Industrial

Four years after establishing the European branch of electronics producer Samsung's corporate venturing arm, Michael Jeon will be moving to the US to oversee its mobile and digital investments.

The $42m recently raised by solar power electronics maker SolarBridge Technologies in a round led by corporate venturing unit Constellation Technology Venture scould be expanded, according to an SEC filing that indicates the business is still hungry for more capital.

The Sweden-based company, which uses nanotechnology to develop next-generation lighting products, counts Agder Energi Ventures among its existing investors.

Toyota Tshuho has bid $470m for a 51% stake in the Malaysia-based Kian Joo Can Factory, but looks set to be seen off by an existing bidder with links to the business.

Microsoft Ventures and Espirito Santo Ventures will be joined by another corporate venturing unit, Qualcomm Ventures, and will seek to secure up to BRL 300m ($127.8m) for the fund.

ABB Technology Ventures joined Persimmon's existing investors Intel Capital and Nidec Sankyo and helped the industrial technology producer to complete a $14m series B.

3M has invested an undisclosed amount in MSi Lighting, a US-based company that offers an alternative to traditional halogen light bulbs.

Notably many large deals this year are now happening in China rather than in the US, as a potential reflection of its larger market for internet users and competitive ecosystem.

Our map shows activity by sector. We will be expanding this into a more in-depth data analysis every month from the next issue.

A university focus innovative region piece covering the eastern US, highlighting the best content from our sister title Global University Venturing