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DFA Awards 2024: Asia’s Creative Luminaries Shine

New ‘Designer of the Year’ Award Unveiled


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 November 2024 – Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) is pleased to announce the esteemed laureates of the DFA Awards 2024, celebrating the innovative spirit and profound impact of design across Asia. This year, DFA Awards introduced an exciting new accolade, the DFA Designer of the Year, marking a significant milestone in recognising creative leaders based in Asia. Created by the renowned designer Alan Chan, the striking new trophy design for this esteemed award embodies Alan’s signature East-meets-West aesthetic which features a prominent “d” logo and the number “1” to serve as the focal points, elegantly representing the award’s prestigious identity.

Launched in 2003 with the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) as the lead sponsor, formerly known as Create Hong Kong, the DFA Awards honours extraordinary individuals and projects that have made a lasting impact on the design landscape, particularly in Asia by a series of award programmes. The 2024 awardees include – Kengo KUMA, DFA Lifetime Achievement Award (DFA LAA); Kikuo IBE, DFA Design Leadership Award (DFA DLA); Tino KWAN, DFA World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer (DFA WOCD) and Eisuke TACHIKAWA, DFA Designer of the Year (DFA DOY), each representing the pinnacle of design excellence and innovation.

Prof. Eric YIM, Chairman of HKDC said, “This year’s DFA Awards laureates have demonstrated how design transcends aesthetics to become a powerful tool for societal change. Their work not only inspires us but also challenges us to think deeply about the role of design in addressing global issues. I extend my warmest congratulations to each winner, whose visionary contributions are paving the way for a more sustainable and connected world. This year, we are thrilled to introduce the DFA Designer of the Year, which recognises individuals who are leading the charge in harnessing design to solve the complex social challenges of our time. This award highlights not only the individual achievements but also the richness of the innovative cultural perspectives that the Asian-based designers has brought to the design landscape.”

DFA Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 (DFA LAA)

Photo Credit: ©Designhouse Kengo KUMA Founder Kengo Kuma & Associates
Photo Credit: ©Designhouse
Kengo KUMA
Founder
Kengo Kuma & Associates

Kengo Kuma, a world-renowned architect, has made an indelible impact in the field of architecture by redefining the relationship between nature, technology, and humanity. Since the founding of Kengo Kuma & Associates in 1990, Kuma has brought his vision of blending architecture and its environment seamlessly to life. Kuma’s design philosophy, which prioritises natural materials and human-scaled spaces, can be seen in some of the world’s most iconic structures.

He is an Honorary Professor at the University of Tokyo, and taught at prestigious institutions like Keio University. Kuma continues to share his knowledge with future generations of architects. His philosophy integrates traditional Japanese aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, creating architecture that is both grounded and forward-thinking. Kuma’s influential body of work includes notable publications such as “Onomatopoeia Architecture Grounding”, “Natural Architecture”, and “Small Architecture”.

The DFA Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 celebrates Kengo Kuma’s pioneering vision and his profound contributions to the world of spatial design. His talent for blending natural materials with modern design principles offers a new perspective on how we engage with our surroundings, fostering a deeper connection between people and the environment.

DFA Design Leadership Award 2024 (DFA DLA)

Kikuo IBE Timepiece Business Unit Senior Fellow CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD.
Kikuo IBE
Timepiece Business Unit Senior Fellow
CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD.

Kikuo Ibe, known as the “Father of G-SHOCK”, successfully developed and commercialised G-SHOCK in 1981, has revolutionised the watch industry with his groundbreaking creation of G-SHOCK, a shock-resistant watch that has become an icon of durability and style that would withstand impacts and continue to function perfectly even if dropped.

Ibe’s relentless pursuit of durability did not stop there. In 1994, he initiated the creation of a full metal G-SHOCK, the MR-G model, which was released later. His creativity continued to push boundaries, leading to the launch of the DREAM PROJECT in 2016, which culminated in the creation of the 18K-GOLD G-SHOCK in 2018 to celebrate its 35th anniversary of the G-SHOCK line. The limited run of 35 units were sold out by reservation. Now more than 1,000 CASIO shops around the world sell G-SHOCK products, and G-SHOCK has sold a total of 100 million pieces worldwide, which registered as an important historical resource for science and technology, further acknowledging his contributions to global cultural development.

The DFA Design Leadership Award 2024 celebrates Kikuo Ibe’s extraordinary contributions to the design world, recognising his relentless pursuit of innovation, resilience, and his lasting impact on global trend and product design.

DFA World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer 2024 (DFA WOCD)

Tino KWAN Principal Consultant Tino Kwan Lighting Consultants
Tino KWAN
Principal Consultant
Tino Kwan Lighting Consultants

Tino Kwan, one of the world’s most celebrated lighting designers, has been a trailblazer in the field for over 45 years. His illustrious career began when he founded Tino Kwan Lighting Consultants in London in 1979, and his work around many countries on commercial buildings, yachts, luxury star-rated hotels, casinos, Michelin restaurants and mansions.

Tino Kwan’s influence extends beyond design as he actively shares his experience through lectures at design institutes such as Tsinghua University. His accolades include the Top 10 Designers Award from China National Interior Decoration Association (CIDA), awarded by China Illuminating Engineering Society (CIES), awards from Illuminating Engineering Institute of Japan (IEIJ) and Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), and his induction into Interior Design China’s Hall of Fame, reflecting his lasting impact on the design industry.

The DFA World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer 2024 celebrates Tino Kwan for his pioneering approach to lighting design and his efforts to nurture future talent. His ability to transform spaces with light has made him an industry icon, continuously expanding the limits of how we experience the environment.

DFA Designer of the Year 2024 (DFA DOY)

Eisuke TACHIKAWA Founder and CEO NOSIGNER
Eisuke TACHIKAWA
Founder and CEO
NOSIGNER

Eisuke Tachikawa, founder of NOSIGNER, is a design visionary dedicated to addressing global social issues such as climate change and disaster prevention through his work. His concept of “Evolutional Creativity”, which draws parallels between biological evolution and the creative process, has garnered him over 100 design awards, including two DFA Grand Awards.

Since 2021, Tachikawa has served as the youngest President of Japan Industrial Design Association (JIDA) and was elected to the Board of World Design Organization (WDO) in 2023. He has been instrumental in redefining the role of design in solving real-world problems. His notable projects include Japan pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka and “DESIGNS FOR THE NEXT 100YEARS” further showcases his commitment to creating positive social impact. His publications, “Evolutional Creativity” and “Design and Innovation”, highlight his thought on leadership in sustainable design.

The DFA Designer of the Year 2024 honours Eisuke Tachikawa for his innovative approach to design as a tool for societal change. His work challenges conventional thinking, offering hope and solutions for a better, more sustainable future.

DFA Design for Asia Awards 2024 (DFA DFAA)

The DFA Design for Asia Awards 2024 recognises and celebrates outstanding design achievements that have had a significant impact across Asia. Spanning six diverse categories, the Awards reflects the breadth and depth of design excellence from an Asian perspective while encompassing the global design landscape. These categories include Communication Design, Digital & Motion Design, Fashion & Accessory Design, Product & Industrial Design, Service & Experience Design, and Spatial Design, offering a comprehensive view of the innovative work shaping the future of design.

In the 2024 edition, 215 awards conferred to honour exceptional designs. These accolades include 10 Grand Awards, 20 Gold Awards, 43 Silver Awards, 57 Bronze Awards, and 85 Merit Awards. These recognitions underscore the accomplishments and represent a holistic celebration of creativity and innovation in design. A diverse panel of over 40 international judges, comprising experts from various regions and design disciplines, lent their expertise to evaluate the submissions, ensuring a rigorous and comprehensive assessment process.

Mr. Steve LEUNG, Vice Chairman of HKDC and Chairman of the DFA Awards Steering Committee said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the incredible calibre of projects showcased in DFAA 2024. This year, we have seen an impressive range of designs that not only push creative boundaries but also reflect a deep commitment to addressing pressing global challenges, from social inclusivity to cultural preservation. It is heartening to see designers embracing social responsibility, incorporating sustainable practices, and preserving heritage while shaping the future of design in Asia. Congratulations to all the winners, whose visionary work is leading the way to a brighter future.”

DFA Awards 2024: Asia’s Creative Luminaries Shine

DFA Hong Kong Young Design Talent Award (DFA HKYDTA)
In addition, the DFA Hong Kong Young Design Talent Award will soon announce its winners. Please stay tuned for further updates on upcoming events from HKDC.
Hashtag: #DFAAwards #HKDC

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About DFA Awards (http://www.dfaawards.com)

Since 2003, the Hong Kong Design Centre has launched the DFA Awards to underpin the role of designers in society, to celebrate design leadership and exemplary designs and projects with commercial success or impact in Asia, as well as to recognise the rising force of emerging designers in Hong Kong. The DFA Awards, through its six major award programmes, has grown in its international influence in Asia.

About Hong Kong Design Centre (www.hkdesigncentre.org)

Hong Kong Design Centre is a strategic partner of the Hong Kong SAR Government in leveraging the city’s East-meets-West advantage to create value from design.

To achieve our goals, we:

  • Cultivate a design culture
  • Bridge stakeholders to opportunities that unleash the value of design
  • Promote excellence in various design disciplines

About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (https://www.ccidahk.gov.hk)

The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.

Disclaimer: The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

Laos’ Inflation Rate Drops to 20.7 Percent in October

Patouxay Landmark of Laos in 2018 (Photo: Oulayvanh Sisounonth)

Laos’s inflation rate dropped slightly in October to 20.7 percent, down from 21.7 percent in September, according to official reports.

Luxshare Precision Reports Steady Growth in Q3 2024 Results, Optimistic About Annual Performance

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 November 2024 – Luxshare Precision (002475.SZ) announced its Q3 2024 financial results on October 25. In the first three quarters of the year, the company achieved approximately RMB177.177 billion in revenue, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 13.67%. The net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company reached RMB9.075 billion, marking a year-on-year increase of 23.06%. These figures highlight the company’s robust performance, driven by its deep engagement in several key business segments.

A core pillar of Luxshare Precision is consumer electronics, where strong partnerships with longstanding clients like Apple Inc. have yielded significant returns. Additionally, in the communication and data center sector, along with the automotive electronics area, the company has launched innovative products and solutions that have garnered positive market feedback, emerging as new growth drivers.

In the consumer electronics sector, Luxshare Precision continues to demonstrate its technological prowess. In September 2024, Apple Inc. launched the iPhone 16 series. According to Counterpoint Research, sales of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max surged by 44% compared to last year’s models. The new iPhone experienced a strong debut in the Chinese market, with sales in the first three weeks up 20% compared to the 2023 models. Recently, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Williams, accompanied by Luxshare Precision’s Chairwoman, Ms. Wang Laichun (Grace Wang), visited the factory in Kunshan, Jiangsu, where he praised the advanced automation and maturity of the production lines. This endorsement from such a pivotal partner not only underscores Luxshare Precision’s significant role in the global consumer electronics market, but also highlights its commitment to quality and technological innovation.

Moreover, Apple Inc. has announced the launch of its Apple Intelligence feature on October 28, alongside iOS 18.1. This feature will integrate Siri and ChatGPT to enhance user experience. The introduction of Apple Intelligence is expected to boost sales of Apple products, from which Luxshare Precision stands to benefit, further promoting its development in the consumer electronics sector.

In the communication and data center sector, Luxshare Precision is focusing on core products related to electrical connections, air-cooled/liquid-cooled cooling systems, and power management to meet the demand for high-performance solutions. The company has made significant strides in high-speed interconnection within data centers. At the 2024 OCP Global Summit, Luxshare Precision showcased its proactive contributions to AI data center innovations. Its subsidiary, Luxshare-Tech, introduced 224G High-Speed Interconnect Systems, Liquid Cooling System Solutions, and High-Power Interconnect Systems, all designed with advanced manufacturing processes to ensure stability and reliability during high-speed data transmission, supporting the rapid growth of AI applications.

Overall, Luxshare Precision is continually deepening its diversified development strategy to solidify its position as a comprehensive technology manufacturing enterprise while actively addressing potential market challenges. Over the past year, the company has strategically executed several important acquisitions, further enhancing its market position in manufacturing and automotive sectors.

In the automotive sector, Luxshare Precision has formed strategic partnerships with major global automotive manufacturers in areas such as wiring harnesses, connectors, intelligent cabins, and intelligent driving. Through continuous innovation and improved production capacity, the company is enhancing its competitiveness in the automotive market. To accelerate the globalization of its automotive business, Luxshare Precision announced plans to acquire a 50.1% stake in German cable and harnessing manufacturing giant Leoni AG and 100% of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Leoni Kabel GmbH. Grace Wang stated that the company aims to leverage Leoni’s resources in conjunction with Luxshare Precision’s own strengths, thus expanding its global business footprint and driving innovation to provide greater value to customers. This strategic move will further solidify Luxshare Precision’s position in the global automotive wiring harness market and expand additional market opportunities.

In the consumer electronics sector, Luxshare Precision plans to acquire a majority stake in Pegatron’s Kunshan factory for RMB2.1 billion, which will make it the largest shareholder of the factory and position it to become the second-largest iPhone assembler globally. This acquisition is expected to further consolidate its role within Apple’s supply chain.

Furthermore, Luxshare Precision has completed the acquisition of Qorvo’s packaging and testing facility in China, which is expected to enhance its packaging and testing capabilities in the consumer electronics RF front-end module sector, further strengthening its competitive advantage in the industry. The acquired facility specializes in core components for wireless communication modules, focusing on the mobile cellular market. Through these strategic acquisitions, Luxshare Precision continues to optimize and deepen its business layout, laying a solid foundation for future growth.

Luxshare Precision projects that its net profit for the entire year of 2024 will reach between RMB13.143 billion and RMB13.691 billion, indicating a year-on-year increase of 20.00% to 25.00%. Excluding nonrecurring profit and loss, the net profit is projected to be between RMB11.486 billion and RMB12.713 billion, with a year-on-year growth of 12.76% to 24.82%. Having been listed among Fortune Global 500 for two consecutive years, Luxshare Precision will continue to pursue a dual-driven strategy of internal growth and external expansion to promote steady business growth. Looking ahead, with the launch of new Apple products and ongoing growth in the communications and automotive areas, Luxshare Precision’s future business performance appears promising.
Hashtag: #LuxsharePrecision

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Lee Kum Kee Garners Industry Cares Recognition Scheme 2024 ‘Grand Award’ from the Federation of Hong Kong Industries


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 November 2024 – On 26 September, Lee Kum Kee rejoiced as the recipient of the esteemed ‘Grand Award’, ‘The Most Devoted Award’ and ‘The Most Innovative Award’ at the Federation of Hong Kong Industries’ (FHKI) Industry Cares Recognition Scheme 2024 Presentation Ceremony. The accolades recognise Lee Kum Kee’s innovative spirit and outstanding performance in fulfilling corporate social responsibilities.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun (at right) presents the ‘Grand Award’ to Mr Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs, Lee Kum Kee
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun (at right) presents the ‘Grand Award’ to Mr Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs, Lee Kum Kee

Contributing to Lee Kum Kee’s wins were its launch of the Shaping a Sustainable Future programme and the 7th International Master Chef’s Charity Gala Dinner last year. At the 26 September ceremony, Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs, Lee Kum Kee said, “Lee Kum Kee upholds the core value of ‘Si Li Ji Ren’ and is dedicated to contributing to society and caring for the vulnerable. This recognition from the FHKI affirms our long-term commitment to corporate social responsibility and motivates us to continue innovating for a positive impact on society.”

The Industry Cares Recognition Scheme is organised by the FHKI s and its Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. The judging panel consists of representatives from government, social service organisations, academia, caring partners and industry players. This year, over 100 enterprises submitted entries, with the judges selecting winning companies based on criteria such as social impact, resource allocation, initiatives, and creation of shared value.

Lee Kum Kee will continue to uphold the spirit of “Si Li Ji Ren” as it actively fulfils its social responsibilities and creates positive value for the community.
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #CSR #FHKI #IndustryCares

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Lee Kum Kee

Lee Kum Kee was established in 1888 when its founder Mr Lee Kum Sheung invented Lee Kum Kee oyster sauce in Nanshui, Zhuhai, Guangdong Province of China. With a glorious history of over 135 years, Lee Kum Kee has become an international household name as well as a symbol of quality and trust. Lee Kum Kee offers more than 300 types of sauces and condiments in over 100 countries and regions.

Visit our corporate website for more information:

About the Industry Cares Recognition Scheme

The Federation of Hong Kong Industries established the Committee on Promoting Corporate Social Responsibility in 2011 to advocate and encourage members to pursue corporate social responsibility. The Committee first organised the Industry Cares Recognition Scheme in 2013 to recognise companies that bring good benefits to society and support more companies to implement corporate social responsibility.

Laos Celebrates National Handicraft Day, Honoring Heritage, Economic Impact

Laos Celebrates National Handicraft Day, Honoring Heritage, Economic Impact
Lao Textile Exhibition at ITECC (photo credit: ITECC hall)

Laos commemorates its National Handicraft Day on 1 November, celebrating the nation’s rich heritage and the economic value of its traditional crafts. Established in 2007, this day highlights the contributions of Lao artisans in preserving cultural identity while supporting economic growth.

Ocean City to host International Lantern Design Contest and Festival


HANOI, VIETNAM- Media OutReach Newswire – 1 November 2024 – Vinhomes JSC and Sunny Vietnam Co. announce the launch of the Ocean International Lantern Contest and Festival. This event marks the first-ever international-scale lantern design competition, bringing together the most distinguished artisans from major lantern-making cultures worldwide. This annual program, held at the Ocean City megacomplex, aims to create an artistic destination to witness some of the world’s renowned “intangible cultural heritage.”

Each design is a combination of creative ideas and ingenuity of the artisan.
Each design is a combination of creative ideas and ingenuity of the artisan.

With its overarching theme of “Shine for Life,” the Ocean International Lantern Contest will not only feature the world’s most outstanding lantern artisans but also open new opportunities to elevate and incorporate lantern art into modern life. Through this competition, artisans will fully showcase the best of traditional lantern artistry, blending it with limitless creativity through modern technology to create stunning and unique visual spectacles for the public.

For its inaugural year, the organizers have chosen the theme “Oriental Light,” hoping the program to become a cultural bridge, enhancing cross-nation exchange and inspiring love for life, while spreading hope, strength, and light for the future.

The competition consists of two rounds: the preliminary (October 31 – November 14, 2024) and the final round (November 15, 2024 – January 17, 2025). For the preliminary, teams need only submit designs via lantern@vinhomes.vn, which the jury will evaluate and shortlist. In the final round, the finalists will build their designs on-site at Ocean City, under the direct observation of the Jury. The awards ceremony for the most impressive lantern designs and the top artisans will be held on January 18, 2025, during the lively atmosphere of the Lunar New Year celebrations.

Immediately following the awards ceremony, the Ocean International Lantern Festival with the theme “Oriental Light” will launch on January 18, 2025, running until March 16, 2025. The event will feature majestic lantern displays crafted by artisans who are recognized as “living heritage” of traditional artistry. These displays will extend along a nearly 1-km route, creating a must-see artistic and spring-outing destination for millions of visitors.

Alongside the lantern displays illuminating Ocean City’s skyline, the International Lantern Festival will host a variety of activities, featuring well-known international artists and vibrant cultural exhibitions to offer an exciting musical space amidst the festival’s dazzling colors. Additionally, at Ocean City, organizers have designed a “Shine for Life” wishing path where visitors can share their best wishes for family, friends, or themselves in the New Year, along with other meaningful springtime activities designed for all ages.

The Ocean International Lantern Contest and Festival is a groundbreaking cultural event for Eastern traditional craft and an expression of hope and optimism for a better future. It also serves as a platform to bring traditional intangible cultural heritage to the public and integrate it into modern life. This significant event contributes to enhancing Vietnam’s image on the global tourism map, with hopes of attracting international cultural festivals to Vietnam and bringing the country closer to the world as we work together toward a peaceful and sustainable future./.

For more information, please visit: https://oceancityhanoi.vn/en/lantern-festival/
Hashtag: #vinhomes

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Merck Announces Emerging Biotech Grant Program Winners

  • Award recipients to receive in-kind technologies and services to accelerate therapeutics to market
  • Merck experts to provide consultation and training in qualification, risk assessment, and process optimization
  • Program extended this year to Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, South Korea

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 November 2024 – Merck, a leading science and technology company, today announced the winners of its Emerging Biotech (EB) Grant Program in Asia Pacific. The Award is designed to support biotech startups with resources to enable emerging companies to discover, develop, optimize, and commercialize therapeutics faster and more efficiently.

Merck Emerging Biotech Award Recipients for Taiwan receiving their awards at the award ceremony.
Merck Emerging Biotech Award Recipients for Taiwan receiving their awards at the award ceremony.
Merck Emerging Biotech Award Recipients for Australia receiving their awards at the award ceremony.
Merck Emerging Biotech Award Recipients for Australia receiving their awards at the award ceremony.



“Merck is committed to supporting exceptional biotech companies to both kickstart and streamline their journey from discovery to manufacturing with our grant program,” said Chua Keng Hock, Senior Vice President, Process Solutions Asia Pacific, Life Science business of Merck. “We recognize the complexities involved in delivering next-generation therapies to the market. Merck’s EB Grant is designed to expedite the development of treatments that address critical unmet medical needs.”

The award recipients are:

Country Grand Prize Winner Finalist Prize Winners Special Mention
Australia & New Zealand Southern RNA for enabling the manufacturing of mRNA for personalized medicines Institute for Drug Technology for enabling the manufacturing of antibody-drug conjugates.

Psaio for developing bispecific antibodies targeting prostate-specific antigen to treat prostate cancer.

Kimer Med for developing

a family of broad-spectrum antiviral biologics to treat infectious diseases, and for pandemic protection.

Taiwan HanchorBio for developing clinical-stage and next-generation immuno-oncology therapies through innovation in cutting-edge designer biologics with novel, multi-functional modalities. Pell Biomed Technology for developing more efficient and cost-effective gene-modified cell therapies.

Glyconex for glycan-directed cancer therapies including antibody-drug conjugates to treat a range of solid tumors such as gastrointestinal cancers.

Shine-On BioMedical for developing targeted exosomes as a platform for drug delivery as well as tri-specific antibody for cancer treatment.

Merck experts selected the winning submissions based on the scientific and societal merit of the therapy in development and process challenges and expertise gaps that may impact ongoing development. In-kind technologies and services from Merck will be awarded to the winners in Australia & New Zealand and Taiwan to help solve these challenges.

Merck first started the EB grant program in 2014 in the United States and has expanded its reach to include Europe, China, South Korea and Taiwan in recent years. In 2024, the EB Grant was extended to Australia & New Zealand and is open to Taiwan and South Korea (the winners for South Korea were announced in July 2024). To-date, Merck’s EB Grant program has awarded technologies and consultation to over 40 biotechnology companies around the world, supporting their efforts to improve patient outcomes for various diseases such as cancer, brain tumors, osteoarthritis, and cardiovascular disorders.

https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/SG/en/applications/pharmaceutical-and-biopharmaceutical-manufacturing/biotech-resource-hub/startup-programs#our-grant-programs

Other Merck grants at group level:
https://www.merckgroup.com/en/research/open-innovation.html

Hashtag: #Merck

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Merck

Merck, a leading science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare and electronics. Around 63,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people’s lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From providing products and services that accelerate drug development and manufacturing as well as discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices – the company is everywhere. In 2023, Merck generated sales of € 21 billion in 65 countries.

Scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to Merck’s technological and scientific advances. This is how Merck has thrived since its founding in 1668. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company. Merck holds the global rights to the Merck name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck operate as MilliporeSigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare, and EMD Electronics in electronics.

All Merck press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck website. Please go to to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service.

Vientiane Seizes Millions in Drugs in First Nine Months of 2024

Photo credit: Lao Security News

During the first nine months of 2024, authorities in Vientiane Capital confiscated a total of 15.5 million narcotics pills and arrested 1,273 criminals, with 82 offenders being foreigners.