The McLean Group · Transaction Announcement
The McLean Group Advises Highlight Technologies on Its Announced Acquisition by Empower AI
Tysons, VA · July 6, 2026
TYSONS, Va., July 6, 2026 — Empower AI, a portfolio company of KKR, announced today that it has acquired Highlight Technologies, Inc., a Fairfax, Virginia-based, employee-owned federal IT services firm, expanding its ability to deliver AI-driven, cloud-enabled mission solutions across the federal government. The acquisition strengthens Empower AI's capabilities in DevSecOps, artificial intelligence, data management, and cloud modernization, and broadens its support for high-priority modernization initiatives at the Departments of State and Homeland Security.
The combination brings together Empower AI's accelerator-based model for scalable AI delivery and Highlight's record of mission-focused execution in complex environments. Founded in 2008, Highlight has built a strong reputation for mission modernization, data-driven decision support, digital transformation, and rapid-response delivery across defense, civilian, and homeland security customers. A distinguishing asset of the business is its AIDE (AI Data Integration & Orchestration Engine) platform, recently assessed as "Awardable" in the Department of Defense Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office's Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, expanding Empower AI's access to emerging defense opportunities and reinforcing its position in the evolving federal AI landscape.
The transaction also accelerates the growth of Empower AI's proprietary AI accelerator portfolio, with the combined organization positioned to deliver faster deployment, improved interoperability, and more scalable AI adoption for federal customers.
"Empower AI and Highlight Technologies are a natural fit. Empower AI's AI-first approach, paired with Highlight's deep agency expertise, creates the platform and scale to deliver even greater impact for the missions we serve."
Aarish Gokaldas · CEO, Highlight Technologies"Highlight Technologies brings exceptional talent, proven technology, and deep agency relationships that will meaningfully expand what we can deliver to our customers."
Jeff Bohling · CEO, Empower AIThe transaction was effective July 6, 2026. Terms were not disclosed. The McLean Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Highlight Technologies on this transaction.
About the Companies
About Empower AI
Empower AI uses innovative technologies and its specialized AI practice to support federal missions and solve unique government challenges. The company's services span artificial intelligence, engineering and integration, software solutions, mission support, infrastructure modernization, and IT service management. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Empower AI has served the federal government for more than 30 years. Visit empower.ai.
About Highlight Technologies
Highlight Technologies is a mission-led, employee-owned federal IT services firm founded in 2008 and headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia. The company delivers DevSecOps, cloud, AI/ML, and data management solutions across civilian, homeland security, and defense markets. Visit highlighttech.com.
About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit, and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. Visit kkr.com.
About The McLean Group
The McLean Group is a middle-market investment bank providing objective strategic and financial advice on mergers and acquisitions, business & asset valuation, and growth capital. For over 30 years, The McLean Group has served clients in the Defense, Government & Intelligence, Security, Critical Infrastructure, Maritime, Technology & Software, Facility Services, Unmanned Systems, and Public Safety markets. The firm's 50+ professionals bring deep industry experience and relentless execution to every engagement.
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