Daily Deal Activity 05/16/13

Digital Media/Commerce

ecommerce, social media/apps

Luvocracy, a recently launched, Pinterest-like social marketplace where people can buy products recommended by friends and other tastemakers, has raised $11 million in funding from Kleiner Perkins, Google Ventures, CrunchFund, RPM Ventures, XG Ventures, and individual investors. Luvocracy’s social marketplace enables people to buy products recommended by those they trust. At a macro level, the startup is bringing the power of recommendations, which have driven purchase decisions for centuries, into the world of online shopping.

ecommerce, social media/apps

The Daily Grommet, which operates an online marketplace and video review website for consumer products, raised an undisclosed amount of additional funding from Japan-based eCommerce company Rakuten (JASDAQ:4755). Prior to Rakuten investments, the company had raised approximately $6 million in funding since its launch in 2008.

mobile content/apps, mobile marketing

StepLeader, a provider of mobile app development and advertising sales for local media and college sports, has raised $4.4 million in funding led by River Cities Capital Funds, with participation from Bull City Venture Partners. Proceeds from the financing will be used to increase the engineering, advertising sales, and business development teams.

social media/apps

85 Broads, which operates an online community offering networking events for female executives and entrepreneurs, is being acquired by Bank of America’s former head of wealth management, Sallie Krawcheck. Terms were not disclosed.

Digital Advertising

digital agency

U.K.-based Branded3 Search, an integrated digital agency that combines Web design and development with SEO specialists, was acquired for $16.4 million by St Ives (LSE:SIV), in a deal that values the company at 2.5x revenue and 6.1x EBITDA based on LTM financials as of January 31, 2013. Terms also include a $21.9 million earn out based on incremental financial performance through January 31, 2017.

Marketing Technology

analytics/reporting

U.K.-based ElisaDBI, a provider of enterprise marketing technology and Web data analytics solutions, was acquired by France-based Havas (ENXTPA:HAV), for an undisclosed amount. The announcement comes a month after Havas acquired SCB Partners, the marketing trends and insights business. ElisaDBI was launched in Barcelona and Madrid before opening offices in London, and has 27 members of staff.

bi tools

EdgeSpring, an enterprise business intelligence and analytics startup, is emerging from stealth and announcing $11 million in Series A funding from Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Lightspeed Ventures. The EdgeSpring platform accelerates the building of analytics applications that parse business intelligence data such as sales, financials, and more.

mrm/workflow management, cloud computing

FileBound, a provider of cloud-based workflow automation and document management software solutions, has been acquired by Upland Software (fka PowerSteering Software), a portfolio company of Silverback Enterprise Group. FileBound provides an integrated workflow and document management system that can be deployed as a cloud-based service or implemented locally. At the heart of the FileBound solution are process automation tools that are simple to manage, allowing non-technical users to control rules, decisions, and work assignments. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

sfa/lead management

StreamOnce, a provider of social business integration that enables sales teams to converse and communicate with email users all in one place, was acquired for $6.34 million by Jive Software (NasdaqGS:JIVE), which offers a social business software platform for businesses, government agencies, and other enterprises. StreamOnce transforms how teams collaborate by connecting current business systems into their social enterprise system.

Agency

digital agency

Gist, which operates as a user experience design firm helping clients create and improve product interfaces, was acquired by TrueFit, a firm that helps entrepreneurial startups and enterprises bring new technology product ideas to market. Gist takes a comprehensive approach to user experience design for integrated software/hardware products, Web apps, and mobile apps. Terms were not disclosed.

public relations

China-based communications and event management company People Marketing, is being acquired by U.K.-based CMS Sport & Entertainment, the sports and entertainment division of Chime Communications (LSE:CHW). The company, which employs 25 people, specializes in communications consultancy, concept development, event and activation management, and public relations. Terms were not disclosed.

Traditional Media

broadcast television

Titan Broadcast Management has sold its KUBE Baytown and KTNC Concord television broadcasting stations to another television broadcasting service provider, NRJ TV, for a total of $32.5 million. The purchase price is comprised of $19 million for the acquisition of KUBE Baytown and $13.5 million for KTNC Concord.

place-based media

Preferred Voice (OTCPK:PRFV) was acquired in a reverse merger transaction, by Aly Energy Services. Terms were not disclosed. Preferred Voice provides digital signage solutions that utilize in-store touch screens and customizable interactive content design to engage customers while they are shopping in a mobile phone retail store. Preferred Voice issued its 68 million shares to Aly Energy’s stockholders, representing approximately 92 percent of the outstanding common stock.

Technology

financial

Payment technology startup Marqeta, which offers an online-to-offline commerce and payments platform, raised $14 million in Series B funding from Greylock IL (an affiliate of Greylock Partners), Granite Ventures, Commerce Ventures, and other undisclosed angel and strategic investors. Using Marqeta’s +M Platform, retailers have offered and managed gift cards, loyalty rewards, charitable giving, and other promotions and discounts, without adding excessive hardware at the point of sale.

financial

BitPay, a startup with ambitions to become the PayPal for bitcoin, has raised another $2 million from Founders Fund and Heisenberg Capital. This follows the company’s first financing round in which BitPay raised $0.5 million in January. BitPay’s payment solutions specialize in the peer-to-peer virtual currency Bitcoin, which provides for instantaneous transactions from anywhere in the world.

financial

Vend, which provides Web-based point-of-sale software for retailers to process sales, track inventory, and manage customers, raised $6.57 million in a second equity round of funding from new investors Milford Active Growth Fund, Milford Asset Management, and Point Nine Capital.

Software

erp

France-based BonitaSoft, a maker of business process management software, has raised $13 million in Series C funding to help companies manage smaller jobs. The open-source software developer sells its product to mid-sized companies that need software to manage internal processes such as invoice processing and bringing in new employees. French National Fund for Digital Society, a government-sponsored initiative to invest in France-based global businesses, led the round, with participation from existing investors Auriga Partners, Serena Capital, and Ventech. The company has now raised $28 million.

financial

Apptio, a company focused on helping chief information officers get a deep understanding of their technology investments, raised $45 million in Series E funding led by Janus Capital, Hillman, and a third unnamed party. Existing investors Andreessen Horowitz, Greylock Partners, Madrona Venture Group, and Shasta Ventures also participated, as did a few accounts managed by investment firm T. Rowe Price. Cisco Systems is also an investor. The round brings Apptio ‘s total capital raised to $136 million. Its last reported implied valuation was approximately $600 million.

security

SyncDog, a mobile security company offering a number of risk management solutions to enterprises, has been acquired by IntegriCell, which provides advisory and technology integration services for risk management of mobile technologies for organizations. Terms were not disclosed.

Communications

enterprise mobility

AirWatch, a developer of enterprise software for managing mobile devices, has added $25 million to its recent $200 million Series A funding with an additional investment from Accel Partners. This Series A is the first outside money raised by AirWatch, and values the company at just over $1 billion.

messaging & mediation

LittleInc (dba MessageMe), a provider of multimedia messaging application for mobile devices, has raised $10 million in funding, according to a regulatory filing. It previously was seeded by Greylock Partners, True Ventures, SV Angel, Resolut.vc, First Round Capital, and Andreessen Horowitz.

networking equipment

Acacia Communications, a provider of intelligent subsystems for ultra high speed fiber optic transmission for local, metro, long-haul, and ultra-long haul applications, has raised $20 million in funding led by Summit Partners, with participation from existing investors Commonwealth Capital Ventures, Egan-Managed Capital, and Matrix Partners.

Information & Business Services

bpo

Vince and Associates Clinical Research, a provider of clinical trial recruitment solutions, was acquired by Canada-based Altasciences Group, a clinical contract research organization, from Gryphon Partners. No financial terms were disclosed. Altasciences shareholders include BMO Capital Partners and Kilmer Capital Partners.

financial information

Tactex F1 Private Equity Fund has sponsored a management buyout of Tick Data, a provider of historical intraday time series data for the equities, options, and futures markets, from Penson Worldwide. No financial terms were disclosed.

market research

Cogent Research, a market research and strategic consulting firm that specializes in the wealth management industry, has been acquired by Market Strategies, which also operates as a market research and consulting firm offering brand, communications, customer experience, product development, market segmentation, and user experience research. Cogent Research’s services include custom research services, loyalty driver analysis and customer retention models, product road maps, and leakage modeling and asset gathering strategies. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Daily Deal Activity 05/15/13

Digital Media/Commerce

ecommerce, flash sales

Spain-based Privalia Venta Directa, which operates an online private sales site, has raised €25 million ($32.3 million) in funding from Sofina (Belgium), with participation from return backers Highland Capital Partners, General Atlantic, Insight Venture Partners, La Caixa Capital Risc, Index Ventures, and Nauta Capital. The company previously raised $251 million.

niche content

Skift, a travel industry-focused content site, has raised $1.1 million in new seed funding led by Lerer Ventures, with participation from various funds and angel investors. Skift media platform offers news, insight, data, tools, and services to the travel industry and community of business travelers.

Digital Advertising

online lead generation

Malaysia-based digital media companies Catcha Media Group (KLSE:CATCHA) and Says.com have announced a $20 million merger deal that will seem them combine to become one of the largest Internet advertising groups in the country. Catcha Media, which specializes in online advertising, digital content, and eCommerce solutions, will merge Says.com with its digital advertising and publishing business.

Marketing Technology

Bi tools

Business intelligence tools provider RJMetrics, which helps eCommerce companies analyze operations data and make smarter decisions as a result, raised $6.5 million in funding led by Trinity Ventures. The company’s solutions apply traditional BI software that better focuses on lucrative online transactions businesses. If an online retailer wants to analyze how colors of different types of hats are selling against each other, for example, a non-technical sales analyst at the company could go into RJMetrics and create a visual explaining what’s happening. The company previously raised over $1 million from SoftTech VC, Lerer Ventures, SV Angel, Zelkova Ventures, and angel investors.

mobile technology

Tech Hollywood Studios (dba Tech Hollywood), the developer of IWantIt commerce, which enables mobile users to shop TV and other video content from their devices in real time, is being acquired by mobile media and app company Bitzio (OTCPK:BTZO). The company’s technology platform turns certain products within the static content of television or any video into content that can be monetized and add significant newfound revenue through the consumer’s ability to purchase those products through the platform in real-time or after the show as concluded. As part of the transaction, Bitzio is also acquiring Looking Hollywood, a fashion and beauty TV show and media asset with IWantIt integration.

search & discovery

Berlin-based VERSUS IO, which has developed a natural language-styled comparison engine, raised $2.8 million in Series A funding led by Earlybird Venture Capital, with participation from McClure’s 500 Startups. This brings the startup’s total funding to $3.8 million, having already received seed backing from Hightech-Gruenderfonds and JMES Investments, followed by 500 Startups putting in $0.1 million last December.

social technology

Marketing software company HipLogiq, has raised a total of $5 million in Series A funding, with a majority of the capital coming from Hadron Global Partners, a division of Carriage House Partners and RLB Holdings. HipLogiq began in October 2012 as Social Compass, an enterprise product for social media marketing. Another product, SocialCentiv, launched in March 2013, works similarly for small to medium businesses, but as a Web-based, do-it-yourself product.

Technology

cloud computing

FuGen Solutions, a provider of hosted PaaS-based identity federation solutions, was acquired for $7.5 million by India-based 8KMiles Software Services (BSE:512161), a cloud computing and big data technology company. Through the acquisition of FuGen, 8KMiles is looking to expand and build on its cloud and big data security services and solutions to meet the growing security and compliance requirements of large enterprises and government agencies.

virtualization, data storage

Atlantis Computing, a provider of virtual data center storage solutions, has raised $20 million in Series D funding led by Adams Street Partners, with participation from Cisco Systems, El Dorado Ventures, and Partech International. The company’s solutions eliminate the dependency on high performance and close proximity storage to enable any application to run on-demand with any storage.

virtualization, data storage

PernixData, a maker of a software-defined storage platform that virtualizes server-side flash, has raised $20 million in Series B funding led by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, with participation from return backer Lightspeed Venture Partners. The company’s storage platform enables companies to improve performance in accessing storage infrastructure.

financial

OpenCoin, an open-source virtual currency exchange, has raised an undisclosed amount of seed funding from Google Ventures and China-based IDG Capital Partners.

Daily Deal Activity 05/14/13

Digital Media/Commerce

classifieds/auctions/p-to-p

Wheelz, an online peer-to-peer car rental company, is being acquired for an undisclosed amount by RelayRides, which also operates a car-sharing platform. Wheelz had raised more than $15 million from investors including Zipcar, while RelayRides has raised more than $13 million from investors including General Motors Ventures.

ecommerce

Australia-based OHKI, which operates an online eCommerce store for electronics products, was acquired by Australia-based AdEffective (ASX:ABN), a company offering advertising search feeds for search engine or directory, contextual ad feeds, backfill advertising, and display advertising for Web publishers. While terms of the deal were not disclosed, OHKI reported sales of AUD 0.35 million ($0.36 million) for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Digital Advertising

digital video, social media/apps

Germany-based viral video marketing firm Shareifyoulike, was acquired by U.K.-based viral video marketing firm Unruly Media. Terms were not disclosed. Both companies are known for creating viral campaigns with brands and advertisers that encompass social media and online video. Shareifyoulike’s ad platform pays brands and other users for sharing content such as videos or blog posts.

digital video, social media/apps

StyleHaul, which owns and operates an online video community through which it provides makeup and style tutorial videos, raised $6 million in funding from RTL Group’s Asset Management Arm. The company has raised $17 million in funding to date.

Marketing Technology

content management

(4/30/13) SignNow, which offers tools to electrically sign digital files, has been acquired by information-technology security and storage vendor Barracuda Networks. SignNow had raised more than $2 million in funding from Khosla Ventures and other investors, and claims more than one million users. Terms were not disclosed.

sem/seo tools

Engine Ready, a search marketing company with a core competency in pay per click management, was acquired by Best Rank, a full-service Internet presence management company. Engine Ready began as a search engine optimization firm in 1998 before merging with World Methods in September of 2001 to expand to other services, including pay per click management, search engine marketing, and strategic software development. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

sem/seo tools

The HOTH, which provides an SEO link building solution for online marketing agencies and SEO professionals, has been acquired by Next Net Media, an SEO tools provider with holdings including Backlinks.com, SEOParking.com, and SearchRankings.net. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

social technology

Social commerce company Shopalize, whose technology enables brands to promote their products through social channels, has been acquired by 24/7 Customer, a provider of services that combine call centers with data-driven services. Terms were not disclosed. The deal is part of 24/7 Customer’s drive to power all points of customer interaction, including call centers, social media, self-service applications and online chats. Sequoia Capital is the largest investor in 24/7 Customer, which generates approximately $250 million in annual sales from about 30 customers.

social technology

HipLogiq, a company offering an enterprise product to help small- and medium-size businesses target and engage customers over social media, has raised $5 million in Series A funding from Hadron Global Partners, a division of Carriage House Partners, and RLB Holdings. The funding will allow the company to focus on market expansion for its two social media marketing apps, SocialCompass and SocialCentiv.

teleservices/eservices

Zoove, a provider of branded mobile phone numbers, has secured a $15 million investment from from existing Series D investors Rogers Venture Partners and Panorama Capital, along with additional investment from the company’s early stage investors Worldview Technology Partners and Highland Capital. The company operates the StarStar platform, which enables marketers to leverage media, mobile, and marketing through a single platform.

Agency

digital agency

Romania-based digital agency Kinecto, which is part of the Tempo Creative Group, is being acquired for $6.5 million by Aegis Media. Following its acquisition, Kinecto will be integrated into the Isobar network and will be rebranded to Kinecto Isobar.

Traditional Media

consumer magazine publisher, niche content

The Bonnier Corporation has sold Parenting and Babytalk magazines and their related digital assets to Meredith (NYSE: MDP). Financial terms were not disclosed, and the acquisitions will not have a material effect on Meredith’s financial performance.

Technology

cloud computing, social media/apps

Cloud computing startup OneOps, and the social application development shop Tasty Labs, have been acquired by @WalmartLabs, the technology arm of Walmart Global eCommerce unit. Deal terms were not disclosed. OneOps’ Platform-as-a-Service capability will enable Walmart to accelerate its PaaS and Private Cloud Infrastructure-as-a-Service strategies, while Tasty Labs develops solutions to connect people via social software.

cloud computing

Cloudant, which offers database software aimed at developers of Web and mobile apps, has raised $12 million in Series B funding from new investors Devonshire Investors (the private equity firm for Fidelity Investments), Rackspace Hosting, Toba Capital, and current investors Avalon Ventures, In-Q-Tel, and Samsung Venture Investment. Cloudant has now raised approximately $16 million, and is valued between $50 million and $100 million. The company is aiming for profitability in the first half of 2014.

financial

U.K.-based peer-to-peer money transfer system TransferWise, has raised $6 million in funding from Valar Ventures. The company aims to undercut banks by cutting the costs of money transfers, using peer to peer sharing and a unique algorithm. TransferWise will use the money to grow the company by up to ten-fold in the next year and is planning to spend on external marketing to reach more users. The 35 person team will also be increased by a further 20, split between the headquarters in London and an office in Estonia.

mobile infrastructure, enabling technology

Finland-based Rightware, a provider of embedded user interface software and performance benchmarking tools to mobile, automotive, and other embedded industries, has raised $5.2 million in Series B funding from Finnish Industry Investment and return backers Inventure and Nexit Ventures.

Software

data management, application management

GraphLabs, a company developing an open-source database that can handle large machine learning projects, raised $6.8 million in Series A funding co-led by Madrona Venture Group and New Enterprise Associates. The company’s graph database is used for storing the connections between different data points in order to understand the relationships among them. They are frequently used for building applications such as social networking or maps.

erp, cloud computing technology

Highstreet IT Solutions, an IT services operator with focus on enterprise software in the cloud and to the cloud as well as cloud services, has raised an undisclosed amount of funding led by Transition Capital Partners, with participation from Petra Capital Partners and Texas Capital Bank. The company’s services are offered on a project and managed services contract basis, in both cloud and enterprise software solution package environments, and across all technology platforms, operating systems, and infrastructures.

financial

New Zealand-based BankLink, a provider of accounting solutions that deliver better efficiencies, improved communication, and increased profits for accounting practices and their clients, was acquired for $112.1 million MYOB Finance, from Media Transfer Services. BankLink serves small business owners including tradies, retailers, medical practices, rental property owners, sales reps, café owners, and farmers, as well as accountants.

hr

Work Market, which operates a Web-based transaction platform for the management of labor and human resource services, raised $10 million in funding led by Softbank Capital, with participation from existing backers Spark Capital and Union Square Ventures. This follows a $6 million round from Union Square and Spark that closed in September 2011.

Information & Business Services

it consulting/systems integration

Concero Partners, an information technology service provider, has been acquired by Tech Allies Solutions. The acquisition will give Tech Allies Solutions a stronger focus into Oil and Gas, Aerospace & Defense and Retail in both ERP applications as well as Microsoft .Net. Terms were not disclosed.

market research

China-based Sinotrust Market Research, which offers consumer, product, and brand research, as well as channel research and customer information analysis, was acquired by U.K.-based Taylor Nelson Sofres, a WPP (LSE:WPP) subsidiary also providing market research information and services. Terms were not disclosed.

Other

gaming

CVC Capital Partners has ended talks with British online gambling company Betfair (LSE: BET), following Betfair’s recent rejection of a £912 million takeover offer.

Daily Deal Activity 05/13/13

Digital Media/Commerce

ecommerce

United Arab Emirates-based online fashion store Namshi, which was started by the Samwer brothers’ Rocket Internet accelerator, raised $13 million in funding from Summit Partners. This brings Namshi’s total investments to over $34 million. The new capital will also be used to make a warehouse move to a centralized distribution center fully owned by the company.

ecommerce, local search

Online legal services platform Rocket Lawyer, which provides legal documents to consumers and small businesses, and allows consumers to find and reach lawyers, has raised another $15 million in funding from an undisclosed strategic investor. The company previously raised $40 million in capital from August Capital, Google Ventures, and Investor Growth Capital.

ecommerce

Zoobean, which operates a subscription-based children’s books services platform, raised $0.5 million in seed funding led by Kapor Capital, along with other private angel investors. The company’s website features a handpicked catalog which parents can either subscribe to, or choose to just shop online like a standard eCommerce website.

mobile content/apps

Any.DO, which provides to-do list applications for Web and mobile, has raised $3.5 million in seed funding led by existing investor Genesis Partners, with participation from Innovation Endeavors and individual investors. The company had previously announced $1 million in angel funding in late 2011 from investors that included Innovation Endeavors, Blumberg Capital, and Genesis Partners.

Marketing Technology

analytics/reporting, mobile technology

Trendslide, a mobile dashboard app startup, has been acquired by Internet Infrastructure as a Service company Dyn. The Trendslide app aggregates data from Websites and and presents a graph to give companies a pulse on whether their key metrics are trending up, staying flat, or trending down. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

content management

Sweden-based Avail Intelligence, which develops behavioral merchandising solutions, was acquired by RichRelevance, a provider of personalized product recommendation solutions for eCommerce sites. The company helps retailers increase sales and monetize site traffic by providing relevant products, content, and offers to shoppers as they switch between Web, store, and mobile. Terms were not disclosed.

crm

OwnerListens, which operates a platform where consumers can send feedback to businesses and receive real-time responses, raised $1.1 million in seed funding funding from Menlo Ventures, Promus Ventures, Commerce Ventures, Subtraction Capital, and individual investors.

Agency

digital agency

Wochit, which produces studio-quality news video content about any topic as it happens, raised $4.75 million in funding from Redpoint Ventures, Cedar Fund, and Greycroft Partners. Websites, mobile applications, news services, blogs and other publishing entities utilize Wochit’s platform for new revenue opportunities and enhanced audience engagement.

Traditional Media

entertainment media

High Noon Productions (dba High Noon Entertainment), a maker of entertainment and reality television shows including Cake Boss, has sold a 60 percent stake for $25.56 million to U.K.-based ITV (LSE:ITV), which operates a commercial television network. The deal gives High Noon Entertainment an enterprise value of $42.75 million. For 2012, the company reported $5.7 million in operating earnings.

Technology

big data, analytics/reporting, social technology

Lucky Sort, a startup behind a visualization and navigation engine called TopicWatch, which helped to discover patterns in live data streams, has been acquired by Twitter. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the company has announced that it will be shuttering its service. Lucky Sort was founded in 2011, and had raised $0.6 million in funding from Neu Venture Capital and another undisclosed investor.

mobile infrastructure, security

EyeVerify, a provider of software that allows mobile users to capture an image of their eye in the place of entering a password to access their mobile phone, raised $2.3 million in Series A funding led by early-stage investor Think Big Partners, Mid-America Angels, Nebraska Angels, and individuals. Founded in 2012, EyeVerify previously raised a seed round of $1.5 million.

Software

security

U.K.-based Logos Holdings, a healthcare technology company offering server based electronic data capture solutions and related services, was acquired by U.K.-based Instem, which provides a portfolio of software solutions to the life sciences market. The company was sold by U.K.-based healthcare technology software company OmniComm, for $7.65 million. For the LTM period ending September 30, 2012, Logos reported revenue and EBITDA of $1.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

security

Blue Coat Systems, a provider of Web security and WAN optimization products, has acquired the SSL appliance product line and product team from Netronome Systems, a maker of flow-processing technology. Financial terms were not disclosed. Netronome’s SSL appliances help enterprises inspect encrypted Web and SSL traffic within their networks, from cloud applications and external sites, in order to keep corporate assets secure.

Communications

communications software

China-based AsiaInfo-Linkage (NasdaqGS:ASIA), a provider of telecommunication software solutions and services to telecommunications carriers and operators, and cable television operators, has signed a definitive agreement to be acquired by a private investor consortium led by CITIC Capital Partners. The deal gives the company an enterprise value of $564.2 million, and a valuation of 1.2x revenue and 5.4x EBITDA.

Daily Deal Activity 05/10/13

Digital media/commerce

gaming

Mobile gaming startup Loki Studios, has been acquired by Yahoo (NasdaqGS:YHOO). This adds to Yahoo’s recent purchase of Astrid, GoPollGo, and Wilewise, which adds 22 entrepreneurs to Yahoo’s mobile team. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Digital Advertising

digital video, ad networks/exchanges

Extreme Reach, which provides video advertisement serving, distribution, and management solutions, has raised more than $50 million in funding from Spectrum Equity.  The company’s cloud-based platform is designed to assist users unify and simplify every aspect of video advertisement campaigns across media, including: TV, Web, cinema, outdoor, and mobile. It also operates a digital video advertising delivery network that connects advertisers, agencies, and post-production houses with video media destinations. In 2012 the company reportedly generated $41 million in revenue, and this year expects to have about $61 million in revenue and a run rate of $100 million by the second half of 2013.

Marketing Technology

product/price software

uParts, a cloud platform for auto parts sourcing and procurement, has raised $2 million in Series A funding from GRP Partners, Fraser McCombs Capital, and individual angels. The company’s software was created for the collision repair industry.

Agency

general agency, promotion agency, printing

New World Group, a marketing company that creates advertising campaigns for entertainment, real estate development, and hospitality clients, was acquired for an undisclosed amount by U.K.-based Aegis Media. The company’s services also include promotional marketing creativity and distribution, motion graphics and video, and full service printing.

Technology

virtualization

Synnefo Technology Solutions, an IT virtualization and cloud services provider, has sold its virtualization business to Forsythe Technology, an information technology infrastructure integrator. Terms were not disclosed.

Software

application management

MadeiraCloud, a developer of cloud-application management and visualization software, has raised $1.5 million in Series A funding from Sequoia Capital. The company’s software enabling users to design, provision, manage, and monitor cloud applications. It supports Amazon Web Services’ Virtual Private Cloud. The company is incorporated in the Cayman Islands and based in San Francisco, with a development office in Beijing.

erp software

Supply Vision, a provider of supply chain management software for logistics companies, has raised a $1.4 million funding round led by Hyde Park Angels and the Invest Illinois Venture Fund. The company’s software enables logistics providers and their customers to manage activities such as freight-forwarding transportation and warehousing. Supply Vision was founded in 2010 and that year acquired Web Freight Pro, which made freight and warehouse management software.

erp software

Canada-based Epic Data (TSXV:EKD), a developer of a broad range of software and hardware solutions for operations management in discrete manufacturing and warehousing control, was acquired by Canada-based Sylogist, which provides provides financial enterprise information management systems, system connectivity solutions, and portal applications to municipal, education, and private sector customers. The company was purchased at an enterprise value of $7 million, valuing the company at 1.5x revenue based on 2012 financials.

financial

Subscription Bridge, a company providing comprehensive tools for selling and managing subscription-based products and services for all businesses, was acquired by cloud storage services provider Cloud Nation. Terms were not disclosed. SubscriptionBridge is a recurring payments platform and subscription management system that allows companies to create subscription packages, sell them, and manage the recurring payments and subscription events that follow.

geo-demo, mobile technology

China-based digital mapping company AutoNavi Holdings (NasdaqGS:AMAP), which provides digital map content, and navigation and location-based solutions, has sold a 28 percent stake to China-based eCommerce company, online payments, and B-to-B marketplace provider Alibaba Group, for $294 million. The deal makes Alibaba Group the largest single shareholder in AutoNavi.

Information & Business Services

it consulting/systems integration

Baseliner Consulting, a Malaysia-based provider of SAP application management support services, has been acquired by Plaut IT Australia, an Australia-based provider of SAP consulting and technical services. Terms were not disclosed.

staffing

National ProSource, an information technology staffing firm, was acquired by Atterro Human Capital Group, a provider of sourcing, interim staffing, and executive search services for employers. Terms were not disclosed.

Daily Deal Activity 05/09/13

Digital Media/Commerce

niche content

Israel-based Webflakes, which publishes content from more than 60 international bloggers who write about lifestyle topics such as fashion, food, wine, travel, and relationships, has raised $3 million in Series A funding from Genesis Partners and Orens Capital, as well as a number of private investors.

niche content

AndroidRays, a popular Android community site reaching tens of thousands of monthly visitors, has been acquired for an undisclosed amount by Mimvi, a mobile search and recommendation technology company.

mobile content/apps, digital video

NowThisNews, a startup creating a video news service for the iPhone generation, has raised another $4.8 million from Lerer Ventures, Oak Investment Partners, Bedrocket Media Ventures, and SoftBank Capital. NowThisNews has now raised nearly $10 million in the last year. The company, which launched last fall, has created 300,000 videos, and last month generated 20 million video streams. By comparison, HuffPost Live, Huffington Post’s own version of a video news service, generated 48 million streams in March.

social media/apps

Clipboard, which operates a Web clipping services that lets users highlight things from around the Web and “clip” then into a digital storage locket for later use, has been acquired for $12 million by Salesforce (NYSE:CRM). Prior to the acquisition, the company had grown to around 100,000 users, and was seeing growth rates of 40 percent month-over-month. In January, it reported having reached 1.7 million+ clips since it had opened its private beta in October 2011.

social media/apps

CrowdHall, which operates an online crowd-sourced town hall, has raised $0.7 million in funding from Las Vegas Tech Fund, The Brandery, Vine Street Ventures, Northwestern Capital, and private investors. The company aims to empower crowds to organize their thoughts, articulate their questions, and voice their perspective in a democratic way.

Digital Advertising

local search

LiquidSpace, an app that connects people seeking workspace with employers who have empty desks, has raised $1.3 million in new Series B funding from Steelcase and CBRE Group. The round total is now $7.3 million, including a previous close from GPT Group, Shasta Ventures, Floodgate, and Greylock Partners.

media management systm

Yekra, which offers digital entertainment distribution tools that make movies available to be viewed through the Web, smartphones, tablets, and connected TVs, raised $3 million in funding from Bray Capital. Yekra’s centerpiece is AffiliateConnect, a patent-pending, first-to-market audience building technology that helps producers and studios distribute their content. Yekra allows producers to set an exclusivity rights period for a movie and then set up distribution to other digital platforms like Netflix and Hulu Plus.

vertical search

Frequent flier search startup MileWise, has been acquired for an undisclosed amount by Yahoo (NasdaqGS:YHOO). MileWise specializes in helping serious travelers choose the cheapest flights, not just based on price, but also with frequent flyer mile discounts factored in. The four-year-old MileWise had raised $1.5 million from Atlas Venture, Founder Collective, General Catalyst Partners, High Line Venture Partners, iNovia Capital, and several angel investors.

Marketing Technology

crm

Switzerland-based Tweasy, which offers various online tools that help companies interact with customer via smartphone, Web, email, and Facebook, has been acquired by Switzerland-based telecommunication services provider Swisscom (SWX:SCMN). The company was sold for an undisclosed amount by Switzerland-based biopharmaceutical company Debiopharm Group, for an undisclosed amount.

market research software

GoPollGo, a real-time polling tool that lets brands and media properties collect and analyse feedback, has been acquired by Yahoo (NasdaqGS:YHOO). Following the purchase, GoPollGo will be shutting down its services on its site, as well as its embeddable widgets and mobile app. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Agency

digital agency

Digital marketing agency Creatine Marketing, has announced a merger with MXSweb, a 14-year-old brand enhancement and website development company. Creatine Marketing will merge its proficiency in social media creation, education, and management with MXSweb website and logo design team. Terms were not disclosed.

Traditional Media

consumer magazine publisher

SCMP Group announced it is acquiring the Hong Kong Business of Asia City Media Group, including HK Magazine, Where Hong Kong, Where Chinese, and The List, as well as a number of mobile and web products. Asia City’s dominant title, HK Magazine is the leading English language leisure and lifestyle free distribution magazine in the city. Terms were not disclosed.

entertainment media

Post Modern Group, which operates as an HD video production and post production company, is being acquired for $23.9 million by Global Eagle Entertainment (NasdaqCM:ENT), a provider of in-flight video content, eCommerce, and information services for airlines. Post Modern Group serves Hollywood studios and distributors, advertising agencies, corporations, federal and local government entities, and airlines and cruise lines.

Technology

cloud storage

PerspecSys, a provider of enterprise cloud data protection solutions, has raised $12 million in Series B funding co-led by Paladin Capital Group and Ascent Venture Partners, with participation from return backer Intel Capital. The company has now raised more than $20 million in funding. PerspecSys ‘s service enables companies to encrypt or alter data before it’s sent to a cloud application, allowing them to bypass some of the regulatory challenges that come with using cloud applications, such as rules that dictate that customer information can’t leave a certain country or that certain data can’t be stored in a multitenant database.

mobile infrastructure

Augmented-reality startup Dekko, has raised outside funding to launch an operating system for mobile developers to create 3-D apps for wearable devices. The financing comes in the form of convertible notes totaling $3.2 million from Bessemer Venture Partners, Blumberg Capital, Echo Ventures, Eniac Ventures, Launch Capital, MicroVentures, Thomvest, Venture 51, and Zig Capital.

Software

credit/risk management

Aklero Risk Analytics, a provider of loan quality management software and services via automated data and document validity assurance, has signed an agreement to merge with NYLX, a provider of mortgage loan pricing, performance analytics, and monitoring solutions. Terms were not disclosed.

financial

TPG Capital has acquired a 14.6 percent stake in accounting software company Advent Software (NasdaqGS:ADVS), by purchasing 7.5 million shares for $190.4 million, according to a regulatory filing. Advent had plans to sell earlier this year, but later opted to remain independent. For the LTM period ending March 31, 2013, the company reported revenue and EBITDA of $364.4 million and $82.7 million.

financial

Sweden-based Expert Systems Development Svenska, a provider of cloud-based solutions for electronic invoices and electronic document interchange purchasing, is being acquired for $9.2 million by ReadSoft (OM:RSOF B), a supplier of software for document process automation. Expert Systems employs 27 people and is one of the leading cloud based networks for exchanging e-invoices and other electronic documents in Sweden. Based on LTM financials as of May 7, 2013, the transaction valued the company at 4.6x revenue.

financial

CapLinked, which operates a cloud platform for complex business transactions such as M&A, has raised $2.1 million in Series A funding from Conversion Capital, Inflection Ventures, and The Artesian Group. Other investors in the round include FF Angel, Siemer Ventures, 500 Startups, and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel. CapLinked has now raised more than $3 million.

infrastructure, analytics/reporting

Ubalo, a developer of scalable computing technology, is being acquired by Twitter. Terms were not disclosed. The company’s team was most recently working on a simplified way for users to run their code across large computing environments with a mission to hide the details of the computers, environments, and messaging. The company has also reportedly worked on projects to process Titter’s data.

infrastructure

Crocodoc, a developer of HTML5 document embedding solutions, has been acquired by cloud storage company Box. More than 100 companies, including Dropbox, LinkedIn, Yammer, Facebook, and SAP, license (and pay for) the startup’s document-embedding technology, which allows users to upload a PDF, and receive a version of the same document in the browsers. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Information & Business Services

it consulting/systems integration

Malaysia-based Texchem, a provider of corporate planning and support services including human resource, IT consultancy, and property management services, sold a 5.9 percent stake for $0.7 million to investment holding company Texchem Resources (KLSE:TEXCHEM). The transaction was done at an implied enterprise value of $11.5 million.

it consulting/systems integration

Poland-based software development company Bema, is being acquired by Egnyte, a provider of cloud and hybrid cloud file sharing solutions for businesses, for an undisclosed amount. Bema has provided research and development capabilities for Egnyte’s solutions and this acquisition brings these capabilities in-house. Egnyte shareholders include Google Ventures, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, and Polaris Venture Partners.

financial information

YCharts, which provides analytical tools and market trend data to professional and individual investors, has raised $3.875 million in its third funding round led by Morningstar (NasdaqGS:MORN) and Reed Elsevier Ventures, with participation from all of the company’s earlier investors, including Hyde Park Angels, I2A, and Amicus. This brings YCharts’ total funding to $8.6 million.

Other

mobile content/apps

Facebook (NasdaqGS: FB) is in talks to acquire Israel-based mobile satellite navigation company Waze for upwards of $1 billion, according to an Israeli press report. Waze has raised nearly $70 million in funding from BlueRun Ventures, Kleiner Perkins, Magma Venture Partners, and Vertex Venture Capital. There had also been media reports earlier this year that Apple was in talks to acquire Waze.

mobile content/apps

Microsoft (NasdaqGS:MSFT) is offering to buy the digital assets of Nook Media for approximately $1 billion, according to TechCrunch. Microsoft already has a stake in Nook Media, which was formed by Barnes & Noble (NYSE: BKS).

Daily Deal Activity 05/08/13

Digital Media/Commerce

social media/apps, healthcare

HealthTap, a company operating a mobile health platform that enables users to ask questions of tens of thousands of doctors in a casual format, raised $24 million in Series B funding from new investor Khosla Ventures, along with Series A investors Mayfield Fund and Mohr Davidow Ventures. In addition to the site’s question-and-answer section, HealthTap also offers a section of tips from doctors, a platform for doctors to ask questions of one another, a directory of 1.2 million doctors, a referral network, and a secure health-record storage area.

Digital Advertising

vertical search

Spain-based Niumba.com, a vacation rental website, was acquired for an undisclosed amount by TripAdvisor (NasdaqGS:TRIP). Niumba features more than 230,000 properties globally and brings to TripAdvisor one of the largest collection of Spanish vacation rentals with more than 120,000 properties in Spain.

search marketing

Haystak Digital Marketing, which provides digital and traditional marketing services to the automotive industry, was acquired by VinSolutions, a provider of Internet-based CRM and lead management software to car dealer websites, auto service, and dealer training companies. Haystak specializes in automotive search engine marketing (SEM) and pay per click (PPC) services. It also offers mobile SEM and PPC, retargeting, display, social advertising, call tracking, and advanced reporting services. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Marketing Technology

commerce management

OrderMotion, which provides Web-based order management and analytics solutions for eCommerce and direct-to-consumer businesses, was acquired by NetSuite, a provider of cloud-based financial/ERP software suites, from Capital Resource Partners. Financial terms were not disclosed. NetSuite will use OrderMotion to strengthen its own order management system.

crm, online lead generation

Market Leader (NasdaqGS:LEDR), a provider of SaaS-based customer relationship management software for the real estate sector, is being acquired by Trulia (NYSE:TRLA). The deal is valued at approximately $355 million in cash and stock, at an implied value of $11.33 per Market Leader share (18 percent premium to yesterday’s closing price). Based on 2012 financials, the deal gives Market Leader an enterprise value of $332.8 million, and a valuation of 7.4x revenue. The company reported a net loss of $7.8 million for the period.

email/messaging software

Movable (aka Movable Ink), a provider of email marketing software, has raised $11 million in a Series B growth round led by Intel Capital, with participation from prior investors Contour Venture Partners, ff Venture Capital, and Metamorphic Ventures. Movable’s solution enables marketers to create email marketing campaigns that are optimized when the recipient opens the email, based on the time, his or her location, device, and social graph. The company has raised $12.3 million to date, having previously raised $1.3 million in its seed and Series A rounds.

sem/seo tools

Pay-per-click management technology company Qualityscores.com and 15 additional online marketing websites, have been acquired by Get Found First, which also provides pay-per-click management tools. The purchase includes a Web application designed to aggregate Google Adwords quality scores and displays the metric’s impact on Adwords pay-per-click accounts. Terms were not disclosed.

search & discovery

Israel-based Beyond Verbal Communications, a startup that it has developed a way to take computer-based voice recognition software that is able to detect the emotional nuances of a voice to decipher how a person speaking is feeling, has raised $2.8 million in funding led by the newly-launched Genesis Angels. The company will use the investment to roll out its patented technology commercially.

Marketing Services

channel services

Deerpath Capital has sponsored an acquisition of ABC Global Services, a provider of travel services for consultants and travel agencies worldwide, from Thomas Cook (LSE: TCG). No financial terms were disclosed. The deal was led by former Thomas Cook executive Eric Altschul, who will serve as ABC’s CEO. ABC Global supports its customers with a global hotel program and networking organization. The relationships it maintains with industry suppliers allow the company to provide special programs, discounts, and enhanced revenue opportunities to support travel management objectives.

Traditional Media

consumer magazine publisher

Mass Appeal, a publisher of a graffiti-focused magazine, raised $1.2 million in funding from private investors and White Owl Capital. The company’s magazine was founded in 1996 and shut down in 2008, before being revived by the current team earlier this year. The company is currently working to move its content online.

digital place-based media

The ad supported digital screen assets of KidsCare TV (KC TV) and Women’s Healthcare TV (WHC TV), were acquired by digital point-of-care media company Health Media Network. The KC TV and WHC TV programs are shown in doctors’ offices throughout the country. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Technology

financial

Coinbase, a developer of a wallet for the digital, decentralized currency bitcoin, raised $5 million in funding led by Union Square Ventures. The company develops a hosted platform and payment solution for a digital currency that allows instant payments worldwide. This round brings the company’s total investments to $5.6 million.

financial

Cover, which provides a mobile payments application to make paying to help with paying for meals at restaurants, raised $1.5 million in funding from O’Reilly AlphaTech Ventures. The app is still in private beta, but the startup has also raised $1.5 million in seed funding.

home automation

MyEnergy, also known as Earth Aid, which develops software enabling users to track their electric, gas, and water bills and usage online, has been acquired by Nest Labs, a manufacturer of digital thermostats. Prior to the purchase, MyEnergy had raised over $4 million in funding from Capital-E, Clean Energy Venture Group, and Point Judith Capital.

Software

credit/risk software

Aklero Risk Analytics, a provider of loan quality management software and services via automated data and document validity assurance, has merged with NYLX, a provider of mortgage loan pricing, performance analytics, and monitoring. Terms were not disclosed.

engineering

SIMPOE, a leader in plastic injection molding simulation software, was acquired for an undisclosed amount by Dassault Systèmes, a provider of 3D design software.

healthcare, vertical search

TrialReach, a U.K.-based clinical trial platform that connects patients with healthcare companies and research organizations, has raised £2 million ($3.1 million) in funding led by Octopus Ventures, with participation from return backer Amadeus Capital Partners. The company’s search engine makes clinical trials easy to find, understand, and get into for patients with various medical conditions.

healthcare

HealthyCircles, a developer of a SaaS care orchestration engine designed to connect healthcare providers, patients, family members, and others involved in post-acute care and provide them with a care management platform, was acquired by Qualcomm Life, which provides device connectivity and data management solutions that enable medical device manufacturers to deliver wireless health. Terms were not disclosed.

software development tools

FlexPoint Technology, a provider of cloud-based collaboration and application development capabilities solutions, has been acquired by Haystax Technology, a portfolio company of The Edgewater Funds. Terms were not disclosed.

Information & Business Services

it consulting/systems integration

U.K.-based Civica, a provider of software, IT services, and outsourcing services for the public sector, is being acquired by OMERS Private Equity, from 3i Group at an enterprise value of £390 million ($607.8 million). The company offers solutions in the areas of specialist business applications, hosting and cloud based services, business process services, workflow and document management, records management, income management and e-payments, mobile and flexible working, communications and Internet solutions, software asset management, software licensing, and automation solutions.

it consulting/systems integration

The Coding Center, a specialty outsourced remote coding services company and division of Doozer Software, has been acquired by HIM Connections, a recruitment and staffing firm for health information management. Terms were not disclosed.

Other

ecommerce

China-based Tunio.com, an online travel booking services that allows users to choose packaged or semi-packaged holiday-making products, is raising a round of approximately $50 million in Series D funding, which will likely close by the third quarter. The company is currently seeking additional investors alongside its existing investors for the planned round.

mobile content/apps

Social video app company Viddy, is overhauling its capitalization table, returning a large amount of money to investors in the company’s most recent round of funding. Viddy will return $18 million of the $30 million raised in its Series B round one year ago, leaving the company with $11 million. Lead investors in the most recent round were Goldman Sachs, Khosla Ventures, and New Enterprise Associates, all of whom will receive much of their money back.