Empower AI has acquired Highlight Technologies, a Fairfax, Virginia-based federal IT services firm, to enhance its delivery of AI-driven, cloud-enabled solutions across U.S. federal agencies. The acquisition, effective July 7, 2026, combines Empower AI’s AI accelerator model with Highlight’s mission-focused expertise in DevSecOps, data management, and cloud modernization. Highlight Technologies, founded in 2008, brings a 16-year track record of delivering mission modernization, digital transformation, and rapid-response IT services across defense, civilian, and homeland security markets. The move aims to strengthen support for modernization efforts at the Departments of State and Homeland Security while expanding access to defense opportunities through Highlight’s AIDE platform, recently rated “Awardable” in the Department of Defense’s Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace.
Acquisition Strengthens AI and Cloud Delivery for Federal Missions
The acquisition unites Empower AI’s 30-year federal mission support with Highlight’s 16-year track record in defense, civilian, and homeland security IT services. Highlight’s AIDE (AI Data Integration & Orchestration Engine) adds to Empower AI’s proprietary AI accelerator portfolio, enabling faster deployment and scalable adoption for federal clients. Highlight’s employee-owned structure and focus on mission-led outcomes complement Empower AI’s specialized AI practice, creating a unified approach to cloud and DevSecOps delivery. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Empower AI CEO Jeff Bohling emphasized that Highlight’s talent and technology will “meaningfully expand what we can deliver to our customers,” while Highlight CEO Aarish Gokaldas highlighted the alignment of their AI-first approach with Highlight’s agency relationships, calling the companies “a natural fit.”
Highlight’s AIDE Platform Gains DoD Marketplace Recognition
Highlight’s AIDE platform received “Awardable” status in the Department of Defense Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office’s Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, signaling its readiness for defense-sector AI integration. This assessment positions Empower AI to pursue emerging opportunities in the federal AI landscape, particularly within defense modernization initiatives. The platform complements Empower AI’s existing services in AI, engineering, and infrastructure modernization, enhancing interoperability and deployment speed for joint customers. The recognition underscores Highlight’s reputation for delivering data-driven decision support and digital transformation solutions in complex federal environments.
Combined Capabilities Target Civilian and Defense Modernization Priorities
The merger broadens Empower AI’s reach across federal markets, combining Highlight’s rapid-response delivery and data-driven decision support with Empower AI’s scalable AI frameworks. Both companies emphasize mission-led outcomes, with Highlight’s employee-owned structure and Empower AI’s specialized AI practice aligning on shared priorities in cloud and DevSecOps. The integration may accelerate federal adoption of AI-driven workflows, though specific implementation timelines remain undisclosed. Highlight’s expertise in AI/ML and cloud solutions, paired with Empower AI’s infrastructure modernization capabilities, creates a comprehensive offering for agencies seeking to modernize legacy systems while maintaining security and compliance standards.
Key Takeaways
- Empower AI acquired Highlight Technologies on July 7, 2026, expanding its federal AI and cloud modernization capabilities.
- Highlight’s AIDE platform earned “Awardable” status in the DoD’s Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, enhancing defense-sector opportunities.
- The combined entity will deliver faster AI deployment and interoperability for agencies including State and Homeland Security.
TechInsyte's Take
This acquisition reflects a strategic push to consolidate AI and cloud expertise in the federal IT space, where mission-critical modernization remains a priority. While the deal’s financial terms are undisclosed, the integration of Highlight’s AIDE platform and agency relationships could strengthen Empower AI’s competitive position. Buyers should monitor how the combined capabilities translate into tangible outcomes for federal clients, particularly in defense and civilian sectors.
Source: Businesswire
