A significant step forward in supporting the career transition of military personnel and their families has been achieved with a substantial financial commitment. The Next Move NY Vocational Training and Job Readiness Facility at Jefferson Community College (JCC) is set to benefit from a $4 million grant from Empire State Development. This facility, costing an estimated $13 million, aims to prepare soldiers and their spouses for employment opportunities within the local community as they exit military service. The initiative involves transforming JCC’s Dulles building into a state-of-the-art training center tailored to meet workforce demands.
In addition to vocational training, efforts are underway to foster deeper connections between transitioning military families and the regional community. Advocate Drum has secured a $600,000 grant to establish the Next Move NY Live, Love, Stay Program. This program focuses on encouraging former soldiers and their families to settle permanently in the area. Collaboration with the Development Authority of the North Country will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of this endeavor, helping JCC expand its offerings in critical workforce and trade programs that align with employer needs.
By empowering military personnel and their families with the skills needed for local jobs, this initiative not only aids in their personal development but also strengthens the regional economy. Such programs exemplify the power of collaboration and investment in creating pathways for individuals to thrive while contributing positively to their communities. This approach highlights the importance of integrating diverse groups into society, fostering growth and resilience for all involved parties.
A recent study has unveiled the immense growth of the creator economy, revealing that over 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. now work full-time as creators. This surge is attributed to the shift of advertising budgets from traditional media to digital platforms, combined with the accessibility of content creation tools. The Interactive Advertising Bureau, alongside Harvard Business School professor emeritus John Deighton, highlights how this sector has grown sevenfold since 2020. Notably, creator media revenue is expanding at a remarkable pace, outpacing traditional media by a factor of five. In this context, we explore how these creators generate income and identify emerging opportunities for both creators and their teams.
According to industry insiders, the modern creator is not merely an entertainer but also a media entrepreneur. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Patreon, and Substack have transformed the landscape, enabling multi-platform strategies. While advertising remains a primary source of income, creators are increasingly diversifying through licensing agreements, affiliate marketing, and subscription models. Podcasting, live events, international ventures, and business initiatives present promising avenues for financial growth.
Digital agent Bennett Sherman from WME emphasizes the dramatic evolution of the entertainment world due to the burgeoning creator economy. For instance, achieving recognition on Forbes' list of top creators necessitates earning at least $1 million annually. Leading figures like MrBeast demonstrate the potential, reportedly earning $85 million last year. Interviews with experts reveal various revenue streams available to creators, ranging from brand partnerships to lesser-known methods like lifestyle content monetization.
Moreover, discussions with executives David J. Lee and David Madden of Webtoon Entertainment underscore the importance of intellectual property pipelines for Hollywood. These insights are further explored in a bonus episode of The Ankler podcast, offering detailed perspectives on building a successful creator business. Key takeaways include understanding diverse revenue sources, pricing strategies for brand collaborations, and when to involve representatives.
In conclusion, the creator economy continues to reshape the entertainment industry, providing unprecedented opportunities for innovation and financial success. By leveraging multiple platforms and exploring new revenue channels, creators can establish thriving businesses. As the field evolves, staying informed about emerging trends and monetization strategies will be crucial for those aiming to lead in this dynamic space.
Although the Zelle app is ceasing operations, users can still access its services through their banks' platforms. Launched in 2017 with support from around 30 banks, Zelle quickly grew to encompass over 2,200 financial institutions by 2025. Despite this expansion, only a small percentage of transactions were conducted via the standalone app. Consequently, Zelle began phasing out app-based transactions in October 2024 due to most users preferring bank-integrated methods. Furthermore, legal challenges involving consumer fraud protection added pressure on the service. However, the shutdown does not mean the end of Zelle; rather, it signifies a shift toward bank-driven digital payment systems.
Beyond Zelle, numerous alternative platforms exist for free digital money transfers. Consumers are encouraged to explore options such as Apple Wallet, Cash App, PayPal, and Venmo. While switching apps may be necessary, vigilance against scams remains crucial. Always verify the legitimacy of requests before sending funds and remember that reputable banks never solicit money from clients.
Transitioning Beyond the Zelle App
Since its debut in 2017, Zelle has become an integral part of the U.S. banking ecosystem. Initially supported by approximately 30 banks, its network expanded dramatically, reaching over 2,200 institutions by 2025. Despite this growth, user habits shifted towards utilizing their banks' mobile apps or online banking interfaces instead of the standalone Zelle app. Recognizing this trend, Zelle announced the discontinuation of its app, effective April 1, 2025. This decision reflects the broader adoption of integrated digital payment solutions within the banking sector.
The closure of the Zelle app marks a significant development in how consumers manage digital transactions. By integrating directly into bank systems, Zelle ensures continued accessibility for its millions of users. For those accustomed to the standalone app, transitioning involves re-enrolling through their respective financial institutions. Fortunately, the extensive network of participating banks—spanning giants like Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo—means most customers will find seamless integration. Users unfamiliar with their bank's participation status should consult the official Zelle website for confirmation. This strategic pivot underscores the evolving landscape of digital payments, emphasizing convenience and security through established banking channels.
Exploring Alternative Payment Solutions
As Zelle transitions away from its standalone app, exploring other digital payment options becomes increasingly relevant. Numerous platforms offer secure, free money transfer services, catering to diverse user preferences. Popular choices include Apple Wallet, Cash App, PayPal, Wise, Samsung Pay, Remitly, Alipay, Stripe, and Venmo. Each platform brings unique features, ensuring users find suitable alternatives based on personal needs and technological compatibility.
While embracing new payment methods, maintaining awareness of potential risks is essential. Scammers frequently target digital payment apps, exploiting vulnerabilities to deceive unsuspecting users. To safeguard against fraud, adopt precautionary measures such as verifying sender authenticity and scrutinizing suspicious messages. Banks like Chase have implemented safeguards to block potentially fraudulent Zelle transactions, highlighting the importance of vigilance in digital finance. Remember, legitimate financial institutions never request money from clients. Adhering to these principles empowers users to navigate the ever-expanding world of digital payments confidently and securely. Whether continuing with Zelle through bank integration or adopting alternative platforms, staying informed and cautious remains paramount for protecting one's financial well-being.