Angela Sormani

Looop gets $2 mln to tap into UK SME market

Looop, an online learning platform for startups and mid-sized businesses, has raised $2 million in funding from an online learning industry expert in Australia. The funding will be used to roll out the platform across the UK.

RBS Citizens launches national technology and services banking group

RBS Citizens has launched a new technology and services banking group. The group is led by veteran technology banker and industry executive William Egge, who joined Citizens last year to develop the national strategy for this business.

Doutissima secures seed financing led by DFJ Esprit

Doutissima, a South American health and well-being forum, has raised a seed capital round led by DFJ Esprit with participation from Breega Capital. The company also signed a strategic partnership with Telefonica-backed startup accelerator Wayra, also an investor in Doutissima.

CartoDB raises $8 mln Series A led by Earlybird

CartoDB, an all-in-one web mapping and geospatial platform has secured $8 million Series A funding led by Earlybird. Existing investors Kibo Ventures and Vitamina K also participated.

Livongo Health raises $10 mln Series A

Livongo Health, a consumer digital health company has secured a $10 million Series A funding round from General Catalyst Partners. The company secured initial funding from 7wire Ventures.

Synova backs MK Test Group MBO

Synova has backed the buyout of MK Test Group Limited. The business is a global provider of automated electrical test solutions to the aerospace, rail, and oil & gas industries.

talklocal raises $2.6 mln Series A

talklocal has raised $2.6 million in Series A funding led by Privateer Capital, Fortify VC, Crystal Tech Fund, and Launch Angels’ Where Fund. The business is a local services marketplace.

Kirkland & Ellis adds to global restructuring practice in Hong Kong

Kirkland & Ellis has appointed Damien Coles as a partner in the Hong Kong office. Coles will join Kirkland’s restructuring practice group.

peHUB First Read

This Thursday morning First Read brings you fund news aplenty from Edgestone, Insignia and Truebridge and invites you to enter the mysterious world of venture capital.

Madrona Venture Group appoints venture partner

Madrona Venture Group has appointed Kurt DelBene as a venture partner. DelBene worked for over two decades at Microsoft Corporation, most recently as president of the Microsoft office division.