Zero Hunger

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Essential Impact Inc.

Develop Comprehensive IP Strategy

Summary:

Assist a nonprofit tackling malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa by developing an IP strategy for the organization (focusing on identifying/prioritizing patentable IP).

Referred by:

Jurisdictions: U.S.
About the Organization: Essential Impact (“Essential”) is a bioscience organization creating breakthrough innovations to tackle malnutrition and transform food systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. They leverage advances in fermentation and biomanufacturing to (i) produce low-cost, high-quality, climate-resilient proteins that can be integrated into commercial and institutional products, (ii) create novel products that upcycle waste streams into high-value food products, and (iii) assess partner capacity on fermentation. They have built a best-in-class biomanufacturing facility in Nairobi and have deep expertise in fermentation, bioprocess engineering, technical operations, and R&D. They are currently registered as a 501(c)(3) in Delaware but anticipate creating a hybrid structure with a for-profit entity in the future if/when investors require it.
Legal Entity Type: Nonprofit/Charity
SDG(s):Climate Action, Good Health and Well Being, Industry Innovation and Infrastructure, Zero Hunger
Legal Issue(s):

Essential Impact has developed a lot of intellectual property, specifically around their fermentation process as well as their hardware design and software development for biomanufacturing. Their understanding is that much of this is patentable. The Essential Impact team is now seeking support to develop a comprehensive IP strategy for the organization, with a focus on strategic guidance around identifying/prioritizing patentable IP.

The Essential Impact team would also appreciate assistance executing this strategy and filing related patent applications. However, this is a secondary request.

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Miller Center for Global Impact

Webinar on Navigating US Executive Actions

Summary:

Deliver a webinar on how social ventures and nonprofits can prepare for possible executive actions that may disrupt funding, international partnerships, and compliance for organizations working in climate, migration, or global justice.

Referred by:

Jurisdictions: U.S.
About the Organization: The Miller Center accelerates global, innovation-based entrepreneurship in service to humanity. Its strategic focus is on poverty eradication through its three areas of work: The Global Social Benefit Institute, Impact Capital, and Education and Action Research.
Legal Entity Type: Nonprofit/Charity
SDG(s):Affordable and Clean Energy, Clean Water and Sanitation, Decent Work and Economic Growth, End Poverty, Gender Equality, Good Health and Well Being, Industry Innovation and Infrastructure, Life on Land (sustainability of ecosystems), Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities, Zero Hunger
Legal Issue(s):

We are seeking a volunteer to lead a webinar for social impact leaders on the potential legal and financial risks posed by anticipated U.S. executive actions. While none of the proposed measures are law yet, developments in U.S. policy circles indicate serious discussions around: (1) revoking tax-exempt status from organizations supporting or funding specified work; (2) banning cross-border donations; (3) labeling migrant aid groups as terror-affiliated; and (4) increasing IRS scrutiny on progressive or foreign-aligned donors. The webinar should help mission-driven organizations understand the legal implications and offer proactive steps to mitigate potential threats.

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