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

Senior Managing Director and Executive Director

Thomas Camp

Principal

Corey Gutshall

Principal

Eyal Mamistvalov

Principal

Stephanie Marshall

GM / Director

Michelle Russey McCarthy

Managing Director

Tony Skiadas

EVP and CFO

Past deals in Wireless

Pivotal Commware

Series D in 2023
Pivotal Commware, Inc. is a technology company specializing in the development of software-defined antennas and radios that leverage holographic beamforming technology. Founded in 2016 and based in Kirkland, Washington, the company designs products aimed at enhancing network speed, capacity, and spectral efficiency. Its offerings include platforms such as beamformers and systems for 5G echo subscribers and drone beamforming antennas. Additionally, Pivotal Commware provides intelligent beam management systems that facilitate wireless communication by enabling multiple concurrent transmissions on the same frequency without interference. This technology allows wireless service providers to optimize the use of spectrum in a given area, thereby improving broadband network performance.

Verana Networks

Venture Round in 2023
Verana Networks, Inc. is a technology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, founded in 2019. It specializes in developing innovative 5G Radio Access Network solutions tailored for service providers utilizing licensed millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum. The company’s focus on mmWave spectrum is strategic, as it represents a significant portion of new spectrum available for 5G services. Verana Networks aims to empower mobile network operators with equipment that enhances wireless connectivity, providing a substantial increase in speed and capacity essential for the success of 5G technology. This advancement not only facilitates new applications but also generates additional revenue opportunities, which are crucial for sustaining the business case for 5G deployment.

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.

Wiliot

Series C in 2021
Wiliot Ltd. is a semiconductor company founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Diego, California. The company specializes in developing wireless chipsets that enhance connectivity and intelligence for everyday products and packaging, effectively integrating them into the Internet of Things. Wiliot's innovative platform combines cloud services with self-powered IoT stickers, which harness radiofrequency energy to operate. This technology allows clients, including major brands in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, to gain insights into their products' locations, usage patterns, and replenishment needs. By transforming how products are made, distributed, sold, used, and recycled, Wiliot is at the forefront of redefining product connectivity and management.

CoreTigo

Series B in 2021
CoreTigo Ltd. is a technology company based in Kadima, Israel, specializing in secured wireless network systems designed for industrial automation. The company's solutions facilitate machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, enabling connected robots, warehouse automation, and various factory processes with low latency. CoreTigo's products, including the O Link Wireless master and IO Link device system on module, enhance the functionality of machines and production lines by allowing the cyclic transfer of parameters and real-time data exchange between devices and automation systems. By adhering to the global IO-Link Wireless standard, CoreTigo's offerings are particularly suited for harsh factory environments and motion control applications, contributing to increased flexibility, productivity, and operational efficiency in complex manufacturing settings.

Bluegrass Cellular

Acquisition in 2020
Bluegrass Cellular is a pioneering wireless carrier based in rural Kentucky, having launched its services in May 1991 with analog cellular network coverage. The company initiated its operations by establishing cellular sites in multiple locations, including Bowling Green, Glasgow, and Elizabethtown, and has since expanded to cover 40 counties within its licensed areas. In October 1998, Bluegrass Cellular transitioned to digital cellular services, followed by the introduction of enhanced 2G services in November 2004 and EVDO 3G high-speed data service in late 2007. The company also offers a range of customer-centric services, including a trade-in program, HD calling, DVR streaming, and flexible payment plans, emphasizing its commitment to providing reliable wireless communication in underserved regions.

Wiliot

Series B in 2020
Wiliot Ltd. is a semiconductor company founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Diego, California. The company specializes in developing wireless chipsets that enhance connectivity and intelligence for everyday products and packaging, effectively integrating them into the Internet of Things. Wiliot's innovative platform combines cloud services with self-powered IoT stickers, which harness radiofrequency energy to operate. This technology allows clients, including major brands in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, to gain insights into their products' locations, usage patterns, and replenishment needs. By transforming how products are made, distributed, sold, used, and recycled, Wiliot is at the forefront of redefining product connectivity and management.

Straight Path Communications

Acquisition in 2017
Straight Path Communications Inc. is a telecommunications company based in Glen Allen, Virginia, that specializes in owning and licensing millimeter wave spectrum for 5G wireless services in the United States. Established in 2013, the company holds a significant portfolio of 39 GHz and 28 GHz wireless spectrum licenses, which it offers to mobile network operators and internet service providers. By leasing its spectrum licenses, Straight Path enables clients to enhance network capacity and improve the quality and speed of data transmission. In addition to its core spectrum business, the company is also involved in developing next-generation wireless technology through its subsidiary, Straight Path Ventures, and manages certain patents via its Straight Path IP Group subsidiary. As of early 2018, Straight Path operates as a subsidiary of Verizon Communications Inc.

LQD WiFi

Acquisition in 2016
LQD WiFi, LLC is a technology company based in New York that specializes in creating integrated networks of interactive community technology hubs. Founded in 2014, the company develops smart city solutions that provide ubiquitous Wi-Fi connectivity through public kiosk systems designed to engage and inform residents. These outdoor interactive displays not only offer internet access but also deliver news, emergency alerts, and community information, fostering connections among individuals, local governments, and businesses. By supporting municipalities, private developers, academic institutions, and entertainment venues, LQD WiFi aims to enhance urban environments and strengthen community ties. As of November 2016, the company operates as a subsidiary of Sensity Systems, Inc.

Veniam

Series B in 2016
Veniam is a technology company focused on enhancing future mobility and urban connectivity through intelligent networking software. It specializes in developing vehicular mesh networks that transform vehicles into Wi-Fi hotspots, thereby expanding wireless coverage in urban environments. The company supports various applications, including delivery fleets, dash-cams, telematics, connected cars, and autonomous vehicles, enabling new in-vehicle experiences and efficient data management. Veniam holds an extensive IP portfolio with over 140 issued patents, optimizing the use of various networks such as 4G/5G and Wi-Fi to facilitate the transfer of substantial data between vehicles and the cloud. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, Veniam operates an Engineering Center in Porto, Portugal, and has sales offices in Detroit, Munich, and Tokyo. Its mission is to improve lives by securely managing data flows within the emerging mobility ecosystem, often referred to as the Internet of Moving Things. Recognized as one of the most disruptive companies globally, Veniam collaborates with major fleets, automotive OEMs, and Tier 1 suppliers to drive innovation in connected mobility solutions.

Kumu Networks

Series C in 2016
Kumu Networks, Inc. is a technology company based in Sunnyvale, California, that specializes in the design and manufacture of wireless systems utilizing innovative full-duplex wireless technology. Founded in 2011, the company enables radios to transmit and receive signals simultaneously on a single frequency channel. This breakthrough allows multiple radios operating in close proximity to cooperate, thereby reducing interference and enhancing overall performance. Kumu's patent-pending technology fundamentally alters the traditional assumptions underlying wireless radio systems, offering improved efficiency and simplicity across various wireless applications. The company's advancements in full-duplex design have the potential to transform all wireless markets by allowing system designers to effectively manage and eliminate self-interference among local transmitters.

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, Canada, the company specializes in automating the lifecycle management of data services across various network infrastructures, including network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN). Its flagship product, the Cortx Service Orchestrator, streamlines the ordering, provisioning, monitoring, and assurance of data connectivity services, significantly reducing manual processes. CENX's offerings encompass mobile backhaul, enterprise connectivity, cloud exchange, and machine-to-machine services. Additionally, the company provides professional services such as data audits, automated access ordering, installation, integration, and technical support, ensuring comprehensive assistance for its tier 1 service provider clients. CENX has established itself as a key player in the Carrier Ethernet market, contributing to industry standards and innovation through its involvement with the Metro Ethernet Forum.

Sweet

Seed Round in 2015
Sweet is a company focused on helping consumers lower their phone bills while maintaining quality coverage. By analyzing wireless plans, Sweet identifies potential savings for users, with many customers saving an average of over $300 per year. The sign-up process is designed to be quick and straightforward, allowing users to save time by having Sweet handle communications with phone carriers on their behalf. The company prioritizes customer privacy and security, employing advanced encryption technology to protect personal information. Sweet partners with major wireless providers to ensure nationwide coverage and reliable service, drawing on the expertise of its founders who have backgrounds in well-known companies.

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, Canada, the company specializes in automating the lifecycle management of data services across various network infrastructures, including network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN). Its flagship product, the Cortx Service Orchestrator, streamlines the ordering, provisioning, monitoring, and assurance of data connectivity services, significantly reducing manual processes. CENX's offerings encompass mobile backhaul, enterprise connectivity, cloud exchange, and machine-to-machine services. Additionally, the company provides professional services such as data audits, automated access ordering, installation, integration, and technical support, ensuring comprehensive assistance for its tier 1 service provider clients. CENX has established itself as a key player in the Carrier Ethernet market, contributing to industry standards and innovation through its involvement with the Metro Ethernet Forum.

Newlans

Series B in 2014
Newlans Inc., established in 2003 and based in Acton, Massachusetts, specializes in programmable analog signal processing solutions for the semiconductor industry. As a fabless company, Newlans develops high-quality, programmable Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) capacitors and components, primarily serving smartphone original equipment manufacturers and radio frequency front-end module suppliers. Its products enable tunable RFFE solutions, addressing the increasing demand for flexible and efficient RF front-ends in 4G LTE devices.

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, Canada, the company specializes in automating the lifecycle management of data services across various network infrastructures, including network functions virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN). Its flagship product, the Cortx Service Orchestrator, streamlines the ordering, provisioning, monitoring, and assurance of data connectivity services, significantly reducing manual processes. CENX's offerings encompass mobile backhaul, enterprise connectivity, cloud exchange, and machine-to-machine services. Additionally, the company provides professional services such as data audits, automated access ordering, installation, integration, and technical support, ensuring comprehensive assistance for its tier 1 service provider clients. CENX has established itself as a key player in the Carrier Ethernet market, contributing to industry standards and innovation through its involvement with the Metro Ethernet Forum.

Hughes Telematics

Acquisition in 2012
Hughes Telematics Inc. (HTI) develops a suite of information-based and wireless services that are adaptable to any sort of vehicle platform. The HTI solutions are developed to be open source architecture, with a telmatics platform "allowing for interconnectivity between multiple content providers, call centers and in-vehicle hardware platforms." Some of the HTI values include "safety and security as the foundation," "a flexible platform for enhanced multiparty services," "a comprehensive yet simple user experience," and more. HTI also customizes to Aftermarket, Manufacturer, and Fleet solutions.

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.

Rural Cellular

Acquisition in 2007
Rural Cellular was a telecommunications company

Networks in Motion

Series C in 2006
Networks In Motion is a prominent wireless navigation and local search company that specializes in providing location-based services for mobile devices. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Orange County, California, with additional offices in the EU, China, and Silicon Valley, the company supports major mobile partners worldwide, including Verizon Wireless, AAA, AT&T, and others. Its NAVBuilder platform is recognized as the most widely used mobile phone navigation service in North America. The platform delivers a comprehensive range of location-centric information, such as local directories, maps, turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions, traffic alerts, weather updates, gas prices, and entertainment schedules. This extensive offering enables users to access valuable information tailored to their specific locations, enhancing their mobile experience.

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.

Networks in Motion

Series B in 2004
Networks In Motion is a prominent wireless navigation and local search company that specializes in providing location-based services for mobile devices. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Orange County, California, with additional offices in the EU, China, and Silicon Valley, the company supports major mobile partners worldwide, including Verizon Wireless, AAA, AT&T, and others. Its NAVBuilder platform is recognized as the most widely used mobile phone navigation service in North America. The platform delivers a comprehensive range of location-centric information, such as local directories, maps, turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions, traffic alerts, weather updates, gas prices, and entertainment schedules. This extensive offering enables users to access valuable information tailored to their specific locations, enhancing their mobile experience.

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.
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