Business Leaders Endorse Sustainable Development Goals as Framework for Shaping Corporate Strategies

At the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit 2016, more than 600 business leaders from 75 countries joined leaders from civil society, the UN and Government to advance private sector actions for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Opened yesterday at United Nations Headquarters by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, the second day of the Summit focused on how companies can transform their business models to responsibly meet the needs of society, tap into new markets and achieve success.

Versaic's Financial Clients Making a Difference- June 2016

From banking clients, M&T, Citi, and Fifth Third to Highmark and Dr. Pepper Snapple...check out some of our client's philanthropic stories below. We hope their good work will inspire you in your quest for making an impact in your community!

Effective Compliance & Ethics Programs Reduce Federal Fines by up to 95%

Last year, the U.S. Sentencing Commission released a set of guidelines for fines assessed to organizations found responsible for federal offenses. The guidelines specify that companies with an “effective compliance and ethics program in place,” including those supported by a third party service provider, can qualify to have their fines reduced by up to 95%.

Forest City Celebrates 13th Annual Community Day

On Friday, June 24, more than 650 associates of Forest City Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: FCEA and FCEB), will participate in the company's 13th annual Community Day, a paid day of service benefitting non-profit organizations in many of the cities where the company has a presence. This year, associates from more than 65 Forest City locations will come together to provide assistance to charities and agencies in their respective communities.

Utilities Progressively Move Toward Automation Programs to Boost Reliability

Old and obsolete equipment and lack of integration of automation into the overall enterprise – coupled with reliability mandates – have created an environment ripe for the adoption of distribution automation and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) programs for utilities.

Driving Employment Opportunities for First Nations

TransCanada-sponsored Building Environmental Aboriginal Human Resources (BEAHR) program helps build strong futures for Indigenous Peoples, such as Curve Lake First Nation resident Paige Williams, who is following her passion to pursue a career as a biologist.

Two Startups Addressing Digital and Financial Inclusion Each Receive $50,000 Investments from the Points of Light Civic Accelerator

ATLANTA, GA (June 22, 2016) – The Points of Light Civic Accelerator announced today that it will invest $50,000 each in New York On Tech and PYT Funds – one nonprofit and one for-profit startup. Both are creating greater opportunities for all to succeed in the digital economy by launching new models to increase financial and digital inclusion.

Nasdaq President Addresses Sustainability Reporting

“If we make the make the mandatory standard too high, it will stifle the ability for entrepreneurial companies, and particularly small businesses, to get access to capital to grow, create jobs, create wealth and improve the overall economy,” Friedman told the UN audience. “Therefore it is a balance that we have to strike between mandatory and voluntary standards.”

Caterpillar's Commitment to Alternative and Renewable Energy

Across Caterpillar’s global operations, our employees are exploring ways to incorporate alternative and renewable energies to improve our safety, efficiency and sustainability performance. In 2015, 27.1 percent of our electrical energy was from renewable or alternative sources.

Strong Water Risk Management Urged by Nestlé Waters Sustainability Chief

There is a pressing need for companies to address water risks in their supply chain, according to well-known sustainability innovator Nelson Switzer, chief sustainability officer for Nestlé Waters North America, speaking at a national environmental conference today.