Tech Dealmaker Awards

Walrath

Internet giant Yahoo Inc. acquired the Cambridge-based, venture-backed video technology company Maven Networks Inc. from investors Accel Partners, Prism VentureWorks, and General Catalyst Partners on Feb. 12, 2008, for approximwwately $160 million.

Maven’s platform is used to manage, distribute and monetize premium online video content for over 30 major media companies, including Fox News, CBS Sports and Scripps Networks.

Sunnyvale, Cal.-based Yahoo found Maven desirable because the company combines technology resources, publisher and advertiser relationships, and delivered a video syndication and advertising solution to a market where Yahoo already had a vested interest.

Yahoo had a library of legally licensed video content and video advertising relationships with more than 75 percent of the top TV advertisers, so adding Maven’s product strengthened Yahoo’s video capabilities for publishers, advertisers and consumers, said Mike Walrath, senior vice president of Yahoo Advertising Marketplaces Group.

“Video is the fastest growing segment of the online advertising industry. This deal created one of the most robust video platforms in the industry, and has allowed Yahoo to offer publishers a full portfolio of technology and media solutions,” Walrath said.

Maven’s team was integrated into Yahoo’s Cambridge office, and at the end of Q3 2008 Yahoo had 15,200 employees worldwide.

— Bridget Botelho

Category

Software and Services

The Deal

Yahoo Inc. acquires Maven Networks Inc. for $160 million

Key Executives

Hilary Schneider, executive vice president of Yahoo; Hilmi Ozguc, CEO of Maven

Deal advisers

Financial: Jefferies & Co. Inc.
Legal: Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

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  Preston Productions
  Trinity Communications

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