Everledger and Tencent are a natural fit

UK-based technology company Everledger announced it has completed a $20 million Series A funding. The round comes to a close with the backing of Tencent, China’s leading internet-based services provider. Graphene Ventures, Bloomberg Beta, Rakuten, Fidelity and Vickers Venture Partners have also participated.

“Today’s announcement amplifies our commitment to global markets, whilst fueling our industry momentum as we continue to build Everledger. Having this strong investor cohort join us at this stage in our development is both validation of the innovation we’ve displayed to date, and a statement of future intent. They will support us in bringing more visibility to good business practices in industries that impact millions, if not billions of people in developing countries.” – Leanne Kemp, founder and CEO of Everledger.

“Everledger’s application of blockchain technology enhances value to consumers and reduces risks for businesses across the industry.” – James Mitchell, Chief Strategy Officer at Tencent.

Everledger and Tencent plan to launch the world’s first WeChat Mini Program for blockchain-enabled diamonds, uniting key stakeholders in the diamond value chain, which aims to empower WeChat users to buy jewelry with more transparency and security.