National Grid Partners announced Oct. 24 that it was making venture capital investments in three startups that specialize in the internet of things and artificial intelligence solutions.

The investment arm of National Grid PLC will make investments in SparkCognition Inc., Uniphore and CNIGuard.

CNIGuard specializes in IoT cloud sensors, which deliver asset protection and management solutions for utility infrastructure, according to a news release. SparkCognition and Uniphore provide AI system incorporation in customer service processes.

Since its inception, National Grid Partners has invested $102 million in emerging technology companies and fund investments. The three new investments grow its portfolio to 18 companies.