WRAL Tech Wire

 CipherOptics Decodes $5 Million in First-Round Funding

Raleigh high-speed network security firm nabs money from Kodiak Venture Partners a week before appearing at a major venture capital conference. Money will be used for more research and added sales effort.

 NetOctave Signs Distribution Agreement with Japanese Firm

 Unitive Creates a Global Sales Organization

 Rural Internet Authority Extends Deadline for Contract Submissions

RIAA gathers information for $13.5 million incentives program to expand high-speed Internet access across state.

 Updated List: Tracking the VC Deals in the Carolinas, Georgia

More than 30 deals have pushed venture funding well past $200 million thus far this year. The latest is Peak 10 out of Charlotte which brought in $9.2 million last week - good for 7th place.

 Top North Carolina Venture Capital Deals of 2002

More than $60 million has been raised by NC-based companies so far this year. Local tech Wire will update its list as more deals are made.

 Tracking the Top Venture Capital Deals of 2002

Here's a look at each of the deals made in Georgia and the Carolinas as compiled by LTW. Information includes company name, focus, investors, amount invested, and what round.

 New MCNC Unit Invents Online System To Make Air Pollution, Emissions Tracking Easier

Environmental Modeling Center simplifies emissions modeling process for industry professionals, adds online capabilities and can save clients time, money, says system's inventor. 'It's the first time air modeling data can be compiled via the web.'

 e-NC Earmarks $13.5 M for Incentives To Deploy Broadband in Rural Areas

Group wants to find out what projects are planned or being implemented. Companies can apply for grants to help underwrite high-speed networking. But information must be submitted by April 15.

 Peach of a Deal: Georgia Outdistances North Carolina in Venture Investing

State's push and corporate support have made Atlanta a hub for VC and start-ups, while North Carolina was 'resting too much on past laurels,' one observer says. 'They put a target on our backs,' adds another. But some say comparing states is 'bunk'.

 Grid Computing: Attempting To Harness the Power of Multiple Computers

With personal computers as powerful now as earlier supercomputers, the time seems to be right for large scale grid computing. Duke and NC's bioinformatics consortium are pursuing the idea.

 Georgia Widens Lead in VC Race; NC Firms Lagging Far Behind

Through March 27, Georgia firms draw $150 million; NC ventures get $56 million; SC telecom gets $7 million.

 Georgia Is off and Running in VC Race; NC Firms Lag Far Behind

Yes, the VC freeze seems to be ending. More than $163 million handed out in less than two months. But most is going to Georgia firms.

 Georgia Is off and Running in VC Race; NC Firms Lag far Behind

Yes, the VC freeze seems to be ending. More than $163 million handed out in less than two months. But most is going to Georgia firms.

 Year Off to Strong Start for NetOctave; Security Chip Maker Delivers Products, Gets $7 Million

Intersouth, Intel lead round. NetOctave to use funds for marketing, expansion and product development. Company forecasts $20 million in sales in 2002.