Kaplan EdTech Accelerator

The Kaplan EdTech Accelerator, powered by TechStars, was a highly specialized venture program launched in partnership between Kaplan, a global leader in education services, and TechStars, a renowned startup accelerator network. Based in New York City, this intensive, three-month deep immersion program was specifically designed to foster and scale early-stage education technology startups. Its primary goal was to leverage Kaplan's extensive industry knowledge and TechStars' proven accelerator model to provide participating companies with unparalleled resources and strategic guidance within the burgeoning EdTech sector.

Companies accepted into the Kaplan EdTech Accelerator received a standard TechStars investment package. This typically included an initial seed investment of $20,000 in exchange for a 6% common stock equity stake. Additionally, startups had the option to receive a $100,000 convertible note, bringing the potential total initial funding to $120,000. Beyond capital, the program offered extensive mentorship from a network of seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and Kaplan executives, as well as access to Kaplan's vast educational infrastructure, data, and distribution channels. This unique combination of financial backing and strategic support aimed to significantly accelerate the growth and market penetration of the selected startups.

The accelerator ran for several successful cohorts, notably in 2014 and 2015, attracting a diverse range of innovative EdTech solutions. It supported companies developing technologies across various educational domains, from K-12 and higher education to professional development and lifelong learning. While the specific Kaplan EdTech Accelerator program has concluded its operations, its legacy underscores the effectiveness of corporate-startup partnerships in driving innovation within specific industries. The model demonstrated how established corporations could inject capital and expertise into the startup ecosystem, fostering new solutions and contributing to the evolution of education technology.