Local Tech Wire - Latest News

Former Aurora Funds partner joins Tennessee firm

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:48:12 -0500

Grant Jackson, a former venture partner at {{a href="external_link-4262379"}}Aurora Funds{{/a}}, has joined Tennessee-based {{a href="external_link-4262372"}}Council Ventures{{/a}}.

RTP-based Liquidia forms drug delivery research partnership with Abbott

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:54:52 -0500

{{a href="external_link-1220411"}}Liquidia Technologies{{/a}} is teaming with drug giant Abbott to develop means of delivering drugs through nanotechnology developed by the privately held RTP startup.

NCSU names former NASA executive to lead Centennial Campus, R&D efforts

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:06:16 -0500

Terri Lomax is officially the new head of North Carolina State’s Centennial Campus as well as the school’s research and development efforts and graduate studies.

Lenovo plans 'price sensitive' announcement, suspends trading

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:28:27 -0500

The world's No. 4 PC maker is expected to disclose a restructuring along with some layoffs. Lenovo asked that share trades be "temporarily suspended."

2009 unlikely to be a 'breakout year,' so conserve, says Atlanta VC

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:46:52 -0500

Survival of the Fittest VII: Noro-Moseley’s Michael Elliott does see growth opportunities despite economic slowdown. But he warns financing will be tough and Wall Street exits will remain rare.

Scale Finance advises Charlotte-based Quaero on $24M sale

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:49:13 -0500

Scale Finance, led by managing director Dave Gilroy, provided advisory support for Charlotte-based Quaero Corporation during its recent acquisition by CSG Systems International.

AMD launches Yukon platform for ultraportable computers

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:09:58 -0500

Advanced Micro Devices rolled out technology Tuesday that can make notebook computers lighter, faster, and more versatile.

Protecting your assets in tough economic times

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:01:30 -0500

TechLaw: Asset protection is a critical and relevant issue to most individuals - particularly during tough economic times. This article addresses asset protection planning.

Start a company in 2009 – Are you nuts? Well, no.

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 13:51:20 -0500

Angel Connection: Funding may be an easy, but startup costs are lower and reaching customers costs less. Selling and support costs also are lower. So, bootstrap that new venture today.

WRAL content now available through iPhone application

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 06:37:51 -0500

Capitol Broadcasting’s flagship becomes first local TV station to deploy custom program written for popular Apple device.

Cisco joins backers for alternative to Microsoft Outlook

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:50:30 -0500

Xobni, a plug-in that tries to improve email organization in Microsoft Outlook, has raised $7 million in a second round of venture financing.

As layoff rumors swirl at IBM, Big Blue says Obama tech plan could create 900,000 jobs

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:02:31 -0500

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — "Resource action,” which is IBM insider lingo for layoffs, is the hot topic among Big Blue employees as another quarterly earnings announcement approaches. However, Sam Palmisano, IBM’s top executive, is telling the incoming Barack Obama administration that investments in technology as part of an economic stimulus plan could create hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Global slowdown could trigger a ‘freeze’ in venture financing, Intersouth partner fears

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 11:34:18 -0500

Survival of the Fittest VI: Richard Kent, who led drug startup Serenex to an acquisition by Pfizer, says life-science and technology advances continue to be made. But he’s worried about large institutional investors’ attitudes.

BioDelivery Sciences signs $6M partnership deal for lead drug candidate

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 07:10:50 -0500

BioDelivery Sciences (Nasdaq: BDSI) has signed a deal worth $6 million with its international partner for distribution of its powerful drug that targets breakthrough cancer pain.

Pharmaceutical Product Development acquires Merck vaccine testing lab

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 07:03:13 -0500

Pharmaceutical Product Development is expanding its global footprint, acquiring a vaccine testing laboratory in Pennsylvania from international drug giant Merck.

Atlanta-based Indie Music rolls out popularity tool for musicians

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:50:23 -0500

Independent musicians looking to launch their careers online will soon have a brand new tool to measure their popularity in real time: Band Metrics.Its parent company, Atlanta-based Indie Music, raised an undisclosed angel round of funding to continue developing the application, currently in a private beta.

Nourish International blends entrepreneurship, philanthropy to combat hunger

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:28:41 -0500

If you are looking for a good cause to support in 2009, why not chose one that incorporates entrepreneurship and high-tech in fighting world hunger?

How to survive nuclear winter? Seize the opportunity for success, says veteran S.C. exec

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 11:11:13 -0500

Survival of the Fittest V: 'Never waste a good crisis,' says venture capitalist, economic developer and entrepreneur John Warner. Looking for a job? Start a company, he advises.

Social networking present - Christmas Eve busiest day ever for Facebook

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 10:07:29 -0500

Bad weather may have helped social networking top 2% of all Internet traffic. MySpace, Twitter also report heavy traffic.

Internet Explorer market share dips to lowest level

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 09:56:39 -0500

This past November, Microsoft’s web browser, Internet Explorer (IE), saw its market share fall below 70 percent for the first time, according to data from Market Share.

VentureSource: Worst venture liquidity in five years

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 09:51:04 -0500

IPOs, mergers and acquisitions produce 58% less in deals in 2008 from previous year.

Chip sales take a steep dive in November

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 11:47:29 -0500

The worldwide economic turmoil caused an immediate impact on sales of chips that go into everything electronic. Global semiconductor sales fell 9.8 percent in November compared to a year ago, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association.

High-tech headsets bring roar of NASCAR racing to videogames

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 15:42:17 -0500

North Carolina-based Track Scan has turned its knowledge of live NASCAR and Indy Car track news into a higher level of sound for game players.

Marketing in a recession – Desiring results in dire times

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:20:42 -0500

Opinion: Desire is the raging river that turns society's wheels. And though its force may be at a low ebb right now, that river does not run dry. Even in 2009, savvy marketers will find the right currents and deliver exceptional results to their bosses or clients.

Strangling Silicon Valley and entrepreneurship – Regulation overkill?

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 11:15:55 -0500

The Angel Connection: Author Michael Malone paints a grim picture about what increased scrutiny is doing to the nation’s entrepreneurial engine in the Valley and elsewhere. Will a new president bring needed freedom?

N.C.'s best economic news of 2008 – Murdock's Research Campus. But where are the honors?

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 09:30:52 -0500

Owner of Dole Food s building a second Research Triangle Park in the former textile town of Kannapolis. His $1.5 billion N.C. Research Campus, which opened last summer, is a “biopolis,” as he has described it, is a Taj Mahal.

Carpooling's social network: The idea is gaining traction

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 07:36:08 -0500

Innovation Exchange: Web site launched in South Carolina looks to streamline the carpooling concept while helping the environment and saving users a few pennies along the way.

Lenovo to layoff 200 in Beijing as part of restructuring, Chinese magazine says

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 09:47:27 -0500

Report is latest in a series from Chinese sources that says world’s No. 4 PC maker is planning major shakeups.

Ten tech predictions for 2009

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 08:09:15 -0500

Look for few IPOs, but innovation will continue, especially in cleantech, cloud computing and more Android competitors for the iPhone.

Nuclear winter? Bah. Now is good time to launch a business, says tech survivor

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 07:40:51 -0500

Survival of the Fittest, IV: InCentric Solutions CEO says it’s ‘much easier’ to start a new venture in tough times. Why? Less capital needed, it’s easier to find good employees, and more.

Atlanta-based firm to hire up to 913 people for call center in Hickory

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 07:23:59 -0500

An Atlanta-based startup that provides customer support for telecommunications providers plans to open a call center in Hickory that could employ as many as 913 people over the next two years.

Maryland VoIP firm BroadSoft merges with rival

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 06:56:54 -0500

BroadSoft acquires California-based Sylantro in combination of two venture-backed startups.

Consumer Reports consumes Consumerist

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 06:52:00 -0500

Gawker Media, the publisher of popular blogs such as Gawker and Jezebel, has sold its Consumerist blog to Consumers Union, which publishes Consumer Reports.

Scrooge strikes: Online holiday shopping drops 3 percent

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 06:46:20 -0500

Drop is first since research firm comScore began tracking e-commerce sales in 2001.

Lenovo is mulling shakeup in Pacific operations, Chinese media reports

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 07:05:40 -0500

'The economic conditions are so tough that (the company) is set to take some measures to counter the winter,' Lenovo exec says.

Covering your intangible assets – Intellectual property insurance

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 06:07:33 -0500

TechLaw: The number of intellectual property claims involving patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secrets has skyrocketed in recent years. The American Intellectual Property Law Association estimates that the average cost to litigate a patent infringement suit exceeds one million dollars. A competitor can financially wreck a company that does not have adequate funds to protect and enforce its intellectual property. Proper insurance can help avert disaster.

Looking for a job? Social media offers opportunities – and obstacles

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:03:52 -0500

Traditional resumes and an ol' boys/girls network simply isn’t enough any more. A new paradigm is in play.

Surviving nuclear winter: Get lean, innovate through R&D, says iContact chairman

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:51:07 -0500

Survival of the Fittest, Part III: While your competition is 'totally paranoid' about the recession, take the opportunity to retool, recruit and grow your venture, advises Aaron Houghton.

'Cleantech' opportunities will be focus of RTP event

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 07:37:25 -0500

Clark Waterfall, chairman of the {{a href="external_link-4214792"}}Ignite Clean Energy{{/a}} business competition backed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is coming to the Triangle to talk about opportunities for new ventures in “cleantech.”

Salix to fight FDA after rejection of colitis drug

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 11:16:39 -0500

Salix Pharmaceuticals said Monday that it would fight a U.S. Food and Drug Administration rejection of its proposed ulcerative colitis drug for patients 18 and over.

The best games of 2008 – A year of sequels, but good ones

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 08:41:02 -0500

N.C. has strong connection with two of top game developers – Epic for 'Gears of War 2' and Insomniac for 'Resistance 2.'

Tech trends for 2009: Watch out for PC, online game growth; emergence of surface computing; and more innovation imports

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:17:21 -0500

One highlight: Traditional mouse and keyboard setups will start to be replaced by touch-sensitive screens that allow users to control functions with their fingertips. Hewlett-Packard’s TouchSmart PC is just the beginning.

Yahoo, LinkedIn execs join personal genomics startup 23andMe

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:00:29 -0500

Company has been getting plenty of attention for its “retail DNA test”, including being named Time Magazine’s invention of the year.

New site Telonu lets users review jobs — and layoffs

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 13:52:36 -0500

With the job market as bad as it is, a crummy review may not dissuade you from taking a job, but at least you’ll know what you’re getting into.

How to survive a nuclear winter? Hibernation is one choice, says top VC lawyer

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:46:09 -0500

'Survival of the Fittest': John Yates of Morris, Manning and Martin says coming year will test entrepreneurs with tight funding and a tough economy. Those who survive will be the ones who learn how to 'swim,' he warns.

Postbox declares war on e-mail overload

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 07:02:23 -0500

Review: Startup doesn’t offer a single overriding feature that will blow away the competition, but rather a bunch of small improvements that, collectively, make for a substantially improved e-mail experience.

As RTI turns 50, its CEO keeps R&D firm on path to discovery, growth

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 08:32:50 -0500

Victoria Haynes earns a top business honor for her success in turning RTI into an economic and technology powerhouse.

Duke begins hiring for launch of health study at N.C. Research Campus

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:38:33 -0500

Crystal Overcash says she's proof that you don't need a college degree to work at the N.C. Research Campus.

Novartis pays $20M to Triangle firm for potential herpes vaccince

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:30:31 -0500

Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis AG said Monday it has licensed a potential vaccine for a type of herpes virus from AlphaVax.

Sony Vaio Pocket leaked — Hope you have cargo pants

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 05:00:00 -0500

The leaked specs for Sony’s Vaio Pocket, as it’s to be called, are calling into question just how low cost it could be - and how big.

Novartis pays $20M to Triangle firm for potential herpes vaccince

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 08:25:10 -0500

Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis AG said Monday it has licensed a potential vaccine for a type of herpes virus from AlphaVax.

Security for homeland: Risks and opportunities will abound in 2009

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 07:57:03 -0500

Executives simply can’t cut IT security spending in order to make the next quarter’s bottom line stronger. The end result of short-sighted savings could be economic fallout that lasts for decades.

In tough economy, execs must balance strategic with operational IT spending

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 06:54:30 -0500

Innovation Exchange: In third annual McKinsey survey, tech managers and leaders expect less spending in 2009. But many will continue to focus on improving organizational performance while cutting operational expenses.

Investors get in on videogame, virtual world action to tune of $500M

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:15:36 -0500

2008 is expected to set records for interactive entertainment sales. Backers obviously see opportunities for future growth.

Gaming 2009 – An advance look at the year’s most exciting thrillers

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:01:57 -0500

From zombies in Resident Evil to a Wii sports bundle and gods at war, videogame industry offers a tantalizing lineup across top gaming platforms.

Christmas – A day to set business aside, focus on what’s truly important

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 07:16:51 -0500

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – What are your favorite memories of Christmas?

Investor forms new tech company around RTP-based Integrian assets

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 22:57:35 -0500

More than 50 employees are hired by Digital Safety Technologies, which is led by New York investor Roger Lucas. Integrian had raised some $60 million from investors.

Management shakeup coming at Lenovo? Chinese media say chairman may leave

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 08:23:34 -0500

Why might changes be made? Well, Lenovo doesn't have much to show for an expensive, year-long marketing campaign. Plus, don't forget failure to acquire Brazil-based Positivo.

Top Linux developer at Red Hat to join Intel

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:39:14 -0500

Alan Cox, an early developer of the open source software and a 10-year Red Hat veteran, says he’s leaving on ‘good terms’ and ‘strongly’ supports work being done at Raleigh firm.

Lenovo, Dell ship more PCs in Q3; notebooks top PCs for first time

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:34:35 -0500

As Acer ‘netbook’ sales surge, Dell faces threat to No. 2 market position behind HP. Lenovo growth rate doesn’t match that of other top five competitors.

Big momentum for mobile greetings? Mogreet to find out

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:49:25 -0500

Startup signs video clip deal with Fox Searchlight in bid to make multimedia messages more popular in U.S.

Sex, lies and e-mails: Marriage and divorce in the age of the World Wide Web

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:57:27 -0500

TechLaw: We have rushed head first into the world of quick and easy electronic communication by e-mails, text messages, and social networking sites such as MySpace® and Facebook®. But what an impact these communications can have on our lives if they are found and publicly disclosed.

Emory professor gives up leadership post in dispute over payments from GSK

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:39:29 -0500

Dr. Charles Nemeroff, longtime chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University, Emory University, is no longer head of that department following a conflict of interest investigation by the school.

Nuclear Winter '09 – How will you, your company survive or thrive?

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:26:01 -0500

"Survival of the Fittest," first in a series: CEO of Sageworks says now is the time to "expand, spend, and grow." Brian Hamilton survived the 2001-02 meltdown. He offers insight on how to emerge from the newest challenge with a stronger company.

Earnings report leaves analyst calling Red Hat a 'Jolly Man'; stock jumps 11%

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:02:49 -0500

CEO Jim Whitehurst, wrapping up his first year in the job, should grow a beard and buy a Santa suit. Red Hat shares jumped eight percent, or more than $1, to reach $13 in after-hours trading following the quarterly report.

U.S. subsidiary of Italian agricultural chemical firm moving HQ to Triangle from Georgia

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 10:54:55 -0500

Sipcam Agro USA, an $80 million company, and two of its subsidiaries are relocating their headquarters to Research Triangle Park, N.C., in January.

Christmas gift ideas for the gamer

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 08:09:35 -0500

When it comes to gamers, the last thing you probably want to get them is a new videogame – unless you already know their library and what others might be getting them.

Training people to start a business is better for job creation than incentives, UNC exec says

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:16:05 -0500

UNC-CH economic development director cites $100,000 project in Appalachia as example of more cost effective way to produce jobs.

Earnings results + revenue forecast = Merry Christmas or Grinch for Red Hat

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 08:30:45 -0500

A new product and some endorsements from analysts certainly help Red Hat stabilize its stock for the short term. But today’s earnings announcement, and especially revenue forecasts into the unknowns of 2009, will carrying even more weight.

Internet commerce – Weathering the storm

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 10:12:18 -0500

Angel Connection: E-commerce continues to grow, but global financial slowdown poses major problems.

Pappas Ventures raises $96M for new fund

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:06:14 -0500

Venture capital firm {{a href="external_link-0"}}Pappas ventures{{/a}} is nearly half way through raising a $200 million fund, the Triangle Business Journal reported Friday.

NCTA makes available audio file of ‘nuclear winter’ financial discussion

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:48:09 -0500

The {{a href="external_link-2318213"}}North Carolina Technology Association{{/a}} is offering a chance for people who couldn’t attend their event about a potential “nuclear winter” a chance to tune in via the Web.

What next for Lenovo? Look for focus on efficiency

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:36:32 -0500

Analysis: Global economic slowdown gives world’s No. 4 PC maker a chance to improve internal operations and emerge as a stronger company.

Internet or sex - Which would you give up?

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:15:58 -0500

Innovation Exchange: In survey, 65 percent of adults feel they cannot live without Internet access, and even more – 71 percent – responded that it is important or very important to have Internet-enabled devices. Now that’s important.

New media, advertising network Glam launches ‘variable pay’

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:29:15 -0500

Fixed pay is out, compensation based on advertising sales is in at California firm. Will this be a future trend for similar sites?

Location, location, location regardless of network via Loopt

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:17:12 -0500

With launch on AT&T, local-based social network application reaches across phones and service providers.

Social publishing firm lands $9M investment

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:04:06 -0500

Social publishing firm {{a href="external_link-2219395"}}Scribd{{/a}} is announcing today that it has raised $9 million in a second round of funding and has hired George Consagra, former chief operating officer of Bebo, as its president.

Hamner Institute wins $2.1M contract for asbestos research

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:46:34 -0500

Researchers at the {{a href="external_link-1658643"}}Hamner Institutes for Health Sciences{{/a}} will study the risks posed by a particular mineral and its link to lung cancer and other ailments through a $2.1 million, three-year contract with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Three executives, including former interim CEO, leave etrials

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 09:40:15 -0500

Provider of ‘eClincal’ software for clinical trials management says company is ‘reshaping’ to meet marketplace demands. Reorganization is second this year.

Qualex is dead; long live Kodak? As a film operation is shuttered, digital reigns supreme

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 08:46:22 -0500

DURHAM, N.C. — Sadly, a classic case of the horse-and-buggy industry being replaced by the Model T is taking place before our very eyes in the Bull City.

Nearly $1M available in ‘green’ grants from N.C. for 2009

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:37:35 -0500

Application to apply for biofuel, alternative energy, clean technology grants is Jan. 9.

Investment or enjoyment: Are we now looking at our homes differently?

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:13:20 -0500

National indicators show housing values falling from 10 to 20 percent over the past year. The numbers aren't quite as dire for North Carolina. The bottom line is that our view of homeownership has now shifted back toward consumption and away from investment.

QVC's latest product: Energy to sell from solar farm in Rocky Mount

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 09:54:29 -0500

Liberty Media works with same firm that supplied technology for solar facility at SAS to build five-acre "farm." It's online and producing electricity.

SAS solar farm a sign of future – Renewable energy, but at premium rates

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 07:50:35 -0500

Remember this: Carbon offsets, solar, wind, biomass and other alternatives might be good for the environment, but $4 gas and spiraling utility bills wrecked our economy

Lenovo ends talks to acquire Brazilian PC-maker

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:57:40 -0500

World’s No. 4 PC-maker says it will pursue a strategic alliance with Positivo. Lenovo reportedly offered some $700 million in buyout bid.

UNC-CH tech transfer executive takes job at Scripps Research Institute

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 11:10:50 -0500

Mark Crowell, head of technology transfer at UNC-Chapel Hill, is leaving the university for a similar position at Scripps Research Institute.

Let the sun shine – SAS turns on solar power 'farm'

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:54:01 -0500

Progress Energy, which is buying electricity produced at Cary facility, calls launch a "huge milestone." N.C. has mandated use of renewable energy resources. Progress is building another farm and plans to construct many more.

Lenovo changes gears, cuts back F1 race advertising, switches support to McLaren

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 11:08:05 -0500

World’s No. 4 PC-maker says it will make smaller investment in Formula 1 for 2009. Lenovo also will back team of F1 champion Lewis Hamilton. New deal includes no signage at F1 tracks or on cars.

Outlook 2009: What the VCs are saying – Some insight is positive but most is not

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:36:16 -0500

A cross-section of opinions shows some VCs see 2009 as a year of opportunity. But most expect a tough year.

2009 will be grim year for venture capital, VCs predict

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:06:36 -0500

In National Venture Capital Association forecast survey, 92 percent of VCs see sharp drop in funding next year. One top VC says 2009 will be worse than ‘dot com’ implosion. Early stage and startup funding could be especially hard hit. One hot investment sector is clean tech.

Tekelec pays nearly $40M to acquire Dutch texting technology firm

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:22:51 -0500

Morrisville telecom gear-maker already uses mBalance software in its messaging products. Price could go as high as $60 million if financial benchmarks are hit.

A Morrisville firm makes a deal – but it’s Tekelec, not Lenovo

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 08:07:58 -0500

Wall Street Journal reports Lenovo may pass on chance to acquire Brazilian PC-maker.

Videogame industry joins 'going green' crowd

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 07:35:00 -0500

With so much media attention focused on the negatives of gaming, it’s great to see these types of initiatives that encourage kids to get outside and help recycle, volunteer and make a difference in the world.

Tenants beware: Record your lease or prepare to lose your rights

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 07:02:31 -0500

TechLaw: Most business owners know that their lease must be in writing to be enforceable against the landlord. Many do not know that something more must be done to make the lease enforceable against persons other than their landlord.

Apple developing inexpensive a counter to ‘netbooks’

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 07:10:30 -0500

Analysis: Look of Steve Jobs to unveil a new mobile device in January that will be more than an iPhone but not just a less expensive Mac.

N.C. China Center opens office in Beijing

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:00:43 -0500

The {{a href="external_link-4149449"}}North Carolina China Center{{/a}}, a non-profit group focused on increasing Chinese investment to North Carolina, is opening an office in Beijing as of Dec. 22.

Startup Parion Sciences receives biodefense grant topping $850,000

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 10:58:50 -0500

Drug development firm to focus on development of potential treatment for people who inhale radioactive materials.

Overture Networks acquires competitor, plans to expand product offerings

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:55:34 -0500

Some 20 jobs are being cut. Intersouth-backed Overture buys Texas-based Ceterus Networks. Both firms focus on Ethernet services.

Mobile applications startup PocketGear adds Palm to 'apps store' lineup

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:50:33 -0500

While Apple turns the mobile world upside down with its apps story, Durham-based company is countering with the Palm store. It's his second, the first being the Android store that launched last month.

BioDelivery Sciences files revamped new drug application with FDA

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 07:16:59 -0500

BioDelivery Sciences (Nasdaq: BDSI) filed an amended new drug application for its lead product with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Monday.

Five drug startup firms in Triangle land $1.3M in Biotech Center loans

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:10:40 -0500

The Biotech Center also will help the startups with professional services such as business-plan advice.

Backers pull support; Piedmont Triad entrepreneurial group is shutting down

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:51:44 -0500

The {{a href="external_link-1270263"}}Piedmont Triad Entrepreneurial Network{{/a}}, one of the best-known groups for entrepreneurs and startup companies in North Carolina, is shutting down.

Google pays $3.13M for 60 more acres of land in Lenoir

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 06:25:22 -0500

Search engine giant says it has no immediate plans to expand its Caldwell County data center. Google earlier this month declined to seek tax incentives based on job creation.

Information technology job openings plunge 30% in N.C.

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:03:14 -0500

Latest report from N.C. Technology Association, SkillProof finds just over 2,000 IT openings in November, down more than 900 from October. Openings are just barely over half those available a year earlier. Only three of top 15 categories show increase in postings.

Zapping decision making? Startup offers e-mail decision making tracking tool

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:59:00 -0500

Oregon-based firm emerges from beta mode with product to enable, track group-based decisions online.

Global economic crisis impacts on foreign workers and their home countries

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:54:56 -0500

A potentially bigger threat to the well-being of developing countries than global slowdown is that remittances - the cash that migrant workers send to the loved ones they leave behind - appear to be falling, for the first time in decades.

Five startups receive grants up to $50,000 each from NC IDEA

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:40:07 -0500

Software, agritech, on-demand fabric printing, medical diagnostic and medical device firm receive funding from economic development group. Next round applications open through Jan. 30.

Freedom of choice at last – uVerse offers alterative to cable TV

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:40:44 -0500

After years of promises and failed ventures, a legitimate rival for Time Warner emerges. Now you have a choice.

Kannapolis homeowner refuses to sell property near N.C. Research Campus

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:22:56 -0500

A homeowner says he will fight "tooth and nail" against plans to seize his property for a new health department.

Epic Games wins two top honors at SpikeTV videogame awards

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:57:48 -0500

Epic Games walked away with two awards Sunday night for its smash hit “Gears of War 2” at the sixth-annual Spike TV VGAs (Video Game Awards) show, which was held live for the first time in Los Angeles at Sony Picture Studios.

Epic Games wins two top honors at SpikeTV videogame awards

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:24:53 -0500

‘Gears of War 2,’ which has already sold more than 3 million copies, receives Best Shooter, Best Xbox 360 awards but doesn’t get top game honor at VGAs in Hollywood. Epic also premiers some new features.

What's the deal with ROI now? Immediate return – or no business

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:07:00 -0500

Innovation Exchange: If you can't build a credible economic justification that generates fiscal results quickly, it doesn't matter if you have the latest and greatest idea on the planet. You won't make any money on your idea and/or gain any street ‘cred’ if you don't make the ROI argument. It's as simple as that.

Blogging from ‘Le Web’ – iContact’s Taylor Barr

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:34:02 -0500

Advice to remember from a successful CEO: ‘One of the only ways to grow a fundamentally sound business is if you love and listen to your customers. Without that strong relationship, you have absolutely nothing.’

Angel investing – Slowdown confirmed, but with selective optimism

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:09:01 -0500

Angel Connection: The entire private equity food chain is feeling the effects of the economic downturn. The results are the same for angels as they are for venture capital and investment banking.

The sounds of music, the action of videogames – A Marriage of the future, says Atari exec

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 13:49:13 -0500

‘The future of music and games is obviously online, where you can bring music, music performance, interactive and community, specifically the ability to generate content and download content,’ says Phil Harrison. ‘I think a whole new art form can be created, but don’t get me started because I can talk about that for hours.’

'Gears of War 2' Tops November Sales

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:34:17 -0500

Epic Games’ new release topped the software charts, selling 1.56 million copies of the game in the U.S. in November. Microsoft recently announced that the sequel has sold over 3 million copies globally since launch.

SAS to offer educational software to teachers at no cost

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:20:25 -0500

Curriculum Pathways, which generates more than $1M a year in revenues, will give educators tools to boost student interest, says SAS billionaire owner Jim Goodnight.

FDA advisers offer support for GSK asthma drug, not a second

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:37:02 -0500

Government health advisers have called for restrictions on some long-acting asthma drugs, but spared Advair, a top-selling medication used by millions of patients.

How low, low the mighty have fallen – Nortel now faces NYSE delisting

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:12:58 -0500

Update: The delisting news comes as one Wall Street analyst has said the stock is headed toward zero and shortly after news reports surfaced that Nortel is contemplating bankruptcy.

Lenovo bids more than $800M for Brazilian PC maker, paper says

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:38:17 -0500

World’s No. 4 computer manufacturer has not said publicly it wants to buy Positivo but has acknowledged interest in making acquisitions.

Five N.C. firms add 'fellows' through Biotech Center program

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 11:55:29 -0500

Five North Carolina companies are each gaining a research scientist – at no cost – as part of the new “Industrial Fellowships Program” funded by the North Carolina Biotechnology Center.

Halo falls off angel investing – Dollars available, deals done are dropping, survey says

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:21:58 -0500

Angel Capital Association reports angel group funding nationally is down 10% this year. Number of deals drops even more – 16%. More bad news could be coming, says Triangle angel advisor.

UNC-CH researcher lands post at N.C. Research Campus

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 11:58:22 -0500

People at the N.C. Research Campus first got to know Dr. Mihai Niculescu when he spoke at a press conference in April.

Salix pays $4.5M for rights to potential diarrhea drug

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 11:36:21 -0500

Raleigh-based pharmaceutical firm also agrees to invest $500,000 in Napo Pharmaceuticals, which is developing new compound.

Critics should not shoulder blame –or credit - alone for N.C. losing biolab project

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:27:46 -0500

Critics of the proposal to build the Homeland Security biodefense lab in Granville County take most of the blame for North Carolina not winning the project. But that’s a one-sided view from the agency that made the selection.

Lenovo chairman acknowledges 'preliminary' acquisition talks

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:42:41 -0500

World’s No. 4 PC-maker has reportedly discussed buying PC-maker in Brazil in deal worth $2B. Yang says Lenovo is in 'preliminary discussions' for possible deal. Analyst says deal fits Lenovo growth criteria.

Drug firm Patheon, a subject of takeover bid, opens office and lab in RTP

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:57:26 -0500

Patheon, a Canadian-based drug development and manufacturing firm, formally opened its newest facilities Wednesday at a headquarters and a lab facility in the Triangle.

Former GSK exec quickly making mark as CEO at Sanofi-Aventis

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:49:46 -0500

Chris Viehbacher names a new chief financial officer, begins organizational changes at world’s No. 3 drug maker. He took over the company on Dec. 1.

Red Hat turns VC, invests in business intelligence software developer

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:19:12 -0500

JasperSoft secures $12.5 million in venture financing with red Hat as one of the backers.

Create your own video aggregator site with Vodpod

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:09:39 -0500

{{a href="external_link-4113637"}}Vodpod{{/a}}, a company that lets you collect and republish online videos, is launching a way to publish your video collections within a single site.

Study: More nanotechnology research is needed

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:52:21 -0500

The government needs a more comprehensive plan for studying the risks of nanotechnology, the National Research Council said Wednesday.

Trimeris to pay out $21M in dividend

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:21:29 -0500

Trimeris (Nasdaq: TRMS) is going to pay a $1 per share dividend to stockholders of record as of Dec. 19.

Blogging from ‘Le Web,' Day 2 – iContact’s Taylor Barr

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:34:14 -0500

From ‘fireside chats’ to opportunities to use latest technology tools, second day of global conference offers chance to see Web’s future.

Nortel seeks advice about potential bankruptcy, Wall Street Journal reports

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:47:01 -0500

Telecommunications gear maker Nortel Networks is preparing for a possible bankruptcy filing in the event a recently launched restructuring plan does not work, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.

SEC to change accounting rules: Bridging the gap between GAAP and IFRS

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 15:13:12 -0500

TechLaw: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission recently announced a proposed timetable to change the accounting rules that public companies use to prepare financial statements filed with the SEC. This change could impact your business in the future.

Atlanta media startup lands $3M in financing

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:00:35 -0500

2080 Media, a startup that wants to help clients produce and distribute sporting events that aren’t being televised, has secured $3 million in venture funding.

RTP-based Harris Stratex Networks may be put up for sale

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:49:51 -0500

The parent of wireless technology company Harris Stratex Networks is considering selling its shares in the firm or other options.

Targacept ends testing for potential schizophrenia drug, gets $2M payment for another compound

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:32:52 -0500

{{a href="external_link-1118844"}}Targacept{{/a}} won’t pursue further development of a potential treatment for schizophrenia after the drug failed to produce “statistical significance” in a clinical trial.

Richard Kent, former Serenex CEO, joins Intersouth Partners

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:36:56 -0500

Kent, a doctor, will focus on life-science investments at Durham-based VC firm. He is a former chief medical officer at GSK.

Sales of epic proportions for 'Gears 2' – 3 million in a month; awards next?

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:53:26 -0500

Sequel to award-winning "Gears of War" is selling at faster pace than the original, Microsoft tells Cary-based Epic Games. Game is "exceeding expectations," Epic says. Gears is also a finalist for several Spike Video Game Awards.

Lenovo CEO predicts PC industry consolidation, stays mum on possible acquisition

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:31:03 -0500

In press conference in China, William Amelio also won't rule out further layoffs or a restructuring of world's No. 4 PC maker. Amelio also to expand product lines, focus on emerging markets.

Blogging from ‘Le Web’ – iContact’s Taylor Barr

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 07:34:20 -0500

Attendees from more than 40 countries gather to discuss the transformation of information. Check out live streaming ...

Good news: More companies plan to hire than to slash jobs, survey says

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:19:52 -0500

Latest Manpower report indicates first-quarter employment could improve. Most firms plan to maintain headcount. NCSU economist finds report 'reassuring.'

Cabarrus County Health Alliance launches institute at N.C. Research Campus

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 06:38:57 -0500

Using a gift from billionaire David Murdock, the public health agency in Cabarrus County has created a new division devoted to the N.C. Research Campus, it was announced Monday.

Charlotte-based Quaero is sold to Colorado firm in deal worth as much as $24.5M

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:51:19 -0500

{{a href="external_link-4100565"}}Quaero{{/a}, a provider of Web marketing and other services, is being sold to CSG Systems International in a deal worth at least $15 million.

Unable to raise capital, Relativity Technologies sells to U.K. firm for $9.7M

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:44:53 -0500

Raleigh-based software modernization firm had raised more than $24 million in venture capital since 1997. CEO says he expects few layoffs, but will not stay with combined venture. Founder Vivek Wadhwa is 'disappointed' in selling price.

Opposition scuttled biolab sites in N.C., Ga., Homeland Security says

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:36:35 -0500

In final memo spelling out why Kansas won, opponents in North Carolina and Georgia are cited as a crucial factor for those states not landing $450M project.

Location-based advertising: Place trumps traditional targeting

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 12:24:22 -0500

Just as in real estate, it’s location, location, location for targeted Web advertising.

Warner Bros. picks RTP firm to get serious about fighting AIDS in Kenya

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:37:35 -0500

Virtual Heroes, a developer of serious games technology, works with Warner Bros. Interactive, U.S. government to develop ‘Together in the Hood.’ Aim is to strengthen anti-HIV efforts.

NCSU researcher links 'silent epidemic' to tick-born bacteria

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:26:28 -0500

UniversityTech: bacteria may be responsible for some chronic and debilitating neurological illnesses in humans, particularly among people with substantial animal contact or arthropod exposure.

Durham medical startup Oncoscope lands first venture funding

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:07:50 -0500

Using optical technology developed at Duke, Oncoscope plans to use light technology for early cancer detection. IDEA Fund Partners leads round.

RTP group needs your help to refit PCs for needy students

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 11:12:27 -0500

Triangle-based organization hopes to provide 175 computers to children in need this holiday season.

Kids can win 10 Grand creating a game

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:03:21 -0500

New contest also gives kids between the ages of 5 and 19 the chance to spend some winter break time designing their own game experience.

BD Diagnostics receives FDA approval for cervical cancer screening system

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:39:57 -0500

BD Diagnostics has received Food and Drug Administration approval for its FocalPoint imaging system that is designed to detect cervical cancer.

What can’t iPhone do? New app turns it into remote control

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:29:57 -0500

Startup Square Connect technology lets iPhone act as control for game console, TV, DVD player – and more.

Bargain hunters help drive record e-commerce sales

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:22:09 -0500

ChannelAdvisor’s Scot Wingo says Amazon, Google, others draw buyers with a mix of discounts and coupons. However, he notes shoppers are also looking for lower-priced items, such as videogames.

Raising capital in these tough times? Then consider seeking federal grants

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 09:01:44 -0500

Angel Connection: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant programs are a very good way to get some early financing to perform your market research and then to perform commercialization on your business idea.

Techie gift guide: Our top picks for gizmos, gadgets and more

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:52:46 -0500

Innovation Exchange: Games, remotes, environmentally friendly batteries, even a Twitter alert for plants are among the top choices. As for Blu-Ray, be a Scrooge.

Fain to leave N.C. Department of Commerce post – but not yet

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:11:41 -0500

An agency spokesperson said that Commissioner Jim Fain “does not plan to be the commerce secretary in the next administration, but he is not stepping down now.”

Advertisers turn to in-game opportunities

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:07:38 -0500

More people watch the few TV shows they like these days – at least the lucrative 18-to-34-year-olds – via TiVo or some type of DVR that can skip through commercials. That leaves advetisers with videogames.