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FourthWave Selects 14 Women Startup Founders for 2026 Accelerator Cohort

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FourthWave, a leading non-profit accelerator for women-led tech businesses, today announced the selection of 14 U.S. women founders for its 2026 accelerator program. The 16-week program provides founders with one-on-one mentorship, leadership development, and fundraising preparation. Now in its eighth year, FourthWave has mentored 90 female founders, with alumni companies going on to raise more than $180 million in venture funding. The alumni have also won notable awards including Nala Membrane’s being selected as a top 17 semi- finalist in Water Desalinization for the 2026 Global X Prize Awards to be announced later this year and ExpertIEP winner of the National Black Ambition Award.

Program alumni include 90 founders from high potential tech companies, who have collectively raised over $180 million in venture funding

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Aug. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — FourthWave, a leading non-profit accelerator for women-led tech businesses, today announced the selection of 14 U.S. women founders for its 2026 accelerator program. The 16-week program provides founders with one-on-one mentorship, leadership development, and fundraising preparation. The 2026 FourthWave Cohort will be formally introduced during the 2026 FourthWave Accelerator Launch Dinner on August 6, 2026.

“In the age of AI, we can’t afford to build this ecosystem without women’s experience and perspective shaping it equally.” Cheryl Beninga, FourthWave Co-Founder

Now in its eighth year, FourthWave has mentored 90 female founders, with alumni companies going on to raise more than $180 million in venture funding. The alumni have also won notable awards including Nala Membrane’s being selected as a top 17 semi- finalist in Water Desalinization for the 2026 Global X Prize Awards to be announced later this year and ExpertIEP winner of the National Black Ambition Award.

“Typically, women receive only about a quarter of the funding they ask for, compared to roughly half for male-led companies. We envision a world where women founders raise the same amount as men. In the age of AI, we can’t afford to build this ecosystem without women’s experience and perspective shaping it equally,” said Cheryl Beninga, Co-Founder of FourthWave.

2026 Fourthwave Accelerator Cohort Raises the Bar

The 2026 cohort consists of women founders from across the United States and represents a diverse range of industries including health and life sciences, AI and enterprise tools, sustainability and agriculture technology, and new consumer solutions.

The leaders and startups selected for FourthWave’s 2026 accelerator program are:

Julie Case of Cadents, a company that has developed an AI-native Lifecycle Risk Intelligence platform for IT infrastructure. Based in Los Altos, California.Yijie Li of FlashCut, a startup that has developed an AI video editing assistant for professional video editors. Based in Sunnyvale, California.Rachel Burton of Inoculai, a company building a biocatalyst platform to convert challenging waste streams into energy and biobased chemicals. Based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.Karin Eisinger of SyzOnc, a company developing next generation treatments for solid tumor patients. Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Emma Skoog of Krokos Bio, a company building a biomanufacturing platform for high-value botanical ingredients using a novel approach to plant cell culture. Based in Davis, California.Tracy Jackson of My HR Confidant, a workplace communication, reporting, and case management platform designed to help organizations identify, address, and resolve workplace concerns. Based in Sacramento, California.Amy Brown of Rollgevity, a wellness technology company building an intelligent automated recovery platform focused on myofascial health, lymphatic function, circulation, mobility, recovery, and healthy aging. Based in Sacramento, CaliforniaSusan Siravo of Siravo Media, a communication technology and advisory firm that bridges the gap between executive expertise and public authority. Based in Sacramento, California.Maryam Tebyani and Breanna Baltaxe-Admony of Stork Labs Medical, a company that makes emergency childbirth safer through the use of its operative vaginal delivery OVD device. Based in Santa Cruz and Sacramento, CaliforniaChristelle Mombo-Zigah and Isi Idemudia of StyleMyCrown, a company that provides an AI-powered virtual hair try-on platform that serves Black-owned/minority-owned hair salons and their clients. Based in San Jose, California.Anupriya Ramraj and Avanti Ramraj of Vaultzy, a company building an AI agent that helps users manage documents, deadlines, benefits, and major life decisions. Based in San Francisco, California.

FourthWave Alumni Awards

On August 6th, FourthWave will present its inaugural Alumni Awards during its FourthWave Accelerator Launch Dinner. Together, these awards celebrate the belief that entrepreneurial success is measured not only by business achievement, but also by the positive impact founders have on others and the stronger, more inclusive innovation ecosystem they help create.

The Rising Tide Award 2026 recipient is Janine Yancey, Founder and CEO of Emtrain. Yancey has made an extraordinary impact by mentoring others, building community, and creating opportunities that lift the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem. A member of FourthWave’s inaugural 2017 cohort, Janine has generously mentored women entrepreneurs while building a category-leading company dedicated to creating healthier, more inclusive workplace cultures.The 2026 Catalyst Award recipient is Diana Gamzina, Founder and CEO of Elve Speed. A member of FourthWave’s 2023 cohort, Gamzina is advancing next-generation space communications through pioneering power amplifier technology and exemplifies the bold innovation the Catalyst Award celebrates.The 2026 Phoenix Award recipient is Carolyn Peer, Founder and CEO of Humaxa. A member of FourthWave’s 2020 cohort, Peer has demonstrated remarkable resilience and leadership while building an AI company serving the automotive industry, embodying the perseverance and renewal at the heart of the Phoenix Award.

To learn more about FourthWave and future accelerator opportunities, visit www.fourthwave.io.

About FourthWave

FourthWave is a non-profit accelerator for women-led technology businesses founded in 2017, led by Nancy Perlman and Cheryl Beninga. Headquartered in Sacramento – the fifth best city in the U.S. for women entrepreneurs according to SmartAsset. FourthWave formed a strategic partnership with the Carlsen Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Sacramento State in 2020. The FourthWave accelerator program provides founders with mentorship, leadership development and preparation for funding.

Media Contact

Nancy L Perlman, FourthWave, 1 310-429-3654, nancy@fourthwave.io, fourthwave.io

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SOURCE FourthWave

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Elbit Systems Announces the Results of its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders Held on August 5, 2026

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HAIFA, Israel, Aug. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT) (TASE: ESLT) (“Elbit Systems” or the “Company”) announced today that at its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on August 5, 2026 at the Company’s offices in Haifa, the proposed resolutions described in the Proxy Statement to the Shareholders dated July 1, 2026 (the “Proxy Statement”) and detailed hereunder, were approved by the required majority: 

to elect to the Board the following seven members who are not “External Directors” as defined in the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999, to serve until the close of the next Annual General Meeting of Shareholders: Mr. David Federmann, Mr. Ehud (Udi) Adam, Mr. Jacob Bar-Nathan Abudi, Mrs. Rina Baum, Mr. Michael Federmann, Mrs. Tzipi Livni and Mr. Dov Ninveh;to re-elect Mr. Noaz Bar Nir to an additional three-year term as an External Director;to approve the extension of the indemnification letters of Mr. Michael Federmann and Mr. David Federmann, for an additional three years commencing on December 1, 2026;to approve the extension of the exemption letters of Mr. Michael Federmann and Mr. David Federmann, for an additional three years commencing on April 7, 2027; andto re-appoint Kost, Forer, Gabbay & Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, as the Company’s independent auditor for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2026, and until the close of the next Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

About Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems is a leading global defense technology company, delivering advanced solutions for a secure and safer world. Elbit Systems develops, manufactures, integrates and sustains a range of next-generation solutions across multiple domains.

Driven by its agile, collaborative culture, and leveraging Israel’s technology ecosystem, Elbit Systems enables customers to address rapidly evolving battlefield challenges and overcome threats.

Elbit Systems employs over 20,000 people in dozens of countries across five continents. The Company reported $2,188.8 million in revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and an order backlog of $30.2 billion as of such date.

For additional information, visit: https://elbitsystems.com, follow us on X or visit our official Facebook, Youtube and LinkedIn Channels.

Company Contact:  

Dr. Yaacov (Kobi) Kagan, Executive VP – CFO
Tel: +972-77-2946663
kobi.kagan@elbitsystems.com

Daniella Finn, VP, Investor Relations
Tel: +972-77-2948984
daniella.finn@elbitsystems.com

Dalia Bodinger, VP, Communications & Brand
Tel: +972-77-2947602
dalia.bodinger@elbitsystems.com

This press release may contain forward–looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Israeli Securities Law, 1968) regarding Elbit Systems Ltd. and/or its subsidiaries (collectively the Company), to the extent such statements do not relate to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions about future events. Forward–looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company, which are difficult to predict, including projections of the Company’s future financial results, its anticipated growth strategies and anticipated trends in its business. Therefore, actual future results, performance and trends may differ materially from these forward–looking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation: scope and length of customer contracts; governmental regulations and approvals; changes in governmental budgeting priorities; general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates or sells, including Israel and the United States, among others, including the duration and scope of the war in Israel, and the potential impact on our operations; changes in global health and macro-economic conditions; differences in anticipated and actual program performance, including the ability to perform under long-term fixed-price contracts; changes in the competitive environment; and the outcome of legal and/or regulatory proceedings. The factors listed above are not all-inclusive, and further information is contained in Elbit Systems Ltd.’s latest annual report on Form 20-F, which is on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward–looking statements speak only as of the date of this release. Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance or achievements. Moreover, neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements.

Elbit Systems Ltd., its logo, brand, product, service and process names appearing in this release are the trademarks or service marks of Elbit Systems Ltd. or its affiliated companies. All other brand, product, service and process names appearing are the trademarks of their respective holders. Reference to or use of a product, service or process other than those of Elbit Systems Ltd. does not imply recommendation, approval, affiliation or sponsorship of that product, service or process by Elbit Systems Ltd. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as conferring by implication, estoppel or otherwise any license or right under any patent, copyright, trademark or other intellectual property right of Elbit Systems Ltd. or any third party, except as expressly granted herein.

 

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SOURCE Elbit Systems Ltd.

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Hexaware Joins the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA)

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MUMBAI, India, Aug. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hexaware Technologies (NSE: HEXT), a global provider of IT solutions and services, today announced it has become a member of the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA), an ecosystem of leading software development companies and security services partners that integrate with Microsoft Security to help organizations stay ahead of evolving threats.

Hexaware’s end-to-end security solution for Microsoft Azure & Microsoft 365, listed on the Microsoft Marketplace, helps clients accelerate their Zero Trust journeys with unified Extended Detection and Response (XDR), Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), identity, and other cloud security capabilities. Built on Microsoft Security technology and powered by Hexaware’s Tensai® Security Ops frameworks, it delivers comprehensive security assessment, attack validation, and compliance-focused security analysis while leveraging industry best practices and frameworks. Hexaware’s solution was also validated by Microsoft experts, an important step in the MISA membership process.

Girish Ravindran, Executive Vice President – Digital IT Ops, Hexaware said, “Our inclusion in MISA reflects the cybersecurity capabilities we have built with Microsoft to help enterprises strengthen their security posture. This recognition highlights our continued focus on delivering security services that help customers address evolving cyber risks with greater confidence.”

“The Microsoft Intelligent Security Association has grown into a vibrant ecosystem comprising the most reliable and trusted security vendors across the globe,” said Maria Thomson, Director, Microsoft Intelligent Security Association. “Our members, like Hexaware, share Microsoft’s commitment to collaboration within the cybersecurity community to improve our customers’ ability to predict, detect, and respond to security threats faster.”

Established in 2018, MISA brings together Microsoft and trusted security partners to strengthen cyber resilience through partner innovation and Microsoft’s AI-powered security platform. Learn more at Microsoft Intelligent Security Association.

About Hexaware

Hexaware is a global technology and business process services company. Every day, Hexawarians wake up with a singular purpose: to create smiles through great people and technology. With offices across the world, we empower enterprises worldwide to realize digital transformation at scale and speed by partnering with them to build, transform, run, and optimize their technology and business processes. Learn more at hexaware.com.

Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

 

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Narwal Launches New Freo 20, Bringing Flagship Real-Time Self-Cleaning Mopping to More Homes with a Distinctive Woven-Textured Finish

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The Freo 20 Combines FlowWash Mopping System and Industry-First Dock Design with a Limited-Time Launch Price of $899.99, Marking the Strategic Adjustment of Its Classic Freo Series

NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Narwal, a global leader in smart home cleaning, today announced the launch of Narwal Freo 20, the first Freo Series model equipped with Narwal’s FlowWash Mopping System. Marking a strategic evolution of the Freo lineup, Freo 20 brings Narwal’s flagship-level mopping innovation to a broader consumer audience. Combining advanced cleaning performance with AI-powered obstacle avoidance and the market’s only woven-texture base station design, Freo 20 continues the Freo series’ commitment to delivering intelligent cleaning solutions for diverse household needs while expanding access to Narwal’s latest innovations.

Freo 20: At a Glance

Flagship-Grade Real-Time Self-Cleaning: Premium FlowWash Mopping System continuously washes the flattened roller mop mid-cycle, instantly extracting dirt to prevent cross-contamination and eliminate water marks.Advanced Onboard AI and Camera System: Dual RGB cameras and AI processing help identify 300+ household objects and navigate efficiently.Smart Whole-Home Coverage: Supported by flagship-level 31,000 Pa suction power, the DualFlow Tangle-Free System and EdgeReach Technology target homes with long hair and pets to deliver a deep clean in hard-to-reach areasWoven-Texture Dock Design: A fabric-inspired design blends naturally into modern homes.

“The new gold standard in home robotics is a clean that happens entirely in the background,” said Junbin Zhang, CEO of Narwal. “The Narwal Freo 20 marks an important step in the evolution of our Freo series, introducing our advanced self-cleaning technology and new refined aesthetic to a broader range of consumers. We’re proving that forward-thinking innovation is no longer exclusive to flagship models, but a new standard for everyday homes.”

Flagship-Grade FlowWash Mopping System

As Narwal’s foundational robot vacuum lineup, the Freo series has been built around addressing diverse household cleaning needs across different price points through advanced technologies and tailored cleaning experiences. The Freo 20 brings Narwal’s flagship FlowWash Mopping System into this classic lineup for the first time, while making it significantly more affordable to all consumers.

When the robot’s cameras detect areas that need mopping, the flattened roller mop, or track mop, automatically engages with 12 N of downward pressure, rotating against the direction of movement to maximize scrubbing power and effectively remove stubborn stains and dirt. During cleaning, 140°F fresh water is sprayed on the mop through 16 nozzles for thorough cleaning, while a built-in scraper and high-pressure air pump instantly extract residual dirt into a separate tank. This real-time self-cleaning system can significantly keep the mop hygienic throughout each task, rather than spreading dirt as most traditional spinning mops do. Compared with standard roller mops, its flattened design provides more even pressure across a contact area seven times larger[1], while reducing hair tangles and minimizing maintenance.

The production of this advanced mop demands ensuring the stable coordination of the two internal axes that work together to keep the flattened roller mop consistently tensioned and rotating smoothly. Narwal’s research team successfully overcame these challenges, bringing the technology to the Freo 20 and making it more accessible compared with the brand’s flagship models.

Intelligent Technology for Whole-Home Cleaning

Powered by the NarMind™ Pro Autonomous System, the Freo 20 identifies and maneuvers around over 300 household objects. The TwinAI Dodge™ technology delivers 99%[2] obstacle-avoidance accuracy for a completely uninterrupted clean. Beyond basic navigation, the system introduces intuitive, family-first features. Pet Care Mode dynamically adjusts cleaning around pet zones and offers interactive video monitoring, while Baby Care Mode recognizes cribs and toys to trigger quiet, low-noise cleaning that protects your child’s rest.

Combined with the intelligent navigation, Freo 20 delivers comprehensive whole-home cleaning with flagship-level 31,000 Pa suction power, an SGS-certified DualFlow Tangle-Free System to prevent hair tangles, and EdgeReach Technology to clean hard-to-reach corners and edges.

Effortless Experience and Refined Design

Designed to naturally integrate into modern interiors, the Freo 20 reimagines the All-in-One Multifunctional Dock to capture the essence of modern aesthetics. Showcasing an upscale woven design, this new fabric-inspired exterior seamlessly blends with fabric furniture and wood textures while softening sharp stone elements to deliver an elegant look that matches its flagship performance.

Beyond its premium design, the dock minimizes manual maintenance with a thorough four-stage cleaning process that culminates in a high-temperature wash up to 212°F to hygienically clean the entire internal pathway. It then uses 140°F hot-air drying to quickly remove moisture and prevent damp odors. The quieter auto-emptying system combined with a 2.4 L bag enables up to 120 days of completely hands-off, maintenance-free operation.

The Future of the Freo Series

Building on a legacy of highly effective smart home cleaning, the Freo series is experiencing a strategic evolution. While previously dedicated to providing diverse combinations of cleaning solutions and price points, the lineup will focus on delivering more accessible choices with the same premium and high-quality standards, leading with the Freo 20.

Pricing and Availability

The Narwal Freo 20 will be officially available in the U.S. on August 20, 2026, on the official website and at Amazon.

MSRP: $1099.99Launch Price: $899.99 (Limited-time offer. Available from August 20 to September 3).

About Narwal

Narwal is dedicated to developing innovative products that transform daily life. Our range of solutions addresses common challenges, with a focus on understanding and meeting user needs through extensive R&D. This commitment has yielded industry firsts such as the Auto-washing mop, AI-powered DirtSense™, and the DualFlow Tangle-Free System. We obsess over every detail to ensure our products are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, aiming to blend design and performance for a better daily life. As a top-five global vacuum brand, Narwal serves over 5 million users across 30 countries, including North America, South Korea, Germany, and Australia. Our innovations have been honored with awards such as the CES Innovation Awards, the Edison Gold Award, and Time Magazine’s Best Inventions.

Note

[1] The “seven times larger” claim refers to the floor contact area covered by the robot within the same period of time, compared with the standard roller mop used in the test. The actual laboratory test result is 6.67 times larger. Data is based on testing conducted in the Narwal laboratory under specific test conditions. Actual performance may vary depending on real-world environments.

[2] The “99% recognition accuracy” refers to the average object recognition accuracy evaluated across a test set of common household objects, including pets, pet waste, trash bags, cables, furniture, slippers, clothing items, tissues, and bathroom objects. Data is based on testing conducted in the Narwal laboratory under specific test conditions. Actual performance may vary depending on real-world environments.

Contact: 

Dede Liu
xichen.liu@narwal.com 
+86-18719115391

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SOURCE Narwal

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