Fremont: Manta, the largest online community dedicated entirely to small business, announced that it has received a $44 million minority equity investment from Norwest Venture Partners (NVP). 

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Manta is the online community for promoting and connecting small business. It enables small business owners to create, manage and share their online identities, promote their companies, products and services, build and engage with an extensive network and access shared knowledge and insights. The company recently announced major enhancements to its platform that help small businesses build their referral network through recommendations and social connections tools. These tools are optimized for mobile, creating a unique first-time view into the relationships and connections these businesses have with Manta members.  Norwest Venture Partners’ Jon Kossow and David Su also joined Manta’s board of directors.

"Our investors share Manta's commitment to helping small businesses grow, and NVP's support will allow us to stay focused on delivering the most powerful online community for these businesses. Eighty percent of U.S. businesses have fewer than nine employees and we will continue executing our vision for meeting the unique needs of this important market,” said Pamela Springer, CEO of Manta.

"Our investment in Manta is in line with NVP's strategy to invest in profitable, rapidly growing business leaders. The $40B+ addressable market in which Manta plays is immense, and the company continues to grow rapidly as small businesses look to expand their online presence," said David Su, vice president, NVP.