Venture capital firm to open Chicago office

CHICAGO -- A leading venture capital firm is opening an office in Chicago, giving a boost to Mayor Rahm Emanuel's efforts to attract high-tech businesses and entrepreneurs to the city.

In a statement Wednesday, Emanuel's office said New Enterprise Associates, Inc. has a long track record of successful investments, including companies such as Career Builder, TiVo and Chicago-based Groupon.

New Enterprise Associates also announced a $35 million investment in Braintree, a Chicago-based company that works to provide online and mobile payment solutions.

Emanuel has made investing in technology and bringing high-tech companies to Chicago a major goal of his administration.

Earlier this week the mayor announced ChicagoNEXT, a new council of technology and business leaders focused on job growth and attracting top talent to the city.