Six Women-Led Startups to Compete Live at Women’s Venture Summit 2025 for $50K+ in Prizes

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 7, 2025 — The Stella Foundation has announced the semifinalists for its 12th Annual Women’s Fast Pitch, a national pitch competition that champions visionary women founders across the country. Five regional winners and one wildcard will take the stage at Women’s Venture Summit 2025 (WVS), taking place September 23–25, 2025 in San Diego, to compete for more than $50,000 in cash, investment and in-kind support.

The 2025 semifinalists, each selected for their innovative solutions and bold leadership, will present live at WVS to a room of active funders and supporters. The pitch competition has become a signature event at the Summit, helping increase visibility, funding and opportunity for female founders. Since its inception, WVS has helped facilitate over $200 million in funding to women-led ventures.

This year’s prize package includes a minimum of $50K in grants, investment and services:

• A $5,000 minimum grant from Stella Foundation
• A $10,000 minimum investment from She Invests
• $25,000 in in-kind legal services from Holland & Knight LLP
• More than $10,000 in founder support services (tech, design, ops, media, and more)

The 2025 Women’s Fast Pitch semifinalists are:

Northeast: LymeAlert | Cambridge, MA
Founder: Erin Dawmicki
LymeAlert is the first at-home tick testing kit that delivers results in under 20 minutes—no more mailing ticks to labs or relying on inaccurate blood tests. It empowers immediate, informed decisions about Lyme exposure, especially for pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts.

Southeast: CurieDx | Baltimore, MD
Founder: Therese Canares
CurieDx turns your smartphone into a diagnostic tool for conditions like strep throat and pink eye using AI and computer vision. By keeping patients home and reducing unnecessary antibiotics, it enhances telehealth and improves outcomes for families and providers.

Midwest: Impacks | St. Cloud, MN
Founder: Clare Richards
Impacks simplifies back-to-school shopping with customizable supply kits delivered to schools or homes. With over 275 school partnerships and more than 30,000 kits distributed, Impacks is transforming how families and schools handle supplies, while giving back to communities.

Northwest: Rely | Berkeley, CA
Founder: Ashley Keyes
Rely is reinventing the rental process with a digital “renter passport” and AI-powered tools for property managers. Their embedded leasing infrastructure improves transparency, reduces evictions and fraud, and saves renters and landlords both time and money.

Southwest: PureWild Co. |Ojai, CA
Founder: Cindy Convery
PureWild Co. is a life science nutrition company focused on healthy aging through high-quality marine collagen products. Targeting women over 40 and adults 50+, PureWild addresses the widespread loss of natural collagen with clinically supported solutions that improve joint function, bone density and recovery from illness-related treatments.

Wildcard: MVI Medical | San Diego, CA
Founder: Andrea Munoz
MVI Medical is redefining pelvic exams for improved healthcare with the Rosa Spec™,  a patented, single-use pelvic exam device designed by a female physician to improve patient comfort and visualization. With soft, circumferential retraction, it reduces pain, trauma and exam time, modernizing a critical but outdated tool in women’s healthcare.

“The women selected for this year’s Fast Pitch are pushing boundaries and solving real-world problems with vision, grit and innovation,” said Flossie Hall, CEO of the Stella Foundation. “We’re honored to give them this platform and excited to see how they continue to grow, lead and inspire.”

About Women’s Venture Summit
Now in its 12th year, the Women’s Venture Summit is a national event that bridges the gap between female founders and investors. Through immersive workshops, expert panels and the high-stakes pitch competition, WVS helps more women get funded and more women become investors. Learn more and get tickets at: www.womensventuresummit.org.

About Stella Foundation
Since 2012, the Stella Foundation has been connecting women entrepreneurs and investors through community, curriculum and capital. From idea to exit, Stella supports women founders at every stage of the journey. Learn more at https://stella.co.

Media Contact:

Laura Henson

9175397812

[email protected] 

SOURCE Stella Foundation

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 7, 2025 — Samyr Laine, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Freedom Trail Capital, has been named a 2025 Leader of Influence: Banking & Finance by the Los Angeles Business Journal. The annual list honors professionals across the region who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, deep sector expertise, and an impact on the Los Angeles business community. Freedom Trail Capital is a Los Angeles– and London-based venture firm investing in early-stage, consumer and tech startups around the globe.

This recognition comes shortly after Samyr’s guest appearance at UCLA, where he spoke with students about the power of entrepreneurship and mission-led businesses.

“At Freedom Trail, we believe in backing bold ideas and building with intention,” added Ayanna Alexander-Laine, Olympian, Co-Founder of Freedom Trail Capital and PhD Candidate in Business Administration “This honor is a reflection of the trust founders place in us and our shared ambition to reimagine what success looks like in consumer venture.”

“It’s an honor to be recognized, but what excites me most is the momentum we’re building at Freedom Trail,” said Samyr Laine, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Freedom Trail Capital. “We’re drawn to brands that do more than sell great products – they shift culture, challenge norms, and reimagine what their category can be. It’s a privilege to work alongside founders who think that boldly and build with that kind of long-term vision.”

The firm focuses on brands that have proven to have a sustainable growth model and authentically associated with A-list talent and influential cultural figures – helping these businesses grow into category-defining companies through strategic capital and hands-on operational support. Since launching, their team has helped shape a growing portfolio of consumer brands that pair strong product-market fit with cultural relevance.

Select portfolio companies include:

• A-Frame Brands – Backed by John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Naomi Osaka, and more
• Berri Organics – Maker of the world’s first plant-based organic electrolyte drink
• Jiant – Backed by Chace Crawford, offering fresh-brewed hard tea, kombucha, and cocktail-inspired drinks
• Kudos Diapers – investors include Mark Cuban and Gwyneth Paltrow
• Oh Norman! – led by Kaley Cuoco
• Renais Gin – led by Alex and Emma Watson
• Sienna Naturals – co-founded by Issa Rae
• Ten to One Rum, co-owned by Ciara

For more information on Freedom Trail Capital and its portfolio, visit freedomtrail.capital.

About Freedom Trail Capital

Freedom Trail Capital is a consumer fund investing at the intersection of culture, lifestyle, and influence. The firm backs consumer goods and technology companies that are either founded by (or authentically partnered with) public figures or celebrities, and that offer a fresh take on their category with clear product-market fit. When a standout brand doesn’t yet have a talent partner, Freedom Trail can help identify and connect with someone who brings genuine alignment and strategic value.

Through deep operational experience, we’ve seen that in consumer, a standout product and well-crafted brand, paired with the right talent partner, has the potential to result in an extremely successful business. More than just capital, Freedom Trail offers strategic partnership for brands, adding value in ways few firms can thanks to our unique positioning and understanding of culture and influence.

Media Contact:
Ludington Media on behalf of Freedom Trail Capital
New York, NY
[email protected]
551 795 5950

SOURCE Freedom Trail Capital

Funding will support Swing Education’s nationwide expansion and help meet continued demand for qualified substitute teachers.

MENLO PARK, Calif., Aug. 7, 2025 — Runway Growth Capital LLC (“Runway”), a leading provider of growth loans to both venture and non-venture-backed companies seeking an alternative to raising equity, today announced a $20 million commitment to Swing Education, a leading online marketplace that connects schools with qualified substitute teachers. The commitment is comprised of a first lien term loan and a revolving credit line.

Founded in 2015 and based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Swing Education partners with school districts across California, Arizona, Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. By streamlining the substitute teacher hiring and placement processes through technology and support services, Swing addresses one of the most urgent challenges in K–12 education: the acute shortage of substitute teachers.

“Swing Education plays a critical role in addressing the persistent shortage of classroom educators by making it easier for schools to connect with high-quality substitute teachers,” said Greg Greifeld, Chief Investment Officer at Runway. “We’re proud to support a company that is not only scaling quickly but also delivering real impact across the education system. We worked hard to provide them with a flexible financing solution, via a first lien and a revolver, to ensure they have access to capital when needed, given the seasonal nature of the education sector.”

“This new investment from Runway Growth Capital comes at a pivotal moment for Swing as we continue expanding our reach to address nationwide teacher shortages,” said Asha Visweswaran, CEO of Swing Education. “We appreciate Runway’s support and confidence in our mission to ensure every classroom has a teacher and every student gets the opportunity to learn.”

Runway’s investment reflects its dedication to help growth-stage companies achieve their objectives through non-dilutive capital that aligns with long-term strategic goals.

About Runway Growth Capital LLC
Runway Growth Capital LLC is the investment advisor to investment funds, including Runway Growth Finance Corp. (Nasdaq: RWAY), a business development company, and other private funds, which are lenders of growth capital to companies seeking an alternative to raising equity. Led by industry veteran David Spreng, these funds provide senior term loans of a target of $20 million to $150 million to fast-growing companies based in the United States and Canada. For more information, visit www.runwaygrowth.com.

About Swing Education
Swing Education is an online staffing marketplace that connects substitute teachers with schools. Founded in 2015 by former K-12 educators and administrators, Swing makes it easier for schools and districts to find reliable, qualified substitute teachers when they need them most. With millions of absence days filled to date, Swing is dedicated to improving the experience of finding substitute teachers, becoming a sub, and keeping student learning on track. Swing serves thousands of school districts across California, Arizona, Illinois, Texas, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. To learn more about Swing Education, visit www.SwingEducation.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Statements included herein may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements and are not guarantees of future performance, condition, or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission made by Runway and Runway’s affiliated funds. Neither Runway nor Runway’s affiliated funds undertake a duty to update any forward-looking statement made herein. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release.

SOURCE Runway Growth Capital LLC

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 7, 2025 — The Delta Dental Community Care Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of California and affiliates, today announced $16.3 million in funding to approximately 200 nonprofit organizations through its Access to Care Grants Program. This funding, which matches last year’s impressive annual total, will support initiatives across the company’s 15-state service area and Washington, D.C., to expand access to quality, affordable oral health care.

“We are proud to continue our commitment to improving access to care by supporting local nonprofits that serve those most in need,” said Kenzie Ferguson, vice president of foundation and corporate social responsibility for Delta Dental of California and affiliates. “Hearing and seeing the positive impact that our nonprofit partners have in their communities really touches our hearts and reminds us that we are collectively working toward our shared goal of building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.”

The Community Care Foundation is focused on driving health equity through key programs:

• Seniors and Special Populations: Programs that address health disparities and provide care for vulnerable seniors and special needs populations
• Innovative and Preventative Care: Initiatives that advance new technologies and preventative methods to improve dental health outcomes
• Rural Communities: Efforts to enhance dental care services in rural and underserved areas

These grant awards enable partners to provide vital and beneficial services to those most in need in the communities they serve. The impact of Access to Care grant awards reaches beyond a monetary contribution – the awards are elements of long-term relationships that drive tangible benefits for nonprofits, patients and students. Jong Sup Shon, a senior who received oral health care through nonprofit partner Asian Health Services in the San Francisco Bay Area, is a powerful example.

Born in Korea, Jong and his family immigrated to the United States. He has run many small businesses, including a restaurant, which kept him busy. When he experienced minor toothaches, he simply took painkillers. But when the pain became unbearable, he found himself at the hospital where it was difficult to communicate with medical staff due to language barriers.

Through Asian Health Services, Jong was able to see a Korean dentist who explained his dental issues and helped him make an informed decision. He got his teeth cleaned and a painful tooth extracted. Now he can chew without pain and enjoy food again.

About the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation
The Delta Dental Community Care Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of California and its affiliated companies, including Delta Dental Insurance Company, Delta Dental of Pennsylvania and Delta Dental of New York, Inc. Since 2011, the Community Care Foundation has awarded more than $170 million in funding and support to increase access to quality dental care, oral health education and to advance scientific research across the company’s 15-state service area and Washington, D.C. For more information about the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation, please visit https://www1.deltadentalins.com/foundation.html

For more information, contact:

Aaron Gardner
Corporate Communications
Delta Dental of California and affiliates
[email protected]

Caitlin Schott
Corporate Communications
Delta Dental of California and affiliates
[email protected]

SOURCE Delta Dental Community Care Foundation

NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2025 —

• Subzero Labs emerges from stealth after raising a $20M initial financing round led by Pantera Capital with participation from Variant, Coinbase Ventures, Hashed, Susquehanna Crypto, Mysten Labs, Fabric Ventures, Mirana Ventures amongst others. 
• Developer-first founders come from Mysten Labs and Diem and have attracted top talent from Meta, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google, TikTok, Citadel, VMWare, Solana, EigenLayer, Coinbase, NEAR Protocol and more. 
• Subzero Labs is building Rialo, a radical rethinking of decentralized programmable networks that empowers builders to create and launch internet‑scale decentralized applications, without the constraints of legacy network architecture.

Today, Subzero Labs announces its emergence from stealth with a $20 million initial financing round led by Pantera Capital, with participation from other top-tier investors including Variant, Coinbase Ventures, Hashed, Susquehanna Crypto, Mysten Labs, Fabric Ventures, Flowdesk, Mirana Ventures, and more. 

Founded by Ade Adepoju and Lu Zhang, early engineers at Mysten Labs who contributed to the Sui network, Subzero Labs draws on deep technical expertise from both Web2 and Web3. Prior, Zhang built Diem, Meta’s crypto initiative, and large-scale AI/ML infrastructure at Meta and Google, while Adepoju developed distributed systems at Netflix and advanced microchips at AMD. With years of deep involvement in multiple layer-1 protocols and decentralized applications, Adepoju and Zhang identified a significant gap between the goals of network infrastructure and app developers; a gap they will close by rebuilding decentralized infrastructure from first principles. 

The Subzero Labs team has attracted top talent from Meta, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google, TikTok, Citadel, VMware, Solana, EigenLayer, Polkadot, Coinbase, NEAR Protocol, and other industry-leading organizations. 

For years, blockchain teams have obsessed over raw transaction speed. But high TPS alone doesn’t make decentralized apps robust or useful. Without a seamless interface to real‑world data and services, even the fastest blockchains produce apps that feel disconnected, high friction, boring to users, and frustrating for builders. Until we fix real‑world integration and free builders from tangled and fragmented infrastructure, decentralized apps will remain clunky, costly, and painfully slow to create.

Subzero Labs is building Rialo, a network that gives developers the building blocks to create global-scale decentralized apps, without integrating brittle third-party services. Rialo makes it possible to build decentralized apps with the responsiveness and reactivity of Web2 at a fraction of the complexity by offering native web connectivity, event-driven transactions, built-in privacy, among others while remaining infinitely scalable. 

Rialo leverages RISC-V architecture and adds Solana VM compatibility, letting teams deploy existing programs out of the box while unlocking a richer feature set. From tokenized assets, to prediction markets, to global trading platforms, to AI agent orchestration, developers can build with familiar tools while delivering apps that outperform their centralized counterparts in both cost and user experience.

“Instead of shipping innovative products, too many brilliant teams are burning their runway gluing various pieces of poorly designed infrastructure together,” said Ade Adepoju, Co-Founder of Subzero Labs. “We believe infrastructure should be invisible, fast, intuitive, and scalable. Rialo solves this and unlocks entirely new classes of applications that simply weren’t possible before.” “Rialo is the only full stack network for real world applications – built by leading industry developers for developers,” said Paul Veradittakit, Managing Partner of Pantera Capital. “It’s rare to see such a high concentration of talent to drive this vision. We believe under Ade and Lu’s leadership the Subzero Labs will deliver the infrastructure that finally empowers developers to create decentralized products that are intuitive, useful, and relevant to everyday users.” “What stood out to us was how Rialo makes off-chain interaction feel native — not bolted on,” said Baek Kim, General Partner of Hashed. “With the devnet already demonstrating event-driven execution and native web integrations, we see early signs of a system that can lower the barrier for real-world use cases. Subzero Labs isn’t just optimizing infra — they’re rethinking how developers and external systems actually connect to it.” “We are excited about the opportunity that comes with the growing range of real world assets.” said Bart Smith, Global Head of Digital Asset Strategy at Susquehanna International Group (SIG). 

Rialo private devnet is now live. Subzero is currently onboarding early development partners. Developers interested in testing Rialo ahead of its public launch can join the waitlist.

About Subzero Labs

Subzero Labs is rearchitecting decentralized infrastructure to deliver network power without legacy constraints. The company’s flagship network, Rialo, combines real world connectivity and event driven execution, enabling teams to ship production ready applications with the same ease as Web2 development. Founded by veterans of Meta, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google, TikTok, Citadel, Mysten Labs, Solana, and other leading protocols, Subzero Labs is transforming decentralized network into full stack product platforms, unlocking real world use cases for developers, enterprises, and consumers.

SOURCE Subzero Labs

Entrepreneur Expo to spotlight SSBCI-backed investment funds driving Maryland’s innovation economy

COLUMBIA, Md., Aug. 6, 2025 — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces the panel “Investing in Maryland’s Future: SSBCI in Action,” taking place at the upcoming 2025 Entrepreneur Expo at The Hotel at the University of Maryland on October 21, 2025.

“This session showcases both the power of public-private capital and the art of founder-investor engagement,” said Jack Miner, TEDCO’s chief investment officer. “We’re excited to give attendees an up-close look at how these investors evaluate opportunities and support Maryland’s growing innovation ecosystem.”

The two-part session will be moderated by Miner, beginning with brief investment thesis presentations from each fund, followed by a round of live startup pitches. The second half of the session features an interactive discussion where investors provide real-time feedback and highlight the critical skills and considerations that shape their decisions—from understanding tech stacks to budget planning.

Joining this session will be:

• Moderator: Jack Miner, TEDCO
• Emily McMahan, AIN Ventures 
• Shalanda Armstrong, 100KM Ventures
• Elias Mufarech, Collide Capital
• Sarah Sheppard, Maryland Department of Commerce

Recently, TEDCO announced receiving an infusion of up to $50 million in funding from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). This funding supports recipients of TEDCO’s Venture Funds, Seed Funds and Social Impact Funds—along with the $10 million earmarked for the Venture Capital Limited Partnership (VCLP) Equity program. Of this amount, funding has been allocated to 100KM Ventures, AIN Ventures and Collide Capital. This session brings all three firms together to share their investment strategies and engage directly with Maryland-based entrepreneurs.

TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo is Maryland’s premier gathering for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors and thought leaders to connect, learn and be inspired. This year’s event promises a full day of interactive workshops, insightful discussions and dynamic pitches from emerging companies.

Don’t miss your chance to attend this “can’t miss” event! Tickets are limited, so secure your spot now and get ready for a day filled with learning, networking and inspiration.

About TEDCO
TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

Media Contact
Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, [email protected]
Rachael Kalinyak, Associate Director, Marketing & Communications, TEDCO, [email protected]

SOURCE TEDCO

 Evok Innovations and Constellation Technology Ventures Lead Investment in Scalable Technology for Critical Mineral Liberation and Legacy Waste Cleanup

CASPER, Wyo., Aug. 6, 2025 — DISA Technologies Inc. (DISA), a company pioneering high-impact solutions for mineral recovery and uranium remediation, has closed its oversubscribed Series A2 financing round. DISA raised a total of $30 million in private capital, including $23 million in primary funding and $7 million in secondary to accommodate oversubscription and provide liquidity for early angel investors. The round was led by Evok Innovations with cornerstone strategic investment from Constellation Technology Ventures (CTV), the venture investing organization within Constellation, the nation’s largest producer of reliable, emissions-free energy and participation from Valor Equity Partners, Veriten, and existing backers including Halliburton Labs.

DISA’s patented High-Pressure Slurry Ablation (HPSA) technology was developed to serve both modern mineral processing and environmental remediation needs—delivering a cleaner, faster and more efficient way to liberate valuable minerals. HPSA is now being scaled for deployment across two critical applications: improving grades and recoveries of critical minerals for mining operators, and cleaning up Abandoned Uranium Mine (AUM) waste by recycling uranium and vanadium while reducing environmental liability.

“We’re proud to have the support of such forward-thinking partners who share our vision: increasing the global production of critical minerals and converting toxic legacy waste into strategic assets that advance American sustainability, energy resilience, and national security,” said Greyson Buckingham, DISA’s CEO, President and Co-Founder. “This investment allows us to accelerate commercial deployment of HPSA units for both mining operators and uranium remediation stakeholders.”

“We’re especially grateful to Evok for believing in DISA from the beginning, and to Constellation for their bold leadership in shaping America’s energy future,” Buckingham added. “We’re also excited to welcome Veriten and Valor Equity Partners to the team, and deeply appreciate the continued support from Halliburton Labs and our other existing investors who have helped make this next chapter possible.”

CTV’s investment highlights the strategic importance of DISA’s accelerating uranium remediation work. Following a successful 2023 EPA Treatability Study, DISA signed an MOU with the Navajo Nation EPA to launch a Phase 2 commercial-scale demonstration project. In April 2025, DISA’s application for an NRC Service Providers License (SPL) was accepted for technical review, with completion of the licensing action decision expected by September. Constellation’s backing strengthens DISA’s position as the nation’s first licensed provider focused on AUM remediation.

“At Constellation, we recognize that securing America’s energy future starts with securing its fuel supply,” said Bryan Hanson, Chief Generation Officer, Constellation. “DISA’s innovative approach aligns with our goal to strengthen domestic energy resilience and deploy cutting-edge technologies that support clean, reliable energy.”

Evok Innovations and Valor Equity Partners bring deep strategic value to DISA—Evok through its focus on cutting-edge energy innovation, and Valor through its operational expertise with high-growth companies. Veriten adds industry insight and connectivity across the energy landscape, while Halliburton Labs continues to be a vital collaborator supporting founder-led innovation.

“Valor Equity Partners is proud to invest in DISA, a company that embodies innovation and possesses significant growth potential. Our investment reflects our belief in the company’s vision and leadership team, along with our focus on disruptive technologies that are making the world a better place. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with DISA in this next phase of growth,” said David Heskett, Operating Partner at Valor Equity Partners. 

“Halliburton Labs reaffirms its support of DISA through this strategic investment,” said Andres Cabada, managing director at Halliburton Labs. “DISA’s innovation in mineral processing and remediation creates meaningful value for resource owners and other stakeholders. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate as DISA advances its commercialization efforts and expands its operations. We look forward to their success”.

“Investing in DISA is an opportunity to catalyze groundbreaking uranium remediation solutions that can have downstream impacts on our energy landscape. Complemented by their entrepreneurial founder-led team, we are excited to begin this partnership,” said Maynard Holt, Founder and CEO of Veriten.  

DISA has successfully executed several key milestones over the last 24 months, and this funding round will enable the company to scale its operations and expand the capabilities of HPSA faster than ever. 

For more information about DISA and its solutions, please visit www.DISAusa.com.

About DISA Technologies 
Founded in 2018, DISA Technologies is revolutionizing mineral recovery through its patented High-Pressure Slurry Ablation (HPSA) technology—an innovative solution that upgrades critical minerals from mined ore and legacy waste. Serving both the mining and remediation sectors, they recover valuable resources that power industry, strengthen energy independence and restore contaminated sites to productive use. DISA’s technology unlocks economic and environmental value, transforming how the world processes, remediates and recycles essential mineral assets. DISA is headquartered in Casper, Wyoming, with a satellite office in Westminster, Colorado. 

About Evok Innovations 
Launched in 2016 through a partnership between Suncor, Cenovus and the BC Cleantech CEO Alliance, Evok Innovations (Evok), is committed to developing and deploying cutting-edge clean energy technology. Evok’s inaugural fund aimed to accelerate the development of critical energy transition technologies across North America. The fund has made 16 investments in decarbonization technologies, ranging from clean hydrogen and carbon-to-value, to long-duration energy storage. Building on this legacy, Evok launched Fund II in 2022, which targets early-stage investments across North America in key industrial decarbonization verticals, including carbon capture use and storage (CCUS), low-carbon fuels, clean energy and grid innovations, mobility, advanced materials and circularity. 

About Constellation Technology Ventures

Constellation Technology Ventures (CTV) is the venture investing organization within Constellation, the United States’ largest producer of clean, carbon-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services to businesses, homes, community aggregations and public sector customers. The mission of CTV is to drive innovation by investing in venture-stage energy technology companies that can provide new solutions to Constellation and its customers. CTV invests in companies exploring innovative energy technologies and business models, building a portfolio that represents a broad range of development stages and technology types.

About Valor Equity Partners 
Valor Equity Partners is an operational growth investment firm focused on investing in high-growth companies across various stages of development. For decades, Valor has served its companies with unique expertise to solve the challenges of growth and scale. Valor partners with leading companies and entrepreneurs who are committed to the highest standards of excellence and the courage to transform their industries. For more information on Valor Equity Partners, please visit www.valorep.com.

About Veriten’s NexTen Fund 
The NexTen fund leverages Veriten’s broad network and expertise to invest in reliable, sustainable, scalable, and economically viable energy solutions. Dedicated to understanding the constantly evolving, volatile, and often noisy and confusing energy landscape, the firm has now backed 13 innovative, private companies poised to capitalize on long-term, global energy trends. 

About Halliburton Labs 
Halliburton Labs is a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs, academics, investors, and experienced practitioners advance the future of energy faster. Halliburton Labs provides access to world-class facilities, a global business network, commercialization expertise, and financing opportunities to help participants scale their business. Visit the company’s website at Halliburton Labs. Connect with Halliburton Labs on LinkedIn and Instagram. Halliburton Labs is a wholly owned subsidiary of Halliburton Company (NYSE: HAL).

SOURCE DISA Technologies, Inc.

NEW YORK, 6 augustus 2025 — Stavtar Solutions, een toonaangevende leverancier van SaaS voor bedrijfsuitgavenbeheer en onkostentoewijzing voor complexe bedrijven zoals alternatieve vermogensbeheerders, maakte vandaag een Serie A-investering van $55 miljoen van Elephant bekend. Deze minderheidsinvestering zal de volgende uitbreidingsfase van het platform voeden, dat een revolutie heeft teweeggebracht in de manier waarop complexe bedrijven hun bedrijfsuitgaven, onkostentoewijzingen, leveranciers, contracten, budgetten, betalingen en dergelijke meer beheren. Het zal de voortdurende productinnovatie en uitbreiding van geïntegreerde betalingsmogelijkheden binnen StavPay, het vlaggenschipproduct van het bedrijf, stimuleren, evenals het aanwerven van nieuwe medewerkers om aan de snel toenemende vraag te voldoen.

Stavtar werd gezamenlijk door Steven Petersen en Avtar Batth opgericht, respectievelijk voormalig CFO en CTO, om een probleem op te lossen dat zij zelf hebben ervaren: de overweldigende afhankelijkheid van handmatige processen en spreadsheets om bedrijfsuitgaven en onkostentoewijzingen in alternatief vermogensbeheer te beheren. Na jarenlang schipperen tussen operationele knelpunten en gefragmenteerde systemen, stelden ze zich tot doel een modern, aanpasbaar platform aangestuurd door gegevens tot stand te brengen dat specifiek ontworpen is voor de behoeften van financiële en operationele teams bij hedgefondsen, private equity, family offices en andere complexe bedrijven. De afgelopen drie jaar is Stavtar met meer dan 1300% gegroeid en is nu het favoriete platform van meer dan 100 alternatieve vermogensbeheerders met een beheerd vermogen van $ 2,4 miljard. Het StavPay-platform maakt geautomatiseerde workflows mogelijk voor het beheer van leveranciers, contracten en facturen, de toewijzing van onkosten, betalingen aan derden, budgetten, belastingaangiften, aangepaste rapportering en nog veel meer. Het verandert het hele proces van hun klanten in goedkeuren of afwijzen, terwijl het hen in realtime inzicht geeft in hun activiteiten, iets wat voordien ondenkbaar was.

“We hebben Stavtar gebouwd als oplossing voor iets wat we niet konden negeren: voorbijgestreefde, handmatige, losgekoppelde financiële workflows die goed presterende teams stokken in de wielen staken,” verklaart Steven Petersen, medeoprichter van Stavtar. “Ons partnerschap met Elephant stelt ons in staat om ons te richten op wat het belangrijkst is: onze klanten innovatieve oplossingen van bedrijfsniveau aanbieden. We zijn enthousiast om sneller te groeien, verder te gaan en de grenzen te blijven verleggen van wat in software voor complexe bedrijven mogelijk is.”

“We hebben Stavtar ontwikkeld om de echte pijnpunten van complexe bedrijven aan te pakken,” aldus Avtar Batth, medeoprichter van Stavtar. “Deze investering stelt ons in staat om de ontwikkeling te versnellen van een schaalbaar, intelligent systeem dat specifiek is ontworpen voor de financiële en operationele realiteit van alternatieve vermogensbeheerders en andere geavanceerde ondernemingen.”

Dankzij deze mijlpaal kan Stavtar voortaan:

• Innovatie stimuleren in de hele portfolio van oplossingen.
• De engineering-, implementatie-, klantensucces- en verkoopteams uitbreiden. 
• Het geïntegreerde betalingsplatform verder ontwikkelen, met inbegrip van mogelijkheden voor betalingen met virtuele kaarten en betalingen aan leveranciers.
• AI en mobiele capaciteiten verdiepen om controle over bedrijfsuitgaven en inzichten rechtstreeks in handen te leggen van CEO’s, CFO’s en financiële teams. 
• De aanwezigheid uitbreiden naar sectoren die grenzen aan alternatief vermogensbeheer en andere vergelijkbare complexe activiteiten.

Peter Fallon, Partner van Elephant, zal tot de raad van bestuur van Stavtar toetreden. “Steve en Avtar hebben een toonaangevend platform gebouwd dat een oplossing biedt voor de complexe, hoogwaardige uitdagingen waarmee enkele van de meest veeleisende financiële bedrijven worden geconfronteerd,” aldus Fallon. “We vinden het geweldig om de visie van Stavtar te steunen en te helpen hun impact te vergroten door verdere marktgroei.”

Met kantoren in New York, Dallas, Londen, Mumbai en Bengaluru komt Stavtar doelgericht op schaal en geeft het financiële teams de tools die ze nodig hebben om handmatig werk te elimineren, operationele risico’s te verminderen, de productiviteit te vergroten en sneller te werken.

Over Stavtar

Stavtar is de belangrijkste leverancier van SaaS-oplossingen voor bedrijfsuitgavenbeheer en onkostentoewijzing, speciaal ontwikkeld voor het kantoor van de CFO in complexe bedrijfsactiviteiten zoals alternatief vermogensbeheer. Het hoofdkantoor van Stavtar is in New York gevestigd. Het bedrijf is wereldwijd actief in Dallas, Londen, Mumbai en Bengaluru. Stavtar is door doorwinterde professionals uit de alternatieve vermogensbeheersector opgericht.

Ons vlaggenschipplatform voor bedrijfsuitgavenbeheer en onkostentoewijzing, StavPay, staat ten dienste van meer dan 100 toonaangevende alternatieve vermogensbeheerders, die samen meer dan $2,4 biljoen aan AUM beheren. 

Meer informatie: www.stavtar.com. 

Over Elephant 

Elephant is een durfkapitaalbedrijf dat zich richt op bedrijfssoftware, internet voor consumenten en mobiele markten.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736907/Stavtar_2025_Logo_PNG_Logo.jpg 

Spurs Investment in Communities Across Country

WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2025 — The Community Development Bankers Association (CDBA) and National Bankers Association (NBA) today announced that the Advancing Communities Together^® (ACT^®) Deposit Program has reached $100 million. This innovative initiative, launched by both groups in summer 2024, channels vital funding to banks serving low-income and minority communities while also making all deposits eligible for FDIC insurance at network banks.

The two national associations also released the program’s first annual report, which illustrates the broad, transformative impact the ACT Deposit Program is making in communities from California to Mississippi to New York.

“The ACT Deposit Program allows us to expand access to capital for historically underserved individuals and small businesses—fueling economic growth where it’s needed most,” said Todd O. McDonald, NBA’s chairman and the president of Liberty Bank and Trust. “This program is a powerful example of how corporate deposits can be both mission aligned and market smart. We encourage other corporations to join us in meaningful, community-focused investment.”

“Deposits are an essential source of funding for mission-focused banks like ours, and often the communities where we are looking to make an impact lack them,” said Carlos Naudon, CDBA’s chairman and the chief executive officer of Ponce Bank. “The ACT Deposit Program is part of the solution to that imbalance and helps us support the affordable-housing development and small business lending that are transforming our communities.”

The program, launched with significant investments from four major financial firms, continues to draw broad support from the banking industry and has significantly expanded its depositor base, attracting funds from businesses and nonprofits.

Key Benefits of the Program

The ACT Deposit Program simplifies how large depositors place funds at a community development financial institution (CDFI) or minority depository institution (MDI). Deposits made through the program can be placed with more than 80 participating CDFIs and MDIs, extending the reach of each deposit to communities across the country.

Participating depositors can choose a CDFI or MDI as their relationship bank, with part of the deposit being allocated to the other banks participating in the program. This ensures benefits are shared across all banks in the program and all deposits are eligible for FDIC insurance.

The program is powered by IntraFi through its ICS service, which is used by thousands of banks nationwide. The service offers depositors access to millions of dollars in aggregate FDIC insurance across IntraFi network banks.

For more information about the ACT Deposit Program, and a list of its participating banks, please visit the program’s website.

IntraFi is not an FDIC-insured bank, and deposit insurance covers the failure of an insured bank. A list identifying IntraFi network banks appears at https://www.intrafi.com/network-banks. Deposit placement in the ACT Deposit Program within ICS is subject to the terms, conditions, and disclosures in the applicable agreements, including the ACT Addendum to the Deposit Placement Agreement. A portion of a deposit placed in the Program may be allocated to IntraFi network banks that are not community development financial institutions or minority depository institutions.

About CDBA

For over two decades, the Community Development Bankers Association has led the community development banking movement, advocating for financial inclusion, racial equity, and economic opportunities in the nation’s most economically distressed areas. The CDBA and its member banks are located in 26 states and Washington, DC, and are unwavering in their commitment to making banking a force for good. For more information on the CDBA’s mission and initiatives, please visit www.cdbanks.org.

About NBA
Founded in 1927, the National Bankers Association champions minority depository institutions, advocating for mission-driven banks that serve underserved and low- to-moderate-income communities. Representing community banks across 43 states and territories, NBA promotes economic empowerment, capital access, and financial inclusion. Learn more at www.nationalbankers.org.

About IntraFi
IntraFi was founded more than two decades ago to serve and support banks of all sizes. Composed of nearly 70% of the nation’s banks, IntraFi’s network is the largest of its kind and enables institutions across the United States to better serve their customers, fund more loans, and seamlessly manage their liquidity needs. IntraFi invented reciprocal deposits and is the #1 provider of deposit placement solutions, offering network participants the highest per-depositor and per-bank capacity and the peace of mind of being able to make large-dollar placements. To learn more, visit www.intrafi.com.

SOURCE Community Development Bankers Association (CDBA) and National Bankers Association (NBA)