SEM Firm ReachLocal Closes Massive Funding Round

ReachLocal, an SEM firm offering simplified Internet and local search services directly and indirectly to the small business market, has closed a massive $55 million round of funding. This adds to previous rounds raised by the company. Reach is building out sales offices in cities across the U.S. and a local sales force to sell search marketing directly to small businesses. It’s a challenging and audacious course, but one that could succeed if pursued intelligently and with discipline.

I have a long discussion of the segment, the challenges, and the opportunity on my personal blog, Screenwerk.