• Veteran video game developer Jake Solomon, known for his work on Firaxis Games' "XCOM" and "Marvel’s Midnight Suns," has raised $6 million to launch his new studio, Midsummer Studios. Solomon aims to create a life simulation game similar to "The Sims," focusing on the subtleties of daily life instead of combat and strategy. [Maryland Inno/Variety]
• The DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant is part of a $30 million initiative to enhance vocational skills training and reskilling programs in the construction industry. Grant applications, intended to support the development of tradespeople's skills through 2027, are open until June 30. [DEWALT/DEWALT]
• Many people watch "Shark Tank" to see entrepreneurs pitch to celebrity investors. However, the deal terms on the show are often much harsher than standard venture capital investments. [Forbes]
• 501(c)(3) organizations, while restricted in lobbying and political activities due to their tax-exempt status, play a crucial role in community engagement across the US. Despite these limitations, they can still support movement work by finding appropriate avenues to influence policy within the legal constraints. [Nonprofit Quarterly]
• A team of Baltimore-area mechanical engineering students designed a quiet leaf blower. Stanley Black & Decker expects to bring the patent-pending product to market in two years. [Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering/YouTube]