Meet the 2025 Mid-Atlantic finalists

Guatam is the Founder & CEO of Alpha Omega.

Alpha Omega was created to support the nation’s continued global leadership. From homeland security and foreign affairs to science and climate change, the company delivers mission-tailored solutions to address the Federal Government’s most pressing national security challenges. 

Olivia is the Founder & CEO of Amivero.

Amivero delivers innovative technology solutions to federal offices that support national security missions. Their skilled technical teams specialize in data transformation, fraud detection, and AI/ML automation, using a human-centered, data-driven approach to improve government efficiency.

Bill is the CEO & President of Amyx.

Amyx, Inc., a Tetra Tech Company, offers expertise in systems modernization, cybersecurity, operational technology, systems engineering, and eDiscovery. Amyx serves clients across the Defense Logistics Agency, Defense Health Agency, USTRANSCOM, DTRA, DISA, DHS, SEC, DOE, and more. The company is rooted in public service values and is dedicated to advancing warfighting capabilities, enhancing public service delivery, and securing critical infrastructure.

Jeff is the CEO & Co-Founder of AnswersNow.

AnswersNow uses a proprietary digital platform and a network of PhD- and Master’s-level therapists to deliver personalized Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy to children with autism. Unlike traditional models that rely on less experienced therapists in centralized locations, AnswersNow provides high-quality, virtual care that reduces wait times from over a year to just five days. 

Arlene is the President & COO of Arlo Solutions.

Arlo Solutions is a Washington, DC-based professional services small business offering cybersecurity, program management, and strategic communication solutions. The company delivers modern, cost-effective services to meet today’s mission-critical demands across federal agencies.

Lonye is the CEO of Arlo Solutions.

Arlo Solutions is a Washington, DC-based professional services small business offering cybersecurity, program management, and strategic communication solutions. The company delivers modern, cost-effective services to meet today’s mission-critical demands across federal agencies.

Kathy is the President & CEO of A-TEK.

A-TEK, Inc. provides digital services including cloud, cybersecurity, data intelligence, agile engineering, and scientific support to federal agencies. A-TEK focuses on IT modernization, zero trust cybersecurity, AI/ML, and bioscience, empoworing its people to drive innovation that advances mission-critical outcomes.

Kristen is the Founder & CEO of b.well Connected Health.

b.well is a digital health company addressing healthcare fragmentation through a platform that unifies data and creates personalized, patient-centric experiences. By integrating with existing systems and breaking down data silos, b.well improves interoperability, enhances ROI, and enables informed health decisions across the healthcare ecosystem. Its platform supports payers, providers, pharmacies, Big Tech, and life sciences organizations.

Dr. Nazari is the CEO of CaryHealth.

CaryHealth is reshaping digital health with an AI-powered platform designed to improve outcomes for pharmaceutical manufacturers, health plans, and health systems. Its suite of tools enhances the pharmacy experience and delivers real-time insights. CaryHealth’s focus on innovation, efficiency, and data-driven care is helping modernize how healthcare is delivered.

Shawn is the President & CEO of CATHEXIS.

CATHEXIS leverages innovative technologies and expert insights to help government clients achieve their goals with agility, precision, and impact.

Richie is the President & CEO of Celebree.

Celebree began in 1994 when founder Richard Huffman opened his first preschool in Maryland. The company has since grown into a leading early childhood education provider, now franchising schools across 17 states. 

Stefano is the Founder & CEO of Chaberton Energy.

Chaberton Energy is a leading developer of distributed solar energy projects, focusing on community, commercial, and industrial markets. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., Chaberton continues to scale through strategic market entry, in-house engineering, stakeholder engagement, and disciplined execution.

Kendall is the CEO of Dev Technology Group.

Dev Technology Group provides IT services to federal agencies including DHS, the Army, DARPA, and others. The company specializes in Agile development, DevSecOps, biometrics, cloud-native applications, and data management. 

Mark is the President & CTO of DSPolitical.

DSPolitical is the leading programmatic advertising firm for Democratic campaigns and progressive causes. By combining advanced voter file data with precise digital targeting across CTV, mobile, and display channels, DSPolitical helps campaigns win elections, shape public opinion, and drive legislative outcomes. 

Mitchell is the CEO of FedWriters.

FedWriters is a communications and content development company supporting federal agencies with technical writing, research, training materials, and multimedia content. With a 300+ person team, the company serves clients such as NOAA, DHS, and DoD. Known for its subject matter expertise and collaborative approach, FedWriters delivers clear, impactful content that supports mission success.

Kirsten is the CEO & Co-Founder of Jeenie.

Jeenie is a virtual interpreting platform that provides on-demand language assistance in 300+ languages via any device. Jeenie serves healthcare providers, nonprofits, universities, and individuals. Founded to eliminate language barriers—especially in healthcare—Jeenie promotes equity by connecting users with live interpreters instantly.

Jim is the President & CEO of Medcura.

Medcura developed a revolutionary biopolymer technology to control surgical bleeding safely within the body. Derived from crustacean shells, the product overcomes toxicity concerns to achieve FDA Breakthrough Device Designation in a $3B market. Medcura's innovation reduces costs by two-thirds compared to current standards, offering both clinical and economic advantages.

Gloria is the Founder & CEO of Omega World Travel.

Omega World Travel is one of America’s largest business travel management companies, serving corporations, government agencies, nonprofits, and academic institutions worldwide. With over 50 years of experience, Omega provides reliable, innovative travel solutions tailored to complex client needs.

Greg is the CEO of Patriot Group International.

Patriot Group International (PGI) delivers mission support services for clients in the intelligence, defense, and private sectors. Known for its global reach and expeditionary capabilities, PGI provides operational support in high-security environments with a focus on precision, reliability, and discretion.

Debbie is the President of Procare Ambulance of Maryland.

Procare is a leading emergency medical services (EMS) provider in the Baltimore-Washington area. As Maryland’s first and only private EMS provider approved for Mobile Integrated Healthcare, Procare delivers in-home care that reduces hospital readmissions and saves thousands of inpatient days.

Amir is the CEO of Qu.

Qu created the first unified commerce platform built for enterprise quick service and fast-casual restaurant chains. Its solution integrates ordering, operations, and guest engagement, empowering operators to boost margins and loyalty.

Shubhi is the Founder & CEO of Raft.

Raft is a high-growth defense tech company solving complex data and AI challenges for the Department of Defense and national security agencies. Its proprietary Data Platform and AI Mission System support decision-making across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. Raft specializes in autonomous data fusion, Agentic AI, and legacy system modernization.

Dr. Funk is the Founder & CEO of Rehab 2 Perform.

Rehab 2 Perform is transforming physical therapy through a dynamic, gym-based approach that integrates rehabilitation, performance training, and education. Serving active adults, athletes, and those focused on long-term wellness, R2P emphasizes movement, injury prevention, and health empowerment. Services include sports rehab, concussion care, and pregnancy/postpartum therapy. 

Mohammad is the Founder & CEO of RELI Group.

RELI Group Inc. is a consulting firm serving the health and national security sectors. With expertise in program integrity, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and health informatics, RELI supports public sector agencies with innovative, people-first solutions. The company focuses on long-term partnerships that improve outcomes and advance public missions. Guided by values of action, optimism, and accountability, RELI is committed to navigating transformative change alongside its clients.

Dan is the President & COO of Soapbox.

Soapbox creates personal care products that make a global impact by donating a bar of soap for every product sold. These donations, often paired with hygiene education, reach shelters, food pantries, and communities in need around the world. Soapbox offers award-winning, naturally derived hand, hair, and body care that is cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harsh chemicals. 

David is the CEO & Co-Founder of Soapbox.

Soapbox creates personal care products that make a global impact by donating a bar of soap for every product sold. These donations, often paired with hygiene education, reach shelters, food pantries, and communities in need around the world. Soapbox offers award-winning, naturally derived hand, hair, and body care that is cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harsh chemicals. 

Rob is the Founder & CEO of SteerBridge.

SteerBridge is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business delivering data-driven digital transformation solutions to the federal government. SteerBridge specializes in IT modernization, AI solutions, and software development and is known for its mission-first mindset, innovative execution, and commitment to veteran employment.

Glenn is the Founder & President of Summit Human Capital.

Summit Human Capital provides IT staffing solutions tailored to industries ranging from healthcare and logistics to government and legal services. Summit focuses on connecting career passion with client mission through project-based, contract-to-hire, and direct hire engagements. Driven by the belief that human capital is central to organizational success, the firm prioritizes innovation and execution in every engagement.

Matt is the President & CEO of Symplicity.

Symplicity empowers higher education institutions with an AI-driven platform that enhances student engagement and boosts employability. By supporting career services, streamlining operations, and promoting skills-based hiring, Symplicity helps universities bridge the gap between education and workforce readiness. 

Helen is the CEO of The Midtown Group.

The Midtown Group is a certified women-owned staffing firm providing end-to-end talent solutions to both public and private sector clients. Known for its “Red Carpet Service,” Midtown delivers customized staffing with unmatched speed and expertise, especially in urgent or mission-critical scenarios. Midtown is guided by the belief that everyone should love what they do—and that clients should love the results delivered.

Craig is the CEO of Unanet.

Unanet is a leading provider of project-based ERP and CRM software designed for government contractors, architecture, engineering, construction, and professional services firms. Serving over 4,000 organizations, Unanet transforms data into insights, improves decision-making, and accelerates growth—all while ensuring compliance. 

Eric is the Executive Chairman & CEO of US News & World Report.

U.S. News & World Report is a digital media company that provides trusted rankings, journalism, and advice across topics such as education, health, money, travel, and real estate. Reaching over 35 million monthly users, its signature “Best” series helps consumers make informed decisions during life’s most important moments. 

John is the CEO & Co-Founder of Virtru.

Virtru provides data-centric security solutions that give users control over their information, even after it leaves their systems. Built on the open TDF standard, Virtru’s technology applies encryption, access controls, and granular policies to individual data objects. Integrating seamlessly with widely used email platforms, Virtru helps organizations maintain compliance without disrupting workflows.

Ahmad is the CEO of Winners Alliance.

Winners Alliance represents and commercializes the group name, image, and likeness rights of professional athletes worldwide. As the exclusive commercial affiliate of associations across tennis, cricket, basketball, and college sports, the organization creates group licensing, sponsorship, content, and investment opportunities. Winners Alliance empowers athletes by offering infrastructure, strategic guidance, and marketing support—unlocking value through innovative, athlete-first business models.

Mark is the CEO of Xcelerate Solutions.

Xcelerate Solutions is a national security company delivering mission-critical services to federal agencies. The company specializes in cybersecurity, enterprise vetting, infrastructure protection, and digital transformation. Xcelerate combines regulatory expertise with advanced technology to safeguard data and defend against evolving cyber threats, contributing to a more secure future for the nation.

Felix is the CEO & Co-Founder of Zoobean.

Zoobean created an SaaS platform that motivates reading through gamified tracking and competitions and enables real-time progress tracking and literacy engagement, helping institutions build lifelong reading habits in their communities.