Core Insights - Brand Engagement Network, Inc. (BEN) has finalized a strategic partnership with Valio Technologies to create an exclusive AI licensing framework for government and commercial markets across Africa [1][2] - The partnership includes a memorandum of understanding with Nelson Mandela University to pilot an AI-powered mental health support initiative for students [5][6] Company Overview - BEN specializes in secure, governed conversational AI solutions tailored for regulated industries, utilizing proprietary technologies like Engagement Language Model (ELM™) and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) [4][11] - Valio Technologies focuses on deploying enterprise-grade AI and digital platforms in developing markets, and is the creator of eYakho Health, a digital health platform aimed at connecting healthcare services across Africa [9][12] Partnership Details - The partnership involves a $2.050 million preferred equity contribution from a newly formed South Africa-based entity to BEN, which will be recognized as intellectual property licensing revenue [8] - BEN will receive 25% common equity ownership in the new entity, along with a board seat and a 35% revenue share across various offerings [8] Market Context - The initiative addresses alarming mental health challenges among university students, with anxiety disorders affecting up to 37.1% of South African students and 64.7% experiencing perceived stress [6] - The partnership reflects a growing demand for compliant, sovereignty-aligned AI solutions across various sectors, including healthcare, financial services, and education [10]
Brand Engagement Network Secures $2.050 Million AI Licensing Partnership in Africa