Top Tech & Startup Funding News – Jan 26, 2026
**Top Startup and Tech Funding News – Tuesday, January 26, 2026**
Today’s startup and tech funding highlights show a strong investor focus on core technologies like AI infrastructure, cybersecurity, advanced defense systems, and industrial innovation. Investors are backing companies building the foundation for smarter, more secure, and scalable digital platforms.
Let’s break down the biggest funding rounds and what they mean for the future of AI, fintech, aerospace, crypto, and clean energy.
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**Ricursive Intelligence – $300M Series A for AI-Powered Chip Design**
AI hardware startup Ricursive Intelligence raised $300 million at a $4 billion valuation. Founded by former DeepMind researchers, the Palo Alto-based company is building a platform that uses AI to design faster, more efficient computer chips. Their technology creates a feedback loop where AI models help improve chip design—and better chips then power smarter AI.
This massive funding round comes just weeks after their $35 million seed round. Backers include Lightspeed Venture Partners, Nvidia’s NVentures, Sequoia Capital, and DST Global. With the global chip shortage ongoing, Ricursive’s work could speed up innovation in AI hardware.
**Keywords:** AI chip design, semiconductor innovation, Ricursive Intelligence, AI hardware funding
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**Upwind – $250M Series B for Cloud Runtime Security**
San Francisco-based Upwind raised $250 million to boost its runtime-first cloud security platform. Their system protects cloud apps while they’re running—crucial as companies use real-time AI workloads in the cloud.
The round was led by Bessemer Venture Partners with backing from Salesforce Ventures and others. This brings their total funding to $430 million. Upwind plans to grow fast as demand rises for secure, cloud-native environments in the age of generative AI.
**Keywords:** cloud security funding, CNAPP, runtime threat detection, Upwind cybersecurity
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**Synthesia – $200M Series E for AI Video Creation**
London’s Synthesia secured $200 million to grow its AI video platform. The tool lets businesses create realistic videos from text using digital avatars—no camera or actors needed. Big corporations use it for training, marketing, and internal communication.
Google Ventures led the round, joined by Accel, Kleiner Perkins, NEA, and Nvidia’s NVentures. Synthesia now serves many Fortune 100 companies and plans to expand features as demand for AI-generated content explodes.
**Keywords:** AI video platform, Synthesia funding, generative media tools
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**JetZero – $175M Series B for Fuel-Efficient Aircraft**
California startup JetZero raised $175 million to develop a new type of aircraft with a blended-wing body that uses less fuel. Their prototype could fly by 2027 and cut aerodynamic drag by 30% compared to traditional planes.
The round was led by B Capital with support from Northrop Grumman and United Airlines’ venture arm. JetZero has already received over $1 billion in contracts and grants, including a $235 million deal with the U.S. Air Force.
**Keywords:** JetZero aircraft funding, blended-wing planes, sustainable aviation
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**Standard Nuclear – $140M Series A for Advanced Nuclear Fuel**
San Diego’s Standard Nuclear closed a $140 million round to scale its production of HALEU nuclear fuel using TRISO particle tech. This specialized fuel is needed for next-gen reactors used in energy, defense, and space.
Investors include Decisive Point, Chevron Technology Ventures, and Andreessen Horowitz. The company plans to produce over two metric tons annually by mid-2026 across U.S. sites to meet growing demand.
**Keywords:** HALEU fuel production, nuclear energy startup, TRISO particles
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**Neurophos – $110M Series A for Optical AI Chips**
Austin-based Neurophos raised $110 million to develop optical processors that use light instead of electricity to perform AI tasks. These chips promise much faster performance with lower power usage.
Gates Frontier led the round with backing from Microsoft’s M12, Bosch Ventures, and others. The funding will help Neurophos complete its “Lifter Lite” metasurface chip and prep it for data center use.
**Keywords:** photonics chips, optical AI processors, Neurophos funding
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**Cyclic Materials – $75M Series C for Rare Earth Recycling**
Cyclic Materials raised $75 million to expand its rare earth recycling operations in North America and Europe. The company recovers valuable elements like neodymium and dysprosium from old electronics and magnets—used in EVs, wind turbines, and defense tech.
The process is eco-friendly and helps reduce reliance on overseas mining. T. Rowe Price Associates led the round. Cyclic aims to build more local recycling plants to support supply chains for AI hardware and clean energy.
**Keywords:** rare earth recycling, critical minerals supply chain, Cyclic Materials
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**Zocks – $45M Series B for AI in Wealth Management**
Zocks raised $45 million to grow its AI assistant platform for financial advisors. The tool listens to client meetings and automates tasks like creating proposals or tracking follow-ups—saving advisors hours every week.
Lightspeed Venture Partners and QED Investors led the round. Zocks plans to add smart features that spot financial planning gaps across entire client lists and suggest next steps automatically.
**Keywords:** wealth tech AI, financial advisor tools, Zocks funding
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**Grid Aero – $20M Series A for Autonomous Cargo Planes**
Aerospace startup Grid Aero raised $20 million to build autonomous cargo aircraft that can fly long distances without pilots or advanced runways. Their goal is to serve military and emergency logistics needs where traditional transport isn’t possible.
Bison Ventures and Geodesic Capital co-led the round. The company will use the funds to begin testing with military partners. Grid Aero’s uncrewed planes could become key players in “contested logistics.”
**Keywords:** autonomous cargo aircraft, Grid Aero funding, drone logistics
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**Project Eleven – $20M Series A for Quantum-Resistant Crypto Security**
Crypto security startup Project Eleven secured $20 million to help blockchain networks prepare for the future threat of quantum computers. They’re building tools to upgrade networks like Bitcoin and Ethereum to quantum-safe cryptography before it becomes critical.
Castle Island Ventures led the round alongside Coinbase Ventures and others. The company will expand its testing environments and migration software to support secure transitions over time.
**Keywords:** post-quantum crypto security, blockchain encryption upgrade, Project Eleven
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Today’s funding news shows investors are putting big money behind startups building deep-tech platforms—from chips and cloud security to clean energy and autonomous systems. As industries prepare for an AI-driven future, these startups are laying the groundwork across infrastructure, defense, finance, and enterprise tools.
XSpring AM to Launch Bitcoin and Gold Investment Funds
XSpring Asset Management (XSpring AM) is getting ready to launch new investment funds that include Bitcoin and commodities like gold and silver. These new funds are designed to give investors strong returns — over 10% — even during uncertain times caused by global tensions and economic instability.
The company’s CEO, Yodsakorn Follett, explained that the upcoming funds will allow partial investments in digital assets. This move is aimed at people who want to spread their money across different assets like gold, bonds, Bitcoin, and Ethereum. The goal is to help investors diversify their portfolios and reduce risk.
These funds will be offered in Thai baht and targeted at local investors in Thailand. However, the actual crypto investments will be made through international exchanges. According to Mr. Yodsakorn, these global platforms provide better liquidity than local exchanges, making it easier to manage assets efficiently.
It’s important to note that both cryptocurrencies and commodities can be very volatile. That means prices can change quickly, so these investments are best suited for people who can handle higher risk.
Gold has been performing well recently due to rising global tensions, ongoing inflation, and countries shifting away from the US dollar — a trend known as “de-dollarisation.” Central banks around the world are buying more gold while cutting back on US dollar reserves.
Experts believe that if international gold prices reach $5,000 per ounce, Thailand’s domestic gold prices could climb to 100,000 baht per baht weight by the second quarter of 2026. This would likely happen alongside a strengthening Thai baht.
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are also expected to rise again. Predictions suggest Bitcoin could hit $100,000 and Ethereum may return to around $4,800.
Mr. Yodsakorn noted that the world economy is becoming more divided, with major powers like the US, China, and Russia forming separate economic blocs. Even without a major war, ongoing geopolitical tension is expected to keep gold prices high for the foreseeable future.
The new fund from XSpring AM will invest directly in gold, crypto assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and traditional bonds. However, due to current regulations, it’s expected that only ultra-accredited investors — those with significant financial resources — will be allowed to invest at first.
Mr. Yodsakorn believes that opening up crypto investment options to regular retail investors would help grow the market and increase access to new financial products. While crypto prices may remain unstable in the short term — especially with crackdowns on scams happening globally and in Thailand — long-term adoption of digital currencies and stablecoins is expected to grow.
XSpring AM is also planning to launch a new commodity-focused fund that includes gold, copper, and silver. This could be structured as a “fund of funds” and may launch in the first quarter of this year. The company expects ongoing geopolitical risks to push commodity prices even higher.
Looking ahead to 2026, XSpring AM plans to roll out at least one new investment fund every quarter. These funds will continue focusing on global technology trends such as artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
The company expects its total assets under management to grow by nearly 50% this year, reaching around 17 billion baht. This growth will be driven by new fund launches and a focus on tech investments in key markets like the US, Japan, China, Taiwan, and South Korea.
Revenue across all of XSpring AM’s business segments is also set to rise by about 40%. This includes a 15.1% increase in fund management fees and a massive 160% jump in income from distributing investment products.
Top Altcoins for 2026: APEMARS vs. XRP & Ethereum
**Top Altcoin Picks for 2026: Can APEMARS Outshine XRP and Ethereum?**
Looking for the next big altcoin that could explode in value by 2026? While popular coins like XRP and Ethereum continue to climb steadily, a new meme coin called APEMARS is making waves with its unique theme, massive reward potential, and fast-moving presale.
Right now, XRP price predictions for 2026 sit between $2 and $4, with some optimistic forecasts aiming as high as $14 if things like ETF approvals and banking partnerships take off. Ethereum is also looking strong, with price targets ranging from $4,000 to $7,500 thanks to network upgrades and growing adoption in the DeFi space.
But APEMARS, a Mars-themed meme coin led by a character called Commander Ape, is gaining serious attention. In Stage 5 of its presale, APEMARS is priced at just $0.00003629. The token is set to list at $0.0055 — that’s a potential return of over 15,000% for early buyers.
**What Makes APEMARS Special?**
APEMARS isn’t just another meme coin. It has a fun story, smart tokenomics, and a strong community vibe. It’s designed to grow in value over time through deflationary mechanics — meaning tokens are burned to reduce supply. This scarcity can help drive up price.
On top of that, staking rewards are set at a huge 63% APY starting two months after launch. This means you can earn more just by holding and staking your tokens. There are also referral bonuses — share your code and get 9.34% in extra rewards when someone joins using your link.
So far, over $109,000 has been raised in the presale, and Stage 5 is filling up fast. With the next stage bringing a price increase, now might be the best time to buy before prices jump again.
**The APEMARS Math: Big ROI Potential**
Let’s break it down with an example. If you invest $1,000 during Stage 5 at $0.00003629 per token, you’ll receive about 27.5 million tokens. When the token lists at $0.0055, your investment could be worth over $151,000. That’s the power of getting in early on a project with strong hype and smart design.
**How to Buy APEMARS Tokens**
Buying APEMARS is easy:
1. Go to the official website: APEMARS.com.
2. Connect your Ethereum wallet (MetaMask works great).
3. Choose how much you want to invest using ETH, USDT, or even a credit card.
4. Complete the purchase — your $APRZ tokens will be sent after the presale ends.
If you spend at least $22, you’ll unlock a referral code you can share to earn extra bonuses.
**XRP in 2026: Steady but Slow Growth**
XRP has shown solid progress in early 2026, gaining around 13% since the start of the year. Ripple is pushing into the banking sector and may benefit from crypto ETFs and global finance use cases.
Most experts predict XRP will trade between $2 and $4 by 2026. If all goes well — including ETF approvals and stronger adoption — some say it could go as high as $10 to $14. But it’s considered more of a stable, long-term coin rather than one that delivers sudden huge gains.
**Ethereum in 2026: Strong Fundamentals and Upgrades**
Ethereum continues to dominate DeFi and smart contracts. Activity on the network is growing again, and new upgrades like “Glamsterdam” are expected to make transactions faster and cheaper.
Forecasts suggest Ethereum could reach between $4,500 and $7,500 by late 2026. Short-term targets are around $3,400 to $3,900. It’s a strong choice for long-term investors but lacks the viral energy that can push prices up quickly like meme coins do.
**Why APEMARS Could Be the Wildcard Winner of 2026**
While XRP and Ethereum offer safe and steady growth, APEMARS is bringing excitement with its Mars-themed story, deflationary model, huge staking rewards (63% APY), and a fast-growing community. The presale price is still extremely low at $0.00003629 — and once it hits the listing price of $0.0055, those who got in early could see massive returns.
This project isn’t just about hype — it’s built with mechanisms to reward early adopters and reduce supply over time. That’s why many see APEMARS as one of the top altcoin picks for 2026.
**Final Thoughts: Combining Stability with High-Risk Rewards**
The crypto landscape for 2026 looks like a mix of stable performers and high-reward newcomers:
– **XRP**: Price predictions between $2-$4 with bullish cases up to $14 if banking adoption grows.
– **Ethereum**: Forecasts around $4,000-$7,500 with steady growth from upgrades and staking.
– **APEMARS**: Explosive potential with over 15,000% ROI from presale to listing, backed by staking rewards and deflationary burns.
For investors building a diversified crypto portfolio, combining steady coins like XRP or ETH with promising meme coins like APEMARS could strike the perfect balance between stability and high-growth opportunities.
Always remember: only invest what you can afford to lose, and consider speaking with a financial advisor if you’re unsure about your crypto strategy.
**Want to Learn More?**
– Visit the official website: [APEMARS.com](https://apemars.com)
– Join the Telegram group for updates
– Follow APEMARS on X (formerly Twitter)
**FAQs – Quick Answers About Top Altcoin Picks for 2026**
**What is the XRP price prediction for 2026?**
Most estimates put XRP between $2 and $4 in 2026. Bullish scenarios suggest it could go as high as $10–$14 if ETFs and banking use cases grow fast.
**Can XRP hit $10 by 2026?**
It’s possible but depends on big factors like ETF approvals and global crypto adoption by banks.
**What do AI models say about XRP’s future?**
AI tools like Grok and Perplexity see XRP possibly hitting $9–$14 under optimistic conditions.
**What drives XRP prices?**
Key factors include ETF news, Ripple’s partnerships with banks, on-chain activity, and overall crypto market sentiment.
**Is APEMARS better than XRP for ROI?**
APEMARS has higher risk but much higher potential rewards — possibly 15,000%+ ROI from its current presale price if it hits its listing target. It’s designed for fast growth with viral appeal, while XRP is more stable and steady.
If you’re looking for top altcoin picks for 2026 with both safety and excitement, combining tried-and-true coins with explosive newcomers like APEMARS could be the smartest play this year.
Top AI Chatbots Reveal Best Cryptos for Long-Term Hold
We asked a few AI chatbots which cryptocurrencies might be good to buy today for long-term investment. But before diving into their answers, let’s clarify two important things.
First, this is not financial advice. These AI suggestions are based on general data and trends—not personal recommendations. Always do your own research before investing in anything.
Second, when it comes to long-term performance, Bitcoin is the only cryptocurrency that has consistently held up well over time. Other cryptocurrencies (often called altcoins) are much more volatile and heavily influenced by speculation. Even Bitcoin has some speculative factors, but it tends to be more stable over the long run compared to others.
Now, let’s look at what the AI chatbots had to say.
**ChatGPT’s Crypto Picks**
ChatGPT starts with Bitcoin. It calls it “digital gold” and says it’s widely accepted by institutions. As the first-ever cryptocurrency, Bitcoin is often seen as the foundation of any strong crypto portfolio.
Next, it mentions Ethereum. This is the second-largest cryptocurrency and powers smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and Web3 apps. Ethereum’s shift to Proof-of-Stake also improved its energy efficiency and allows users to earn rewards through staking.
In third place, ChatGPT lists BNB (Binance Coin) and Solana. BNB is used within the Binance ecosystem—the largest crypto exchange in the world. Solana stands out for its fast transactions and low fees, making it popular for apps and developers.
It also mentions XRP, Cardano, Chainlink, and Polygon. However, some of these—like Polygon and Cardano—have not performed well in recent years, making their inclusion a bit questionable.
**Google Gemini’s Crypto Picks**
Google’s AI chatbot Gemini agrees on the top two: Bitcoin and Ethereum. It calls Bitcoin “digital gold,” highlighting its limited supply and strong trust among big investors. Ethereum is labeled “digital oil,” essential for powering DeFi and NFT projects, especially with ongoing upgrades that improve its speed and scalability.
Next on Gemini’s list are Solana and Cardano. Solana is praised for its ability to handle high transaction volumes quickly and affordably. Cardano is noted for its slow but steady development approach, with a focus on security backed by academic research.
Interestingly, Gemini doesn’t mention BNB at all, which is a surprising omission given Binance’s major role in the crypto space.
In third place, it adds Chainlink and Polkadot. Chainlink provides real-world data to blockchain apps (oracles), while Polkadot aims to connect different blockchains together. However, Polkadot hasn’t lived up to market expectations recently.
**Grok’s Crypto Picks**
Grok, the AI from X (formerly Twitter), offers a slightly more thoughtful analysis. Still, the top picks are similar.
At the top of Grok’s list is Bitcoin—described as a market leader with strong support from institutions and ETFs. It’s seen as a reliable store of value that holds up well during market ups and downs.
Next is Ethereum, which leads in smart contracts, decentralized apps, and financial tools like staking and Layer-2 scaling solutions. It’s also becoming more appealing to institutions.
Solana comes third due to its speed and low costs—great for payments, gaming, and decentralized apps.
Grok also includes Cardano for its secure design and long-term vision, and BNB for its central role in the Binance ecosystem.
**Final Thoughts**
All three AI chatbots agree on the top choices: Bitcoin and Ethereum. Solana also shows up consistently as a strong contender. Beyond these, Cardano and BNB are frequently mentioned, though opinions vary depending on the source.
Keep in mind that while these large-cap cryptocurrencies are generally safer for long-term holding, smaller cryptos could deliver higher returns—but they’re also much riskier. Nobody can predict with certainty which coins will perform best in the future.
Lastly, while AI can provide interesting insights, its suggestions often lack depth. The crypto market changes fast, making it extremely difficult—even for advanced tools—to give accurate long-term forecasts. Always stay informed, diversify your investments, and be cautious with hype-driven trends.
Top Crypto Conferences to Attend in 2026
**Top Crypto Conferences to Attend in 2026: Must-See Events for Web3 Growth**
As crypto goes mainstream in 2026, staying ahead means being in the right rooms with the right people. With over $100 billion in institutional investment last year and global regulations like MiCA now fully active in Europe, attending key crypto events isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. These gatherings are where big ideas, partnerships, and future trends come to life.
Whether you’re a startup founder, investor, or developer, this year’s top crypto conferences offer unmatched opportunities to network, learn, and grow. From Switzerland to Singapore, here’s a simplified guide to the biggest and most influential crypto events of 2026.
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**Davos & UnDavos: Where Crypto Meets Global Finance**
*January 19–23, 2026 | Davos, Switzerland*
The World Economic Forum in Davos is one of the most elite gatherings in the world. While it’s known for world leaders and CEOs discussing politics and sustainability, crypto insiders know that the real value lies in the side events. Here, blockchain founders meet with banks and regulators to talk about topics like asset tokenization and cross-border payments.
UnDavos runs alongside the main event and focuses more on decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3. It’s a hotspot for private networking and high-value deals. Hosting or sponsoring a side event can be expensive—anywhere from $30,000 to $200,000—but it can also be a smart investment if done right.
**Key Takeaway:** If you’re serious about making global connections and securing funding or partnerships, Davos is the place to be.
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**Ethereum Community Conference (EthCC): For Builders and Developers**
*March 30–April 2, 2026 | Cannes, France*
EthCC is Ethereum’s biggest European conference and a must-attend for developers. Held at the iconic Palais des Festivals in Cannes, this four-day event features deep dives into Ethereum’s latest upgrades, like layer-2 scaling and AI-powered smart contracts.
Beyond the main sessions, EthCC Week includes casual meetups, parties, and networking events. It’s also a great spot for discussing EU regulations like MiCA with key players from across Europe.
**Key Takeaway:** If you’re building on Ethereum or launching a new DeFi project, EthCC offers both tech insights and community access.
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**Paris Blockchain Week: Institutions Meet Innovation**
*April 15–16, 2026 | Paris, France*
Held at the Carrousel du Louvre, this event brings together over 10,000 crypto professionals, including big banks, hedge funds, and blockchain startups. The focus is on regulation, digital assets, and how traditional finance is moving into crypto.
Expect panels on tokenized assets (which could top $10 trillion by 2030) and side events in historic venues like Versailles for premium networking.
**Key Takeaway:** Ideal for those looking to bridge the gap between crypto and traditional finance or understand how regulation is shaping the future.
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**Consensus Miami: North America’s Web3 Hub**
*May 5–7, 2026 | Miami Beach, USA*
Consensus by CoinDesk is one of the largest blockchain conferences in the U.S., drawing over 20,000 attendees. This year’s topics include DeFi growth, real-world assets (RWAs), and AI integration in blockchain tech.
With crypto-friendly policies gaining ground after the U.S. elections and Bitcoin ETFs managing over $200 billion in assets, Consensus is perfect for tapping into institutional trends.
**Key Takeaway:** For startups and investors in North America, this is your go-to event for market trends and policy updates.
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**TOKEN2049 Singapore: Asia’s Premier Crypto Gathering**
*October 7–8, 2026 | Singapore*
TOKEN2049 is Asia’s biggest Web3 event and takes place at Marina Bay Sands. It draws top-tier exchanges, projects, and investors from around the world. The event aligns with Singapore’s Grand Prix week, making it a magnet for high-level networking.
Singapore’s strong crypto regulations and innovative ecosystem make it a launchpad for expansion into Asian markets. Expect side events like the OG KOL Bar Festival that create space for intimate business talks.
**Key Takeaway:** If you’re targeting Asia’s fast-growing crypto market, TOKEN2049 is your best bet for visibility and deal-making.
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**Honorable Mentions: Other Notable Conferences**
– **Devcon (Nov 3–6 | Mumbai):** Ethereum’s main developer event, now spotlighting India’s rising tech scene.
– **CfC St. Moritz (Jan | Switzerland):** An exclusive retreat for crypto elites.
– **Web Summit (Nov 9–12 | Lisbon):** The world’s largest tech event is increasingly focused on AI and blockchain convergence.
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**How to Make the Most of These Events**
– **Plan Early:** For high-profile events like Davos or TOKEN2049, apply months in advance.
– **Co-Host Wisely:** Partner with agencies to co-host side events and cut costs.
– **Use AI Tools:** Leverage AI to research agencies or speakers using smart prompts.
– **Know Your Market:** If targeting Asia, focus on KOLs from Korea or Japan; for Europe, understand MiCA rules.
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**Looking Ahead: Strategy is Everything**
In 2026, crypto conferences are more than just meetups—they’re strategic launchpads. With the global crypto market now valued at over $3 trillion, choosing where you show up can shape your future success.
Prepare well. Show up smart. And follow through after each event to turn handshakes into real business results.