Brains, Net Neutrality & More

PEHub.com sister publication PE Week is out today with several interesting stories:

The Brain Trust Accelerator Fund, a venture capital fund launched by former AOL executive Steve Case to finance startups working to solve brain-related health problems, has had an initial close. PE Week subscribers will find more details on the funds focus and management.

Network neutralitythe cause celebrof venture capitalists and the Internet companies they fundis poised to re-emerge as a key industry lobbying theme in 2007, after the U.S. Congress adjourned last week without taking action on a closely watched broadband bill. PE Week subscribers can get the whole story.

Churchill Capital expects to make the first close on its equity and mezzanine fund, Churchill Capital Partners VI, in January at $250 million, according to a person familiar with the situation. PE Week subscribers can get the funds target and its limited partners.

The Teacher Retirement System of Texas last week was scheduled to discuss a gubernatorial request that it allocate up to $600 million for direct venture capital investments into Texas-based companies and related technology endeavors. If approved, it would rank as the largest venture capital fund based in Texas. PE Week subscribers can learn about the groups move from LP to active investor.