Verizon Ventures

Verizon Ventures, established in 2000, is the strategic investment arm of Verizon Communications, a leading broadband and telecommunications company. Based in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, Verizon Ventures focuses on investing in early-stage companies operating in network solutions, media, consumer, and business sectors. The firm seeks to connect these startups with Verizon's extensive ecosystem, leveraging its engineering expertise and market insights to accelerate their development. Verizon Ventures' investments align with Verizon's core business, aiming to drive innovation in wireless telecommunications and related services.

Tom Arnost

Principal

Jeffrey Black

Executive Director / Senior Managing Director

Thomas Camp

Principal

Corey Gutshall

Principal

Eyal Mamistvalov

Principal

Stephanie Marshall

GM / Director

Michelle Russey McCarthy

Managing Director

Kristina Serafim

Managing Director

Tony Skiadas

EVP and CFO

Past deals in Telecommunications

Frontier Communications

Acquisition in 2024
Frontier Communications Corporation is an independent telecommunications provider based in Norwalk, Connecticut, serving approximately 4.1 million customers across 29 states. Founded in 1935 and previously known as Citizens Communications Company, Frontier offers a diverse range of services including broadband, video, voice, and digital protection solutions. The company utilizes both fiber-optic and copper networks to deliver high-speed internet and advanced voice services, including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS). Frontier also caters to small, medium, and large business customers with Ethernet services, managed Wi-Fi, cloud IT solutions, and traditional circuit-based offerings. Additionally, it provides wholesale access services that enable other carriers to utilize its network for local and long-distance voice traffic. In April 2020, Frontier Communications filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, reflecting its ongoing efforts to restructure its operations.

Pivotal Commware

Series D in 2023
Pivotal Commware, Inc. specializes in the development of software-defined antennas and radio products that leverage holographic beamforming technology to enhance network speed, capacity, and spectral efficiency. Founded in 2016 and based in Kirkland, Washington, the company provides various platforms and systems, including beamformers, 5G echo subscribers, and drone beamforming antenna systems. Its innovative technology enables multiple concurrent transmissions on the same frequency without interference, facilitating the creation of broadband wireless networks. This capability allows wireless service providers to efficiently reuse the same spectrum band simultaneously within a specific spatial area, significantly improving overall communication performance.

Verana Networks

Venture Round in 2023
Verana Networks, Inc., founded in 2019 and located in Waltham, Massachusetts, specializes in developing innovative 5G Radio Access Network solutions for service providers utilizing licensed millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum. The company focuses on this spectrum due to its potential for significant expansion in speed and capacity, essential for the successful deployment of 5G technology. Verana's equipment aims to provide gigabit wireless connectivity, enabling mobile network operators to offer enhanced 5G services such as fixed wireless access. By delivering faster speeds and increased capacity, the company supports the creation of new applications that drive incremental revenue, which is crucial for sustaining the business case for 5G.

Caban Systems

Series B in 2022
Caban Systems, founded in 2017 and based in San Mateo, California, specializes in the design and manufacture of modular lithium-ion energy storage systems tailored for the telecommunications industry. The company focuses on providing software-enabled solutions that enhance energy management for off-grid and weak-grid telecom sites. By utilizing intelligent lithium-ion battery packs, Caban Systems aims to prevent downtime and lower the total cost of ownership and maintenance for telecom towers. This approach not only helps clients save on energy expenses but also contributes to reduced emissions, making it a valuable partner for telecommunication companies and mobile network operators.

Casa Systems

Post in 2022
Casa Systems, Inc. is a communications technology company that specializes in providing innovative solutions for broadband and wireless networks across various global regions, including North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, Casa Systems offers a diverse range of products, including converged cable access platforms, wireless network core products like 5G core solutions, and optical access technologies. Their offerings also encompass machine-to-machine routers, industrial Internet of Things devices, and advanced network edge solutions designed to enhance digital video and broadband IP services. By delivering software-centric infrastructure, the company enables cable service providers to efficiently offer voice, video, and data services at multi-gigabit speeds, facilitating the transition to more integrated and virtualized network architectures.

SAM Seamless Network

Series B in 2021
SAM Seamless Network is a cybersecurity technology company that focuses on protecting connected homes by addressing cyber threats directly at their source. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel, with additional offices in New York and Berlin, the company offers a range of software solutions. SAM for Homes secures all connected devices by leveraging the network gateway, while SAM for SMBs provides office network management. Additionally, SAM On-the-Go includes parental control features for mobile devices. By utilizing proprietary cyber intelligence and Internet of Things threat management systems, SAM delivers specific security protection without requiring software installations on each device, allowing users to confidently integrate multiple IoT devices into their homes without compromising security.

Cellwize

Series B in 2020
Cellwize is a technology company focused on transforming mobile networks through its innovative platform, Chime. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Israel, Cellwize specializes in RAN automation and orchestration, enabling mobile network operators (MNOs) to expedite 5G network deployment and enhance return on investment. The Chime platform allows MNOs to adapt their networks to dynamic environments, facilitating connections with various applications and vendors while enabling collaborative development. This flexibility leads to optimized coverage and improved user experiences, positioning Cellwize as a leader in helping MNOs launch and leverage next-generation networks efficiently and effectively.

Bluegrass Cellular

Acquisition in 2020
Bluegrass Cellular is a wireless communication provider based in rural Kentucky, recognized as the first cellular carrier to offer analog cellular network services in the region, with its service commencing in May 1991. The company has expanded its network to cover 40 counties, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing connectivity in underserved areas. In October 1998, Bluegrass Cellular transitioned to digital cellular services, followed by the introduction of 2G enhanced services in November 2004 and EVDO 3G high-speed data service in late 2007. The company also offers various customer-oriented features, including a trade-in program, HD calling, DVR streaming, and flexible payment plans, all aimed at enhancing the user experience.

TracFone Wireless

Acquisition in 2020
TracFone Wireless, Inc. is a provider of prepaid wireless phone services based in Miami, Florida. Established in 1996, the company offers a variety of telecommunications services, including international long distance calling, ringtones, games, voicemail, and text messaging. TracFone operates without contracts, allowing customers the flexibility to maintain their unused data, texts, and minutes through its unlimited carryover feature. The company sells cell phones and airtime cards both online and through retail locations across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. As a subsidiary of America Movil S.A.B. de C.V., TracFone focuses on creating simple and effective solutions that cater to the diverse needs of its customers, enabling them to stay connected with their loved ones.

HEAVY.AI

Series C in 2018
HEAVY.AI develops a big data analytics and visualization platform that helps businesses and government entities uncover valuable opportunities and risks within extensive location and time data. Its technology leverages the capabilities of modern GPU and CPU hardware to facilitate high-speed analytics and visualization. The platform features a structured query language-compliant database and an advanced visual analytics engine, allowing users to analyze and visualize large datasets efficiently. Clients from various sectors, including government, telecommunications, energy, utilities, and higher education, utilize HEAVY.AI's solutions to enhance decision-making processes and gain insights from multi-billion record datasets.

Lumina Networks

Series A in 2018
Lumina Networks, Inc. specializes in designing and developing open-source networking solutions aimed at simplifying and automating diverse network environments. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Jose, California, with additional offices globally, the company offers a range of products including the Lumina extension adaptation platform, Lumina SDN controller, and Lumina network resource manager. Lumina is committed to transforming how communication service providers utilize open-source platforms, enabling them to regain control over their network development and deployment. The company's solutions encompass network visibility, software-defined data centers, SD-Core, and internet-based service automation, facilitating a customer-centric approach to delivering customizable services. By leveraging open-source technologies, Lumina Networks empowers service providers to implement production-ready, intent-driven networking without vendor lock-in, fostering innovation and agility in their operations.

WideOpenWest - Fiber-Optic Network

Acquisition in 2017
WideOpenWest - Fiber-Optic Network is designed to support multiuse services.

HEAVY.AI

Series B in 2017
HEAVY.AI develops a big data analytics and visualization platform that helps businesses and government entities uncover valuable opportunities and risks within extensive location and time data. Its technology leverages the capabilities of modern GPU and CPU hardware to facilitate high-speed analytics and visualization. The platform features a structured query language-compliant database and an advanced visual analytics engine, allowing users to analyze and visualize large datasets efficiently. Clients from various sectors, including government, telecommunications, energy, utilities, and higher education, utilize HEAVY.AI's solutions to enhance decision-making processes and gain insights from multi-billion record datasets.

HEAVY.AI

Series A in 2016
HEAVY.AI develops a big data analytics and visualization platform that helps businesses and government entities uncover valuable opportunities and risks within extensive location and time data. Its technology leverages the capabilities of modern GPU and CPU hardware to facilitate high-speed analytics and visualization. The platform features a structured query language-compliant database and an advanced visual analytics engine, allowing users to analyze and visualize large datasets efficiently. Clients from various sectors, including government, telecommunications, energy, utilities, and higher education, utilize HEAVY.AI's solutions to enhance decision-making processes and gain insights from multi-billion record datasets.

XO Communications

Acquisition in 2016
XO Communications, LLC is a telecommunications company that operates an integrated fiber optic network, providing a wide range of services in the United States and internationally. The company offers networking services such as bandwidth on demand, wide area networking, Ethernet services, and Internet access. Additionally, it provides unified communications solutions, including hosted PBX, voice over IP, and traditional voice services. XO Communications also specializes in cloud and IT services, encompassing cloud computing, hosted exchange, and colocation, along with managed security services. Its clientele includes enterprise, small, and medium businesses across various industries, including finance, healthcare, media, and retail, as well as telecommunications carriers and content providers. Founded in 2000 and based in Herndon, Virginia, XO Communications operates as a subsidiary of Verizon Communications Inc.

Jana

Series C in 2016
Jana Mobile Inc. is a Boston-based company that operates the mCent application, which allows users in emerging markets such as Asia, Latin America, and Africa to download and try applications without incurring data charges. Founded in 2008 and previously known as txteagle, Inc., Jana has established partnerships with over 300 mobile operators to provide free internet connectivity to its users. The mCent app has attracted more than 30 million users, facilitating the consumption of 4.0 billion megabytes of app usage. By leveraging mobile advertising, Jana offsets data costs for users, enabling clients such as Twitter, Amazon, and Tencent to engage effectively with consumers in these markets. The company's innovative approach helps make free apps truly accessible in regions where data costs can be a barrier.

Veniam

Series B in 2016
Veniam is a technology company focused on enhancing future mobility and creating more human-centric environments through intelligent networking software. The company develops vehicular mesh networks that transform vehicles into Wi-Fi hotspots, expanding wireless coverage in urban areas. Veniam's solutions cater to various sectors, including delivery fleets, dash-cams, telematics, connected cars, and autonomous vehicles. With a robust portfolio of over 140 issued patents, the company optimizes data transmission across diverse networks, such as 4G, 5G, and V2X, ensuring efficient and secure communication between vehicles and the cloud. By enabling the Internet of Moving Things, Veniam aims to improve the lives of millions by facilitating smarter mobility, enhancing internet access, and collecting valuable data for smart city initiatives. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, Veniam also has an engineering center in Porto, Portugal, and sales offices in Detroit, Munich, and Tokyo.

Kumu Networks

Series C in 2016
Kumu Networks, Inc. is a technology company based in Sunnyvale, California, that specializes in developing innovative wireless systems using full-duplex wireless design technology. Founded in 2011, the company has created a solution that allows radios to transmit and receive signals simultaneously on a single frequency channel. This groundbreaking approach enhances the performance of wireless devices and reduces complexity across various applications. By enabling multiple radios to operate in close proximity without interference, Kumu's technology allows for improved cooperation among devices and effectively mitigates self-interference. This advancement has significant implications for the wireless market, providing radiofrequency system designers with the tools necessary to optimize performance in their designs.

ItsOn

Series D in 2015
ItsOn, Inc. is a technology company that offers a cloud-based software platform aimed at enhancing mobile services for carriers and content providers. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, ItsOn enables real-time customization of mobile services, allowing businesses to target specific user demographics and device types effectively. The platform provides mobile operators and consumers with visibility and control over voice, text, and data usage, facilitating a more personalized experience. ItsOn has established itself as a leader in the telecommunications industry, having launched the first end-to-end solution for virtual policy and billing in 2014. The company serves a diverse clientele, including major wireless carriers and retailers, both in the United States and internationally.

CENX

Series D in 2015
Cenx, Inc. is a provider of service orchestration solutions for mobile, wireline, cable, and cloud data center service providers, operating in Canada and internationally. Founded in 2009 and based in Ottawa, Cenx specializes in software that automates the lifecycle management of data services across various network infrastructures, including network functions virtualization and software-defined networking. Its flagship product, the Cortx Service Orchestrator, streamlines processes such as ordering, provisioning, monitoring, and assuring data connectivity services. Cenx's offerings encompass mobile backhaul, enterprise connectivity, and cloud exchange, among others. The company also provides professional services, including data audits, cloud-based automated access ordering, installation, integration, and training, along with technical support for product-related inquiries and software maintenance. Additionally, Cenx plays a crucial role in the development of Carrier Ethernet standards, having received recognition for its innovation in the industry. The company serves tier 1 service providers and has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong.

Sweet

Seed Round in 2015
Sweet offers a streamlined solution for consumers looking to reduce their mobile phone expenses without compromising on coverage. The company identifies potential savings for users, with many customers averaging over $300 in annual savings. Sweet simplifies the process of switching carriers, allowing customers to sign up quickly while handling the complexities of carrier negotiations on their behalf. The platform prioritizes user privacy and security, employing advanced encryption to protect personal information. By collaborating with major wireless providers, Sweet ensures nationwide coverage and reliable service. The company is supported by experienced entrepreneurs from well-known firms, further enhancing its credibility in the telecommunications market.

CENX

Venture Round in 2015
Cenx, Inc. is a provider of service orchestration solutions for mobile, wireline, cable, and cloud data center service providers, operating in Canada and internationally. Founded in 2009 and based in Ottawa, Cenx specializes in software that automates the lifecycle management of data services across various network infrastructures, including network functions virtualization and software-defined networking. Its flagship product, the Cortx Service Orchestrator, streamlines processes such as ordering, provisioning, monitoring, and assuring data connectivity services. Cenx's offerings encompass mobile backhaul, enterprise connectivity, and cloud exchange, among others. The company also provides professional services, including data audits, cloud-based automated access ordering, installation, integration, and training, along with technical support for product-related inquiries and software maintenance. Additionally, Cenx plays a crucial role in the development of Carrier Ethernet standards, having received recognition for its innovation in the industry. The company serves tier 1 service providers and has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong.

Newlans

Series B in 2014
Newlans, Inc. is a fabless semiconductor company based in Acton, Massachusetts, specializing in programmable analog signal processing solutions. Founded in 2003, the company has developed advanced programmable silicon-on-insulator capacitors and components designed for integration into tunable radio frequency front end (RFFE) solutions. Its technology enhances radio frequency analog design by enabling feedback and programmability, which reduces costs, optimizes performance, and increases functionality. Newlans primarily serves smartphone original equipment manufacturers and RFFE module suppliers, addressing the growing demand for tunable solutions amid the expansion of global 4G LTE bands and the adoption of Carrier Aggregation. As a subsidiary of Newtel Essence B.V., Newlans is positioned to meet the evolving needs of the mobile communications industry.

CENX

Venture Round in 2012
Cenx, Inc. is a provider of service orchestration solutions for mobile, wireline, cable, and cloud data center service providers, operating in Canada and internationally. Founded in 2009 and based in Ottawa, Cenx specializes in software that automates the lifecycle management of data services across various network infrastructures, including network functions virtualization and software-defined networking. Its flagship product, the Cortx Service Orchestrator, streamlines processes such as ordering, provisioning, monitoring, and assuring data connectivity services. Cenx's offerings encompass mobile backhaul, enterprise connectivity, and cloud exchange, among others. The company also provides professional services, including data audits, cloud-based automated access ordering, installation, integration, and training, along with technical support for product-related inquiries and software maintenance. Additionally, Cenx plays a crucial role in the development of Carrier Ethernet standards, having received recognition for its innovation in the industry. The company serves tier 1 service providers and has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong.

INVIDI Technologies

Series D in 2011
INVIDI Technologies Corporation is a software provider specializing in targeted advertising solutions for the television industry. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, the company offers innovative applications such as Advatar, which enables addressable targeted advertising delivered to individual viewers through digital set-top boxes. INVIDI's technology supports multi-channel video programming distributors, marketers, and advertisers by facilitating the sales of various digital products and services, including video-on-demand and pay-per-view events. Additionally, the INVIDI Advertising Decision System allows for sophisticated management of advertising decisions, enhancing the precision of household-targeted advertising in the dynamic television landscape. Through its services, INVIDI empowers cable, satellite, and IPTV operators to effectively reach and engage their desired audiences.

BL Healthcare

Venture Round in 2011
BL Healthcare, Inc. specializes in developing integrated solutions that facilitate real-time connections between patients and their caregivers, primarily focusing on telehealth technologies. The company offers a range of devices and applications designed for vital sign monitoring, patient assessments, messaging, multimedia education, and video conferencing. Key products include the Healthcare Access Monitor for telemonitoring, the Healthcare Access Tablet with an interactive touchscreen, and the Healthcare Access Navigator, which connects patients to their healthcare providers via their television. Additionally, BL Healthcare produces various medical peripherals, such as blood pressure meters and digital thermometers. The company's services cater to a diverse clientele, including accountable care organizations, hospitals, home health agencies, and senior care organizations. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Mansfield, Massachusetts, BL Healthcare aims to enhance the management of wellness and disease states by enabling seamless communication and monitoring across various healthcare settings, particularly in the home.

ConteXtream

Series B in 2010
ConteXtream is a privately held software company based in Santa Clara, California, specializing in cloud-based network virtualization technology. The company offers a unique Service Delivery Grid designed to enhance network performance and reduce costs for broadband network operators. This framework allows operators to customize applications for individual subscribers, creating a personalized user experience. ConteXtream's software-defined networking (SDN) solutions enable Tier-1 carriers to connect subscribers to various services while utilizing standard server hardware and hypervisors, effectively replacing traditional proprietary systems. The company is supported by prominent investors in Silicon Valley and globally, including Benhamou Global Ventures, Gemini Israel Funds, Norwest Venture Partners, and others.

Verizon Ventures

Series B in 2010
Verizon Ventures, established in 2000, is the strategic investment arm of Verizon Communications, a leading broadband and telecommunications company. Based in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, Verizon Ventures focuses on investing in early-stage companies operating in network solutions, media, consumer, and business sectors. The firm seeks to connect these startups with Verizon's extensive ecosystem, leveraging its engineering expertise and market insights to accelerate their development. Verizon Ventures' investments align with Verizon's core business, aiming to drive innovation in wireless telecommunications and related services.

Geodelic Systems

Venture Round in 2010
Geodelic Systems, Inc. is a technology company based in Los Angeles, California, that specializes in providing a white-label platform designed for mobile and desktop web applications, notifications, and smartphone usage. Founded in 2007, Geodelic offers tools such as GeoBuys, which enables merchants to create self-service offers and provides consumers with targeted deal discovery and real-time analytics. Additionally, its GeoGuides service helps businesses develop mobile content to engage consumers effectively with commerce activities. The company's platform is utilized by prominent mobile operators and enterprises across the United States, Europe, and Asia, including clients like Verizon and Korea Telecom. By leveraging contextual targeting and rich content, Geodelic aims to enhance the strategic capabilities of its partners and deliver significant value to their consumers.

4Home

Funding Round in 2010
4Home specializes in developing an XML-based software and services platform tailored for OEM hardware vendors and broadband service providers, enabling them to offer innovative applications and services for the connected home. The company's solutions facilitate a range of functionalities, including the remote monitoring of homes, access to web-based content on televisions, mobile control of home systems, and unified management of various devices and digital media. Additionally, 4Home emphasizes the importance of home control services, which encompass home monitoring, media and entertainment management, home health, and energy management. This comprehensive approach positions 4Home at the forefront of the evolving landscape of broadband services, following the traditional offerings of voice, video, and data. The company has also been recognized for its excellence, having received multiple CES Innovation awards.

Alltel

Acquisition in 2008
Alltel is a telecommunications company based in Rockport, Texas, that offers a wide range of wireless communication services and products for both consumers and businesses. It serves various industries, including transportation, retail, insurance, healthcare, construction, and financial services. Alltel's offerings encompass wireless voice and data communication, postpaid and prepaid calling options, roaming and long-distance services, and diverse data solutions. The company provides additional services such as text and video messaging, digital gaming, radio streaming, internet access, and email. It also delivers business intelligence, field service automation, security, and systems management solutions, along with mobile handsets and accessories. As a subsidiary of Verizon Wireless and AT&T, Alltel plays a significant role in the telecommunications landscape in North America and the Caribbean.

Entropic

Funding Round in 2008
Entropic provides delivery, processing, and distribution of traditional HDTV broadcasts and IP-based streaming video content to the home. In addition to their next-generation STB, System-on-a-Chip, and connectivity solutions, entropic allows Pay-TV operators to provide consumers with engaging whole-home entertainment by transforming how digital entertainment is delivered, connected, and consumed at home.

Rural Cellular

Acquisition in 2007
Rural Cellular was a telecommunications company

Flash Networks

Series F in 2006
Flash Networks Ltd., founded in 1996 and based in Herzliya, Israel, specializes in mobile Internet optimization and monetization solutions for telecommunications operators. The company provides a range of services, including radio spectral efficiency solutions, data congestion control, and cybersecurity measures, aimed at enhancing user experience and operational efficiency. With its intelligent Internet services gateway, Flash Networks helps operators optimize data traffic and implement targeted marketing strategies, which can lead to substantial cost savings. The company's technology focuses on improving radio resource management, enabling operators to serve more users effectively while reducing operational expenses. Flash Networks has established a global presence with offices in Europe, Asia, and North America, serving top-tier mobile carriers such as O2, Orange, and Verizon Wireless. As of August 2020, it operates as a subsidiary of Volaris Group Inc.

Qwest Wireless Spectrum - Network Assets

Acquisition in 2005
Qwest Wireless Spectrum - Network Assets includes spectrum licenses in 62 markets in 14 western and mid-western states, covering a population of 30.8 million people. These licenses, all in the 1900 MHz PCS frequency range, average nearly 10 MHz per market. The transaction also includes Qwest Wireless' network switching centers, cell sites and related network equipment, which operate on the CDMA standard, the same as the Verizon Wireless network.

MCI

Acquisition in 2005
MCI Communications was a prominent telecommunications service provider in the United States, specializing in a wide range of communication services for businesses, governments, and individuals. Founded in 1963, the company initially operated microwave relay stations and offered two-way radio services. Through a strategy of mergers and acquisitions, MCI expanded rapidly, becoming the second-largest telecommunications company in the U.S. by 1990. Its services included local and long-distance calling, internet access, voice mail, equipment-managed network services, and data services, which facilitated effective remote collaboration for its clients. However, MCI faced challenges due to U.S. regulatory laws and was ultimately acquired by WorldCom in 1997 in a deal valued at $34.7 million.

Verizon Avenue (dba Verizon Enhanced Communities)

Acquisition in 2000
Verizon Avenue Corporation is a provider of Internet, TV, and phone services to single- and multi-family residential communities, co-ops and condominiums, and multi-tenant commercial properties in the United States.

GTE Corporation

Acquisition in 2000
GTE Laboratories (now Verizon) is an independent telephone company providing telephone communication services.

GTE

Acquisition in 1998
GTE is a provider of telecommunication products and services in the United States. It was formally known as General Telephone & Electronics Corporation. GTE operates in Canada via companies such as BC TEL and Quebec-Téléphone. Prior to GTE's merger with Bell Atlantic, GTE also maintained an interactive television service joint-venture called GTE mainStreet. GTE was established in 1918 and is based in Stamford, Connecticut.
Spot something off? Help us improve by flagging any incorrect or outdated information. Just email us at support@teaserclub.com. Your feedback is most welcome.