Omidyar Network, established in 2004 by eBay founder Pierre Omidyar and his wife Pam, is a global impact investing firm that combines philanthropy and venture capital to catalyze social change. It invests in for-profit and non-profit organizations across sectors such as digital society, emerging technology, education, financial inclusion, governance, and property rights. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, typically committing between $1 million to $10 million in for-profits and $0.5 million to $5 million in non-profits. Omidyar Network operates globally, with a significant focus on India, and seeks to create opportunities for people to improve their lives and make a difference in their communities.
Doubtnut is an e-learning platform based in Gurgaon, India, focused on providing accessible education, particularly in mathematics, for students. Founded in 2016, it allows users to ask questions by uploading pictures of problems or concepts, facilitating instant video solutions. The platform offers live classes, video lectures, and test series, catering to K12 students and those preparing for various examinations. Additionally, Doubtnut provides targeted support for CBSE and ICSE board students, helping them grasp mathematical concepts in a structured manner from the comfort of their homes. The platform is designed to assist vernacular students, enabling them to get their doubts resolved quickly and effectively.
Masai School
Series B in 2022
Masai School is an innovative career-focused institution aimed at equipping India's untapped talent with essential skills for in-demand jobs, particularly in the technology sector. It operates a coding school that offers a comprehensive full-stack web development program, which encompasses front-end, back-end, and database engineering courses. In addition to technical training, Masai emphasizes personality development and soft skills coaching, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and prepared for the workforce. The school employs a unique model that allows students to enroll without upfront tuition fees, investing in their future success. By focusing on practical skills through project-based learning and addressing real-world challenges faced by industry leaders, Masai School strives to create an outcome-driven education system that maximizes human potential in India.
Blackboard Radio
Venture Round in 2022
Blackboard Radio is an educational platform focused on enhancing English language learning for children, particularly in smaller cities where opportunities for speaking practice may be limited. Recognizing that classroom time often does not allow for personalized evaluation of speaking and listening skills, the platform provides a safe and supportive environment for children to practice English. Utilizing an artificial intelligence-powered, gamified mobile application, Blackboard Radio helps children expand their vocabulary while listening to, contextualizing, and speaking words in English. This innovative approach aims to improve articulation and build confidence in speaking, addressing the needs of families that primarily speak native languages at home.
Entri
Series A in 2022
Entri is a vernacular language learning platform that caters to both students and teachers, focusing on preparing job aspirants for competitive exams in India. The platform offers a variety of learning resources, including mock tests, adaptive assessments, flashcards, and video lessons, all provided in local languages. This approach enables users to engage with the content in a manner that is most comfortable for them. To date, Entri has attracted around 750,000 students and 2,300 teachers, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing the learning experience and improving teaching methods for a diverse audience.
THE/NUDGE INSTITUTE
Grant in 2021
The/Nudge Institute is dedicated to alleviating poverty in India through sustainable and scalable initiatives. Founded in July 2015 by Atul Satija, the organization focuses on three primary impact streams. The Centre for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (CSDE) aims to empower underprivileged youth, with a goal to reach over one million youths annually. N/Core nurtures talent to address significant social issues in India. The up (ultra-poor) initiative targets families living in extreme poverty, implementing a micro-entrepreneurship program based on a well-researched "graduation model" to uplift 100,000 households over the next decade. The organization has positively impacted over six million people through various programs in skilling, education, and healthcare. With a dedicated team of over 175 members, The/Nudge Institute aspires to create a poverty-free India within a generation.
Handshake
Series E in 2021
Handshake is a career network focused on connecting students and recent graduates with job opportunities. The platform boasts a community of over 10 million users from 1,400 educational institutions, including colleges and boot camps. It links these individuals to more than 750,000 employers across various sectors, aiming to democratize access to career resources. Handshake enhances the recruiting experience for college students, career centers, and employers by providing a scalable and mobile-friendly infrastructure. This approach empowers students with greater access to job opportunities and insights, while offering employers a more efficient means to connect with talent. Additionally, Handshake equips colleges with tools to foster student engagement and improve employment outcomes.
Masai School
Series A in 2021
Masai School is an innovative career-focused institution aimed at equipping India's untapped talent with essential skills for in-demand jobs, particularly in the technology sector. It operates a coding school that offers a comprehensive full-stack web development program, which encompasses front-end, back-end, and database engineering courses. In addition to technical training, Masai emphasizes personality development and soft skills coaching, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and prepared for the workforce. The school employs a unique model that allows students to enroll without upfront tuition fees, investing in their future success. By focusing on practical skills through project-based learning and addressing real-world challenges faced by industry leaders, Masai School strives to create an outcome-driven education system that maximizes human potential in India.
Doubtnut
Series B in 2021
Doubtnut is an e-learning platform based in Gurgaon, India, focused on providing accessible education, particularly in mathematics, for students. Founded in 2016, it allows users to ask questions by uploading pictures of problems or concepts, facilitating instant video solutions. The platform offers live classes, video lectures, and test series, catering to K12 students and those preparing for various examinations. Additionally, Doubtnut provides targeted support for CBSE and ICSE board students, helping them grasp mathematical concepts in a structured manner from the comfort of their homes. The platform is designed to assist vernacular students, enabling them to get their doubts resolved quickly and effectively.
Kutuki
Seed Round in 2021
Kutuki is a learning platform aimed at children aged three to seven, focusing on early education. It offers a variety of animated stories, songs, and illustrated digital books that are tailored to an Indian context. The platform provides a subscription option, delivering a comprehensive and interactive learning experience that engages young learners. By making education relatable and enjoyable, Kutuki enhances the early learning journey for children, enabling them to develop foundational skills in a fun and meaningful manner.
National Law School of India University
Grant in 2021
National Law School of India University is a school.
Uolo
Seed Round in 2020
Uolo is an E-learning company established in August 2013, focusing on practice-based educational programs for children. Founded by graduates from prestigious Indian business schools, Uolo has emerged as a leader in childcare management. The company offers a comprehensive platform that enhances communication between schools, teachers, students, and parents, allowing for efficient sharing of information such as homework assignments, mark sheets, and attendance through various multimedia formats. This approach fosters stronger relationships between educators and families, enabling parents to actively track and support their children's academic progress.
Handshake
Series D in 2020
Handshake is a career network focused on connecting students and recent graduates with job opportunities. The platform boasts a community of over 10 million users from 1,400 educational institutions, including colleges and boot camps. It links these individuals to more than 750,000 employers across various sectors, aiming to democratize access to career resources. Handshake enhances the recruiting experience for college students, career centers, and employers by providing a scalable and mobile-friendly infrastructure. This approach empowers students with greater access to job opportunities and insights, while offering employers a more efficient means to connect with talent. Additionally, Handshake equips colleges with tools to foster student engagement and improve employment outcomes.
Vedantu
Series D in 2020
Vedantu is an e-learning company that specializes in providing a live online tutoring platform, facilitating real-time personalized learning experiences for students. The platform connects students with qualified teachers, enabling one-on-one instruction through advanced technology, including a custom-built whiteboard, audio, and video tools. Vedantu offers a range of educational services, including test preparation courses, and aims to enhance access to quality education, particularly for students in remote areas. By leveraging its innovative platform, the company seeks to improve educational outcomes and foster meaningful interactions between tutors and learners.
Doubtnut
Series A in 2020
Doubtnut is an e-learning platform based in Gurgaon, India, focused on providing accessible education, particularly in mathematics, for students. Founded in 2016, it allows users to ask questions by uploading pictures of problems or concepts, facilitating instant video solutions. The platform offers live classes, video lectures, and test series, catering to K12 students and those preparing for various examinations. Additionally, Doubtnut provides targeted support for CBSE and ICSE board students, helping them grasp mathematical concepts in a structured manner from the comfort of their homes. The platform is designed to assist vernacular students, enabling them to get their doubts resolved quickly and effectively.
Classplus
Venture Round in 2019
Classplus, founded in 2015 and based in Delhi, India, is a mobile-first software as a service (SaaS) platform designed to support private coaching institutes in managing their operations. The platform enables tutors to connect seamlessly with students and parents while providing features for video distribution, payment processing, communication, and online assessments. Additionally, Classplus offers analytics on student performance and empowers educators to create, monetize, and market their content through personalized branded applications. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the teaching experience and help coaching businesses grow in a digital landscape.
WhiteHat Jr.
Series A in 2019
WhiteHat Education Technology Pvt Ltd, founded in 2018 and based in Mumbai, India, offers online coding classes for children aged 5 to 12 through its platform, WhiteHat Jr. This live, one-on-one teaching environment connects students with experienced coding instructors, allowing them to learn the fundamentals of coding, logic, structure, and algorithmic thinking. The curriculum, developed by alumni from prestigious institutions, aims to transform children from consumers of technology into creators by equipping them with the skills to build games, animations, and applications. As a subsidiary of Think & Learn Pvt Ltd, WhiteHat Jr focuses on empowering the next generation with essential coding skills for an increasingly digital world.
Vedantu
Series C in 2019
Vedantu is an e-learning company that specializes in providing a live online tutoring platform, facilitating real-time personalized learning experiences for students. The platform connects students with qualified teachers, enabling one-on-one instruction through advanced technology, including a custom-built whiteboard, audio, and video tools. Vedantu offers a range of educational services, including test preparation courses, and aims to enhance access to quality education, particularly for students in remote areas. By leveraging its innovative platform, the company seeks to improve educational outcomes and foster meaningful interactions between tutors and learners.
Platzi
Series A in 2019
Platzi Inc. is an online education platform that specializes in providing live and recorded classes focused on design, marketing, programming, and business. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, the company aims to facilitate lifelong learning by offering courses that teach in-demand skills to over 80,000 students worldwide. Platzi's curriculum includes application and web development, online marketing, interface design, and server administration, among others. The platform promotes real-time collaboration among students and industry professionals, enhancing the learning experience. Classes are conducted in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, utilizing video and interactive lessons to teach practical skills. With a strong emphasis on completion rates and student engagement, Platzi strives to prepare its users for the evolving demands of the tech industry.
Doubtnut
Seed Round in 2019
Doubtnut is an e-learning platform based in Gurgaon, India, focused on providing accessible education, particularly in mathematics, for students. Founded in 2016, it allows users to ask questions by uploading pictures of problems or concepts, facilitating instant video solutions. The platform offers live classes, video lectures, and test series, catering to K12 students and those preparing for various examinations. Additionally, Doubtnut provides targeted support for CBSE and ICSE board students, helping them grasp mathematical concepts in a structured manner from the comfort of their homes. The platform is designed to assist vernacular students, enabling them to get their doubts resolved quickly and effectively.
WhiteHat Jr.
Seed Round in 2019
WhiteHat Education Technology Pvt Ltd, founded in 2018 and based in Mumbai, India, offers online coding classes for children aged 5 to 12 through its platform, WhiteHat Jr. This live, one-on-one teaching environment connects students with experienced coding instructors, allowing them to learn the fundamentals of coding, logic, structure, and algorithmic thinking. The curriculum, developed by alumni from prestigious institutions, aims to transform children from consumers of technology into creators by equipping them with the skills to build games, animations, and applications. As a subsidiary of Think & Learn Pvt Ltd, WhiteHat Jr focuses on empowering the next generation with essential coding skills for an increasingly digital world.
National Institute of Public Finance and Policy
Grant in 2019
National Institute of Public Finance and Policy undertakes research, advocacy, and capacity building in areas related to public economics.
Dream a Dream
Grant in 2019
Dream a Dream has been empowering youngsters from vulnerable backgrounds through life skills using computers, communications training, and other modules. They work on a strong collaborative approach with local charities, corporates, volunteers, governments, expert consultants, and a host of national and international strategic partners.
Anudip Foundation
Grant in 2018
Anudip Foundation is a social enterprise focused on creating livelihood opportunities for impoverished communities in rural and semi-urban areas of India. It addresses the significant challenges faced by marginalized populations, particularly in regions like West Bengal, where economic adversity and geographic isolation limit access to education and employment. Anudip operates rural training centers that provide essential skills in information technology, entrepreneurship, and job placement services. Graduates from these centers can pursue various pathways, including placement in mainstream jobs, starting their own businesses through the Entrepreneurship Development Program, or gaining employment within Anudip's own MERIT Centers, which operate under a business process outsourcing model. This initiative not only offers job opportunities but also provides wages significantly higher than the rural average, thereby contributing to the economic empowerment of the communities it serves.
Vedantu
Series B in 2018
Vedantu is an e-learning company that specializes in providing a live online tutoring platform, facilitating real-time personalized learning experiences for students. The platform connects students with qualified teachers, enabling one-on-one instruction through advanced technology, including a custom-built whiteboard, audio, and video tools. Vedantu offers a range of educational services, including test preparation courses, and aims to enhance access to quality education, particularly for students in remote areas. By leveraging its innovative platform, the company seeks to improve educational outcomes and foster meaningful interactions between tutors and learners.
Handshake
Series C in 2018
Handshake is a career network focused on connecting students and recent graduates with job opportunities. The platform boasts a community of over 10 million users from 1,400 educational institutions, including colleges and boot camps. It links these individuals to more than 750,000 employers across various sectors, aiming to democratize access to career resources. Handshake enhances the recruiting experience for college students, career centers, and employers by providing a scalable and mobile-friendly infrastructure. This approach empowers students with greater access to job opportunities and insights, while offering employers a more efficient means to connect with talent. Additionally, Handshake equips colleges with tools to foster student engagement and improve employment outcomes.
Brightwheel
Series B in 2018
Brightwheel is a software platform designed to support early education providers such as preschools, childcare centers, camps, and afterschool programs. It facilitates teachers' daily management tasks and enhances communication with parents, providing them with detailed insights into their children's educational progress. Additionally, the platform automates administrative operations, streamlining processes for administrators. This comprehensive solution aims to create a seamless and personalized learning experience while keeping parents actively involved in their child's education.
Wonderschool
Series A in 2018
Wonderschool is an educational platform founded in 2016 in California, designed to facilitate the establishment of home-based infant and toddler programs and preschools. The company collaborates with experienced educators and childcare providers, offering support with licensing, program setup, and marketing to help them start their own childcare services. Wonderschool's comprehensive software platform enables educators to manage their students, parents, and educational programs efficiently from a single dashboard. Additionally, Wonderschool features a marketplace where parents can search for programs, schedule visits, enroll their children, and process payments. Committed to enhancing access to high-quality care and learning environments, Wonderschool promotes the early development of cognitive, motor, behavioral, and social skills in children as young as six months.
Grupo VI-DA
Series A in 2018
Grupo VI-DA is a prominent company based in Palermo, Argentina, with additional offices in Mexico, specializing in the development of technology-based platforms that provide Spanish-language digital content. The company focuses on delivering digital reading products that cater to students, schools, and consumers, thereby democratizing access to a wide range of content, including fiction, nonfiction, technical, and academic materials. Grupo VI-DA continually adapts to the evolving digital landscape by offering innovative multimedia platforms tailored for the Hispanic market, which include products such as Leamos, BIDI, GrandesLibros, IndieLibros, Vesvi, DualLanguage, BajaMusica, and Mundo TKM.
African Leadership Academy
Series B in 2018
African Leadership Academy is an educational institution based in Roodepoort, South Africa, founded in 2004. It offers a two-year program focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and African studies, along with a Gap-Year Program and a Global Scholars Program for those interested in entrepreneurial leadership. The Academy aims to transform Africa by cultivating a network of over 6,000 leaders dedicated to addressing the continent's most pressing challenges and driving social impact. Through its initiatives, African Leadership Academy seeks to accelerate Africa's growth trajectory and foster a new generation of leaders committed to positive change.
Holberton School
Series A in 2018
Holberton School is an innovative educational institution that serves as an alternative to traditional college for aspiring software engineers. Founded in 2016 by Sylvain Kalache and Julien Barbier, it offers a two-year, project-based program designed to train students to become full-stack software engineers. Holberton emphasizes hands-on learning and peer collaboration, allowing students to engage in real-world projects and develop their own applications. The curriculum is structured to foster creativity and teamwork, preparing students to tackle practical challenges in the tech industry. Initially launched in San Francisco, Holberton School has expanded to include campuses in New Haven, Bogotá, and Medellín, making its unique approach to education accessible to a broader audience.
Open Data Institute
Venture Round in 2018
The Open Data Institute Ltd. is a non-profit organization based in London, established in 2012. It aims to foster an open data culture that generates economic, environmental, and social value. By convening experts, the Institute promotes collaboration and innovation, helping to incubate and nurture new ideas through professional coaching and mentoring services. The organization offers a variety of educational courses focused on open data, including topics such as law and licensing, practical applications, and technologies. Through these initiatives, the Open Data Institute strives to unlock data supply, generate demand, and disseminate knowledge to address both local and global challenges. Founded by Sir Tim Berners-Lee and Professor Nigel Shadbolt, the Institute operates with a global remit, engaging with individuals and organizations interested in leveraging open data for societal benefit.
Varthana
Series C in 2018
Varthana is a financial services company focused on enhancing private education in India by providing tailored financial solutions to low-cost private schools. It partners with education entrepreneurs dedicated to improving access to high-quality education in low-income communities. Varthana offers both secured and unsecured loans designed for various projects, including infrastructure renovations, library and playground additions, laboratory upgrades, smart classroom technology, teacher training programs, and transportation services like school buses. Through its support, Varthana aims to empower private schools to better serve students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of educational facilities in the region.
Doubtnut
Seed Round in 2018
Doubtnut is an e-learning platform based in Gurgaon, India, focused on providing accessible education, particularly in mathematics, for students. Founded in 2016, it allows users to ask questions by uploading pictures of problems or concepts, facilitating instant video solutions. The platform offers live classes, video lectures, and test series, catering to K12 students and those preparing for various examinations. Additionally, Doubtnut provides targeted support for CBSE and ICSE board students, helping them grasp mathematical concepts in a structured manner from the comfort of their homes. The platform is designed to assist vernacular students, enabling them to get their doubts resolved quickly and effectively.
ParentPowered
Seed Round in 2018
ParentPowered is a company focused on transforming the way families access educational support by simplifying complex educational topics into manageable content. Utilizing insights from behavioral sciences and advancements in consumer technology, ParentPowered aims to reach all parents, including those who are often underserved. Its primary product, Ready4K, is an evidence-based curriculum designed for families with children from birth to third grade. Delivered through text messages, this program addresses early literacy, math, and social and emotional skills in both English and Spanish. By providing continuous support, ParentPowered seeks to enhance children's learning experiences and improve overall engagement, attendance, academic performance, and mental health.
Ellevation
Series B in 2018
Ellevation, LLC is a software development company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in educational technology for English language learners (ELL). It offers a web-based platform designed to support educators in managing and enhancing the educational experience for multilingual students. The Ellevation program organizes essential student data, facilitates critical monitoring and reporting processes, and aids in instructional planning. Additionally, it provides research-based instructional practices and activities to assist teachers in effectively teaching English learners. The company's offerings include Ellevation Math, which helps students access grade-level math content. Ellevation serves a diverse range of clients, including public school districts, EL coordinators, specialists, teachers, principals, and students throughout the United States. Established in 2006, the company was previously known as ESL Innovations, Inc. before rebranding in 2011.
Wonderschool
Venture Round in 2018
Wonderschool is an educational platform founded in 2016 in California, designed to facilitate the establishment of home-based infant and toddler programs and preschools. The company collaborates with experienced educators and childcare providers, offering support with licensing, program setup, and marketing to help them start their own childcare services. Wonderschool's comprehensive software platform enables educators to manage their students, parents, and educational programs efficiently from a single dashboard. Additionally, Wonderschool features a marketplace where parents can search for programs, schedule visits, enroll their children, and process payments. Committed to enhancing access to high-quality care and learning environments, Wonderschool promotes the early development of cognitive, motor, behavioral, and social skills in children as young as six months.
Digital House
Series B in 2017
Digital House is a coding school founded in 2015 and located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The institution focuses on training new generations of coders and digital professionals, equipping them with the skills needed to innovate and create in the technology sector. Through a range of technology and coding courses, Digital House aims to foster creativity and technical proficiency among its students, preparing them for careers in the digital landscape.
Jopwell
Series A in 2017
Jopwell, Inc. is a career platform based in New York that connects Black, Latino/Hispanic, and Native American professionals and students with job opportunities across various industries, including technology, finance, and education. Founded in 2015 by former Goldman Sachs employees Porter Braswell and Ryan Williams, Jopwell aims to empower candidates and companies by providing a diverse pipeline of talent. The platform facilitates the recruitment process for partner companies, enabling them to access underrepresented candidates at various career stages, from internships to experienced hires. Jopwell's mission focuses on leveraging technology to enhance access to professional opportunities and promote diversity in the workforce. The company has gained recognition for its innovative approach, being featured in publications such as Inc. and Fast Company.
MissionU
Series A in 2017
MissionU is an innovative college alternative that equips students with essential skills and practical experience necessary for success in the modern workforce. Founded by Adam Braun and Mike Adams, the program uniquely integrates general education with specialized training to prepare individuals for real-world employment. MissionU operates on an income-share agreement model, allowing students to graduate debt-free without upfront tuition costs. Instead, students begin to repay the program once they secure a job earning $50,000 or more, contributing 15% of their income for three years. This approach enables individuals to pursue their career aspirations while minimizing financial burdens.
Tinkergarten
Series A in 2017
Tinkergarten, Inc. is dedicated to providing outdoor play-based learning classes and activities for children aged 18 months to 8 years. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Northampton, Massachusetts, the company connects families with local leaders who facilitate activity-based classes designed to foster essential developmental skills in a natural setting. Tinkergarten's approach emphasizes the importance of early childhood education in outdoor environments, allowing children to learn through play while enabling parents to engage actively in their children's learning journeys. By creating a network of community leaders, Tinkergarten aims to elevate the quality of early education and support parents in raising healthy, confident, and capable children.
Centa
Venture Round in 2017
CENTA is an organization focused on the accreditation, professional development, and job placement for teachers and school leaders. It provides an online platform that offers a variety of resources, including courses designed to enhance teachers' skills and career prospects. By connecting educators to job opportunities, CENTA supports their professional growth and helps them improve the quality of education they deliver to students. The organization's mission is to facilitate career advancement for teachers while ensuring they receive the necessary training and certification to succeed in their roles.
SPARK Schools
Series B in 2016
SPARK Schools, founded in 2012 and based in Johannesburg, South Africa, operates a network of educational institutions designed to enhance student learning and achievement. The schools utilize a blended learning model that combines engaging classroom instruction with personalized support in dedicated Learning Labs. This approach is complemented by strong partnerships with families and the community, as well as ongoing professional development for teachers and school leaders. SPARK Schools aims to prepare students for university and successful careers by emphasizing academic excellence, creative thinking, and core values such as cooperative citizenship and a love of learning. Through adaptive software and individualized learning strategies, SPARK Schools provides students with the necessary tools and training to advance in their educational and career paths.
Khan Academy
Grant in 2016
Khan Academy Inc. is a nonprofit educational organization founded in 2006 and headquartered in Mountain View, California. Its mission is to provide a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere, through an extensive online platform that includes a vast library of videos, practice exercises, and assessments covering various K–12 subjects. The learning system is mastery-based, enabling students to grasp key concepts at their own pace before advancing to more complex topics. The platform also offers personalized SAT practice, MAP Accelerator, and preparation resources for Praxis Core and LSAT exams, in collaboration with prominent educational institutions. With over 18 million learners from 190 countries utilizing the service each month and more than 200,000 teachers using its instructional tools, Khan Academy emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity in education. The organization sustains its operations through a combination of donations from foundations, corporations, and individual supporters, alongside earned revenue, ensuring its resources remain free for all users.
Skillshare
Series B in 2016
Skillshare, Inc. is an online learning community that was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in New York, New York. The platform offers a diverse array of classes in various fields such as illustration, design, photography, video, and business. It provides practitioners the opportunity to take online courses, watch instructional videos, engage in projects and workshops, and even teach their own classes. By facilitating a creative space for individuals to learn and improve their skills, Skillshare enables members to explore new interests and enhance their expertise in multiple domains, from culinary arts to technology and entrepreneurship.
Varthana
Series B in 2016
Varthana is a financial services company focused on enhancing private education in India by providing tailored financial solutions to low-cost private schools. It partners with education entrepreneurs dedicated to improving access to high-quality education in low-income communities. Varthana offers both secured and unsecured loans designed for various projects, including infrastructure renovations, library and playground additions, laboratory upgrades, smart classroom technology, teacher training programs, and transportation services like school buses. Through its support, Varthana aims to empower private schools to better serve students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of educational facilities in the region.
Tinkergarten
Seed Round in 2016
Tinkergarten, Inc. is dedicated to providing outdoor play-based learning classes and activities for children aged 18 months to 8 years. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Northampton, Massachusetts, the company connects families with local leaders who facilitate activity-based classes designed to foster essential developmental skills in a natural setting. Tinkergarten's approach emphasizes the importance of early childhood education in outdoor environments, allowing children to learn through play while enabling parents to engage actively in their children's learning journeys. By creating a network of community leaders, Tinkergarten aims to elevate the quality of early education and support parents in raising healthy, confident, and capable children.
Ellevation
Venture Round in 2016
Ellevation, LLC is a software development company based in Boston, Massachusetts, that specializes in educational technology for English language learners (ELL). It offers a web-based platform designed to support educators in managing and enhancing the educational experience for multilingual students. The Ellevation program organizes essential student data, facilitates critical monitoring and reporting processes, and aids in instructional planning. Additionally, it provides research-based instructional practices and activities to assist teachers in effectively teaching English learners. The company's offerings include Ellevation Math, which helps students access grade-level math content. Ellevation serves a diverse range of clients, including public school districts, EL coordinators, specialists, teachers, principals, and students throughout the United States. Established in 2006, the company was previously known as ESL Innovations, Inc. before rebranding in 2011.
Jopwell
Seed Round in 2016
Jopwell, Inc. is a career platform based in New York that connects Black, Latino/Hispanic, and Native American professionals and students with job opportunities across various industries, including technology, finance, and education. Founded in 2015 by former Goldman Sachs employees Porter Braswell and Ryan Williams, Jopwell aims to empower candidates and companies by providing a diverse pipeline of talent. The platform facilitates the recruitment process for partner companies, enabling them to access underrepresented candidates at various career stages, from internships to experienced hires. Jopwell's mission focuses on leveraging technology to enhance access to professional opportunities and promote diversity in the workforce. The company has gained recognition for its innovative approach, being featured in publications such as Inc. and Fast Company.
Platzi
Seed Round in 2016
Platzi Inc. is an online education platform that specializes in providing live and recorded classes focused on design, marketing, programming, and business. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, the company aims to facilitate lifelong learning by offering courses that teach in-demand skills to over 80,000 students worldwide. Platzi's curriculum includes application and web development, online marketing, interface design, and server administration, among others. The platform promotes real-time collaboration among students and industry professionals, enhancing the learning experience. Classes are conducted in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, utilizing video and interactive lessons to teach practical skills. With a strong emphasis on completion rates and student engagement, Platzi strives to prepare its users for the evolving demands of the tech industry.
EdSurge
Series A in 2015
EdSurge, Inc. operates a community focused on innovation in education technology, providing news, insights, and resources for educators, entrepreneurs, and investors. Founded in 2011 and based in Burlingame, California, EdSurge features a product browser that allows users to filter information by subject, audience, and technology platform. The organization is recognized for its comprehensive database of edtech products and companies, as well as its regular reporting on the education technology ecosystem. EdSurge publishes a weekly newsletter, hosts events such as the San Francisco education technology meetup and a series of nationwide summits, and runs the Digital Innovation in Learning Awards. Additionally, it offers a jobs board and the Edtech Concierge service to assist education leaders in selecting appropriate tools. With a mix of technologists, educators, and journalists, EdSurge aims to foster the effective adoption of education technology through impartial reporting and community engagement. The organization has received venture funding and grants from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Learner-Centered Collaborative
Series B in 2015
AltSchool is an interdisciplinary team of educators, technologists and entrepreneurs building a network of schools that prepare students for our changing world. Each individual school is able to adapt to the needs of students, families and the surrounding community; the larger network connects everyone together and enables a far greater impact in our efforts to improve education. Underlying it all is a platform and curriculum that is personalized to each individual child.
Socratic
Series A in 2015
Socratic, Inc. is an education technology company that specializes in developing a homework assistance application for students. Founded in 2013 and based in New York, the company utilizes artificial intelligence to provide users with answers, detailed explanations, and curated educational content across a variety of subjects, including math, science, history, English, and economics. The app allows students to take photos of their homework questions, making it accessible and user-friendly. It features graphs, explainers, and links to instructional videos from platforms such as Khan Academy, enhancing the learning experience. Socratic is available for free on both iPhone and Android devices, focusing primarily on high school curriculum support. The company, formerly known as Vespr, Inc., rebranded to Socratic, Inc. in May 2015.
Open Data Institute
Grant in 2015
The Open Data Institute Ltd. is a non-profit organization based in London, established in 2012. It aims to foster an open data culture that generates economic, environmental, and social value. By convening experts, the Institute promotes collaboration and innovation, helping to incubate and nurture new ideas through professional coaching and mentoring services. The organization offers a variety of educational courses focused on open data, including topics such as law and licensing, practical applications, and technologies. Through these initiatives, the Open Data Institute strives to unlock data supply, generate demand, and disseminate knowledge to address both local and global challenges. Founded by Sir Tim Berners-Lee and Professor Nigel Shadbolt, the Institute operates with a global remit, engaging with individuals and organizations interested in leveraging open data for societal benefit.
Siyavula Education
Venture Round in 2015
Siyavula Education is an education technology company focused on enhancing high school students' performance in mathematics and science through personalized, technology-driven learning solutions. The company has developed innovative software that allows learners to practice subjects such as Maths, Physics, and Chemistry in an adaptive manner, catering to individual needs and providing targeted feedback to help students master essential concepts and skills. Additionally, Siyavula offers openly licensed, curriculum-aligned textbooks that facilitate online learning, making quality education more accessible to learners and teachers across South Africa.
Varthana
Series A in 2014
Varthana is a financial services company focused on enhancing private education in India by providing tailored financial solutions to low-cost private schools. It partners with education entrepreneurs dedicated to improving access to high-quality education in low-income communities. Varthana offers both secured and unsecured loans designed for various projects, including infrastructure renovations, library and playground additions, laboratory upgrades, smart classroom technology, teacher training programs, and transportation services like school buses. Through its support, Varthana aims to empower private schools to better serve students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of educational facilities in the region.
Learner-Centered Collaborative
Series A in 2014
AltSchool is an interdisciplinary team of educators, technologists and entrepreneurs building a network of schools that prepare students for our changing world. Each individual school is able to adapt to the needs of students, families and the surrounding community; the larger network connects everyone together and enables a far greater impact in our efforts to improve education. Underlying it all is a platform and curriculum that is personalized to each individual child.
Bridge International Academies
Series A in 2014
Bridge International Academies operates primary schools focused on providing education to underprivileged children. Founded in 2007 and based in Nairobi, Kenya, the organization offers services that align with national curricula and emphasizes comprehensive teacher training and development programs. Utilizing advanced wireless technology, Bridge International Academies aims to deliver quality education at no cost to students, fostering opportunities for a brighter future for those in underserved communities.
EagerPanda
Seed Round in 2013
EagerPanda, Inc. provides an online platform that facilitates the creation of custom courses for educators and promotes interaction among learners. Founded in 2013 and located in Portola Valley, California, EagerPanda aims to organize and make human knowledge easily accessible. The platform allows educators to develop tailored educational content, fostering connections and collaboration within the learning community. By focusing on the organization of knowledge, EagerPanda seeks to enhance the educational experience for both teachers and students.
Akshara Foundation
Grant in 2012
Akshara Foundation offers preschool and primary school education. They serve to improve numeracy skills, foster change in education, develop school readiness skills, a remedial reading program, and offer english learning programs and introductory English skills for preschoolers.
Teach For India
Grant in 2011
Teach For India aims to help all children in India receive a high-quality education by engaging a talented group of young leaders to work in the country education sector.
Aspiring Minds Assessment
Series A in 2011
Aspiring Minds is a provider of a recruitment platform that focuses on employability evaluation and certification services. The company aims to enhance the recruitment process by offering a methodology that allows institutions and companies to identify candidates who best match job profiles based on comprehensive skill analysis. By utilizing this platform, organizations can ensure a fairer and more effective hiring process, emphasizing meritocracy in labor markets. Aspiring Minds seeks to create a level playing field where talent can meet opportunities in education and employment, helping organizations select the right individuals rather than just the most qualified ones.
Subtext Media
Seed Round in 2011
Subtext is a digital reading service designed to enhance the K12 educational experience by facilitating collaboration among classroom groups. The platform allows teachers to embed enrichment materials, assignments, and quizzes directly into digital texts, promoting continuous assessment and individualized instruction. This approach aligns with the Common Core State Standards, encouraging deeper analytical thinking and fostering the development of independent readers, thinkers, and writers. Additionally, Subtext enables users to engage in conversations with peers, authors, and experts, while accessing a variety of information and multimedia within the margins of their reading materials.
African Leadership Academy
Grant in 2011
African Leadership Academy is an educational institution based in Roodepoort, South Africa, founded in 2004. It offers a two-year program focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and African studies, along with a Gap-Year Program and a Global Scholars Program for those interested in entrepreneurial leadership. The Academy aims to transform Africa by cultivating a network of over 6,000 leaders dedicated to addressing the continent's most pressing challenges and driving social impact. Through its initiatives, African Leadership Academy seeks to accelerate Africa's growth trajectory and foster a new generation of leaders committed to positive change.
Sunlight Foundation
Grant in 2011
The Sunlight Foundation, established in 2006 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting government transparency and accountability. It achieves this by leveraging civic technology, open data, policy analysis, and journalism. The Foundation develops and advocates for policies that enhance government openness, creates user-friendly tools and databases for accessing public information, and empowers citizens, journalists, and advocates through training and community-building initiatives. Its work spans various projects, including Sunlight Labs, Sunlight Reporting Group, Sunlight Live, and the Open House Project, all aimed at fostering a more informed and engaged public.
Bridge International Academies
Grant in 2009
Bridge International Academies operates primary schools focused on providing education to underprivileged children. Founded in 2007 and based in Nairobi, Kenya, the organization offers services that align with national curricula and emphasizes comprehensive teacher training and development programs. Utilizing advanced wireless technology, Bridge International Academies aims to deliver quality education at no cost to students, fostering opportunities for a brighter future for those in underserved communities.
Common Sense Media
Venture Round in 2006
Common Sense Media is a non-profit organization focused on promoting safe technology and media for children. It provides education and advocacy to families, educators, and policymakers, offering trustworthy information and guidance on how to navigate the complexities of media in a digital age. By emphasizing the importance of responsible media consumption, Common Sense Media aims to empower families to harness the benefits of technology while minimizing risks. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that all children and families can improve their lives through informed media choices.
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