Consumer

The US-based investment arm of Japanese camera manufacturer Nikon has partnered with Geodesic Capital to launch a $51.5m tech startup fund.

The Chinese unicorn, last valued at $2.8bn, will back AI and robotics startups through two funds under the newly formed Empyrean Venture.

The recommendations by UK research organisation Onward are aimed at increasing venture capital investment for underfunded technology transfer offices outside the Golden Triangle.

Ciro Gonzalez, formerly an investment associate at CVC unit Munich Re Ventures, has been appointed as head of Sigma Ventures.

The number of funds is the same but European ones cover multiple universities — and the US still creates more university spinouts.

Both models are gaining popularity — but which is right for your company? It depends on the business need and the stage of the startup.

Maarten-Yan Wierenga is serving as interim head of NuFrontiers while Erik Tveteraas joined fungus-based protein developer NoMy as CFO.

The US stood out as July continued a strong summer for corporate venture activity on the back of AI penetrating more industries, according to GCV data.

Alix Rimington takes on the role alongside that of general manager of global strategic alliances and innovation at the Australian retailer.

The pandemic and cost of living crisis have weakened the sector, as the stories of these five startup failures demonstrate.

The financial services firm's Mexican and Brazilian units are each equipped with $100m, and CVC unit Saison Capital will play a key role.