Metalab Ventures, backed by the interface design firm and other investors, will seek product-led startups from pre-seed to series A stages.

The joint programme with Founders Factory will target technologies strategic to the mining industry such as decarbonisation and automation.

The joint fund will invest in strategic areas like supply chain and sustainability for Tesco, Ahold Delhaize, Woolworths, Empire and Shoprite.

The media conglomerate’s evergreen CVC arm has taken part in the AI-driven audit company’s $30m series B round as part of its broader investment focus on artificial technology.

Michael Sim, formerly principal at Fidelity International's strategic investment unit, has moved up to a partner role.

Shunji Takehana, a 25-year veteran at the food seasoning provider, is now SVP and general manager for Ajinomoto Corporate Venture Capital.

Iris Jensen, formerly senior associate at the German clean energy company Baywa RE’s CVC arm, has taken up an investment manager role.

The UK-headquartered health insurer has set up a A$20m fund in Australia to back young startups in healthcare areas like genomics and wearables.

Daniel Correa and Ajey Kaushal, formerly senior associates at JLL Spark, have been promoted to principals.

Orano Venture Fund will run for five years and invest in about 20 industrial startups.