## Former Cerebral CEO Launches AdvocateMH

David Mou, the former CEO of the troubled mental health startup **Cerebral**, is stepping back into the ring with his new project, **AdvocateMH**. This mental health company has garnered **seed funding from Morningside**, aiming to address the ongoing challenges in mental health care.

![Cerebral's Dr. David Mou](https://i.insider.com/67c718a069253ccddf983331?width=700)

AdvocateMH is focused on creating innovative solutions to improve mental health services. Mou's previous experience with Cerebral, despite its controversies, has equipped him with valuable insights into what needs to change in the mental health landscape.

With a growing demand for mental health resources, AdvocateMH seeks to leverage technology and personalized care strategies to better serve patients. This venture reflects Mou's commitment to making a positive impact in an industry that is increasingly recognized for its importance.

As mental health continues to be a pressing issue, startups like AdvocateMH are crucial in driving the necessary changes and improving accessibility to effective treatment options.

Former Cerebral CEO David Mou is launching a mental health startup called AdvocateMH with seed funding from Morningside.

David Mou's New Venture: AdvocateMH Aims to Transform Mental Health Care

**Introduction to Freedom Cities**  
In a bold move, the architects behind projects like **Próspera** are advocating for the creation of **Freedom Cities** in the U.S., which would operate free from federal regulations. As **Allen** notes, there is abundant capital and political will, but the significant barrier remains the stringent regulations that stifle innovation.  
  
**The Debate Around Freedom Cities**  
However, not everyone is on board. **Gil Duran**, a political consultant, raises concerns about the implications of such cities, questioning what it means to exist outside the law. He warns that these cities could lead to the **hollowing out** of other areas, creating a divide between those who benefit from deregulation and those who do not.  
  
**Tax Structure and Regulation**  
Unlike **Próspera**, which has a distinct tax structure from Honduras, Freedom Cities in the U.S. would likely follow similar tax obligations as other American cities, with the primary difference lying in their regulatory framework.  
  
**The Rise of Biotech and Longevity**  
One of the companies poised to thrive in this environment is **Minicircle**, a biotech firm focused on **gene therapies** aimed at extending human lifespans. Backed by prominent figures like **Thiel** and **Sam Altman**, Minicircle has its roots in both Texas and Próspera, with its innovative **clinical trials** being possible only in deregulated spaces. Co-founder **Mac Davis** envisions a future where a ‘**longevity city**’ could see widespread adoption of gene therapies.  
  
**American Dynamism and New Industries**  
The industries targeted for growth in Freedom Cities include **energy**, **nuclear**, **semiconductors**, and **defense technology**—sectors that venture capital is increasingly focusing on. Allen refers to this trend as **American Dynamism**, a concept highlighted in a manifesto by **Andreessen Horowitz**. The venture capital landscape has seen over **$100 billion** invested in defense tech startups since 2021.  
  
**Nuclear Power and AI Data Centers**  
In an effort to support energy needs for **AI data centers**, major tech companies are exploring **nuclear power**. Amazon, Google, and Meta are among those making significant strides in this area, recognizing the potential of nuclear energy to meet their growing demands.  
  
**Manufacturing and Housing Innovations**  
Deregulation could also facilitate the establishment of manufacturing hubs and shipbuilding ports, bypassing environmental review processes. Partners like the **American Enterprise Institute** are eager to leverage Freedom Cities to address housing shortages.  
  
**Concerns About Democracy and Workers' Rights**  
Despite the potential advantages, Duran cautions that the same deregulation could lead to **cities without democracy** and **workers' rights**, where corporate interests dominate. This raises critical questions about the implications of creating such sovereign entities at the expense of broader societal freedoms.

The architects of projects like Próspera are drafting legislation to create US cities that would be free from federal regulations.

Unlocking the Future: How 'Freedom Cities' Could Transform American Entrepreneurship

### Trish Costello: A Leader in Women-Focused Investments

Trish Costello, the **founder and C.E.O. of Portfolia**, is at the forefront of a movement aimed at improving women’s lives through innovative health care solutions. Her platform, **Portfolia**, stands out as a **women-focused investment platform** that seeks to address the unique challenges faced by women.

![Trish Costello](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/03/08/multimedia/08sp-women-trish-inyt-qfmz/08sp-women-trish-inyt-qfmz-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)
*Trish Costello at her office in California. “I have always been interested in money as fuel for innovation,” she said.*

### The Investment Landscape

In 2023, **$178 billion** was invested in U.S. companies, but **only 19%** of investment decisions were made by women, highlighting a significant gender disparity in venture capital. Alarmingly, just **2%** of that funding went to companies founded by women. This stark imbalance motivated Trish to establish Portfolia in **2014**, one of the first U.S. venture firms dedicated to women’s health.

### A Visionary Journey

Trish has a rich history in entrepreneurship and venture capital, having co-founded the **Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership** at the Kauffman Foundation in **1994**. Her experience revealed a troubling trend: male investors often overlooked companies addressing women’s health issues like infertility or menopause, areas she recognized as **untapped markets**. Between **2018 and 2023**, investment in women’s health ventures surged by **314%** in the U.S. and Europe, validating her foresight.

### Portfolia's Impact

Portfolia currently manages **14 funds** that target companies catering to a largely female demographic in sectors ranging from **active aging to femtech**. Impressively, **90%** of its investors are women, and the firm has made **185 investments** totaling over **$65 million** in **118 companies**, with nearly **70%** being women-led ventures.

### Trish's Entrepreneurial Spirit

At **68**, Trish reflects on her lifelong entrepreneurial spirit, instilled in her during her childhood in rural Kansas. She emphasizes the importance of seeing **opportunities** in challenges, a mindset that has driven her success in the investment landscape focused on women's health.

### A Call for Change

Trish Costello's journey is not only about financial growth but also about **empowering women** through investment. As she continues to champion women's health solutions, her work at Portfolia exemplifies the potential of **targeted venture capital** to drive innovation and improve lives.

Trish Costello is the founder and C.E.O. of Portfolia, a women-focused investment platform that is fueling health care innovations aimed at improving women’s lives.

Empowering Women: Trish Costello's Vision for Impactful Investments in Health Care

## Scale AI Under Investigation by the US Labor Department

The **U.S. Department of Labor** is currently investigating **Scale AI**, a **data labeling startup** that has garnered support from tech giants like **Nvidia**, **Amazon**, and **Meta**. This inquiry focuses on the company's **compliance** with the **Fair Labor Standards Act**, particularly regarding **fair pay practices** and **working conditions**. 

The investigation was initiated nearly a year ago during the administration of former President **Joe Biden**. In response, Scale AI has been collaborating with the department to clarify its **business model** and the dynamics of the **emerging artificial intelligence industry**. 

### About Scale AI
Founded in **2016**, Scale AI specializes in providing vast amounts of accurately labeled data, which is essential for training advanced AI systems like **OpenAI's ChatGPT**. Additionally, the company offers a platform for researchers to exchange AI-related information, boasting contributors from over **9,000 cities and towns**. 

![Department of Labor Headquarters](https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/GIk9mzaA1gn1W90H5OaqNg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MDtjZj13ZWJw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/reuters-finance.com/95ce2047a5ff0eb01cb5c785e54185b5)
*The Department of Labor headquarters in Washington, D.C.*

A spokesperson for Scale AI stated, "The feedback we get from contributors is overwhelmingly positive, and we have dedicated teams to ensure people are paid fairly and feel supported." The company claims that nearly all contributor payments are made on time, resolving **90% of payment-related inquiries** within three days. 

In a late-stage funding round last year, Scale AI was valued at **$14 billion**, attracting clients including AI firms like **OpenAI**, **Cohere**, and financial institutions such as **Microsoft** and **Morgan Stanley**.

The investigation is looking into Scale AI's compliance with fair pay practices and working conditions and was initiated nearly an year ago under the former President Joe Biden's administration, the company said.  The startup said over the last year it has worked with the department to explain its business model and the emerging artificial intelligence industry.

Is Scale AI in Hot Water? US Labor Department Probes Fair Pay Practices of Nvidia and Amazon-Backed Startup

### In Brief
**Google co-founder Larry Page** is reportedly launching a new venture named **Dynatomics**, aimed at revolutionizing product manufacturing with **AI technology**. This initiative is designed to create **highly optimized designs** for various objects, which will then be constructed in factories. 

![Larry Page](https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/GettyImages-495426754.jpg)
*Image Credits: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg / Getty Images*

### What We Know
According to **The Information**, Page is collaborating with a select group of engineers to push the boundaries of manufacturing through artificial intelligence. The operation is currently under wraps, led by **Chris Anderson**, who previously served as CTO for **Kittyhawk**, an electric airplane startup backed by Page. 

### The AI Manufacturing Landscape
Larry Page is not alone in exploring the intersection of **AI and manufacturing**. Other startups are also leveraging AI to enhance manufacturing processes:
- **Orbital Materials** is developing an AI platform for discovering innovative materials, from batteries to carbon capture technologies.
- **PhysicsX** offers simulation tools for engineers in fields such as automotive and aerospace.
- **Instrumental** utilizes AI to identify anomalies in factory operations, showcasing the growing trend of integrating AI in manufacturing.

As these advancements unfold, the potential for AI to reshape the manufacturing landscape is becoming increasingly evident.

Google co-founder Larry Page is said to be building a new company called Dynatomics that's focused on applying AI to product manufacturing.

Larry Page Launches Dynatomics: A Game-Changer in AI-Powered Manufacturing

### Anduril's Bold Recruitment Strategy

**Anduril Industries**, a defense technology startup founded by **Palmer Luckey**—the mastermind behind **Oculus VR**—is shaking up the recruitment landscape with its unconventional campaign. Recently, the company announced it would take over **Microsoft's $22 billion** contract to produce advanced goggles for the **U.S. Army** and has secured several **other defense contracts** in the **$200 million range**.

To fulfill its growing workforce needs, Anduril is targeting cities rich in young tech talent, such as **Boston**, **Atlanta**, and **Seattle**. The campaign features the provocative slogan **"Don't Work at Anduril"** prominently displayed in a graffiti-style font, enticing curiosity and engagement from potential candidates.

### Viral Appeal and Unique Advertising

The ads have been spotted in various public spaces, particularly in transportation hubs. In Boston, the campaign mimics graffiti on the subway system, catching the attention of commuters and tech enthusiasts alike. This bold marketing tactic has led some to initially believe that Anduril had been **hacked**, as noted by an Australian media outlet.

**Jeff Miller**, Anduril's Vice President of Marketing, stated, **"Anduril is not for everyone. That's the point."** This candid approach appears to resonate, as the campaign has gained significant traction on **LinkedIn**, sparking discussions about the company's open positions.

As of now, Anduril boasts **711 open roles** on its website, showcasing its ambition to expand its workforce amid increasing defense contracts. The campaign's viral nature highlights a new era in recruitment marketing where curiosity and boldness can attract the right talent.

### Related News

In a similar vein, **Elon Musk's xAI** is reportedly set to hire thousands of **AI tutors**, with competitive pay rates, further emphasizing the evolving job market in tech.

Defense technology company Anduril has been targeting cities with large populations of young tech talent, like Boston, Atlanta, and Seattle, for its unconventional recruitment campaign.

Why Anduril's 'Don't Work Here' Campaign is Turning Heads in Tech Recruitment

### Avalo's Innovative Approach to Agriculture

**Avalo**, a pioneering startup utilizing **interpretable artificial intelligence** to cultivate climate-resilient crops, has successfully raised **$11 million** in a Series A funding round. This funding will support a partnership with **Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP)** aimed at revolutionizing the sugarcane supply chain and reducing scope 3 emissions.

![Brendan Collins, cofounder, Avalo](https://agfundernews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Brendan-Collins-cofounder-Avalo-Image-credit-Avalo-1.jpg)

### Funding Details

The funding round was co-led by **Germin8 Ventures** and **Alexandria Venture Investments**, with contributions from **Coca-Cola**, **Trust Ventures**, **Trailhead Capital**, and angel investor **Will Canine**. Existing investors such as **AtOne Ventures**, **Better Ventures**, and **SOSV** also participated.

### Transforming Sugar Production

Avalo plans to deploy its **rapid evolution platform** to introduce low-input crops like cotton and sugarcane that require less nitrogen and water. **Nick Schwanz**, Avalo's CMO, highlighted the challenges faced by the sugar industry, especially in Australia, where nitrogen runoff threatens ecosystems and production stability. The partnership aims to tackle these challenges by developing sugarcane varieties that can thrive with reduced resources.

### Cutting-Edge Technology

Avalo's technology, known as **Gene Discovery by Informationless Perturbation (GDIP)**, leverages AI to swiftly identify genes linked to desirable traits in crops. This innovative approach is expected to shorten the time required to develop new sugarcane varieties from **12+ years to just 5-6 years**.

### Addressing Agricultural Challenges

The GDIP technology allows for a more efficient breeding process by identifying critical genetic information amidst biological noise. This method excels in predicting plant performance and enhances the breeding program's cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

### A Sustainable Business Model

Avalo's business strategy involves collaborating with farmers to cultivate sugarcane that meets CCEP's sustainability goals. They plan to provide farmers with seeds and agronomy support, sharing profits from the sugar produced.

### Future Prospects

Avalo is also exploring other crops, including **cotton, rubber, and broccoli**. They aim to produce low-nitrogen cotton varieties and fast-growing broccoli that can yield six harvests annually. This innovative approach not only addresses market needs but also promotes sustainability in agriculture.

### Fundraising in Agtech

Despite current skepticism in the agtech sector, Avalo's partnership with CCEP signals strong market interest, positioning them favorably for future growth and innovation in agriculture.

Avalo—a startup deploying interpretable artificial intelligence to develop climate resilient crops—has raised a $11 million Series A.

Avalo Secures $11M Funding and Collaborates with Coca-Cola to Revolutionize Sugar Production

## Skift Take
There’s been a fair amount of activity in the **corporate travel** and **expense management** world as companies look to capitalize on a largely untapped market.

American Express announced plans to acquire **Center**, a startup platform for expense management, founded in 2017 by CEO **Naveen Singh**. With a recent **$30 million** series C funding round in 2023, Center has raised a total of **$140 million** to date.

American Express primarily offers corporate management through issuing corporate cards, while its expense management services come from third-party platforms like **Concur** and **Emburse**. Center aims to provide businesses with **real-time visibility** into employee spending, automate accounting tasks, and streamline expense submission processes.

The integration of Center’s **talent and technology** is set to enhance American Express’ offerings. The company stated, “Center’s software, together with American Express’ corporate and small business cards, will aim to create a seamless expense management platform that delivers more value across the commercial card payments process.”

The acquisition is expected to close in the **second quarter of 2025**, pending customary closing conditions.

Center has been collaborating with Steve Singh’s corporate travel companies, including **Direct Travel**, **Troop**, and **Spotnana**, to enhance business travel experiences. In 2024, Singh and investors acquired Direct Travel as part of this initiative.

Recent trends show significant activity in the corporate travel and expense management sector, with **Amex GBT** planning to acquire **CWT** for **$570 million**, despite facing some challenges. **TravelPerk** has also raised **$200 million** this year, adding to its previous **$104 million**, and has acquired another startup to bolster its position as an all-in-one corporate travel and expense management platform. Competing startups like **Engine** and **Ramp** have also secured substantial funding recently.

American Express said Thursday that it plans to acquire Center, a startup platform for expense management, a bid to expand its offerings.

David Mou's New Venture: AdvocateMH Aims to Transform Mental Health Care

Summary:

Former Cerebral CEO Launches AdvocateMH

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Is Scale AI in Hot Water? US Labor Department Probes Fair Pay Practices of Nvidia and Amazon-Backed Startup

Larry Page Launches Dynatomics: A Game-Changer in AI-Powered Manufacturing

Why Anduril's 'Don't Work Here' Campaign is Turning Heads in Tech Recruitment

Avalo Secures $11M Funding and Collaborates with Coca-Cola to Revolutionize Sugar Production

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Unlocking the Future: How 'Freedom Cities' Could Transform American Entrepreneurship

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Is Scale AI in Hot Water? US Labor Department Probes Fair Pay Practices of Nvidia and Amazon-Backed Startup

Larry Page Launches Dynatomics: A Game-Changer in AI-Powered Manufacturing

Why Anduril's 'Don't Work Here' Campaign is Turning Heads in Tech Recruitment

Avalo Secures $11M Funding and Collaborates with Coca-Cola to Revolutionize Sugar Production

American Express Expands Reach by Acquiring Expense Management Startup Center