and tighter margins. Our job is to empower small business owners through tools, expertise and business solutions to allow them to manage and strengthen their businesses.”

Not All Businesses Face the Same Headwinds

The data also reveals that not all small businesses are affected equally. Women-owned businesses, for example, are navigating even greater unpredictability: 68% report unpredictable revenues, and many have far less cash on hand than their male-owned counterparts. These disparities underscore the importance of accessible, practical support, both digital and human.

Beyond Technology: Building Community and Confidence

Chase’s commitment extends beyond technology. Through in-person events like The Experience and national JPMorganChase programs such as the American Dream Initiative, Chase is bringing small business owners the resources, coaching, and community connections to help build resilience and confidence. It is all of these resources and support that Chase for Business provides that is the reason that more small business owners choose Chase than any other bank.

Looking Ahead

In today’s dynamic environment, optimism remains a hallmark of entrepreneurship, but it’s clear that resilience is built on more than hope. With the right tools, guidance, and support, small businesses can navigate uncertainty and move forward with confidence. Chase for Business is betting big on that future, investing in the solutions and partnerships that will help America’s small businesses not just survive, but thrive.

2026-04-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – May 2 is National Life Insurance Day. For millions of Americans, now is the time to re-examine your current policy or think about applying for one. Even though most people think life insurance can be complicated, the need has never been greater. Only 51% of U.S. adults have a life insurance policy, representing a $14T coverage gap in the United States (Greenwald Research), and nearly 41% of adults in the U.S. are somewhat or not at all knowledgeable about life insurance (Life Happens and LIMRA).

Don’t be intimidated. It’s important for everyone to protect their income, assets and loved ones from life’s uncertainties.

Life insurance has also changed drastically over the years to include new living benefits policyholders may potentially take advantage of while they are still living to help pay for costs associated with certain serious qualifying illnesses, caregiving responsibilities and other life events.

According to National Life Group, there are several key things to consider as you decide if you need coverage or should update an existing policy.

Key questions for those without life insurance:

Does anyone depend on you financially?

If so, it may be a good idea to explore life insurance options to financially support your dependents should anything happen to you.

Are you a parent/grandparent or a caregiver for dependents or elderly parents?

Parents and grandparents should plan ahead to understand what options are available for estate planning and their children’s future. Additionally, caregivers of elderly parents may be able to take advantage of certain living benefits of their life insurance policy for support.

Do you have any debt you co-own or are co-signed with? (including a mortgage)

If you have a significant amount of debt you are co-signed with another party (the most common being a mortgage) without coverage, they could be left holding the bill for the entire debt.

Do you have an estate that needs protection?

It’s smart to have protection in place as part of a dedicated estate plan to ensure the quick, amicable and seamless transfer of wealth from one generation to the next.

Key questions for those with life insurance:

Have you started a family or have family members that are financially dependent on you?

If you recently started a family and have an existing policy, it may be worth speaking with your agent to ensure your new family’s coverage needs are met. Your dependents can include anyone from children to parents to siblings with special needs.

Have you purchased a new home, changed careers or received a change in salary?

Significant changes in your income may require a new look at your existing policy to ensure your coverage works for you.

Is your policy several years old and has not been recently reviewed?

Ask your agent to see if you are eligible for new benefits or policy riders. Insurance partners are frequently adding new benefits or features for their policyholders. If your policy isn’t automatically enrolled in new features, it may be time to speak with your agent to review your current policy.

Whether you already have a life insurance policy or are considering one, answering these key questions will help as you decide if you need coverage or should update your existing policy. For more information, visit www.nationallife.com.

Living benefits are provided by no-additional-premium Accelerated Benefits Riders (ABRs). Payment of accelerated benefits will reduce the cash value and/or death benefit otherwise payable under the policy. Receipt of accelerated benefits may be a taxable event, may affect your eligibility for public assistance programs, and may reduce or eliminate other policy and rider benefits. Please consult your tax professional to determine the tax status of any benefits paid under this rider and with social service agencies concerning how receipt of such a payment could affect you.

Riders are supplemental benefits that can be added to a life insurance policy and are not suitable unless you also have a need for life insurance. Riders are optional, may require additional premium, and may not be available in all states or on all products. This is not a solicitation of a life insurance policy.

The companies of National Life Group and their representatives do not offer tax or legal advice. For advice concerning your own situation, please consult with your appropriate professional advisor.

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