The Maryland Cannabis Convention will be held on May 2-3, 2025, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, MD. This premier event brings together industry leaders, experts, and entrepreneurs to explore the latest developments and opportunities in the cannabis sector.

Operational since 2014, NECANN events are one of the most significant cannabis events on the East Coast. This year, the Maryland Cannabis Convention promises to deliver even more insightful discussions, innovative product showcases, and unique networking opportunities. Attendees can expect to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including cannabis businesses, investors, policymakers, and researchers.

The convention will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, and workshops. Investors and executives can explore business opportunities from among 120 exhibiting companies, while also hearing from over 60 knowledgeable speakers sharing important insights on industry trends and advancements.

Topics to be covered include:

• Regulatory updates and compliance best practices
• Avenues of investment and financing opportunities in the cannabis industry
• Latest information on cannabis research and development advancements
• Cannabis cultivation and production innovations
• Emerging trends in cannabis consumption and retail

The Maryland convention will also host an exhibition hall featuring leading cannabis companies, products, and services. Attendees can explore the latest innovations in cannabis technology, accessories, and ancillary services.

This NECANN event offers an unparalleled opportunity for industry professionals to connect, learn, and grow. With a strong focus on education, networking, and business development, this event is designed to drive growth and innovation in the cannabis sector.

Veteran as well as new industry players can leverage this platform to network with industry leaders and stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments. Industry professionals can learn about the latest tools and trends for success in this rapidly evolving market.

To know more, please visit https://ibn.fm/ucjos.

• Ford Otosan has deployed into production a hybrid-quantum application to optimize production sequencing for its highly customizable Ford Transit vehicles.
• The application, developed with D-Wave’s annealing quantum computing technology, reduces scheduling time by over 80%.
• Ford Otosan is using the quantum optimization solution to help manage vehicle variability, labor constraints, and shop-floor dependencies more effectively than by using just classical computing approaches.

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) (“D-Wave”), a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services, announced that its technology is being deployed in a live manufacturing environment at Ford Otosan’s production facility in Turkey. The hybrid-quantum application is aimed at optimizing the manufacturing sequencing of Ford Transit vehicles, which are produced in thousands of different configurations to meet customer specifications (https://ibn.fm/UgxSP).

Ford Otosan, a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and Koç Holding, is the largest commercial vehicle production hub in Ford’s European network. It manufactures over 700,000 vehicles annually, including the highly customizable Ford Transit line. The complexity of this model line—featuring more than 1,500 variants—can present operational challenges.

Ford Otosan developed and implemented a hybrid-quantum application using D-Wave’s annealing quantum computing technology. The solution is designed to streamline production sequencing by identifying more efficient ways to group similar builds, which improves overall productivity while staying within operational constraints.

According to Ziya Dalkılıç, a data scientist at Ford Otosan, the quantum-based solution goes beyond what the company was able to accomplish with classical computing methods alone. “It is imperative that Ford Otosan maintains the highest standards of production processes and efficiencies to meet customer demand,” said Dalkılıç. “Working with D-Wave’s technology, we’ve built, and have now deployed, a quantum optimization application that goes beyond what we were able to achieve with a purely classical computing approach.” 

D-Wave’s annealing quantum technology is well suited to solve complex optimization problems involving multiple constraints. The company’s hybrid-quantum solvers, accessible through its Leap™ quantum cloud service, combine classical and quantum computing resources to tackle real-world enterprise problems.

Ford Otosan reduced the time it takes to schedule a 1,000-vehicle production run from about 30 minutes to under five minutes, using the hybrid-quantum application. That time savings can allow for more dynamic scheduling adjustments, which are particularly useful when demand fluctuates or the availability of parts changes.

Beyond speed, the application’s ability to balance workloads across production areas has downstream benefits. Ford Otosan expects fewer maintenance disruptions, which helps to stabilize daily operations, as well as potential gains in mitigating supplier delays by enabling longer, more optimized production windows. Looking ahead, Ford Otosan plans to use quantum optimization across other factory processes, including its paint shops, assembly lines, and buffer zones. 

“Production scheduling demands meticulous planning and agile responses, and classical computing methods can often struggle to keep up with the manufacturing industry’s growing scale and complexity,” said D-Wave CEO Dr. Alan Baratz. “For manufacturers on the leading edge of innovation—such as Ford Otosan—D-Wave’s quantum computing technology has proven capable of finding better solutions to complex, real-world problems than classical computing alone. We’re thrilled to see this application move into production and help Ford Otosan realize the powerful benefits of quantum.”

About D-Wave Quantum Inc.

D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our 5,000+ qubit Advantage(TM) quantum computers, the world’s largest, are available on-premises or via the cloud, supported by 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our Advantage and Advantage2(TM) systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may not be indicative of future results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management’s control, including the risks set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part I of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or any updates discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our other filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release in making an investment decision, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no duty to update this information unless required by law.

• Nutriband secures new U.S. trademark and international patents for AVERSA(TM) platform
• AVERSA(TM) Fentanyl targets $80M–$200M U.S. sales opportunity as first abuse-deterrent opioid patch
• Strategic sports partnership with Charlotte FC boosts brand visibility and community presence

Strengthening IP for Long-Term Market Protection

Nutriband (NASDAQ: NTRB) continues to solidify its leadership in the development of abuse-deterrent transdermal pharmaceuticals. In February, the company received a trademark registration from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”) for “Nutriband(TM),” covering pharmaceutical and product R&D. This comes in addition to a newly granted patent in Macao for its proprietary AVERSA(TM) transdermal system, bringing the total number of countries granting protection to 46.

These intellectual property milestones reflect the growing importance of Nutriband’s AVERSA(TM) platform, which is designed to reduce abuse, diversion, and accidental exposure of potent drugs like fentanyl. With patents now spanning the U.S., Europe, Japan, China (including Hong Kong and Macao), and others, Nutriband is creating an international IP fortress around a potentially game-changing product line.

Commercial Progress Toward FDA Submission

The company’s lead development asset, AVERSA(TM) Fentanyl, represents what could be the first-ever abuse-deterrent transdermal fentanyl patch. Nutriband is working alongside Kindeva Drug Delivery to finalize commercial-scale manufacturing. Kindeva brings expertise in drug-device combination products and has an FDA-approved fentanyl patch platform, enabling efficient integration of AVERSA(TM) technology.

According to Health Advances, AVERSA(TM) Fentanyl could reach peak annual U.S. sales between $80 million and $200 million. These estimates underscore the significant market need for safer opioid delivery systems. With opioid misuse continuing to be a public health crisis, Nutriband’s approach to make transdermal fentanyl less prone to abuse could offer a valuable new tool for clinicians.

Aligning with Market Demand for Safer Therapies

The urgency for pharmaceutical companies to provide abuse-deterrent options is rising. While opioids remain essential for managing chronic and acute pain, the risk of misuse has led to stricter scrutiny from regulators and payers. Transdermal delivery systems offer sustained, controlled dosing, but they are not immune to abuse. AVERSA(TM) tackles this challenge by incorporating aversive agents that make tampering unpleasant or ineffective.

The platform has broader applications beyond fentanyl. It can be adapted for other opioids or stimulants prone to misuse, giving Nutriband a multi-product runway once regulatory clearance is achieved.

Brand Visibility Through Sports Sponsorship

Beyond the lab, Nutriband is working to raise awareness of its technologies and wellness products through a strategic Associate Partnership with Major League Soccer’s Charlotte FC. This relationship aligns well with the company’s regional ties – many Nutriband products, including AI Tape – are manufactured locally at its Pocono Pharmaceutical facility in North Carolina.

The partnership is expected to build brand visibility not only for AI Tape, which targets the athletic market, but also for AVERSA(TM), particularly as the company prepares for broader commercialization and investor outreach.

Outlook: A Biotech with Strong IP and Near-Term Milestones

Nutriband’s continued IP development, clear clinical vision, and strategic manufacturing partnerships set the stage for what could be a transformative year. With regulatory submission for AVERSA(TM) Fentanyl on the horizon, the company offers investors exposure to a differentiated platform in a multibillion-dollar market challenged by abuse risk.

As Nutriband advances toward commercial readiness, it is simultaneously building brand equity and community alignment, both valuable assets in today’s healthcare and consumer environments.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Nutriband.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to NTRB are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/NTRB

• Brera Holdings, an Ireland-based, international holding company focused on expanding its global portfolio of men’s and women’s sports clubs, partnered with Italian Serie A club ACF Fiorentina for “Pepito Day,” a celebration of Giuseppe “Pepito” Rossi and his illustrious career for Fiorentina (Italy), Manchester United (England), and Villarreal CF (Spain)
• Held on March 22, 2025, this event featured a series of engaging activities such as the Pepito Cup youth tournament, an exclusive meet-and-greet session with Rossi, a pre-match entertainment show, and a star-studded match with legendary players
• For Brera, this was an opportunity to celebrate and recognize Rossi’s contributions, not just to the company but also to the community and the beautiful game

Brera Holdings (NASDAQ: BREA), an Ireland-based, international holding company focused on expanding its global portfolio of men’s and women’s sports clubs through a multi-club ownership (“MCO”) approach, recently collaborated with Italian Serie A football club ACF Fiorentina to organize and sponsor “Pepito Day,” a landmark event celebrating Giuseppe “Pepito” Rossi, his illustrious career, and his impact on the community and the beautiful game. Held on March 22, 2025, this event brought together football enthusiasts, legendary football players, former teammates of Rossi, sports and industry leaders, and distinguished guests (https://ibn.fm/rCYzo).

“Brera Holdings is thrilled to have been a sponsor of ‘Pepito Day,’ an event that not only honored Giuseppe Rossi’s legacy but also embodied our commitment to fostering excellence in football worldwide,” noted Brera’s Executive Chairman, Daniel McClory. “Pepito, a proud Italian-American, has been an inspiring figure in the global football community, and his contributions to the sport align perfectly with Brera Holdings’ mission of developing and supporting talent and player pathways on a worldwide scale,” he added (https://ibn.fm/rCYzo).

Before his retirement, Rossi had an illustrious career, leaving his mark at ACF Fiorentina, where he played professionally between 2013 and 2017. He had 34 appearances during that time, scoring 16 goals and showcasing his extraordinary talent. Rossi is also known for his hat-trick and landmark victory against Juventus in 2013, a performance that, to this day, is still remembered in Fiorentina’s history. Throughout his career in three countries, Rossi has scored 143 goals in 397 games. He has represented Italy in the national team and was the top scorer in the 2008 Summer Olympics. He has played for big teams in Europe, starting at Manchester United, then onto Villarreal FC, and then Fiorentina.

“This is a truly special day for me and my family. Performing one last time in a stadium and city that I consider a second home is the perfect conclusion to a career I am incredibly proud of,” Rossi noted. “Living out my childhood dream has been a tremendous honor, and now that I am retired, I find joy in giving back and helping young players develop their passion for this beautiful game,” he added (https://ibn.fm/rCYzo).

The day featured engaging activities such as the Pepito Cup youth tournament, an exclusive meet-and-greet session, a pre-match entertainment show, and a star-studded match with legendary players and former teammates of Rossi. Among those honoring Rossi were Gabriel Batistuta, Daniele De Rossi, Mario Gomez, and Luca Toni. Even Manuel Pellegrini and Roberto Dallapina, who was Rossi’s first coach, made a surprise appearance as a guest coach, underscoring the mark Rossi left on global football.

Brera also actively participated in various activations throughout the event, highlighting its commitment to promoting the beautiful game, specifically grassroots football.

Rossi currently serves as an Advisory Board member at Brera, a role he has held since February 2024. He is an invaluable asset to the company, contributing to the sporting side of its MCO strategy while lending his deep knowledge of the game to enhance its global football operations. His insights have been integral in the company’s recent acquisitions and investments, including its expansion beyond Europe. This day looked to celebrate and recognize these contributions and more, while also acknowledging his lasting impact on football and young athletes.

For company information, visit the company’s website at www.BreraHoldings.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to BREA are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/BREA

• At its Qubits 2025 user conference, D-Wave introduced new hybrid solver capabilities supporting continuous variables and aims to broaden its commercial use cases and increase adoption of its quantum optimization technology.
• The company is seeing increased interest from customers, independent software vendors, system integrators, and resellers and has revealed new quantum optimization use cases including portfolio optimization, offer allocation, and maintenance repair operations.
• Companies such as NTT DOCOMO and Ford Otosan are already deploying D-Wave’s quantum optimization technology in production environments.

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) (“D-Wave”), a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services, has announced an expanded suite of tools and use cases designed to accelerate adoption of its commercial quantum optimization technology. Presented at the company’s Qubits 2025 user conference, the new solutions reflect growing interest in quantum solutions for real-world business problems from customers, independent software vendors (“ISVs”), system integrators (“SIs”), and resellers (https://ibn.fm/Q7ODq).

D-Wave announced new functionality within its hybrid quantum nonlinear (“NL”) solver, which now supports continuous variables with linear interactions. This added capability enables the solver to address a wider range of computational problems, including dynamic resource distribution and budget allocation, aimed at making quantum tools more accessible for practical, commercial use.

With more organizations seeking to apply quantum computing to optimization problems, D-Wave has expanded its set of use cases, building on previously announced applications including workforce scheduling, production scheduling and logistics routing.

New use cases include:

• Offer allocation, helping companies distribute promotional offers more efficiently using quantum algorithms to balance constraints and expected outcomes.
• Portfolio optimization, supporting financial institutions in refining investment strategies under regulatory and risk constraints.
• Maintenance repair operations (“MRO”) optimization, enabling logistics and manufacturing companies to streamline operations and reduce downtime.

European financial services firm BBVA is working with D-Wave to explore quantum optimization for portfolio management. Escolástico Sánchez Martínez, head of quantum at BBVA, said the bank is combining quantum methods with machine learning to build more robust portfolios that can adjust to changing macroeconomic conditions.

“Improving the process of dynamically optimizing portfolios with changing macroeconomic conditions is a critical yet highly complex challenge,” said Martínez. “We’re exploring the combination of quantum optimization and machine learning to address this, with the goal of identifying more robust portfolios for our clients that balance risk and ultimately increase their returns on investments. This proof-of-concept is being developed with the full support and commitment of BBVA’s CIB Global Markets and BBVA Asset Management’s Asset Allocation and Investment Strategies teams.”

Interest in and adoption of D-Wave’s optimization technology are growing across a variety of sectors. At Qubits 2025, representatives from organizations including SAS, QuantumBasel, and the University of Southern California shared how they are using the technology to address complex challenges.

One notable deployment comes from NTT DOCOMO, Japan’s largest mobile operator. The company has implemented a D-Wave hybrid quantum solution to optimize mobile network performance, reducing base station congestion by 15% during peak hours. According to Takatoshi Okagawa, director of research and development strategy at NTT DOCOMO, the results are leading to better service delivery and lower infrastructure costs. “Together with D-Wave’s hybrid quantum technology, NTT DOCOMO is identifying new ways to enhance network efficiency, which is critical for customer satisfaction and for maintaining high-quality service without additional infrastructure investments,” he said.

In the automotive space, Ford Otosan, a joint venture between Ford and Turkey’s Koç Holding, is using D-Wave’s technology to optimize vehicle production sequencing for its Ford Transit line of vehicles. This real-world application underscores the practical utility of quantum optimization in manufacturing environments.

According to D-Wave CEO Dr. Alan Baratz, the company is positioning quantum optimization as a new category that addresses the limitations of classical computing in complex problem-solving. “Organizations are increasingly experiencing shortcomings with legacy computing solutions in addressing today’s complex optimization problems,” said Dr. Baratz. “This is driving the creation of a new market category—quantum optimization, which leverages the power of quantum computing to address these real-world problems. We’re excited to showcase technical advances and customer success stories at Qubits 2025 that reinforce how we are helping organizations realize the value of quantum today.”

About D-Wave Quantum Inc.

D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our 5,000+ qubit Advantage(TM) quantum computers, the world’s largest, are available on-premises or via the cloud, supported by 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our Advantage and Advantage2(TM) systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to QBTS are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/QBTS

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may not be indicative of future results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management’s control, including the risks set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part I of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or any updates discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our other filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release in making an investment decision, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no duty to update this information unless required by law.

• An increase in deaths from COVID-19 underscores the persistent danger of the virus and the urgent need for effective protective measures and treatments.
• Soligenix is addressing this need through the development of CiVax, its proprietary, heat-stable COVID-19 subunit vaccine candidate.
• Recent preclinical studies have demonstrated that CiVax can induce rapid and broad protection against multiple COVID-19 variants.

Despite the passage of time since the pandemic, COVID-19 continues to pose a significant global health threat. Recent data from the World Health Organization (“WHO”) indicates that during the 28-day period from Jan. 6 to Feb. 2, 2025, more than 147,000 new COVID-19 cases were reported globally, representing a 16% decrease compared to the previous period (https://ibn.fm/viChU). However, during the same timeframe, approximately 4,500 new deaths were reported, marking a 28% increase. This underscores the persistent danger of the virus and the urgent need for effective protective measures and treatments.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) reported that as of April 11, 2025, the levels of acute respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, remain low (https://ibn.fm/tTcxB). Nevertheless, the virus continues to circulate, and the potential for new variants necessitates ongoing vigilance. The fluctuating nature of COVID-19 cases and the emergence of variants highlight the critical need for continued research and development of safe and effective vaccines and therapeutics.

Soligenix (NASDAQ: SNGX), a late-stage biopharmaceutical company, is addressing this need through the development of CiVax(TM), a heat-stable COVID-19 subunit vaccine candidate. Recent preclinical studies have demonstrated that CiVax can induce rapid and broad protection against multiple COVID-19 variants (https://ibn.fm/umdje). In nonhuman primate studies, a booster dose of CiVax elicited a swift and robust neutralizing antibody response, enhancing protection against SARS-CoV-2, including the Delta and Omicron variants.

“The CiVax vaccine has demonstrated broad and robust immune responses in mice, which has been recapitulated in nonhuman primates and further shown to yield protection against infection with COVID-19 variants of concern,” observed Dr. Axel Lehrer, an associate professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and lead investigator in the CiVax studies. This highlights the potential of CiVax to serve as a versatile tool in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.

Soligenix’s innovative approach focuses on developing a more cost-effective vaccine that not only provides protection against multiple variants but is also thermostable, eliminating the need for cold chain storage. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for global distribution, ensuring that vaccines remain viable in regions with limited refrigeration infrastructure.

The continued prevalence of COVID-19 and the emergence of new variants underscore the importance of advancing vaccine technologies. Soligenix’s CiVax represents a promising development in this context, offering the potential for more cost-effective, broad-spectrum protection while having the logistical advantages that could significantly contribute to global vaccination efforts.

For more information, visit www.Soligenix.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SNGX are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/SNGX

• Social media commerce is expected to grow to $821 billion in 2025_[1], demonstrating its importance as a medium for advertiser success
• Advertising tech platform developer Thumzup Media has created a proprietary product that bridges gaps between advertisers and social media influencers to target the opportunity social media provides
• Thumzup has recently expanded from its Los Angeles base to the South Florida market, and uplisted to the Nasdaq exchange as part of its continued growth
• The company recently registered its 800th advertising client with plans to pass the 1,000-client threshold within the next couple of months, building on its growth CAGR of 243% during the past year

Social media branding and marketing innovator Thumzup (NASDAQ: TZUP) is following in the footsteps of community network companies like Uber and Airbnb, forging a path to success in its own industry with a user-friendly platform to help America’s small business community efficiently reach consumers.

Thumzup’s mission is to help companies sell their products and services by connecting their advertising campaigns to social media influencers who can appeal directly to their own followers to generate a potential customer pool. “As a leader in authentic and creator-driven social media advertising, our platform continues to empower brands with wider access to various audiences, while offering … real monetary incentives for our app users,” Thumzup CEO Robert Steele stated (https://ibn.fm/1yAdf).

Thumzup created its proprietary AdTech platform as a tech solution for companies looking to simplify the management of their social media advertising campaigns and for social media influencers looking to simplify their income acquisition. AdTech, and its accompanying app, effectively bridge that gap, making it easy for influencers to collect cash and for advertisers to recruit for their marketing campaigns. The platform uses Venmo and PayPal, two readily usable electronic payment transfer platforms, in its recruitment engine. Thumzup is also preparing to adopt a Bitcoin payment option in the near future for its gig economy workers.

On the advertiser side, the dashboard includes tools for analyzing campaigns as they progress. Video capabilities enable campaign integration with Instagram Reels, the short-form video content that is proving increasingly popular with social media users.

The Los Angeles-based company has been expanding its sphere of operations across the country, most recently celebrating its introduction into South Florida’s dynamic advertising and gig economy region. It uplisted to the Nasdaq exchange in October, broadening market awareness of its offerings. “Our strategic investments and market accelerations are driving significant value and positioning us for continued growth,” Steele stated in response to Thumzup passing the 800-client threshold with a CAGR of 243% during the past year (https://ibn.fm/027WN).

The company expects to have more than 1,000 advertisers onboard within the next few months.

For more information, including insights from the company’s recent shareholder letter, visit the company’s website at www.ThumzupMedia.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to TZUP are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/TZUP

• Martone will assist with evaluating and sourcing U.S. and Canadian sites, focusing on power availability, connectivity, and operational feasibility.
• The move reflects SolarBank’s strategy to align with AI-driven data demand and to integrate clean energy solutions with digital infrastructure.
• The company has reaffirmed its U.S. focus to reduce exposure to tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada.
• SolarBank’s recent $49.8 million deal with Qcells underpins its commitment to “Made in America” infrastructure.

Disseminated on behalf of SolarBank Corporation

SolarBank (NASDAQ: SUUN) (Cboe CA: SUNN) (FSE: GY2), a premier developer and owner of renewable and clean energy projects, specializing in distributed and community solar initiatives throughout Canada and the U.S., has taken a key step in advancing its expansion into the data center market by bringing on seasoned advisor Jonathan Martone. The company announced it has retained Martone and his firm, Martone Advisors LLC, to support strategic efforts in identifying and assessing opportunities for data center development in North America (https://ibn.fm/mytyQ).

Martone, who has spent over 25 years in the telecommunications and data center sectors, is known for his hands-on role in building data center ecosystems and advising clients on network design and site development. His background includes consulting for private equity firms and operators to evaluate sites for both build-to-suit and multi-tenant facilities, with a focus on energy infrastructure, fiber connectivity, and interconnection strategies.

SolarBank announced plans to expand into the data center space in November 2024. The hiring of Martone signals a deepening commitment to the sector, especially as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and high-performance workloads continue to drive demand for hyperscale and edge facilities.

Dr. Richard Lu, CEO of SolarBank, emphasized Martone’s practical knowledge and network, underlining that his appointment will bring significant value to the company. “Jonathan has significant contacts and is one of the leaders in North America in understanding site selection and the components to ensure a successful operation. The growth of data-hungry artificial intelligence deployments continues, and SolarBank is seeking to help support this demand,” Dr. Lu added.

Martone’s scope will include evaluating SolarBank’s current pipeline of potential projects in the United States and Canada. According to the company, these markets offer both energy infrastructure reliability and a lower-risk regulatory environment—particularly relevant in light of recent U.S. tariff actions targeting imports from foreign countries.

“SolarBank has always been focused on the development of projects in the United States that provide clean energy to support communities,” Dr. Lu stated in a recent press release (https://ibn.fm/46U8x). “The recently announced tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China are not expected to have an impact on our business. In particular, our recently announced $49.8 million transaction with Qcells will see four projects developed with ‘Made in America’ solar panels.”

That transaction, announced earlier this year, not only supports domestic manufacturing but also helps shield SolarBank from global supply chain risks and potential cost increases associated with trade policy shifts. “SolarBank believes it can navigate supply chain issues to continue to develop projects with positive economics,” Dr. Lu said. There is still uncertainty on the overall impact of tariffs on SolarBank’s operations and the global economy, but sourcing made in America panels helps SolarBank to mitigate these risks.

Martone’s role will go beyond site identification. He is also expected to advise on utility planning, power availability, and the integration of clean energy sources—a fit for SolarBank’s existing business model. His client history includes work with EdgeConneX, Overwatch Capital, and Form8tion Data Centers, among others, covering areas from fiber connectivity to hyperscale deployments.

He brings technical understanding of complex power systems, including medium and high-voltage design, transformer capacity, and interconnection fabrics tailored for enterprise and public-sector workloads. These areas are critical as SolarBank aims to link clean energy assets with data infrastructure that is both scalable and efficient.

For SolarBank, the expansion into data centers represents a logical evolution of its renewable energy expertise. With the digital sector increasingly pressured to decarbonize, the intersection between power generation and data hosting is becoming a growing area of interest for investors.

For more information, visit the company’s website at SolarBankCorp.com.

This report contains forward looking information. Please refer to the press releases entitled “Data Center Expert Jonathan Martone Retained by SolarBank Corporation to Power Strategic Expansion” for additional details on the statements and related assumptions and risks.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SUUN are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/SUUN

• ESGold has completed data acquisition for a deep subsurface imaging survey at its Montauban Project in Quebec.
• The Ambient Noise Tomography (“ANT”) survey revealed imaging depths of over 800 meters—double the original plan.
• A 3D model integrating ANT data and historical information is in development to guide future drilling.
• The survey marks the first deep-sensing exploration campaign at Montauban, a fully permitted pre-production site.
• The company intends to begin production at Montauban in Q3 2025.
• Production is set to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with an initial throughput capacity of 500 tonnes per day, scalable to 1,000 tonnes.

ESGold (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF), a fully permitted, pre-production resource company on a clear path to near-term gold and silver production, has completed a major step in advancing its Montauban Project in Quebec with the conclusion of a subsurface imaging survey that could redefine the geological scale of the site (https://ibn.fm/3Q3TY).

The company announced completion of the Ambient Noise Tomography (“ANT”) survey, conducted by Caur Technologies over a 10 km² grid. The geophysical work, which began in March 2025, is now in the processing and interpretation stage, with results expected before the end of April 2025. The imaging results will be used to build a comprehensive 3D model of the Montauban subsurface—its first ever.

Originally intended to reach depths of 400 meters, the ANT survey exceeded expectations. The geophones, which are up to ten times more sensitive than standard nodal equipment, captured data beyond 800 meters. This new depth range opens the door to identifying previously hidden mineralized zones and refining the project’s exploration targets.

Located roughly 80 kilometers west of Quebec City, the Montauban Project is a past-producing gold-silver mine. ESGold has invested more than C$15 million in infrastructure, including roads, power lines, and a 16,000-square-foot processing facility. Production is set to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with an initial throughput capacity of 500 tonnes per day, scalable to 1,000 tonnes.

ESGold believes Montauban may share geological similarities with Australia’s Broken Hill deposit, which has produced over $100 billion in metals. Both systems are polymetallic and structurally complex, traits that make deeper imaging especially relevant for uncovering additional mineral zones.

The collected data will be combined with geological mapping, previous drill results, and geochemical datasets to refine the site’s geological model. The integrated interpretation is expected to enhance ESGold’s ability to prioritize drill targets and reduce exploration risk going forward. This initiative also aligns with ESGold’s strategy to self-finance exploration by reprocessing the site’s historical tailings—over 900,000 tonnes in total. Revenue from early-stage operations will help fund ongoing exploration across Montauban’s district-scale land package.

Brad Kitchen, President of ESGold, said the ANT survey was a critical step forward in the company’s mission to fully define the mineralized potential at Montauban. “We are entering a new phase of discovery powered by cutting-edge imaging tools that will allow us to explore below the limits of historic drilling and uncover the full scope of the Montauban system,” Kitchen said. “Our team is excited and looks forward to sharing results with the market before the end of the month.”

In parallel with the imaging work, ESGold is preparing an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”). The new assessment will reflect the current environment of high gold and silver prices, updated resource potential, and revised production timelines. The previous PEA is being updated to incorporate both near-surface and potential deeper mineralization.

With processing results due in the coming weeks, investors will soon have a clearer view of what lies beneath the Montauban site. If the ANT survey confirms large-scale mineralized structures, ESGold may significantly expand its exploration footprint, boosting the longer-term value of the project as it nears production.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ESGold.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to ESAUF are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/ESAUF

• Nutriband’s AVERSA technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse, like fentanyl, while keeping these drugs accessible to patients.
• AVERSA technology can be incorporated into any transdermal patch.
• The company has a broad and expanding intellectual property portfolio protecting AVERSA, with patents granted in the U.S., Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and China.
• Nutriband closed an $8.4 million financing round in April 2024 to support commercial development of AVERSA Fentanyl, its abuse-deterrent fentanyl transdermal patch.
• In February 2025, the company formalized a long-term exclusive partnership with Kindeva Drug Delivery to support AVERSA Fentanyl’s pathway to market.

Nutriband (NASDAQ: NTRB) is engaged in the development of a portfolio of transdermal pharmaceutical products. The company’s AVERSA(TM) technology can be incorporated into any transdermal patch and includes aversive agents to prevent abuse, diversion, misuse and accidental exposure to drugs with abuse potential, specifically opioids.

AVERSA technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse, such as fentanyl, while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to patients who need them. The technology is covered by a broad intellectual property portfolio with patents granted in the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and China, with recent extensions into Macao.

The company’s business model is to apply its transdermal technology to existing FDA-approved drugs with a goal of improving safety, efficacy and patient comfort while qualifying for a limited-development regulatory pathway that reduces the number of clinical trials required for approval of new drugs.

Nutriband has three subsidiaries, including 4P Therapeutics, its clinical and regulatory subsidiary; Pocono Pharmaceutical, a contract manufacturer for a wide range of clients; and Active Intelligence, a developer of sports recovery products. This ownership of manufacturing and clinical development capabilities drastically reduces costs for AVERSA and other technologies.

In April 2024, Nutriband announced that the company had been engaged by and received a first order from Fit For Life Group, a major brand license holder. A fully executed supplier agreement is expected to follow. Nutriband’s wholly owned Active Intelligence subsidiary will act as manufacturer.

In February 2025, the company formalized its product development partnership with Kindeva Drug Delivery through a long-term exclusive agreement. The collaboration supports the commercial pathway for AVERSA Fentanyl by leveraging Kindeva’s FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system.

The company is headquartered in Orlando, Florida.

Products

Nutriband’s lead product candidate is AVERSA Fentanyl, an abuse-deterrent fentanyl transdermal patch. The company announced in March 2024 that it will submit a New Drug Application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration seeking approval to market AVERSA Fentanyl. In subsequent updates, Nutriband confirmed that the NDA submission remains the company’s primary focus and is backed by a strong cash position.

Nutriband has partnered with Kindeva Drug Delivery, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization, to incorporate Nutriband’s AVERSA abuse-deterrent transdermal technology into Kindeva’s FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system. Because Nutriband’s abuse-deterrent technology is incorporated into the fentanyl patch but is physically separate from and does not come in contact with the drug layer, the clinical trials typically needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy for a new drug formulation would not be required.

In support of this commercialization strategy, Nutriband closed an $8.4 million private placement in April 2024 to fund development activities related to AVERSA Fentanyl. The company also licensed Bitrex(R), a widely used aversive agent, to enhance the deterrent profile of its patch formulation.

AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to be the first and only abuse-deterrent patch approved anywhere in the world. The company plans to seek an expedited review by the FDA, as has been granted for certain abuse-deterrent oral opioid products, which shortens the regulatory review period to six months from the conventional 10-month FDA review cycle for NDAs.

Nutriband’s AVERSA product development pipeline also includes abuse-deterrent versions of currently approved and marketed transdermal patches containing buprenorphine, an opioid used to treat opioid use disorder, and methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (“ADHD”). Both are labeled with FDA-required warnings for the risk of abuse and misuse, as well as warnings against accidental exposure.

Market Opportunity

Nutriband cites a market analysis report from Boston-based Health Advances, a healthcare and life sciences consulting firm. According to the report, upon FDA approval, AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to reach peak annual sales of $200 million in the U.S.

The company further states that, should non-abuse-deterrent transdermal fentanyl products lose FDA marketing approval, AVERSA Fentanyl would have greater pricing flexibility and would have the potential to generate more than $500 million in annual revenue.

Management Team

Gareth Sheridan is Co-Founder and CEO of Nutriband. He was Ireland’s “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in 2014 for establishing Nutriband. He has worked as a Business Mentor with 100 Minds, a social enterprise that brings together some of Ireland’s top college students and connects them with a cause to achieve large charitable goals. He received a B.Sc. in Business and Management from Dublin Institute of Technology.

Serguei Melnik is Co-Founder and President of Nutriband. He has been involved in general business consulting for companies in the U.S. financial markets and setting up legal and financial frameworks for operations of foreign companies in the U.S. He previously was the COO of Florida-based Asconi Corporation. He also was a lawyer in the Department of Foreign Affairs, JSC Bank “Inteprinzbanca,” in Chisinau, Moldova, and prior to that practiced law in Moldova. He is fluent in four languages.

Jeff Patrick, Pharm.D., is Chief Scientific Officer of Nutriband. He currently serves as Director of the Drug Development Institute at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. His prior roles included Global Vice President at Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Inc.; and roles at Dyax, Myogen/Gilead, Actelion and Sanofi-Synthelabo Inc. He was a clinical pharmacist at the University of Tennessee Medical Center and a clinical assistant professor of pharmacy at the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy.

Gerald Goodman is CFO of Nutriband. He is a certified public accountant with his own firm, Gerald Goodman CPA. He also practiced with Madsen & Associates, CPAs, and was a partner in the accounting firm of Wiener, Goodman & Company. He is also a director of Lifestyle Medical Network Inc., which provides management services to healthcare providers. He is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Nutriband.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to NTRB are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/NTRB