dough raises $20 million to help everyday people invest. The trading and learning platform aims to make investing easier. The company creates its own original content, including videos and podcasts that explain the basics of investing. There’s also a live-chat feature so users can get help from a person. [Built In Chicago]
Groupon acquired Presence AI to make reservations and appointments easier. Presence AI is a communication tool that uses artificial intelligence to book appointments, send confirmation texts and answer questions. Groupon, an online marketplace for deals, plans to use its latest acquisition to streamline the booking process. [Built In Chicago]
LanzaTech raised $72 million to recycle carbon pollution. LanzaTech’s solution uses bacteria that eats pollution and transforms it into low-carbon chemicals and fuels like ethanol. This round of funding will help them reach more customers and add 25 to 30 employees to their Chicago-based team. [Built In Chicago]
Illinois Technology Association announced its finalists in 20th annual ITA CityLIGHTS Awards. Ascent was one Chicago-based company nominated for the Industry Disruptor Award. Other companies include Envoy Global and Narrative Science. [Press Release]
Centro announced David Gensler as senior vice president of client development. Gensler, a veteran sales leader, will lead the advertising technology company’s sales team in the Midwest region. [Press Release]
