Crimson Phoenix has acquired Blackspoke to expand its capabilities in artificial intelligence-powered data labeling and geospatial intelligence.
The Godspeed Capital Management-backed company said Tuesday the acquisition will enable it to drive innovation in critical areas and add to its portfolio prime contracts with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and National Reconnaissance Office.
Crimson Phoenix CEO Ross O’Rourke said Blackspoke brings to the company additional expertise integrating AI, machine learning, data labeling, GEOINT, computer vision and other technologies into NGA’s IT infrastructure.
“Blackspoke’s experienced, highly skilled and cleared employees will bolster our data-driven intelligence strategy at NGA. We are thrilled to be partnering with its founder, Rich Oestreich, who will continue to lend his expertise and vision to help Crimson Phoenix further scale within the Intelligence Community. Together, we aim to solidify our status as the most responsive, accurate and reliable contractor at NGA,” added O’Rourke.
What Does Blackspoke Do?
Established in 2011, the Virginia-based intelligence services and technology provider provides software development and data management platforms in support of critical mission requirements of its customers at NGA, NRO and other agencies within the Intelligence Community.
Blackspoke has nearly 100 full-time cleared employees and has been awarded seven prime contracts since 2017.
In addition to software development, it has core competencies and offerings in geospatial and data platforms and enterprise technology.
Crimson Phoenix’s 5th Acquisition
The latest transaction marks Crimson Phoenix’s fifth acquisition since its launch in 2023 as an intelligence services platform of technology private equity firm Godspeed Capital.
In early 2024, Crimson Phoenix acquired Tekmasters, Seaford Consulting and Cyberspace Solutions to broaden its customer relationships and service offerings for the Intellligence Community and U.S. Special Operations Command.
Latham & Watkins advised Godspeed Capital and Crimson Phoenix in the transaction. Lincoln International and Blank Rome served as advisers to Blackspoke.
