Deals in brief: Nul debuts with Wavemaker Impact backing, SkyeChip and Betterteem raise funding, Qualcomm snaps up VinAI’s generative AI unit, and more

Wavemaker Impact launches Nul with USD 500,000 pre-seed funding

Sustainability-focused venture builder Wavemaker Impact has launched Nul, a climate tech startup, with a USD 500,000 pre-seed investment.

Nul is developing a platform that uses agentic artificial intelligence to help fashion brands cut down on overproduction and optimize inventory. The software is designed for demand forecasting and inventory rebalancing across retail locations—tackling longstanding issues of waste and unsold goods in the fashion industry.

The startup will use the funding to expand pilot programs across Southeast Asia, with an eye on global commercialization.

Gobi Partners invests in SkyeChip to bolster Malaysia’s chip design sector

SkyeChip, an integrated circuit (IC) design firm, has secured an investment from Gobi Partners through the Dana Impak Fund, which is backed by Khazanah Nasional.

Based in Malaysia, SkyeChip focuses on silicon IP and custom ASICs tailored for AI and high-performance computing. The investment will be used to grow its team, expand operations, and cover working capital needs.

Betterteem secures backing from 1337 Ventures

Betterteem, a human resource tech startup based in the Philippines, has secured seed funding from 1337 Ventures. The amount was not disclosed.

The startup builds AI-powered tools to predict employee turnover and assess workplace sentiment using data pulled from enterprise systems. It also offers mental health support features and customizable benefits. The new funds will go toward product development and regional growth.

Qualcomm acquires VinAI’s generative AI unit

US chipmaker Qualcomm has reportedly acquired the generative AI division of Vietnam’s VinAI for an undisclosed sum, according to TechCrunch.

The move is expected to bolster Qualcomm’s AI toolkit, particularly in edge computing applications. VinAI, which is backed by Vingroup, was founded in 2019 and has developed generative AI models for use in computer vision, language modeling, and in-vehicle systems. The company employs about 200 people across Vietnam, the US, and Australia.

GIC and Temasek take stake in Novotech to fuel CRO expansion

Novotech, a Singapore-headquartered clinical research organization (CRO), has secured a new investment from GIC and Temasek, which have signed binding agreements to acquire a significant stake in the company.

TPG, an existing backer, will also reinvest through its Asia fund.

Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Novotech specializes in high-growth therapeutic areas, including cell and gene therapies, radiopharmaceuticals, and mRNA-based clinical trials. The fresh capital will support global expansion and potential M&A. CEO John Moller said the investment will help the company deepen its footprint in the US, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

TPG first invested in Novotech in 2017, when it operated primarily in Australia and New Zealand.

Granite Asia, Integral launch USD 100 million JV to bridge Japan’s tech sector

Granite Asia and Japan-based Integral Corporation have launched Granite-Integral, a USD 100 million joint venture targeting high-growth companies tied to Japan’s tech ecosystem.

The JV aims to support both foreign tech firms seeking entry into Japan and Japanese enterprises aiming to expand internationally—particularly into Southeast Asia. It combines Integral’s on-the-ground support with Granite Asia’s global investment network.

Beams Fintech Fund backs Infinity Fincorp in Series A extension

Infinity Fincorp, a Mumbai-based non-banking financial company (NBFC), has raised USD 40 million in a Series A extension backed by Beams Fintech Fund.

The company provides loans to small businesses and vendors across tier-three towns in six Indian states. It plans to use the funds to grow its loan book and expand into more regions.

Infinity Fincorp currently operates in eight states and reports a loan book exceeding INR 11 billion (USD 128.7 million).

OneStack raises USD 2 million in Series A round

OneStack, an Indian fintech platform, has raised USD 2 million in a Series A round of financing led by Pentathlon Ventures. 100Unicorns, Venture Catalysts, and Yatra Angel Network also participated.

OneStack provides banking software for India’s cooperative banks. It plans to use the funds for product expansion, onboarding support, and scaling into southern and eastern India.

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