TechCrunch has launched a groundbreaking initiative to bring transparency to venture capital, while Amazon tests innovative retail tech and ICE reverses its student visa policy. Here’s the latest in tech news for July 14, 2020.
The Big Story: Introducing The TechCrunch List
In June, TechCrunch teased a major project aimed at rebuilding the VC industry with greater transparency. Today, that vision becomes reality with The TechCrunch List—a verified directory of investors who actively lead funding rounds for startups.
Key Features of The TechCrunch List:
- Curated by Market Vertical: Organized to help founders find the right investors for their industry
- Founder-Verified: Based on enthusiastic recommendations from startup founders themselves
- Living Directory: Regularly updated as investor preferences and portfolios evolve
“The TechCrunch List represents our commitment to democratizing access to venture capital information,” explains Managing Editor Danny Crichton. The inaugural list highlights 11 top-recommended VCs (Extra Crunch membership required) and includes a comprehensive directory of active investors.
Tech Industry Updates
Retail Innovation
- Amazon Tests Smart Shopping Cart: The Dash Cart uses computer vision to identify and charge for items automatically, launching first in Woodland Hills, California
Telecom Policy Shift
- UK Bans Huawei from 5G Networks: Operators must remove existing Huawei and ZTE equipment by 2027, marking a significant reversal in policy
Mobile Ecosystem
- Google Play Pass Expands Globally: Android’s answer to Apple Arcade now offers annual subscriptions and more titles worldwide
Startup Funding Highlights
Major Investments
- Auth0 Raises $120M Series F: The identity platform now boasts a $1.92B valuation for its developer-friendly authentication service
- Oatly Secures $200M: The oat milk pioneer attracted investment from Blackstone and celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Natalie Portman
Founder Education
- TC Early Stage Covers Fundraising Essentials: Upcoming event features insights from top investors and founders like Figma’s Dylan Field and Sequoia’s Jess Lee
Analysis & Insights (Extra Crunch)
- Chromium Startups Gain Traction: Investors show growing interest in browser technologies built on Google’s open-source project
- IPO Market Remains Strong: nCino and Jamf demonstrate continued investor appetite for tech offerings
Policy & Entertainment Updates
- ICE Reverses Student Visa Policy: Following lawsuits from Harvard and MIT, the administration rescinded rules affecting international students
- Peacock Launches Nationwide: NBCUniversal’s streaming service becomes available to all U.S. viewers (excluding Roku and Fire TV platforms)
- Lego Releases NES Classic Kit: A 2,646-piece set that lets builders recreate (and hand-crank) Super Mario Bros. gameplay
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🚀 Technology Solutions & Recommendations
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Image: Premium product showcase
The TechCrunch List appeals to startup founders and tech professionals who appreciate transparency and efficiency—qualities mirrored in the Hello – Cap’s no-nonsense design and practicality. Whether you’re pitching to VCs or coding late into the night, this cap is a stylish companion for the tech-savvy.
Hello – Cap is a sleek, minimalist baseball cap designed for tech enthusiasts and startup founders who value both style and functionality. Just like The TechCrunch List brings transparency to VC funding, this cap keeps things straightforward with its clean design and breathable fabric. Perfect for long hours at the office or outdoor brainstorming sessions.
Key Features:
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- Adjustable strap for a custom fit
- Minimalist design with subtle branding
- Unisex style suitable for all head sizes
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🛍️ Featured Product 2: Heartbeat – Mousepad
Image: Premium product showcase
TechCrunch readers who spend hours analyzing startups and tech trends need reliable peripherals. This mousepad complements the fast-paced, detail-oriented work of following the tech investment landscape, much like The TechCrunch List aims to do for the VC world.
Just as The TechCrunch List brings transparency to startup funding, the Heartbeat Mousepad keeps your workflow clear and efficient. This sleek, responsive surface ensures your cursor moves as smoothly as venture capital should flow to promising startups. Perfect for long hours of research, deal-making, or browsing the latest tech news.
Key Features:
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- Optimized for both optical and laser mice
- Slim, portable design for home office or coworking spaces
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