Nari Labs launches Dia: 1.6B parameter model for real-time voice cloning
22 Apr

Nari Labs launches Dia: 1.6B parameter model for real-time voice cloning

AI
The development of text-to-speech (TTS) systems has seen significant advancements in recent years, particularly with the rise of large-scale neural models. Yet, most high-fidelity systems remain locked behind proprietary APIs and commercial platforms. Addressing this gap, Nari Labs has released Dia, a 1.6 billion parameter TTS model under the Apache 2.0 license, providing a strong open-source alternative to closed systems such as ElevenLabs and Sesame. Technical Overview and Model Capabilities Dia is designed for high-fidelity speech synthesis, incorporating a transformer-based architecture that balances expressive prosody modeling with computational efficiency. The model supports zero-shot voice cloning, enabling it to replicate a…
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Small Business Sales Remain Stable in Q1 Despite Price Increases and Tariff Worries
22 Apr

Small Business Sales Remain Stable in Q1 Despite Price Increases and Tariff Worries

Small business
​ The U.S. small business market maintained steady momentum in the first quarter of 2025, according to BizBuySell’s latest Insight Report, with 2,368 businesses sold and a total enterprise value exceeding $2 billion—a 9% increase over Q1 2024. Despite looming uncertainty surrounding new tariffs, deal volume grew 2% quarter-over-quarter, as buyers pursued high-performing businesses and prices climbed 4% to a median sale price of $349,000. Following a dip at the end of 2024, transactions rebounded in January, climbing 4% amid optimism over anticipated tax cuts, lower interest rates, and deregulation. However, policy uncertainty under the new administration soon tempered that…
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Essential Guide to Hiring Security Guards for a Safe, Secure Environment
22 Apr

Essential Guide to Hiring Security Guards for a Safe, Secure Environment

Small business
​ Key Takeaways Enhanced Safety: Hiring security guards significantly improves safety by deterring crime, managing emergencies, and maintaining a secure environment for both employees and customers. Types of Guards: Understand the differences between unarmed and armed security guards to choose the right personnel based on your specific security needs. Employee Motivation: A secure workplace fosters higher employee motivation and engagement, leading to improved performance and reduced turnover. Qualifications Matter: Prioritize candidates with appropriate training and certifications, ensuring they are qualified to handle various security scenarios effectively. Thorough Screening: Conduct comprehensive background checks to ensure you hire experienced and reliable security…
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$42.1 million invested in startup providing energy-efficient solutions for operational data challenges
22 Apr

$42.1 million invested in startup providing energy-efficient solutions for operational data challenges

AI
​ Join our daily and weekly newsletters for the latest updates and exclusive content on industry-leading AI coverage. Learn More Hyperscale data warehouse vendor Ocient announced today that it has raised $42.1 million as the second extension of its series B funding to accelerate the development and delivery of energy-efficient solutions for costly and unwieldy operational data and AI workloads. The funding infusion doesn’t just add to the Chicago startup’s already hefty war chest; it sharpens a mission to make hyperscale analytics radically cheaper and greener at the very moment enterprises fear ballooning data‑center power bills.  The new round increases…
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Key Actions to Ensure Business Success After Incorporation
22 Apr

Key Actions to Ensure Business Success After Incorporation

Small business
​ Key Takeaways Incorporation Basics: Incorporating your business establishes it as a separate legal entity, affecting liability, taxes, and growth potential; choose the structure that best fits your needs (LLC, corporation, etc.). Financial Organization: Open a corporate bank account to separate personal and business finances, simplify tax preparation, and enhance business credibility. Tax Compliance: Understand and meet your tax obligations by obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and keeping accurate records to avoid penalties. Ongoing Compliance: Maintain proper records, conduct annual meetings, and file necessary reports to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, essential for continuing your corporate status.…
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