Crimson Phoenix backed by Godspeed Capital Management LP have announced the acquisition of Blackspoke. The acquisition further solidifies Crimson Phoenix’s position as a leader in AI-powered data labeling and geospatial intelligence solutions while adding prime contracts with the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) and National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and furthering innovation in these critical areas.
Blackspoke is a Virginia-based intelligence solutions provider with core competencies and offerings in geospatial solutions, software development, and enterprise technology. The company provides modern software development solutions in support of critical mission requirements for its core customers at NGA and NRO, primarily as a prime and/or sole-source contractor, and has been awarded 7 prime contracts since 2017. This transaction will bring nearly one hundred full-time, highly cleared employees to Crimson Phoenix, further enhancing the platform’s ability to meet mission objectives.
Ross O’Rourke, Chief Executive Officer of Crimson Phoenix, remarked, “While Crimson Phoenix has already established itself as a leader in AI/ML, computer vision, data labeling and geospatial intelligence, Blackspoke brings additional expertise integrating these 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.”
Mr. Oestreich, Founder and CEO of Blackspoke, added, “Joining Crimson Phoenix marks a new and exciting chapter for our company and its dedicated employees. Becoming an integral part of a broader, more diversified intelligence solutions platform will provide us with additional resources as we seek new expansion opportunities. I look forward to further developing the company’s prime contract portfolio in the Defense and Intelligence Community as we work together to enhance the platform’s strategic capabilities, and believe Crimson Phoenix is well positioned to continue delivering next-generation data labeling and geospatial solutions to meet the Intelligence Community’s evolving needs.”
The acquisition of Blackspoke marks the fifth acquisition by Crimson Phoenix since launching as a dedicated platform in 2023. Godspeed Capital and Crimson Phoenix were advised by Latham & Watkins LLP. Blackspoke was advised by Lincoln International and Blank Rome LLP.