Startups looking to disrupt the video streaming industry in Asia, launch autonomous airships and change the way builders are contracted are among those to raise $US150.5 million ($190.2 million) in funding this week.
Here’s a round-up of some of the biggest deals going down globally.
Iflix set to bank $US133 million ($168.1 million)
What it does: Iflix is a Malaysian-based startup that aims to offer Netflix-style streaming services to emerging markets in Asia.
Funding led by: This funding round was led by Hearst, a US publisher and television station, and joined by a string of other existing investors, some of which include Jungle Ventures, Liberty Group, and Evolution Media, according to Tech in Asia.
How much: $US133 million ($168.1 million).
What now: Iflix says it is using the funding to boost the production of local streaming content, which it hopes will entice more users to the platform.
Altaeros secures $7.5 million ($9.5 million)
What it does: This Boston-based startup develops autonomous aerostats, which is an airship of similar appearance to a blimp, and which have been used to enable telecoms providers to expand their networks to rural areas at a lower cost than conventional towers.
Funding led by: This round of funding is led by SoftBank Group, according to TechCrunch.
How much: $US7.5 million ($9.5 million).
What now: This capital injection will be used to kickstart the launch of ‘SuperTower’, which is a project that will be using Altaeros’ aerostats to enable rural areas to access broadband wireless services.
Pro.com banks $US10 million ($12.6 million)
What it does: Pro.com started out as a marketplace connecting homeowners with renovation professionals, but has morphed in to a tech-focused general contractor service.
Funding led by: This round of funding is led by DFJ, with existing investors Maveron, Two-Sigma Ventures and Madrona Venture Group, also contributing funds, according to TechCrunch.
How much: $US10 million ($12.6 million).
What now: The company is focusing on expanding its offerings across the west coast of the US, and is planning on using the additional funding to launch in at least 10 new cities within the next year.
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