ConteXtream Raises $9.6M in First Round

Israel based ConteXtream, developer of grid technologies for media server networks, has raised $9.6M from Gemini, Norwest Venture Partners, Sofinnova Ventures and Benhamou Global Ventures. The proceeds will be allocated to strengthen the company's development team in Israel and finance further R&D activity.

ConteXtream is working on a new type of communication server, aimed to simplify triple-play networks (voice, video, data - Services such as Comcast and Roadrunner). ConteXtream's product offers a new approach that simplifies the operational complexity of the triple-play networks by enabling transition from separate networks for each application to a single unified infrastructure. In simple words, ConteXtream will facilitate the rapid introduction of many new services and business models into a single IP network.

ConteXtream was founded in 2006 by CEO Sharon Barkai, former founder of Sheer Networks (acquired by Cisco) and Xeround Systems, provider of signaling solutions to carriers for VoIP (See my previous coverage here). Nachman Shelef, the Executive Chairman and a former partner at Benchmark Capital, was the founder Nicecom (acquired by 3Com) and later served as a VP at 3Com. Eric Benhamou, 3Com's former chairman is ConteXtream's sole seed investor.

According to Avi Hasson, a GP in Gemini:
"ConteXtream combines all the components that help build a successful company - an outstanding technological concept that addresses large and growing target market with a real problem; an understanding of customers' needs, an experienced founder and a strong technology team."

Source: Globes