In a significant leadership change, Angelina “Angy” Smith has taken over as CEO of Rad Power Bikes, marking her as the company's fourth chief executive in just three years. This transition occurs amid the company's ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, revealing challenges within the e-bike sector.
Meanwhile, the Seattle biotech firm Rhizome Research has launched from stealth mode, focusing on innovative technology aimed at developing small-molecule drug candidates, backed by a six-figure personal investment from a former Amazon AI engineer.
In other news, local venture capitalists have expressed mixed views on the state of AI startups, indicating some signs of excess but maintaining optimism regarding the technology's potential to generate real value. Additionally, SmarTek21 has initiated legal action against TGP GP Management, accusing the New York-based firm of inadequacies in due diligence related to a $5.2 million acquisition.
As 2026 approaches, excitement builds around upcoming lunar missions, with NASA planning to send four astronauts around the moon, while Blue Origin prepares to deploy a lander to the lunar surface.