Deals & More: Shiny Ads raises $500K for self-serve ad platform

Today’s funding announcements include companies focused on easy ad buys, mobile apps and market intelligence:

Shiny Ads gets $500K for user-friendly ad service: The advertising tech company has raised a round of seed funding led by Maple Leaf Angels and York Angels, two Toronto-area angel networks. Based in Toronto, the company helps small advertisers purchase ads from mid-sized and large online publishers using a simple interface.

Padopolis lands $1M for mobile software: The San Francisco-based startup has raised equity funding, according to a filing with the SEC. Founded this year and still in stealth mode, the company claims to be “coming soon to a pad-like-device near you,” and according to the founder’s LinkedIn profile, Padopolis is working on “jaw-dropping iPad software.”

Motista grabs $4.5M for market research: The San Mateo, Calif.-based startup has raised a first round of funding from El Dorado Ventures to provide Fortune 1000 companies with on-demand consumer insights. The company surveys consumers online using its research engine, then provides clients with information on what motivates their customers.

linkedFA brings in $3M to take social media to finance pros: The developer of a social networking site geared toward investors has raised funding to focus on a global growth strategy, partnerships and acquisitions. Founded in 2010 and based in Miami, the company allows professionals in the finance industry to use social media while complying with industry regulations.