Google's corporate venturing unit is reportedly among the backers of TechCrunch founder Keith Teare's latest venture.

The fund will invest in the internet, social media and mobile technology.

The search engine, its venture unit, its early backers and its chief executive have been busy buying and hiring in recent days.

Google and Qualcomm were joined by venture firms including IA Ventures and Metamorphic Ventures in the seed financing.

Singapore Telecommunications's corporate venturing unit invests $150,000 for shares in the in-house consultancy which advises it.

US-based telecoms equipment company Motorola Solutions has led a $1.2m first close by US-based mobile business application company Canvas.

Reese Schroeder, managing director of Motorola Solutions Venture Capital, said: "Indoor micro-location for shoppers and employees is a compelling solution for retailers."

The gas provider joins about 100 investors in the natural gas technology products company.