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  • Belfast Agency Launches Free AI Course to Address Northern Ireland Business Skills Crisis

    ProfileTree’s Future Business Academy offers no-cost AI masterclass to help small businesses across Ireland and the UK implement AI safely and strategically.

    By removing the cost barrier, we’re giving every business the opportunity to develop essential AI skills. The skills gap affects everyone.”

    — Ciaran Connolly, ProfileTree Founder

    BELFAST, CO. ANTRIM, UNITED KINGDOM, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — A leading Northern Ireland digital agency has launched a free artificial intelligence training course designed to help small and medium-sized businesses across Ireland and the United Kingdom bridge the growing AI skills gap.

    ProfileTree, the Belfast-based digital marketing and training provider, is offering its comprehensive AI masterclass at no cost through its Future Business Academy platform. The course, which would typically be valued at over £2,000, provides practical, implementation-focused AI training specifically designed for SME business owners and their teams.

    Ciaran Connolly, founder of ProfileTree and director of Future Business Academy, said the decision to offer the training free of charge reflects the urgent need for accessible AI education among smaller businesses.

    “There’s a growing divide between businesses that understand how to use AI effectively and those that don’t,” said Connolly. “We’ve trained over 1,000 businesses in AI implementation, and what we’ve learned is that most SMEs want to adopt AI but can’t justify expensive training programmes when they’re still uncertain about the return on investment. By removing the cost barrier, we’re giving every business the opportunity to develop essential AI skills.”

    Addressing the AI Skills Crisis
    The launch comes amid growing concern about AI readiness among UK and Irish businesses. Research consistently shows that while large enterprises are investing heavily in AI capabilities, small and medium-sized businesses are struggling to keep pace.

    For many SMEs across Belfast, Dublin, London, and regional towns throughout Northern Ireland and Great Britain, the challenge is not lack of interest in AI but lack of access to relevant, practical training. Most available AI courses are designed for technical specialists or enterprise-level organisations, leaving smaller businesses without appropriate learning resources.

    “When a business owner in Newry or Derry or Lisburn searches for AI training, they typically find courses that are either too technical, too expensive, or too theoretical,” Connolly explained. “They don’t need to understand how large language models work at a technical level. They need to know how to use ChatGPT to save time on customer emails, how to create content more efficiently, how to analyse their business data, and how to do all of this without putting their business at risk.”

    Future Business Academy’s free AI course addresses this gap by focusing exclusively on practical implementation for non-technical business users. The curriculum covers real-world applications that SMEs can implement immediately, without requiring specialist technical knowledge or significant technology investment.

    What the Free AI Course Covers
    The Future Business Academy AI masterclass provides comprehensive training across multiple aspects of business AI adoption, structured specifically for SME needs and capabilities.

    The course begins with foundational AI literacy, helping business owners and staff understand what AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can and cannot do. This section addresses common misconceptions about AI capabilities and sets realistic expectations for what businesses can achieve with current technology.

    Participants then learn practical AI applications for everyday business tasks. This includes using AI for drafting and editing business communications, creating marketing content, analysing customer feedback, summarising documents, and automating repetitive administrative tasks. Each application is taught with step-by-step guidance and real-world examples relevant to small business contexts.

    A significant portion of the course focuses on AI safety, governance, and risk management. Participants learn how to use AI tools without compromising sensitive business or customer data, how to verify AI-generated content for accuracy, and how to develop organisational policies that enable safe AI adoption. This section reflects ProfileTree’s experience that many businesses have made costly mistakes by adopting AI tools without proper safeguards.

    The course also covers AI and digital marketing, teaching participants how AI is changing search engine optimisation, content marketing, and online visibility. Business owners learn about AI-powered search platforms, Generative Engine Optimisation, and how to ensure their business remains visible as customers increasingly use AI assistants to find products and services.

    Finally, the programme addresses strategic AI planning, helping businesses develop roadmaps for ongoing AI adoption that align with their specific goals, resources, and risk tolerance. Participants complete the course with a personalised AI implementation plan they can begin executing immediately.

    Why Belfast for AI Training
    Belfast has emerged as an increasingly important hub for technology and digital services in recent years, with a growing ecosystem of technology companies, digital agencies, and training providers. ProfileTree has been part of this growth, operating from the city for over 14 years and building expertise in digital marketing, web development, and more recently, AI implementation.

    “Belfast is uniquely positioned to lead on practical AI training for SMEs,” Connolly observed. “We have a strong technology sector that’s created local AI expertise, but we also have a deep understanding of the challenges facing smaller businesses. We’re not a London agency trying to adapt enterprise solutions for SMEs. We’re a Belfast business that’s worked with thousands of local companies and understands their real needs and constraints.”

    The agency’s decision to make AI training freely accessible reflects a broader commitment to supporting the Northern Ireland business community. ProfileTree has previously offered free digital skills workshops, published extensive free educational content through its YouTube channel, and provided pro-bono support to community organisations and charities.

    “We believe that when local businesses succeed, the whole community benefits,” said Connolly. “If we can help SMEs across Northern Ireland adopt AI effectively, that’s good for those businesses, good for their employees, good for their customers, and good for the local economy.”

    Cross-Border and UK-Wide Access
    While rooted in Belfast and Northern Ireland, Future Business Academy’s free AI course is available to businesses across the Republic of Ireland and throughout Great Britain. The online delivery format means that business owners in Dublin, Cork, Galway, London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and anywhere else with internet access can participate fully.

    ProfileTree has seen strong demand for AI training from businesses throughout the island of Ireland, reflecting the integrated nature of the Irish business economy. Many Northern Ireland businesses serve customers in both jurisdictions, and the AI skills they develop are equally applicable whether they’re working with clients in Belfast, Dublin, or further afield.

    Similarly, the agency has delivered AI training to businesses across England, Scotland, and Wales, and the free course makes this expertise accessible regardless of location. The curriculum has been developed to be relevant across different UK and Irish business contexts, with examples and applications that translate across regions and sectors.

    “The AI skills gap isn’t limited to Northern Ireland,” Connolly noted. “SMEs everywhere are facing the same challenges: how to adopt AI effectively, how to do it safely, and how to compete with larger businesses that have more resources for AI investment. Our free course is designed to level that playing field.”

    Practical Training Over Theory
    A core principle of Future Business Academy’s approach is prioritising practical skills over theoretical knowledge. This reflects ProfileTree’s experience that SME business owners have limited time for training and need to see immediate, tangible results from their learning investment.

    “Business owners don’t have time to sit through hours of lectures about the history of artificial intelligence or the technical architecture of neural networks,” said Connolly. “They need to know how to use AI tools to solve real problems in their business, starting today. That’s exactly what our course delivers.”

    The curriculum is structured around hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios. Participants don’t just learn about AI capabilities in abstract terms; they practice using AI tools to complete actual business tasks during the training. By the end of the course, participants have direct experience applying AI to their own business challenges.

    This practical focus extends to the AI safety and governance modules. Rather than simply explaining data privacy risks in theoretical terms, the course walks participants through developing actual AI policies for their organisations, assessing their specific risk profiles, and implementing concrete safeguards.

    ProfileTree’s training methodology has been refined through delivery of over 1,000 AI training sessions to businesses of varying sizes and across multiple sectors. The free course incorporates lessons learned from this extensive experience, focusing on the content and approaches that have proven most effective for SME learners.

    Supporting Business Growth Across Sectors
    Future Business Academy’s free AI course is designed to be relevant across the diverse range of sectors represented in the UK and Irish SME community.

    Professional services firms, including accountants, solicitors, financial advisers, and consultants, can learn to use AI for client communication, document drafting, research, and data analysis. These applications can significantly improve efficiency in knowledge-intensive businesses where time is the primary constraint on growth.

    Retail businesses, whether operating physical stores in Belfast city centre or selling online to customers across the UK and Ireland, can learn to apply AI to product descriptions, customer service, inventory management, and marketing. For smaller retailers competing against larger chains with dedicated technology teams, AI skills can be a significant competitive advantage.

    Hospitality businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tourism operators across Northern Ireland and beyond, can learn to use AI for customer communication, review management, content creation, and operational planning. With tourism being a major industry in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, AI skills are increasingly relevant for businesses in this sector.

    Manufacturing businesses can learn to apply AI to quality control documentation, supplier communication, customer service, and business analysis. While advanced AI applications in manufacturing may require specialist implementation, there are many practical AI applications that any manufacturing business can implement immediately.

    Creative and media businesses, including marketing agencies, design studios, video production companies, and content creators, can learn to integrate AI into their workflows while maintaining quality standards and creative differentiation. ProfileTree’s own experience as a creative agency informs this section of the curriculum.

    The Future Business Academy Platform
    Future Business Academy represents ProfileTree’s dedicated training division, established to provide structured learning opportunities for businesses seeking to develop digital and AI capabilities.

    The platform offers both free and paid training programmes, with the free AI course serving as an entry point for businesses beginning their AI journey. Businesses that complete the free programme can access more advanced training for specific applications, sector-focused modules, and one-to-one strategic consulting for AI implementation.

    “Future Business Academy is about making professional-quality business training accessible to everyone,” Connolly explained. “We’ve seen too many businesses held back by lack of access to good training. By offering our foundational AI course for free, we’re removing that barrier and giving every business the opportunity to develop these essential skills.”

    The platform reflects ProfileTree’s broader philosophy that business success should be determined by ideas, effort, and execution rather than by access to expensive resources. This approach has guided the agency’s development of its YouTube channel, which provides over 250,000 subscribers with free business education content, and its commitment to publishing free guides and resources on digital marketing, SEO, and web development.

    How to Access the Free AI Course
    Businesses interested in accessing Future Business Academy’s free AI masterclass can register through the ProfileTree website. The course is delivered online, allowing participants to complete training at their own pace and on their own schedule.

    Registration is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, though the curriculum is specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises. Participants receive full access to all course materials, practical exercises, and downloadable resources.

    “We’ve made the registration process as simple as possible because we want to remove every barrier to access,” said Connolly. “If you’re a business owner who wants to understand AI better, you should be able to start learning today. That’s what this free course makes possible.”

    ProfileTree also offers in-person AI training for businesses preferring face-to-face learning, delivered at the agency’s Belfast headquarters or at client premises across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK. These sessions can be tailored to specific organisational needs and are available alongside the free online course.

    About ProfileTree and Future Business Academy
    ProfileTree is a digital marketing and creative media agency headquartered in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded in 2011 by Ciaran Connolly, the agency provides web design, SEO, content marketing, video production, and AI training services to businesses across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK.

    Future Business Academy is ProfileTree’s dedicated training division, offering structured learning programmes in AI, digital marketing, and business technology. The academy combines ProfileTree’s 14 years of practical agency experience with professional instructional design to deliver training that drives real business results.

    Over its history, ProfileTree has accumulated more than 450 five-star client reviews and built a YouTube following of over 250,000 subscribers. The agency has delivered AI training to over 1,000 businesses and worked with clients including Tourism Northern Ireland, National Trust, and Derry Halloween, Europe’s largest Halloween festival.

    ProfileTree has been featured in publications including the Belfast Newsletter and the Irish News for its work supporting local business growth and digital skills development across Northern Ireland.

    For more information about the free AI course, Future Business Academy programmes, or ProfileTree’s digital marketing services, visit https://www.profiletree.com or contact the team directly.

    Ciaran Connolly
    ProfileTree Web Design and Digital Marketing Agency
    +44 28 9568 0364
    email us here
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    Are AI Browsers the NEXT BIG THING in Web Navigation?

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  • Majority of Irish and UK SMEs Were Unprepared for AI Adoption, Training Provider Reports

    ProfileTree analysis of 1,000 business AI training programmes reveals significant readiness gaps among small and medium enterprises across Ireland and the UK.

    Most SMEs come to us with enthusiasm about AI but no practical plan for safe, strategic implementation. The readiness gap is significant.”

    — Ciaran Connolly, ProfileTree Founder

    BELFAST, CO. ANTRIM, UNITED KINGDOM, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — New analysis from one of Northern Ireland’s leading digital agencies has revealed that the majority of small and medium-sized enterprises across Ireland and the United Kingdom were significantly unprepared for AI adoption when they first engaged with structured AI training programmes.

    ProfileTree, a Belfast-based digital marketing and training provider, has compiled findings from over 1,000 AI training sessions delivered to businesses across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and Great Britain over the past 18 months. The data paints a concerning picture of AI readiness among the SME sector, while also highlighting the rapid progress businesses can make once they engage with proper training and strategic guidance.

    Ciaran Connolly, founder of ProfileTree, said the findings underscore an urgent need for practical, implementation-focused AI education tailored specifically to the needs of smaller businesses.

    “What we’ve seen consistently across more than 1,000 training sessions is that most SMEs come to us with enthusiasm about AI but very little practical understanding of how to implement it safely and strategically,” said Connolly. “They’ve heard about ChatGPT, they know their competitors are using AI tools, but they don’t have a clear plan for how AI fits into their business operations, marketing, or customer service.”

    Key Findings from 1,000 AI Training Sessions
    ProfileTree’s analysis of its AI training programme participants revealed several consistent patterns among businesses across Belfast, Dublin, London, Manchester, and other major UK and Irish cities.

    The majority of businesses attending AI training had no formal AI strategy or policy in place when they began. Most were using AI tools in an ad-hoc manner, with individual staff members experimenting with ChatGPT or similar tools without organisational oversight or guidelines.

    A significant proportion of business owners expressed concerns about AI safety, data privacy, and the risk of AI-generated errors, but had not implemented any safeguards or review processes. Many businesses were unaware of the potential risks associated with inputting sensitive business or customer data into public AI tools.

    Most SMEs had not considered how AI would affect their existing digital marketing, SEO, or content strategies. Businesses were largely unaware of concepts such as AI search optimisation or Generative Engine Optimisation, and had not assessed how AI-powered search platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews might affect their online visibility.

    The majority of training participants reported that they had struggled to find AI training resources that were practical, implementation-focused, and relevant to smaller businesses. Many had encountered AI courses that were either too technical, too theoretical, or designed primarily for enterprise-level organisations with dedicated IT departments.

    The AI Readiness Gap in Northern Ireland and Ireland
    The findings suggest that businesses in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland face particular challenges in AI adoption, despite strong interest in the technology.

    “Northern Ireland has a fantastic SME sector with innovative, adaptable businesses,” Connolly observed. “But we’re also seeing that many local businesses feel left behind by the AI conversation. The headlines are all about big tech companies and enterprise AI deployments. There’s been much less focus on how a 10-person business in Belfast or Newry or Derry can actually use AI to improve their operations and serve customers better.”

    ProfileTree’s training data indicates that businesses in professional services, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and creative industries are all seeking AI guidance, but with varying levels of baseline understanding. Professional services firms, including accountants, solicitors, and consultants, have shown particularly strong demand for AI training, driven by client expectations and competitive pressure.

    Retail and hospitality businesses across Northern Ireland have expressed interest in using AI for customer service, inventory management, and marketing automation, but often lack the technical confidence to implement these solutions without external support.

    Manufacturing businesses, including those in the Belfast and greater County Antrim area, have shown interest in AI applications for quality control, supply chain optimisation, and predictive maintenance, though implementation remains limited among smaller operators.

    The Cost of AI Unpreparedness
    According to Connolly, the cost of AI unpreparedness extends beyond missed efficiency gains. Businesses that fail to develop coherent AI strategies risk falling behind competitors, making costly mistakes with sensitive data, and losing visibility in an increasingly AI-mediated digital landscape.

    “We’ve seen businesses come to us after making expensive mistakes,” he said. “They’ve had staff members paste confidential client information into ChatGPT without understanding the privacy implications. They’ve published AI-generated content full of errors because they didn’t have proper review processes. They’ve invested in AI tools that don’t integrate with their existing systems because they didn’t plan strategically.”

    The financial impact of such mistakes can be significant for smaller businesses operating with limited margins. Beyond direct costs, there are reputational risks associated with AI errors, particularly for businesses in regulated industries or those handling sensitive customer information.

    ProfileTree’s training programmes now include dedicated modules on AI governance, data privacy, and risk management, reflecting the growing awareness among business owners that AI adoption requires proper safeguards.

    Bridging the AI Skills Gap
    In response to the AI readiness gap identified through its training programmes, ProfileTree has developed a structured approach to AI education that prioritises practical implementation over theoretical knowledge.

    The agency’s AI training methodology focuses on four key areas: understanding AI capabilities and limitations, developing organisational AI policies and governance frameworks, implementing AI tools for specific business applications, and integrating AI with existing digital marketing and SEO strategies.

    “Our approach is fundamentally practical,” Connolly explained. “We’re not trying to turn business owners into AI engineers. We’re helping them understand what AI can and can’t do, how to use it safely, and how to get real business value from it without taking unnecessary risks.”

    ProfileTree, which was recently featured in the Belfast Newsletter for making its comprehensive AI masterclass available free to Northern Ireland businesses, has delivered training to organisations ranging from sole traders to companies with over 100 employees. The agency’s YouTube channel, which has accumulated over 250,000 subscribers, also provides free AI guidance and business education content.

    Regional Variations in AI Adoption
    ProfileTree’s training data reveals interesting variations in AI readiness and adoption patterns across different regions of the UK and Ireland.

    Businesses in Belfast and the greater Belfast area have shown strong engagement with AI training, reflecting the city’s growing reputation as a technology and digital services hub. The presence of major technology employers in Belfast, including international firms with AI expertise, appears to have created a positive spillover effect, with local SMEs more aware of AI potential and more willing to invest in training.

    Dublin-based businesses participating in ProfileTree’s training programmes have demonstrated similar levels of AI awareness, though with particular focus on AI applications for financial services and professional services sectors that are well-represented in the Irish capital.

    Businesses in regional towns across Northern Ireland, including Newry, Derry, Lisburn, Ballymena, and Coleraine, have shown strong interest in AI training but often face additional barriers including limited local access to AI expertise and smaller peer networks for sharing best practices.

    English businesses participating in ProfileTree’s training, particularly those in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, have shown varying levels of AI maturity, with some ahead of their Northern Irish counterparts and others facing similar readiness challenges.

    The Role of Free AI Education
    ProfileTree has made a strategic commitment to providing free AI education resources alongside its paid training programmes, reflecting Connolly’s belief that widespread AI literacy benefits the entire business community.

    “When we made our AI masterclass available for free, the response was overwhelming,” he recalled. “It confirmed what we suspected: there’s massive demand for practical AI guidance, but many smaller businesses simply can’t justify spending thousands on training programmes when they’re not yet certain how AI fits into their business.”

    The agency’s free AI course, delivered through its Future Business Academy platform, covers fundamental AI concepts, practical tool usage, and strategic implementation guidance. Businesses that complete the free programme can then access more advanced paid training for specific applications or deeper strategic work.

    This approach has proven effective for reaching businesses that might otherwise delay AI adoption indefinitely. ProfileTree has found that businesses that engage with free AI education resources are significantly more likely to implement AI tools successfully and to seek additional training as their needs evolve.
    Recommendations for UK and Irish SMEs

    Based on its analysis of over 1,000 AI training sessions, ProfileTree has developed a set of recommendations for small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK and Ireland that are beginning their AI adoption journey.

    First, businesses should start with a clear assessment of their current AI readiness. This includes evaluating existing staff AI knowledge, identifying current ad-hoc AI usage within the organisation, and assessing the business’s data governance practices.

    Second, businesses should develop a formal AI policy before expanding AI usage. This policy should cover acceptable use of AI tools, data privacy requirements, quality control processes for AI-generated content, and staff training requirements.

    Third, businesses should prioritise AI applications that address specific business challenges rather than adopting AI for its own sake. The most successful AI implementations ProfileTree has observed are those targeted at solving particular problems, such as improving customer response times, streamlining content creation, or enhancing data analysis capabilities.

    Fourth, businesses should invest in ongoing AI education rather than treating training as a one-time event. AI tools and best practices are evolving rapidly, and businesses that establish continuous learning practices are better positioned to adapt as the technology develops.

    Fifth, businesses should consider how AI affects their broader digital strategy, including their website, SEO, and online visibility. AI-powered search platforms are changing how customers discover businesses, and organisations that fail to adapt their digital presence accordingly risk losing visibility to more AI-savvy competitors.

    The Future of AI Training for SMEs
    Looking ahead, Connolly predicts that demand for SME-focused AI training will continue to grow throughout 2025 and 2026, driven by accelerating AI capabilities and increasing competitive pressure.

    “AI is not going away, and it’s not slowing down,” he said. “Every month, there are new tools, new capabilities, and new applications that businesses need to understand. The skills gap we’re seeing today will only widen unless businesses commit to ongoing AI education.”

    ProfileTree plans to expand its AI training offerings in 2026, with new programmes focused on sector-specific AI applications, advanced AI strategy for growing businesses, and AI implementation support for businesses ready to move beyond training into active deployment.

    The agency also intends to publish further research on AI adoption patterns among UK and Irish SMEs, providing ongoing insights into how the business community is adapting to the AI transformation.

    About ProfileTree
    ProfileTree is a digital marketing and creative media agency headquartered in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded in 2011 by Ciaran Connolly, the agency provides web design, SEO, content marketing, video production, and AI training services to businesses across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK.

    Over 14 years in operation, ProfileTree has accumulated more than 450 five-star client reviews and built a YouTube following of over 250,000 subscribers. The agency has delivered AI training to over 1,000 businesses and completed thousands of digital projects for clients ranging from local SMEs to major organisations including Tourism Northern Ireland, National Trust, and Derry Halloween.

    ProfileTree has been featured in publications including the Belfast Newsletter and the Irish News for its work supporting local business growth and digital skills development.

    For more information about AI training programmes, digital marketing services, or ProfileTree’s research on AI adoption among SMEs, visit https://www.profiletree.com or contact the team directly.

    Ciaran Connolly
    ProfileTree Web Design and Digital Marketing Agency
    +44 28 9568 0364
    email us here
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    What’s REALLY Happening to Ecommerce

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  • URME United Transitions Piety PayChain Token Off Uniswap Following Rapid 36-Day Growth to $0.10

    RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA, UNITED STATES, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — URME United today announced the successful completion of the public discovery phase of its Piety PayChain token, marking the official removal of the token from Uniswap at midnight EST on New Year’s Eve.

    Launched on November 24, the original Piety Token entered the market at $0.0005 and achieved $0.01 in just 18 days, demonstrating extraordinary early adoption and demand. Following this milestone, the project transitioned into its next phase with the introduction of Piety PC, a patentable, asset-backed utility token designed for long-term stability, real-world use, and institutional scalability.

    Over the following 18 days, Piety PC continued its growth trajectory, reaching the $0.10 benchmark as planned. With this objective achieved, URME United is now migrating the token ecosystem fully off public exchanges and into its private financial infrastructure.

    Effective immediately, Piety PC will reside exclusively within CBF Bank & Trust and the URME United Private Exchange, accessed through the company’s proprietary Legacy Wallet. This move aligns with URME United’s long-stated commitment to protect long-term participants, eliminate speculative volatility, and prepare the token for its intended role as a payroll-grade digital currency.

    “Our public market phase was never meant to be permanent,” said a spokesperson for URME United. “It was designed to prove demand, validate velocity, and establish trust. That mission is now complete.”

    Beginning mid-January, URME United will commence onboarding payroll customers across the United States as part of the full rollout of the Piety PayChain. The company reports that a growing waiting list is already forming, driven by anticipation and demand for a currency engineered specifically for real commerce, workforce payroll, and daily economic activity.

    URME United will continue its stated objective of progressing toward the $1.00 valuation milestone as adoption expands, before permanently integrating Piety PC into the live Piety PayChain payroll ecosystem.

    This transition represents a critical step in URME United’s broader mission to deliver a stable, utility-driven, asset-backed digital currency designed for businesses, workers, and communities—built for use, not speculation.

    About URME United
    URME United is a private trust-based ecosystem developing next-generation financial infrastructure, including private banking, digital asset custody, payroll technology, and real-world utility currencies designed to support sustainable economic growth.

    Michael Breault
    Founder, URME United Rancho Cucamonga, CA
    +1 909-273-8216
    mike.breault@sprizzi.com

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  • ExposeIQ Publishes Research on Evidence Inconsistencies in White-Collar Prosecutions

    Report analyzes common white collar inconsistencies and implications for generating reasonable doubt in prosecutions.

    Reasonable doubt in complex prosecutions often arises from discrepancies that are not immediately apparent; this research aims to catalog those recurring issues for the benefit of the defense bar.”

    — Joseph Terp, CEO & Co-Founder ExposeIQ

    ORLANDO, FL, UNITED STATES, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — ExposeIQ, a provider of litigation intelligence software, has issued a research report focused on evidence inconsistencies in white collar prosecutions. The document examines recurring patterns in federal cases and their relevance to white collar defense strategies.

    The report, spanning approximately 5,000 words, surveys appellate records, trial outcomes, and enforcement trends to identify common white collar inconsistencies, including conflicts in financial documentation, witness accounts, and digital records. It discusses how such issues can contribute to reasonable doubt during proceedings.

    The ExposeIQ White Collar Defense platform assists attorneys in reviewing case materials for potential discrepancies and generating reasonable doubt. The research is based on publicly available legal sources and aims to inform discussions among defense counsel handling complex prosecutions.
    In addition, the platform offers optional neurolinguistic-based queries designed to help attorneys formulate follow-up questions during depositions or testimony preparation. The feature is intended to assist counsel in further exploring areas where recollections, timelines, or documents may appear misaligned.

    The enhanced White Collar Discrepancy Analysis Suite includes:

    • Real-Time Contradiction Detection – Compares ongoing testimony to prior statements, discovery, and digital records.

    • Dynamic Timelines – Automatically updates case timelines as new information is introduced, helping teams visualize potential conflicts in sequence or chronology.

    • Occam’s Razor Logic Engine – Suggests alternative explanations or interpretations designed to help attorneys evaluate competing narratives.

    • Speech & Deception Analysis – Analyzes vocal patterns such as hesitation and stress markers, which may indicate uncertainty or inconsistent recall. It may also indicate a willful attempt to conceal relevant information.

    • Digital Forensics Alignment – Integrates data from cell phones, computers, location records, video, and financial systems to determine whether digital evidence supports or conflicts with stated events.

    • Problematic video evidence – Reasonable doubt generator, provides juries with visual evidence that undermines initial viewer perceptions.

    Supporting attorneys in case preparation, many litigation teams rely on post-testimony transcript review, which may delay the identification of key issues. The ExposeIQ platform is designed to assist with earlier detection by highlighting inconsistencies during depositions or testimony, identifying timeline issues before they become embedded in trial narratives, evaluating expert assumptions in context with available data, suggesting targeted follow-up questions for further clarification, and helping build clearer, evidence-based counter-narratives for defense strategy.

    The document is accessible on the ExposeIQ website for attorneys, researchers, and legal professionals interested in federal prosecution trends. It includes discussions of historical precedents and contemporary enforcement data. The ExposeIQ White Collar Defense platform remains available to firms engaged in white collar defense matters, with ongoing updates based on litigation insights.

    ExposeIQ develops tools for white collar defense, including analysis of prosecution evidence patterns and case discrepancies. The ExposeIQ White Collar Defense platform supports review of testimony, timelines, and digital records in federal and State matters. Additional details are available at exposeiq.com.

    Joseph Terp
    ExposeIQ LLC
    +1 901-445-0777
    email us here
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  • A year after release, ‘Bobby Joe the Criminal’ acclaimed at International Impact Book Awards by Readers globally

    Henry H. Latimore IV’s crime thriller earns international honors as readership and recognition continue to grow.

    I wrote this book to feel cinematic—every scene driven by urgency, emotion, and consequence. It’s not just about crime; it’s about the people caught in its aftermath.”

    — Henry H. Latimore IV

    LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Following its recognition at The International Impact Book Awards on November 1, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, at The Renaissance Hotel, Bobby Joe the Criminal by Henry H. Latimore IV continues to captivate readers with its gripping storytelling, cinematic intensity, and emotional depth.

    Latimore’s breakthrough work has been praised for its powerful combination of loyalty, betrayal, corruption, and high-stakes action blended with the heart of a deeply human story. One year after its release, the book continues to gain momentum among fans of crime thrillers, detective fiction, and urban stories.

    A Cinematic Crime Thriller with Heart
    Bobby Joe the Criminal follows undercover detective Bobby Joe Jones Jr., a man raised in a family of crime fighters and shaped by a strong sense of duty to the state he serves. When the antagonist Ahmad draws him into a dangerous diamond heist, Bobby Joe is forced to confront the line between justice and survival.

    Set in 1990s New York, the story moves through high-pressure FBI operations, the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, and tense confrontations that test loyalty and identity. Alongside the action, the book explores the emotional weight carried by those who wear the badge.

    Readers have praised the novel for its authentic dialogue, raw emotional insights, and cinematic storytelling style. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and additional retailers.

    About the Author
    Henry H. Latimore IV, also known as Hank Latimore and Henri Banks, is an author, artist, poet, philosopher, innovator, and curator. His work blends urban atmosphere with emotional depth, reflecting a lifelong passion for storytelling, music, culture, and the powerful human stories behind everyday events.

    Through La’timoStudio4, readers can explore:
    • Original paintings and artwork
    • Unique merchandise and creative designs
    • A curated online art gallery
    • A growing collection of literary and artistic projects

    Latimore is featured in publications such as MSN.com, New York Weekly, and USA Today, and continues to expand his creative footprint with new books and visual works.

    New Release: Spoken Words, Grow to Know Henry H. Latimore IV
    Latimore’s latest book, Spoken Words, Grow to Know Henry H. Latimore IV, is a journey of healing, elevated thought, and open-minded reflection. This collection invites readers to absorb each message naturally, encouraging personal transformation through free-flowing poetic expression.
    ________________________________________
    Availability
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    Available now in print and digital formats on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major outlets.
    ________________________________________
    Explore More of Latimore’s Work
    Creative Portfolio and Books:
    https://www.henribanks.net/
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    Location: Los Angeles, CA

    Henry H. Latimore IV
    LatimoreStudio4
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    Bobby Joe the Criminal | Henry H. Latimore IV’s Explosive Crime Thriller | Book Trailer

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  • Tomorrow, Friday: Launch of the King Abdulaziz Cup Heats at the 2025 Falconry Festival

    Tomorrow, Friday: Launch of the King Abdulaziz Cup Heats at the 2025 Falconry Festival

    RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, January 2, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival 2025 reaches its decisive, crowning stage tomorrow, Friday, with the launch of the King Abdulaziz Cup heats for each category within the Al-Melwah competition. The day’s contests will kick off with six heats dedicated to international falcon owners in the following categories: Shaheen (juvenile and mature), Hur (juvenile and mature), and Gyr Hybrid (juvenile and mature).

    International falconers will compete across the Owners and Professional tracks, vying directly for the King Abdulaziz Cups across the various categories. This year’s edition brings together participants from eight countries, led by falconers from the GCC states, alongside entries from Italy and Ireland. The festival continues to strengthen its global profile after recording three Guinness World Records as the world’s largest falconry festival in terms of the number of participating falcons.

    Locally, falconers across the tracks (Elite – Professionals – Owners – Amateurs) concluded the qualifying rounds over the past days with 53 heats, the latest held today, Thursday, through the Elite local heats. These qualifiers saw ten winners advance from each heat to compete in the King Abdulaziz Cup heats.

    In a new addition, Friday will, for the first time, feature the “Schools Heat,” organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, aiming to reinforce national identity, introduce younger generations to the world of falcons and falconry, and pass down the heritage of fathers and grandfathers. The heat will include 200 male and female students aged 7 to 17, selected through extensive coordination with a number of schools, including field visits and introductory sessions. The day’s program will also include the “Future Falconer Heat,” which the club has continued to stage in response to strong interest from youth and their parents.

    The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival 2025, held in Riyadh with broad participation from local and international falconers, features 139 heats and offers 1,012 prizes with a total value exceeding SAR 38 million.

    SFC
    SFC
    email us here

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  • 2026 Small Business Resolutions: Expert AI Prompts Releases Productivity Roadmap

    Expert AI Prompts launches a free guide to help small business owners save 5 hours weekly using 2026-ready AI strategies. Download the efficiency roadmap today.

    TOWNSVILLE, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As the 2026 business calendar begins, small business owners and solopreneurs globally are facing a familiar paradox: the ambition to scale versus the reality of time poverty. In response to the growing demand for operational efficiency, Expert AI Prompts has officially announced the release of its flagship resource, “5 Expert AI Prompts That Save 5 Hours This Week,” a strategic roadmap designed to help entrepreneurs operationalize their New Year’s resolutions through advanced artificial intelligence.

    Industry data suggests that while 78% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) plan to adopt AI in 2026, many fail to move beyond basic experimentation due to a lack of context-driven instruction. The result is often “generic” output that requires heavy editing, negating the time-saving promise of the technology.

    Expert AI Prompts aims to bridge this gap. Unlike generic AI tools or “copy-paste” templates that produce robotic text, this new initiative focuses on “Expert-Level” frameworks. These allow business owners to input specific industry context, resulting in outputs that reflect credibility and professionalism immediately.

    “Too many business owners are stuck in the weeds of daily operations, wishing they had the resources of bigger players,” said a Spokesperson for Expert AI Prompts. “Our mission for 2026 is to empower these ambitious entrepreneurs with expert-level AI tools that provide the leverage they need to scale confidently. We aren’t just offering shortcuts; we are offering a way to compete with industry leaders.”.

    The newly released guide addresses the specific “Alex Rivers” archetype—the overworked business owner wearing multiple hats. It offers immediate relief for common bottlenecks by providing:

    Context-First Frameworks: Moving beyond simple commands to structured prompts that understand brand voice.
    Immediate ROI: A tangible reduction in workload, estimated at five hours saved in the first week of implementation.

    Workflow Integration: Strategies to streamline client emails, social media drafting, and ad copy generation without sacrificing quality.

    This release marks the beginning of a broader strategic rollout by Expert AI Prompts. Over the coming six months, the company plans to unveil industry-specific prompt packs covering 30 distinct sectors, including Real Estate, eCommerce, and Agency management.

    “Efficiency is one of our core values,” the Spokesperson continued. “Every tool we release must save time and streamline workflows. If it doesn’t free a business owner from being overwhelmed so they can focus on growth, we don’t release it.”.

    The “5 Expert AI Prompts That Save 5 Hours This Week” guide is available immediately for free download. It serves as an entry point for business owners ready to transition from reactive content creation to proactive strategic planning in 2026.

    About Expert AI Prompts
    Expert AI Prompts is the trusted partner for ambitious entrepreneurs who want to save time, reduce stress, and scale their business without sacrificing quality. By combining AI-powered efficiency with strategic depth, the company helps small business owners transform overwhelm into opportunity. The brand stands for clarity, credibility, and competitive advantage—equipping entrepreneurs to achieve expert-level results and grow with confidence.
    For more information or to download the guide, visit:

    https://expertaiprompts.com/free-prompts-save-5-hours-this-week

    MR MATTHEW BULAT
    Expert AI Prompts
    +61 407 320 726
    email us here

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  • Belfast Digital Expert Warns Organic Search Traffic Fragmenting Across AI Platforms

    ProfileTree founder says businesses relying solely on Google rankings face significant visibility loss as users shift to AI-powered search alternatives.

    The search landscape has fragmented across AI platforms. Businesses preparing now will thrive. Those waiting risk invisibility.”

    — Ciaran Connolly, ProfileTree Founder

    BELFAST, CO. ANTRIM, UNITED KINGDOM, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — A leading Northern Ireland digital marketing expert is warning businesses across Ireland and the United Kingdom that organic search traffic is fragmenting across multiple AI platforms, requiring urgent strategy changes before 2026.

    Ciaran Connolly, founder of Belfast-based digital agency ProfileTree, says businesses that rely solely on traditional Google rankings risk losing significant visibility as users increasingly turn to AI Overviews, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and other AI-powered search alternatives.

    The warning comes as research indicates that up to 25 percent of traditional organic search traffic could shift to AI chatbots and answer engines by 2026, fundamentally changing how consumers in Belfast, Dublin, London, and across the UK discover and choose businesses.

    The Fragmentation of Search
    “We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how people find information online,” said Connolly, who has led ProfileTree’s growth from a Belfast startup to one of Northern Ireland’s most established digital agencies over the past 14 years. “It’s no longer just about ranking on page one of Google. Your business now needs to appear in AI Overviews, be cited by ChatGPT, show up in Perplexity results, and be referenced by Claude and Gemini. The search landscape has fragmented, and most businesses haven’t adapted.”

    Google’s own AI Overviews feature, which provides AI-generated summaries at the top of search results, has already reduced click-through rates by 25 to 60 percent for many queries. This means that even businesses ranking in the top three positions on Google are receiving significantly fewer website visitors than they did just 12 months ago.

    For small and medium-sized enterprises across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the wider UK market, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. Businesses that adapt quickly to the new AI search environment stand to gain market share from competitors who remain focused solely on traditional SEO techniques.

    Impact on Northern Ireland and Irish Businesses
    The Belfast digital marketing sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with businesses increasingly seeking expertise in AI-driven marketing strategies. ProfileTree, which operates from its headquarters in County Antrim, has been at the forefront of this shift, delivering over 1,000 AI training programmes to businesses across the island of Ireland and throughout the UK.

    “Northern Ireland businesses are particularly well-positioned to adapt to these changes,” Connolly explained. “We have a strong tradition of SME innovation, and the cross-border nature of many Irish businesses means they’re already used to operating across multiple markets. The same flexibility that helps Belfast companies serve clients in Dublin, London, Manchester, and beyond will help them adapt to serving customers across multiple AI search platforms.”

    The agency has observed that businesses in sectors including professional services, hospitality, retail, manufacturing, and technology are all being affected by the AI search shift. Local businesses that previously relied on Google Maps listings and local SEO to attract customers in Belfast, Derry, Newry, Lisburn, and other Northern Ireland towns are now finding that AI assistants are increasingly mediating these local discovery moments.

    Understanding AI Search Behaviour
    According to Connolly, the key difference between traditional search and AI-powered search lies in how these systems select and present information to users.

    “When someone searches on Google, they see a list of results and choose which website to visit,” he said. “But when someone asks ChatGPT or Perplexity for a recommendation, the AI provides a direct answer, often citing just two or three sources. If your business isn’t one of those cited sources, you’re invisible to that user entirely.”

    This shift has significant implications for digital marketing strategy. Traditional SEO focused heavily on keyword rankings, backlink profiles, and technical website optimisation. While these factors remain important, AI search optimisation requires additional considerations.
    AI systems tend to favour content that is clearly structured, factually accurate, frequently cited by other authoritative sources, and written in a style that can be easily quoted or referenced. Businesses need to create content that AI systems view as trustworthy and quotable, not just content that ranks well in traditional search results.

    The Rise of Generative Engine Optimisation
    The digital marketing industry has begun using the term Generative Engine Optimisation, or GEO, to describe the practice of optimising content for AI-powered search systems. ProfileTree has been developing GEO strategies for clients across Belfast, Dublin, and the UK since early 2024.

    “GEO is fundamentally different from traditional SEO,” Connolly noted. “With traditional SEO, you’re trying to convince Google’s algorithm that your page is the most relevant result for a particular query. With GEO, you’re trying to ensure that AI systems understand your business well enough to recommend you when users ask relevant questions.”

    Key elements of an effective GEO strategy include creating comprehensive ‘Why Choose Us’ pages that clearly articulate a business’s unique value proposition, ensuring consistent brand information across all online platforms, building citations and mentions on websites that AI systems frequently reference, and structuring content in formats that AI systems prefer to cite.

    Practical Steps for UK and Irish Businesses
    ProfileTree recommends that businesses across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK take several immediate steps to prepare for the continued fragmentation of search traffic.

    First, businesses should audit their current AI search presence. This involves searching for their brand name, products, and services in ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google’s AI Overviews, and other AI platforms to understand how they are currently being represented. Many businesses are surprised to find that AI systems have outdated or inaccurate information about their offerings.

    Second, businesses should review their content strategy to ensure they are creating material that AI systems want to reference. This includes developing clear, factual content that answers specific questions, creating comprehensive guides and resources that establish expertise, and ensuring all business information is consistent across the web.

    Third, businesses should diversify their digital presence beyond Google dependency. This means building authority on platforms that AI systems frequently cite, including LinkedIn, YouTube, industry publications, and reputable news sources. ProfileTree’s own YouTube channel, which recently surpassed 250,000 subscribers with business education content, has become an increasingly important source of referral traffic as AI systems cite video content more frequently.

    Fourth, businesses should invest in building genuine expertise signals. AI systems are increasingly sophisticated at identifying authoritative sources, and they tend to favour businesses with demonstrated expertise, clear credentials, and strong reputations. This means that traditional reputation-building activities such as earning media coverage, collecting customer reviews, and participating in industry events have become more important, not less.
    The Role of AI Training in Business Adaptation

    ProfileTree, which was recently featured in the Belfast Newsletter for making its comprehensive AI masterclass available free to local businesses, has seen demand for AI training increase significantly over the past 18 months.

    “When we started offering AI training, most businesses wanted to understand how to use tools like ChatGPT for content creation or customer service,” Connolly recalled. “Now, we’re seeing much more sophisticated requests. Businesses want to understand how AI is changing their entire digital presence, from how customers find them to how they can use AI internally to improve operations.”

    The agency’s AI training programmes cover topics including AI search optimisation, AI-assisted content creation, AI tools for business productivity, and strategic AI implementation for SMEs. Training is delivered both in-person at ProfileTree’s Belfast headquarters and remotely to businesses across Ireland and the UK.

    “The businesses that will thrive in 2026 and beyond are those investing in AI understanding now,” Connolly said. “This isn’t about replacing human expertise with AI. It’s about understanding how AI is changing customer behaviour and adapting your business accordingly.”

    Implications for the Digital Marketing Industry
    The shift toward AI-powered search has significant implications for the digital marketing and SEO industry itself. Agencies that built their business models around traditional Google rankings are being forced to adapt or risk obsolescence.

    ProfileTree has been investing heavily in developing new methodologies for measuring and improving AI search presence. The agency now offers AI SEO audits that assess how businesses appear across multiple AI platforms, alongside traditional SEO services.

    “The agencies that will succeed are those that view AI as an opportunity rather than a threat,” Connolly observed. “Yes, AI is changing how search works. But it’s also creating new opportunities for businesses that are prepared to adapt. Our job as a digital agency is to help our clients navigate these changes successfully.”

    The Belfast digital marketing sector has shown resilience in adapting to previous industry shifts, including the move to mobile-first design, the rise of social media marketing, and changes to Google’s algorithms. Industry observers expect Northern Ireland agencies to adapt successfully to the AI search shift as well.

    Looking Ahead to 2026
    Connolly predicts that the pace of change in AI-powered search will accelerate throughout 2025 and 2026. Google is expected to expand the reach of AI Overviews, while OpenAI, Microsoft, and other technology companies continue to develop their own AI search products.

    “By the end of 2026, I expect the search landscape to look dramatically different from today,” he said. “Businesses that start preparing now will have a significant advantage over those that wait. The time to act is now, not when the changes become impossible to ignore.”

    ProfileTree continues to publish research and guidance on AI search developments through its website and YouTube channel. The agency also offers free initial consultations for businesses looking to understand their current AI search presence and develop strategies for improvement.

    About ProfileTree
    ProfileTree is a digital marketing and creative media agency headquartered in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded in 2011 by Ciaran Connolly, the agency provides web design, SEO, content marketing, video production, and AI training services to businesses across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and the UK.
    Over 14 years in operation, ProfileTree has accumulated more than 450 five-star client reviews and built a YouTube following of over 250,000 subscribers. The agency has completed more than 1,000 business projects and delivered AI training to organisations ranging from small local businesses to large enterprises.
    ProfileTree has been featured in publications including the Belfast Newsletter and the Irish News, and has worked with clients including Tourism Northern Ireland, National Trust, and Derry Halloween, Europe’s largest Halloween festival.

    For more information about AI search optimisation, digital marketing services, or AI training programmes, visit ProfileTree at https://www.profiletree.com or contact the team directly.

    Ciaran Connolly
    ProfileTree Web Design and Digital Marketing Agency
    +44 28 9568 0364
    email us here
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    Digital Marketing Trends, E-Commerce Insights & 2026 Predictions

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  • New Young Adult Novel The Knight School Journal Explores Modern Knighthood in a Digital Age

    Part of the Cyberhawk Universe, the Book Blends Technology, Fantasy, Mystery, Ethics, and Honor for Today’s Young Readers

    The hero is an average child who navigates the complexities of his parents’ divorce and discovers that not everything is as it seems.”

    — Gretchen L Winkler

    PORTLAND, OR, UNITED STATES, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — User Friendly Media Group, Inc. announces the release of The Knight School Journal, a new young adult fiction novel by author Gretchen L. Winkler, now available in paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon.

    Set within the broader Cyberhawk Universe, The Knight School Journal is a standalone companion novel that explores the concept of modern knighthood through the eyes of a student navigating ethics, responsibility, technology, and the unknown mysteries of today’s world. The story blends contemporary challenges with timeless values such as honor, service, and accountability.

    “The hero is an average child who navigates the complexities of his parents’ divorce and discovers that not everything is as it seems. When their problems land him in a school for future knights, he starts to see the world differently. He learns that there is more to life than wishing for his parents to remarry. He also discovers the frightening truth behind his parents’ sorrows.” – says author Gretchen L. Winkler.

    Designed for young adult readers and families, the novel aligns with discussions around acceptance, friendship, and personal growth. While part of the Cyberhawk Universe, no prior knowledge of the series is required to enjoy the book.
    The book has been assigned an ISBN, a Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN), and is fully copyrighted. Marketing efforts will include a phased launch strategy, author outreach, and educational and community engagement initiatives.

    Book Details
    • Title: The Knight School Journal
    • Author: Gretchen L. Winkler
    • Publisher: User Friendly Media Group, Inc.
    • Genre: Young Adult Fiction / Modern Knighthood
    • Formats: Paperback and Kindle
    • Availability: Amazon

    About the Author
    Gretchen L. Winkler is an author who explores stories that blend science fiction and fantasy, creating a balance between two concepts that seem polar opposites but ultimately meet. She works to develop in-depth characters and believable action responses in tales such as those in the Cyberhawk universe, where advanced technology brings hope to a contemporary world where the realms of mystery and fantasy remain hidden just at the edge of social awareness.

    About User Friendly Media Group, Inc.
    User Friendly Media Group, Inc. is an independent publisher and media organization focused on technology, education, and storytelling. The company produces books, podcasts, and educational content aimed at promoting digital literacy and responsible innovation. The flagship show, User Friendly 2.0, has aired on radio and podcasts for 13 years.

    For more information about the author, visit https://iwrite.quest
    For more information about the Cyberhawk Universe, visit https://cyberhawkheros.com

    Media Contact
    William Sikkens
    User Friendly Media Group, Inc.
    Email: wsikkens@userfriendlynation.com
    Web: userfriendly.show
    Phone: 503-523-0888

    William Sikkens
    User Friendly Media Group, Inc
    +1 503-523-0888
    email us here

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  • Founder of Women for Paws Responds to Pet Food Shortage at the Upper Keys Humane Society

    A Call to Action by Women for Paws for Helping Animal Shelter Expands to Dog Adoption

    Who knew that a trip to the Upper Keys Humane Society to donate cat food would turn into a pet adoption by the founder of the organization donating the food, Women for Paws.”

    — Women for Paws

    KEY LARGO, FL, UNITED STATES, January 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — It is not every day that a founder of a nonprofit responds directly to the needs of a pet shelter. But this is exactly what happened on a Sunday morning when Grace C. Lopez, the founder of Women for Paws, decided to go to the local supermarket to purchase large bags and canned cat food to respond to the shortage of pet food at the Upper Keys Humane Society.

    Women for Paws is a nonprofit dedicated to helping pet owners that are struggling financially to pay for their pet’s medical bills and immediate needs, and this time the help was a bit different. This nonprofit decided that by keeping pets in pet shelters well fed this would ultimately help the pet owners who are looking to adopt healthy kittens and adult cats. “When one of our board members, Kara Biery, a local Key Largo resident, reached out about helping out, it was an easy decision for me to act on the request because shelters are overpopulated and there is only so much that donations can cover. I also know that most of the shelters not only feed the cats inside the shelter, but also the cats that surround the shelters outside. For every dog entering local pet shelters, there are four cats, and that’s why there is a greater need for cat food than dog food,” said Grace C. Lopez.

    The help offered to this shelter didn’t end with just donating pet food, Grace also decided to adopt one of the puppies that was coming in at the same time that she was entering the shelter. “The last thing that I expected was to add another rescue dog to my pack of two beautiful shitzu mixes. But all it took was that one look from one of their puppies to have me fall in love. I ended up bringing a beautiful mini Aussiedoodle home with me. I think that from now on I will send a volunteer to donate pet food to make sure that I don’t keep adding more rescues to my pack; at least until Women for Paws grows to a level of having its own shelter to rescue pets,” said Grace.

    This is not the first time that Women for Paws has responded to the needs of the Upper Keys. Most recently in October, there was a shortage of food for the veterans living in Key Largo. When Grace heard about it, she helped fill the pantry at the local VA center. “I knew that if there was a shortage of human food for our veterans that there would certainly be a shortage of food for their pets. This became a priority to answer this plea for help. For me, pets are like family, and we will do whatever that we can to make sure that the family pet does not go hungry. It was an honor to serve the needs of our veterans because they have done so much for our country and our freedom. I felt that this was as small gesture on our part,” said Grace.

    Women for Paws has been helping the Florida Keys for the past four years in responding to the needs of desperate pet owners asking for financial assistance to save their pet’s lives.

    Grace C. Lopez
    Women for Paws, Inc.
    +1 305-778-7500
    info@womenforpaws.org
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