EVIO, Inc. (OTCQB: (EVIO)
EVIO, Inc. (OTCQB: EVIO), via the EVIO Labs division, is the nation's leading provider of accredited analytical testing, scientific research and advisory services to the regulated cannabis industry. EVIO Labs provides state-mandated ancillary services that are required to ensure the safety and quality of the nation's cannabis supply. EVIO Labs has performed over 50,000 tests during the past two years and grown from one laboratory in Oregon to nine labs spanning California, Oregon, Colorado, Massachusetts and Florida.
EVIO Labs is driving the cannabis testing industry by providing clients nationwide with consistent high-quality cannabis analytical services backed by quality control assurances. The company also provides advisory services that help cannabis producers and retailers enhance production processes, achieve regulatory compliance and meet quality goals.
EVIO Labs is on track to open 18 laboratories by the end of 2018 at locations around the United States. The Oregon-based company provides analytical services that include testing cannabis and industrial hemp flower, extracts and infused products. The labs specialize in performing the following tests:
- Cannabinoid analysis, which properly characterizes the many primary cannabinoids found in cannabis including THC, CBD, and several other cannabinoids.
- Terpene analysis, which identifies the aromatic compounds of the plant (terpene), which can help identify the therapeutic potential of a cannabis flower or extract.
- Moisture content and water activity, which measure the moisture levels of dried cannabis and are indicators of microbiological growth potential.
- Pesticide residue analysis of over 100 different pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, growth regulators and other agrochemicals that may be present on cannabis.
- Detection of harmful residual solvents left behind in the cannabis extract production process.
- Microbial testing screen for bacterial and fungal contamination in cannabis and cannabis-infused products.
- Detection of heavy metals including lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic.
EVIO Labs is rapidly becoming the nation's leading cannabis biotechnology company. Led by a management team with extensive experience in designing and rolling out successful business ventures, product research and development, regulatory and compliance protocols, medical cannabis cultivation, production and analytical chemistry techniques, EVIO Labs is prepared to take advantage of today's fastest growing industry.
First Cobalt Corp. (TSX.V: FCC)
(OTCQB: FTSSF)
First Cobalt Corp. (TSX.V: FCC) (OTCQB: FTSSF), with headquarters in Canada, is the largest land owner in the Cobalt Camp in Ontario with control of over 10,000 hectares (nearly 25,000 acres) of prospective land and 50 historic cobalt/silver mines. The company's assets include a mill and the only permitted cobalt extraction refinery in North America capable of producing battery material, providing an integrated solution for cobalt projects. First Cobalt began drilling in the historic Cobalt Camp in 2017 and seeks to build shareholder value through new discovery and growth opportunities.
First Cobalt's 2018 $C7 million drilling program, which includes testing different styles of mineralized areas throughout the Cobalt Camp in more than 10 past-producing mines known to contain cobalt, is a significant expansion over its 2017 exploration activities. The company received positive test drill results from the Bellellen mine location, with early results confirming the presence of high-grade cobalt and nickel, prompting First Cobalt to increase its drilling program at that site. A prospecting sampling program of existing muckpiles around the camp's historic mines, trenches, pits and surrounding bedrock could provide an early production scenario.
First Cobalt Corp. is moving quickly to leverage its potential against an economic background that estimates global consumption for refined cobalt is set to grow at an average rate of approximately 5 percent per annum for the next 10 years. The electric vehicle market, in particular, is driving this sector since more than 50 percent of the world's current production of cobalt is used in the manufacture of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The global lithium-ion battery market, as estimated by Zion Market Research, indicates the value at around USD $31 billion in 2016 and is expected to generate revenue of nearly USD $68 billion by end of 2022, growing at a compound annual growth rate of slightly above 17 percent.
First Cobalt is embracing innovation in the mining sector, utilizing a digital compilation of 100-plus years of mining and geological data spanning the historically prolific Cobalt Mining Camp's lifespan. First Cobalt's management team is also assessing the ability of artificial intelligence to accelerate the discovery cycle. As a member of the Mineral Exploration Research Centre (MERC) and Metal Earth Project, First Cobalt conducts regional geophysical surveys for geological interpretation of structures controlling cobalt-silver mineralization.
The company's clear pathway to production and cash flow generation includes being one of only four fully permitted cobalt extraction refineries in Canada with significant material and processing infrastructure on site. With the price of cobalt increasing significantly and its importance in the growing battery market underpinning a strong long-term demand forecast, First Cobalt Corp. and its mining interests are primed for success.
First Cobalt Corp. President and CEO Trent Mell, a mining executive and capital markets professional with extensive international transactional experience, is joined by a team of reputable and seasoned deal-makers, mine builders and mine operators with decades of global experience in exploration, business development, geoscience, engineering and finance.
Global Hemp Group, Inc. (CSE: GHG) (FRANKFURT: GHG) (OTC: GBHPF)
Global Hemp Group, Inc. (CSE: GHG) (FRANKFURT: GHG) (OTC: GBHPF), headquartered in British Columbia, Canada, is a publicly traded company founded in 2014. Global Hemp Group is focused on acquiring and developing a strategic portfolio of like-minded companies that believe in the significant potential of the industrial hemp plant. Global Hemp Group's focused on attracting joint venture partners across all sectors of the industrial hemp industries with the commitment to improve quality of life by researching, developing and distributing sustainable materials, products and services produced from hemp.
The company's mission is to build a strategic portfolio of hemp-based companies that operate synergistically to consistently deliver a solid ROI to its shareholders. Global Hemp Group has established the concept of Hemp Agro-Industrial Zone (HAIZ) (https://globalhempgroup.com/hempagro/) in order to build cooperative mechanisms across industrial sectors with a focus on different parts of the hemp plant. Under the HAIZ strategy, Global Hemp Group brings together capital, farmers and labor in an effort to build a "soil-to-shelf" portfolio of complimentary companies and joint venture partners in the global hemp industry.
Global Hemp Group has chosen to only work with suppliers of high quality, sustainable raw materials and finished products derived from the hemp plant. Among the leading industries utilizing industrial hemp's exceptional properties is the automotive sector, building materials market, bio-composites, energy-related markets, super-foods, nutritional supplements, nutraceuticals and the cannabinoid markets. Guided by the principal theme of "global environmental stewardship," Global Hemp Group focuses on the key concepts of sustainability and social responsibility in all its endeavors.
Global Hemp Group's joint venture with publicly traded Marijuana Company of America on hemp cultivation trials in 2017, designed to develop commercial hemp production on the Acadian peninsula of New Brunswick, Canada, for the first time in 20 years, was a great success. The partners are preparing for the upcoming changes in Canada's cannabis legislation that will permit cannabinoid extraction from industrial hemp. Farmers have already been recruited to plant a minimum of 125 acres of industrial hemp for the 2018 growing season, with the goal of increasing the acreage under cultivation to 1,000+ acres by year three of the joint project. Global Hemp Group is preparing an application for a processing license to extract cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids from the upcoming industrial hemp crop. Discussions are also underway with potential processing partners for the extraction of cannabinoids and straw processing for building materials for the upcoming harvest in October 2018, with a longer term plan to establish permanent processing facilities by October 2019.
Global Hemp Group is led by Charles Larsen as its president, CEO and chairman of the board. Larsen's more than 30 years of experience working in government, public, private and startup companies as an executive manager includes being the founding president of Medical Marijuana, Inc., the first public company in the Cannabis space. Larsen is also a founder and current director of Marijuana Company of America, Inc., and has been actively involved in the cannabis and hemp industry for nearly a decade. Larsen is joined by Curt Huber, who serves as CFO and director. Huber is an independent corporate and financial consultant with more than 25 years of experience in all facets of public companies among many different sectors including mining, oil and gas, and technology.
Also joining the management team as director is Dr. Paul T. Perrault, an agricultural economist trained in cooperative development and in rural development. Perrault's experience includes years of consulting on rural development projects introducing new crops in several developing countries and strengthening agricultural research organizations, principally in Africa. Jeff Kilpatrick also serves as a director and is currently a program supervisor of Alachua County Department of Court Services in Gainesville, Florida. Kilpatrick, who spent 21 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, is a member of LEAP – Law Enforcement Against Prohibition – and is president elect for the National Association of Pretrial Services Agencies (NAPSA).
Global Hemp Group's business philosophy is "A healthier future through sustainable business strategies."
Hammer Fiber Optics Holdings Corp. (OTCQB: HMMR)
Hammer Fiber Optic Holdings Corp. (OTCQB: HMMR), with headquarters in New Jersey, is a telecommunications company investing in the future of wireless technology. The company's holdings include Hammer Fiber Optic Investments, Ltd., D/B/A Hammer Fiber, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers internet, voice, video and data services in New Jersey as well as carrier services in Philadelphia and New York. Hammer Fiber serves residential and small business markets with high-capacity broadband, voice and video through direct fiber as well as its wireless fiber platform – Hammer Wireless® AIR technology.
Hammer Fiber recently completed the initial development phase of its advanced LTE fixed wireless system, which was designed and built upon its successfully deployed wireless technology suite. The expansion allows Hammer Fiber to add ultra-high capacity cellular broadband applications to its product portfolio including wholesale services such as backhaul support for cellular network operators. Designed to complement Hammer Fiber's core business of home residential service, the company expects this latest innovation to help position Hammer Fiber as a leader in future 5G technology. The company intends to leverage the Fixed LTE system in conjunction with its already deployed Fixed Wireless DOCSIS 3.1 system to deliver on one of its core promises, to deliver high capacity broadband to markets across the country at dramatically lower cost than traditional wireline methods, including fiber. Live field testing of the new system begins in early 2018 in the U.S. with service availability to follow later in the year.
Hammer Fiber has also expanded its IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service) cloud services to include support for the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry. Interested companies will be able to host their products over Hammer Fiber's robust and modern server infrastructure, fiber network architecture and data center presence in some of the most secure locations in the New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia regions. Hammer Fiber's servers feature best-in-class computing power, designed to allow enterprise businesses to reap the benefits of utilizing a cloud-based system without the massive cost of establishing or maintaining a corporate data center.
"Distributed architecture infrastructure, such as those utilized by blockchain entities mining cryptocurrencies or other new vertical markets utilizing blockchain technology, are growing exponentially and we are poised to fulfill a critical but fundamental need of this explosive new industry," said Mark Stogdill, CEO of Hammer Fiber. "The distributed ledger architectures that blockchains are built on require secure and robust data processing networks, highly scalable power generation and a reliable fiber optic backbone infrastructure linking up data centers worldwide for them to exist, and that is what we at Hammer Fiber do really well."
Hammer Fiber seeks to achieve its vision by employing an extremely qualified group of business professionals with diverse backgrounds and successful track records from a variety of related industries. HMMR's seasoned leadership team combines startup expertise with a consummate understanding of the regional competitive telecommunications landscape in sales, marketing, engineering, construction and business development.
Lithium Chile Inc. (TSX.V: LITH)
(OTC: LTMCF)
Lithium Chile Inc. (TSX.V: LITH) (OTC: LTMCF), headquartered in Canada, is advancing one of the largest lithium-rich exploration portfolios in Chile consisting of more than 148,000 hectares covering sections of 13 salars or mineral salt flats and one laguna complex. The company's wholly owned premier properties include 66 square kilometers on the Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest mineral salt flat which hosts the world's highest concentration of lithium brine production and is currently the source of about 35 percent of the world's lithium production. Lithium Chile also owns a significant copper/gold/silver property portfolio consisting of 28,184 hectares over six different properties.
Lithium Chile's portfolio in the heart of Chile's lithium-rich salars includes Salar de Coipasa, Salar de Helados, Salar de Atacama, Salar de Turi Salar de Ollague and Salar de Talar. Surface and near surface salt and brine sampling programs on all properties has been completed. To date, samples of high-grade, near-surface lithium brines at each of these projects are showing excellent chemistry of lithium to potassium and lithium to magnesium ratios. Good chemistry is important as it reduces your overall cost of production. Recent geophysical surveys including T.E.M have been completed on 5 of 6 priority targets and data collected to date has been extremely encouraging.
Lithium Chile has identified multiple high-priority brine target areas at its Atacama and Ollague lithium project areas. These areas display the same geophysical characteristics as the lithium-rich aquifers at Salar de Atacama, home to the world's largest and highest-grade lithium brine producers. Spanning an area of 1,200 square miles, Salar de Atacama is the world's third largest salt flat behind Salinas Grandes in Argentina and El Salar de Uyuni in neighboring Bolivia. Exploration drilling and resource definition drilling for these target areas are planned for 2018.
"We are delighted with the discovery of such impressive drill target areas at Atacama and Ollague. The results also follow the recent discovery of a 60km2 target area at another of our top Chilean projects – Helados – where we hope to drill in the second quarter of 2018," stated President and CEO Steve Cochrane. "We have an aggressive multi-project drill program planned for this year, which includes all three of these exciting projects and we look forward to sharing drill results as they come through."
Global demand for lithium-ion batteries is expected to surpass US$53 billion by 2024 as governments around the world aggressively seek to ban gas-powered vehicles and major automakers invest billions in new technology and electric vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries. Chile's mining-friendly jurisdiction offers Lithium Chile a clear, streamlined permitting process that significantly lowers the cost of lithium production to around $1,800/ton as compared to Australia's $5,000/ton.
Lithium Chile is led by an experienced team with strong Chilean connections. Cochrane's 36 years of investment industry experience have primarily been focused on the mining sector. During this time, he raised more than US$500 million for a variety of small cap public companies in various businesses and industry sectors including mining.
Terry Walker, P.Geol., vice president of exploration and chief geologist, is a highly experienced geologist. He has spent over 25 years in Chile's mining industry and is well connected throughout the sector. Walker is co-founder of GeoServicios Piedra Dorada, an exploration and development services company focused on Latin America. He is a Qualified Person for the North American and Australian stock exchanges.
Lithium Chile is well funded and driven by a top-tier team with more than 100 years of combined experience in financing, mining exploration and development in the natural resources sector.
Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc.
(OTCQB: PVOTF)
Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc. (OTCQB: PVOTF), based in Vancouver, Canada, is an emerging biopharmaceutical company engaged in the development and commercialization of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals that provide novel treatments for unmet healthcare needs. Pivot's recent acquisition of BiPhasix ™ Transdermal Drug Delivery technology for the delivery of cannabinoids (CBD) to patients provides the answer for an age-old problem associated with cannabinoid-based therapies: the lack of a robust smoke-less delivery mechanism.
Research into the bioavailability of cannabinoid-based therapeutics shows that rates of absorption vary greatly between smoking cannabis to an orally-consumed product, with a difference noted even between individuals. Cannabinoids are degraded in the stomach and smoking may not appeal to patients for health or lifestyle reasons. Topical delivery, while a better alternative, has suffered from weak formulation issues. Transdermal cannabinoid delivery, on the other hand, could provide a better alternative route since it reduces side effects and bypasses other absorption issues. In addition, transdermal delivery provides the benefit of enabling patients to access a steady stream of medication over a prolonged period with fewer side effects.
Pivot Pharmaceutical's newly created subsidiary, Pivot Green Stream Health Solutions Inc. ("Pivot Green Stream"), will focus on improving the bioavailability of cannabinoid-based and pharmaceuticals. BiPhasix™ has been tested in FDA and EMA approved human clinical trials, which have shown the delivery system enhances the bioavailability of many drugs and improves clinical outcomes. Pivot Green Stream is tasked with developing several natural health products containing cannabinoids (CBD) that can receive a Health Canada Natural Health Product (NHP) designation. This marketing method ensures a shorter development cycle and faster revenue generation opportunities.
Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc., which has positioned itself as a growing and crucial vertical in the cannabis industry, represents a compelling opportunity in the biotechnology field. The company's plans include working with Licensed Producers (LP) and Licensed Dealers (LD) to bring newer therapies to patients. The company has also applied to list on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE).
The global medical marijuana market is expected to reach a value of $55.8 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The growing number of states and countries gaining approval for using cannabis in therapeutic applications is expected to continue driving the market forward.
Pivot Pharmaceuticals has assembled a highly experienced management team, bringing together a wealth of clinical, commercial, product development and financial experience. Among the many healthcare targets in Pivot's pipeline are cancer supportive care, pain and inflammation, women's sexual dysfunction, dermatology and eye disease.
Pressure BioSciences Inc. (OTCQB: PBIO)
Pressure BioSciences, Inc. (OTCQB: PBIO) develops, markets and sells proprietary laboratory instrumentation and associated consumables to the life sciences sample preparation market. Sample preparation refers to the wide range of activities that precede most forms of scientific analysis. It is often complex and time-consuming, yet a critical part of scientific research. The market for sample preparation products is currently estimated at $6 billion worldwide.
The Company's product line can be used to exquisitely control the sample preparation process. It is based on a patented, enabling technology platform called pressure cycling technology ("PCT"). PCT uses alternating cycles of hydrostatic pressure between ambient (14.5 psi) and ultra-high levels (up to 100,000 psi) to safely and reproducibly control critical biological processes, such as the lysis (breakage) of cells, the digestion of proteins, and the inactivation of pathogens.
Pressure BioSciences' product line is led by its newly released, next-generation Barocycler 2320EXTREME instrument. Named a finalist in the prestigious 2017 R&D Awards (also known as the "Oscars of Innovation"), the Barocycler 2320EXT is already being touted by some key opinion leaders as an essential element of the $1.8 billion U.S. "Cancer Moonshot" program. For example, Professor Phil Robinson, Co-head of the cancer research center of the Children's Medical Research Institute (Sydney, Australia), said in a recent interview: "We are collecting the whole proteome on 70,000 tumor samples from all classes where complete clinical outcome is known. Due to its unique capabilities, the Barocycler 2320EXT has become a critical part of our program. It is the primary enabler of the high-throughput component of the project. Without this step, our project simply could not be done. In fact, the Barocycler 2320EXT works so well we have just purchased two more."
Momentum is building when it comes to the potential for using the Company's unique PCT technology platform. Leading scientists are intrigued by Pressure BioSciences' approach, which among other attributes, revolutionizes the process of rupturing cells (lysis) for further study, yielding superior biomolecules for investigation. The Company's technology transcends current methods of breaking open cells, which use chemicals, blades, metal beads, or other damaging and altering methods that can ultimately adversely affect the result for researchers. Pressure BioSciences' PCT technology utilizes customized, controlled hydrostatic (water) pressure to rupture cells in a chamber, enabling exquisitely customized levels of pressure to optimally break open different types of cells at prescribed pressure levels—something never before accomplished in a commercial setting. Using this pioneering method, the result is a truer, more legitimate sample, which boosts the efficacy of research and the quality of results. The potential impact of this technology on scientific advancement is enormous, enabling research scientists to begin their studies with biological samples of unprecedented integrity, with the potential to improve research outcomes at the earliest, most critical step. PCT can additionally inactivate pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria) using hydrostatic pressure, making the samples safer to study—another innovation with astronomical potential for application in a variety of markets.
The Company's high-pressure instruments for research purposes are marketed throughout the United States, Europe, China and Japan. To date, Pressure BioSciences has installed nearly 300 PCT Systems in over 165 leading academic, government, biotech and pharma laboratories around the world. Its primary applications are in biomarker discovery, forensics, agriculture and pathology. Over 100 scientific papers have been published on the advantages of the PCT platform, which is also being used in the specialized fields of drug discovery and design, bio-therapeutics characterization, soil and plant biology, vaccine development and histology.
Impressive as their biotech business is, there is more to the PBI story. Pressure BioSciences recently received two patents in China for its novel Ultra Shear Technology (UST), a process that has potential in a wide range of industrial applications, including extending the shelf life of some food products and making two insoluble liquids (like oil in water) soluble. Patents have also been filed in many other countries worldwide. UST is a novel technique based on the use of intense shear forces generated from ultra-high-pressure valve discharge.
This important technology has the potential to play a significant role in a number of commercially important areas through its ability to create high-quality, stable nanoemulsions. Scientific studies indicate that improved absorption, higher bioavailability, greater stability, lower surfactant levels and other advantages can be achieved with nanoemulsions – all hugely important factors in the fields of nutraceuticals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and in various medical products. There is an enormous opportunity in the cannabis market, since the technology can potentially reduce oil droplets containing cannabidiol (CBD) to nanoparticles, after which they can be safely suspended in a stable water solution—something many companies have endeavored to achieve without success. Researchers looking for a way to increase the bioavailability of cannabinoids in the body will find this technology a game changer.
The Company's UST technology also has possibilities in the production of clean label foods, which are currently processed using several innovative methods, including high-pressure treatments (such as Starbucks' Evolution line of juices). In 2015, the worldwide market for high-pressure processed (HPP) food was estimated at U.S. $10 billion. UST uses ultra-high pressures and certain valves to generate intense shear forces under controlled temperature conditions to produce nanoemulsions, and which also significantly reduces food-borne pathogens. Pressure BioSciences' initial focus with this technology will be to evaluate UST for the production of high-quality dairy products and beverages.
PreveCeutical Medical Inc. (CSE: PREV) (OTCQB: PRVCF) (FSE: 18H)
PreveCeutical Medical Inc. (CSE: PREV) (OTCQB: PRVCF) (FSE:18H), headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is a health sciences company dedicated to researching and developing innovative options for preventive and curative therapies utilizing organic and Nature Identical™ products. The company is strategically staking out select positions in the medically acute areas of diabetes and obesity, pain management, neurological disorders and cancer.
PreveCeutical Medical Inc. had its beginnings in 2009 when Stephen Van Deventer, a seasoned businessman and venture capitalist, and Kimberly Van Deventer, a successful entrepreneur, met and formed a business partnership. The duo created Cornerstone Global Partners, a venture capital and business development company, and became involved in numerous ventures including building companies such as Aurora Cannabis Inc. Taking their interest in the health and wellness market further, the pair began researching how nature and science can work together to benefit health-conscious consumers. Coining and trademarking the word "PreveCeutical" – a combination of the words "preventive" and "pharmaceutical" – was a precursor to the company's formation and incorporation in October 2015.
The company's first product was developed in the Dominican Republic and is now marketed and distributed worldwide by PreveCeutical. It is a Caribbean Blue Scorpion venom product sold under the trade name CELLB9®. This product is an oral dilute solution infused with select peptides sourced exclusively from the blue scorpion (Rhopalurus princeps) found only in Caribbean nations. The active potentiated ingredients in CELLB9, which have been used in over 40 countries for over a decade, appear to support health at a deep, cellular level. PreveCeutical's research team is using proprietary chemistry to generate Nature Identical™ peptides derived from natural compounds found in Caribbean Blue Scorpion venom with the goal of eventually treating, regulating and preventing cancer progression. Peptides are also being used to target an array of disease indications including metabolic disorders, pain management, cancers, cardiovascular and infectious diseases.
PreveCeutical is developing the first nose-to-brain delivery system of cannabinoids (CBDs) with a novel process that prepares insoluble drug-containing nano-micelles and successfully incorporating them into a proprietary sol-gels application, essentially creating a targeted drug delivery vehicle. Intended for use via a nasal spray, this unique formulation rapidly gels upon contact with mucosal tissue, which paves the way for direct nose-to-brain delivery. This novel application eliminates first pass metabolism (stomach, intestines, liver), potentially improving bioavailability and delivering extended time release formulations that may alleviate side effects of higher dosage therapeutics. This CBD-based patented formula is projected to be deployed in selected markets with licensed medical marijuana companies within 18 months.
PreveCeutical is working with four leading Australian research centers to develop a curative therapy for diabetes and obesity. This four-year program involves engineering a novel approach that selectively targets the gene that encodes for the protein PTP-1B, which is implicated and over-expressed in both type-2 diabetes and obesity. PreveCeutical's gene-silencing technology would effectively "turn off" the genetic signal which leads to the over-production of this key protein molecule, bringing it back down to safe, normalized levels, and prevent the body from storing excessive fat. Diabetes kills one person every six seconds, with more than $800 billion spent globally on the disease.
Another exciting joint venture, established with Sports 1 Marketing, will focus on the therapeutic potential in the peptides and proteins connected to the Caribbean Blue Scorpion venom to potentially treat mild brain injury concussions. Developing a therapeutic product geared towards athletes who suffer from concussions could help alleviate suffering experienced by those who are affected by head trauma.
PreveCeutical Medical's science and research team is led by Dr. Harendra (Harry) Parekh, Ph.D., who is based at the University of Queensland's (UQ) Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence (PACE), and Dr. Makarand Jawadekar, Ph.D., whose 28 years of R&D experience with Pfizer Inc., is applicable in his role as chief science officer. Research collaborators include Dr. Rakesh Veedu, an emerging expert internationally in the field of molecular medicine, and Professor Grant Ramm, who is currently head of a leading medical research institute located in Brisbane, Australia.
PreveCeutical Medical is partnering with leading industry experts and companies in its quest to be a leader in the preventive health sciences sector. Its Research and Development partnership with UniQuest, the main commercialization company for the University of Queensland, provides PreveCeutical with the rights to all intellectual property arising from projects created under the agreement. PreveCeutical Medical Inc.'s management team brings an extensive portfolio of research experience, product development, deep corporate strategy and capital markets leadership to the company's core.
QMC Quantum Minerals Corp. (OTC: QMCQF) (TSX.V: QMC) (FSE: 3LQ)
QMC Quantum Minerals Corp. (OTC: QMCQF) (TSX.V: QMC) (FSE: 3LQ) is a British Columbia based company engaged in the business of acquisition, exploration and development of natural resource properties. QMC's focus is on creating shareholder value through strategic acquisition and development of high quality lithium, silver, gold, nickel, copper and zinc prospects.
QMC's current properties are in the Canadian province of Manitoba, one of Canada's most productive, centrally located mining regions. These resources include the Irgon Lithium Mine project and two Volcanic Massive Sulphide ("VMS") properties – the Rocky Lake and Rocky-Namew known collectively as the Namew Lake District Project – which contain base metal-rich mineral deposits. Excellent access and well-developed mining infrastructure to the company's wholly-owned Irgon Lithium Mine Project offers significant value and ramps up the near-term production schedule, putting QMC in a position to take advantage of rising lithium prices.
The region's historic resource estimate of lithium is well documented in a 1956 Assessment Report developed by a previous owner, Lithium Corporation of Canada Ltd. The project's historical resource estimate of 1.2 million tons grading 1.51% lithium-oxide over a strike length of 365 meters and to a depth of 213 meters is being updated by QMC through a detailed channel sampling and subsequent drill program.
North Face Software Ltd. recently created an interactive 3-D model of the Irgon Dike utilizing all historical data derived from past drilling and underground work. The 3-D model clearly demonstrates that exploration and underground development has only taken place on the central portion of the dike, leaving significant potential to quickly increase tonnage.
The company's latest assay results, obtained from 144 channel samples at QMC's Irgon Lithium Mine Project, provided encouraging and positive results that compare favorably with the historic assays. QMC has received a drill permit from the Sustainable Development Office of the Manitoba government and is in the process of requesting and assessing bids from drilling contractors. The company plans to begin a 2,000-meter drill program to confirm the historic lithium oxide assay results documented in the historic 1953-54 drill program.
QMC's experienced leadership team includes specialists in mineral exploration, geology, engineering, new business development, marketing and investor relations. The company's team of qualified advisors includes consultant Bruce E. Goad, P.Geo., who has 40 years of experience in mineral exploration in Canada, Argentina, Asia and Africa. As a Qualified Person, Goad has worked on numerous deposit styles including rare element pegmatites, porphyry, banded iron formation (BIF) gold deposits, skarn, greisens, and VMS. He has a wide and varied skill set which includes precious, base, industrial and rare metal projects with a sharp focus on gold exploration. Goad is the author of several scholarly publications on pegmatite granites of the southeastern Manitoba region.
The market for lithium has surged over the past three years with prices per metric ton tripling. The world's rising demand for portable power can easily been seen in the electric vehicle and mobile device industries – both of which use lithium-based, renewable batteries as a power resource. QMC's high potential prospects and experienced management team, both in geology and corporate finance, put QMC and its shareholders in an excellent position to take advantage of the lithium, precious and base metals markets.
Sharing Services, Inc. (OTC: SHRV)
Sharing Services, Inc. (OTC: SHRV), headquartered in Plano, Texas, is a diversified holding company focused on reshaping how entrepreneurs succeed today. Sharing Services Inc. owns, operates or controls an interest in a variety of companies specializing in the direct selling industry that either sell products to the consumer directly through independent representatives or offer services that range from health and wellness, energy, technology, insurance services, training, media and travel benefits. SHRV has created the "Blue Ocean Strategy," which melds three keys together to implement the company's vision. These keys include elevating home-based entrepreneurs, known as "Elepreneurs," utilizing the direct selling channel to generate 100 percent organic growth, and sending as many successful company "families" as possible on vacation.
Sharing Services Inc. subsidiaries include:
- A growing international network of home-based entrepreneurs, called "Elepreneurs"
- Growing selection of health and wellness products dedicated to elevating the well-being of all people
- Insurance from auto, home and life to health benefit discounts and health insurance that help families elevate their options
- Wholesale travel and payment programs with travel concierges that empower more families to go on vacation
- Live seminars and training events – from Vacationars™ to EduTainment – that elevate the skills and knowledge of entrepreneurs around the world
- Unique compensation and reward programs crafted to help entrepreneurs elevate their health, wealth and happiness
Sharing Services recently expanded its corporate footprint by moving to a 10,000 square foot facility in Plano, Texas, that offers room to expand as the company grows and its subsidiaries flourish. The larger corporate locale provides space for a growing customer service department, product fulfillment, opportunity and training rooms, as well as a video production suite.
"The opportunity to expand to the rest of this new building over the course of the next six to 12 months ensures we won't have to move again anytime soon," Sharing Services Inc. Chairman Robert Oblon said. "We are on track for very significant growth here in the U.S., as well as upcoming international expansion, so this move is in preparation for what's in front of us."
The company recently signed a joint venture agreement with Health Wealth & Happiness Limited ("HWH") to expand its "Elepreneurs" brand and market its products throughout Asia. The newly formed company will be named "Elepreneurs Asia Limited" and will have marketing and sales rights to China, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Papua, New Guinea. A soft launch of the Elepreneur program is scheduled sometime later in 2018 with HWH CEP Fai Chan and his team leading the effort. Formed in Hong Kong, Health Wealth & Happiness Limited is dedicated to working with visionary partners like Sharing Services Inc. to deliver the best products and services to improve the well-being of consumers.
Nearly 1,000 people attended Sharing Services, Inc.'s first "Elepreneur Happiness Convention," held March 2-3, 2018, in Dallas, Texas. Attendees arrived from several countries including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Singapore and Hong Kong. Keynote speakers included several internationally known motivational leaders – Shawn Achor, Sandra Yancey, John Fleming and Les Brown – who provided exceptional material and inspirational discussion points.
"The enthusiasm of our attendees and the early success that we are experiencing is incredible considering our growth has been 100 percent organic, with almost no marketing from the company," Oblon said. "I'm speechless by the dedication of our Elepreneur leaders and their entire teams, as they share our incredible line of products that have helped so many people."
Sharing Services and its management team plan to travel the U.S. to hold several mini conferences to expand on the messages presented at its Happiness Convention that focus on helping people become "healthier, happier and wealthier." Details of the company's aggressive global expansion initiatives are soon to be announced, Oblon said.
The law firm of Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP has been retained as outside corporate counsel for all general business matters. The Dallas-based law firm will represent Sharing Services, Inc., and its subsidiaries as the company utilizes the direct selling channel for a significant component of its overall growth strategy.
John "JT" Thatch was appointed president and chief executive officer of Sharing Services, Inc., at a March 1, 2018, annual shareholder meeting. Thatch has successfully started, owned and operated several sized businesses in various industries. His experience with corporate growth, acquisitions, financing and negotiation in fast-paced and flexible environments will significantly assist Sharing Services Inc. as the company aims to expand and increase revenues.
Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF)
Sunniva Inc. (CSE: SNN) (OTCQX: SNNVF) is a vertically integrated medical cannabis company operating in the world's two largest cannabis markets – Canada and California – committed to delivering safe, consistent, high-quality products and services. Sunniva operates through its wholly owned subsidiaries: Sunniva Medical Inc., CP Logistics, LLC, Natural Health Service Ltd., and Full-Scale Distributors, LLC. Sunniva's vision is to become the lowest cost, highest quality cannabis producer in the markets it serves by building large scale purpose-built cGMP compliant greenhouses, offering best quality assurance with cannabis products free from pesticides, providing better patient and doctor access to cannabis education, and sourcing better therapeutic delivery devices.
The company is establishing sophisticated distribution channels, including Sunniva's ownership of Natural Health Services Ltd. cannabis clinics in Canada with over 95,000 active patients, to purchase the significant quantities of high quality Sunniva-branded and Sunniva private-labeled cannabis products.
Sunniva is an ancient English name which means, "Gift of the Sun." Sunniva's team of horticulturists, scientists and engineers is helping to set best practices for the industry, believing that sun-grown, solar-powered cultivation is the most sustainable and cost-effective way to grow high-quality, premium cannabis.
The Sunniva Family includes:
CP Logistics, LLC
Through its subsidiary, CP Logistics LLC, Sunniva is developing the Sunniva Campus, a state-of-the-art, purpose-built greenhouse facility in Cathedral City, California. This modern purpose-built, agri-technology greenhouse is designed to be cGMP compliant which assures proper design, monitoring and control of manufacturing processes and facilities.
Phase 1 of the project includes a fully funded 325,000 square foot greenhouse capable of producing 60,000 kg per year of dry cannabis at capacity with operations commencing Q3 2018. Approximately 50 percent of initial total production will be converted into oils and extracts. Phase 2 is expected to increase the greenhouse by 165,000 square feet and grow production by about 40,000 kgs. per year.
These uniquely sealed greenhouses are designed to deploy custom, automation assembly line cultivation processes at a large scale. Energy consumption will be reduced while utilizing the energy of the sun and microclimatic controls to provide precise growing conditions. The greenhouse will recirculate air for more efficient climate control, and the company's Integrated Pest Management System is designed to ensure every plant grown is certified clean and free of all contaminants and pesticides.
Sunniva Medical Inc.
Sunniva Medical Inc. is designing and preparing to break ground on the Sunniva Canada Campus encompassing 700,000 square feet of purpose-built cGMP greenhouse facilities in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. The total campus is expected to produce 100,000 kg of premium medical cannabis annually plus additional trim used for extraction. This facility will produce pesticide-free products and will convert trim to extracted products such as cannabis oil that can be used for drug delivery formats such as capsules, dissolvable strips, vaporization cartridges, tinctures and creams.
Sunniva and Canopy Growth Corporation (Canopy Growth) recently announced a large take or pay supply agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, Canopy Growth will purchase up to 45,000 kgs. of dried cannabis annually commencing Q1 2019, which includes the distribution of Sunniva branded products. Sunniva Medical is a late-stage applicant under Canada's Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR) and is in the final review stage of the process.
Natural Health Services Ltd.
Natural Health Services Ltd. owns and operates a network of eight medical clinics in Canada specializing in medical cannabis under the ACMPR. Natural Health Services connects licensed producers to their 21 physicians and patients with its proprietary SPARK software which utilizes a software-as-a-service revenue model. To date, there are 27 integrated licensed producers utilizing the SPARK software.
In-house physicians specializing in the endocannabinoid system provide expert consultation, education and recommendations for targeted phytoceutical remedies and wellness plans to improve the quality of life for all patients. NHS enjoys a long-term relationship with patients due to the quality of its physician-patient experience. A rapidly expanding NHS cannabis clinic network serves more than 96,000 active patients in Canada. NHS has also initiated a pilot program with a national pharmacy chain to aggregate more patients.
Full-Scale Distributors, LLC
Full-Scale Distributors, LLC is an industry leading provider of custom, private-label vaporizers through its brand, Vapor Connoisseur. The company currently serves the needs of over 80 top brands in the North American marketplace. Vapor Connoisseur is recognized for its high quality and innovative therapeutic delivery devices. Products are tailored to client needs, ensuring both safety and reliability.
Sunniva's highly experienced management team is building partnerships with leading scientists, universities and clinical trial groups to deliver proprietary cannabis formulations to a broad spectrum of health ailments and conditions. These global partners require cGMP-certified facilities for the processing and manufacturing of cannabis products. Sunniva is committed to providing safe, pesticide-free, high quality, reproducible cannabis medicines.
Leading Sunniva is co-founder, chairman and CEO Dr. Anthony (Tony) Holler. He is the former CEO and founder of ID Biomedical, which was acquired in 2005 for $1.7 billion by GlaxoSmithKline. He is also the former chairman of Corriente Resources Inc., which was sold for approximately $700 million to CRCC-Tongguan Investment Co. Dr. Holler is currently chairman of CRH Medical Corporation, a public company trading on the TSX and NYSE. His expertise includes strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions and financing with a singular focus on increasing shareholder value.
Dr. Holler is joined by co-founder Leith Pedersen, who serves as president of Sunniva. Pedersen is the former owner and CEO of Vida Wealth Management Bahamas and was a former investment advisor at Canaccord Wealth Management. He is a former partner and director at JF Mackie and Company, an independent brokerage firm in Calgary, Alberta, that managed capital in excess of $2 billion for high net worth clients. Pedersen's expertise is in corporate strategy, financing and mergers and acquisitions.
Uneeqo Inc. (OTC: UNEQ)
Uneeqo Inc. (OTC: UNEQ) is a Nevada corporation that recently incorporated and registered a new subsidiary, Serpentcoin Limited ("SCL"), in the United Kingdom. Through this subsidiary, Uneeqo has a new focus – a peer-to-peer digital token called "SerpentCoin" built upon a distributed, decentralized public ledger that is viewable and easily audited by transacting parties through unbreakable, encrypted smart contracts.
SerpentCoin is built upon Cardano, a technologically superior blockchain platform developed from a scientific philosophy by a global team of leading academics and engineers. SerpentCoin's design platform includes several mission critical elements that directly support this forward-thinking technology that is constantly evolving in a fast-moving space.
Projects under development include:
- Medusa – Each cryptocurrency requires a "wallet," which is essentially a software application that can be installed on any computer or smartphone, to store tokens. SerpentCoin's highly-engineered Medusa wallet will contain refined security features developed specifically for Cardano blockchain technology and protects assets with the most advanced cryptography. Medusa will not only support SerpentCoin tokens, but many others as well.
- Temple – Think of this as a "treasury" which underpins the long-term core value of SerpentCoin. On every transaction through the SerpentCoin platform, 1.5 percent will be deposited in the platform's Temple. Each quarter, Guardians (or holders of SerpentCoin) will have the chance to vote on how these treasury funds are invested into identified healthcare projects and technologies that benefit humanity.
- Entwine – This refers to unbreakable smart contracts that allow SerpentCoin Guardians to make agreements on virtually anything while being assured the other party will meet its obligation. Through the use of double-deposit, theft is impossible, no escrow is needed, and no "middlemen" or websites are involved that could hold onto funds.
At the helm of the Uneeqo and SerpentCoin Limited team is Dr. Abel N J Haque, a business development professional with extensive experience in international business in the medical, technology and automotive sectors, as well as a leading consultant in regenerative medicine and cell therapy. Dr. Haque currently serves as an orthopaedic surgery technical consultant for Synergy Medical Technologies where he provides autologous stem cell cartilage transplants under contract to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, University College, Long. In the past, Dr. Haque has held various positions at Wright Medical Europe and Stryker Corporation, along with many of its mergers and acquisitions.
Virtual Crypto Technologies Inc.
(OTCQB: VRCP)
Virtual Crypto Technologies Inc. (OTCQB: VRCP) is a developer of software and hardware for the purchase and sale of cryptocurrencies through ATMs, tablets, PCs and mobile devices. The company's proprietary algorithmic technology trading platform, called NetoBit Trader, can instantaneously confirm the purchase or sale of Bitcoin, a process that typically can take between 10 minutes to 24 hours. All trades and exchanges are insured up to $3,000 per trade. The global cryptocurrency ATM market is predicted to surpass $285 million by 2025, yet, at present, only 30 percent of these machines allow two-way trades.
With NetoBit Trader, cryptocurrency holders enjoy immediate confirmation of Bitcoin and its crypto equivalents at the best crypto exchange rate at the point of transaction – providing a major breakthrough in the quest to bring cryptocurrencies to the mass market. Virtual Crypto's cryptocurrency ATM, embedded with currency exchange transaction validation (CETV) in its hardware and software, accepts and dispenses cash and cryptocurrency in seconds.
Virtual Crypto's NetoBit Trader and mobile retail point-of-sale platform incorporates advanced technologies tailored to the needs of primary market players, users, investors, and business owners. Virtual Crypto's platform bridges the three main functions of the cryptocurrency sector – exchanges, wallets and payments – to the world of fiat exchanges, granting access to immediate cash exchanges between consumers and businesses worldwide.
NetoBit Trader's over-the-counter, two-way transaction solution is available through one app, providing online cryptocurrency transactions at ecommerce and gaming portals. The app provides real-time cryptocurrency validation and exchange, easy buying and selling of Bitcoin with cash, enables traders to buy and trade crypto, and gamers to transfer cryptocurrency into cash after play. Crypto users can withdraw funds from their crypto accounts through a NetoBit cryptocurrency ATM or software-enabled tablet, and consumers can purchase retail with crypto from businesses that offer and use the NetoBit software.
The company's newly redesigned corporate website, www.virtual-crypto.com, delivers a simple, clean design with enhanced functionality, features and navigation. Virtual Crypto's new corporate website includes:
- Downloadable NetoBit Trader app link and contact forms for more information
- MarketWatch provides real-time tracking of the Bitcoin market, with other currencies to follow
- Improved security utilizing https certificates to protect personal information and site integrity
- Media room with downloadable product brochures, corporate presentations and other relevant content
- Investor's page provides transparency to investors with direct access to Virtual Crypto's progress through press releases, SEC filings, senior management team bios, and stock performance charts
- Social Media integration with buttons for LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook jump to Virtual Crypto's social media profiles, providing real-time updates from the online community
"Our primary objective is to make cryptocurrencies accessible to everyone, and that was the motivation for our redesign," said Alon Dayan, Chief Executive Officer of Virtual Crypto. "The updated content provides real value for our customers, shareholders and employees, showcasing our products and services, in an intuitive, easy to navigate way."
Virtual Crypto's strategic vision of "Cryptocurrency Made Easy" allows crypto traders and users to overcome the complex hurdles currently hampering the cryptocurrency sphere.
Zenergy Brands, Inc. (OTCQB: ZNGY)
Zenergy Brands, Inc. (OTCQB: ZNGY) is the nation's leading next-generation energy and technology company operating in the emerging smart energy, conservation, and utility industries. Headquartered in Texas, Zenergy provides an entire suite of conservation-based products and services that enable clients to achieve sustainability goals, reduce carbon emissions and improve their bottom line. The company's cutting-edge Zero Cost Program™ reduces utility expenses by 20 percent to 60 percent by offering energy conservation, smart controls, and efficiency-based products and services to residential, commercial, industrial and municipal end-use customers.
The Zero Cost Program™ is a financing mechanism that allows customers to reduce water, natural gas and electricity expenses by implementing proven conservation technologies at no out-of-pocket cost. The Zero Cost Program™ enriches businesses by immediately reducing energy consumption through the use of smart controls, building automation, LED lighting solutions, refrigeration optimization, efficient water systems, EC motor controls, demand-side management and load factor correction.
A unique Managed Energy Services Agreement ("MESA") allows a portion of these utility savings to be retained by Zenergy's partner financing the upgraded, retrofit equipment and installation costs until a specified repayment period ends. After that, clients reap all the financial rewards of the technologies implemented, which Zenergy estimates should range between 25 percent and 45 percent of total utility costs.
Residential customers seeking cost-effective energy savings can also choose from a suite of "Smart Home" products including home automation, security monitoring, and energy conservation services that can be controlled 24/7 from the comfort and convenience of their smartphones or internet-connected smart devices. Zenergy's residential program offers partnership opportunities for homebuilders and residential, multi-family real estate developers to provide smart home technologies to high-end customers.
Zenergy Brands' acquisition of Enertrade Electric LLC, a fully operating, licensed Texas-based Retail Electric Provider (REP), further increases the company's value proposition. Zenergy CEO Alex Rodriguez said this new subsidiary adds an essential complementary service to the company's suite of smart energy products and services.
"Since our founding, our vision has been to converge smart controls (home and building automation) with energy conservation and retail energy to deliver the comprehensive smart energy service to customers," Rodriguez said.
On a global scale, residential and commercial buildings account for nearly 45 percent of the world's total energy consumption. Improving the energy efficiency of these homes and buildings is often a more affordable way to reduce harmful gas emissions while minimizing the need for new energy production. According to Navigant Research, global revenue for energy-efficient commercial building retrofits alone is expected to grow from $71.4 billion in 2016 to $100.8 billion in 2025. At the same time, the energy-efficient devices market is expected to reach a market size of $908 billion by 2022. Increasing demands for reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions along with concerns over climate change are contributing factors driving the market's overall growth.
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