DOGE OFFICIAL LAUNCHES DEFENSE TECH STARTUP
■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE
Ethan Shaotran, a Department of Government Efficiency official, is now running Blitz Industries, a defense technology company. According to an email viewed by WIRED, the startup is backed by prominent investors.
■ MORE FROM THE STARTUPS DESK
Humanoid, a London-based robotics company, secured $150 million in its Series A first tranche at a $1.2 billion pre-money valuation. The startup is targeting an additional $80-100 million by September.
African startups are shifting strategy as global venture capital flows toward US-based artificial intelligence companies. The capital drain is forcing emerging market entrepreneurs to seek alternative funding sources.
Fora, an online platform serving travel agents, has raised $60 million in new funding at a $1 billion valuation. The capital will fund artificial intelligence tools designed to help travel advisers streamline and expand their operations.
AI-powered travel agency Fora has reached a $1 billion valuation after closing a $60 million Series D funding round. Forerunner and Tactile Ventures led the investment.