A Leading K-12 Edtech Growth Partner
Our Roots in Education
The education sector has been a core focus of Serent’s investment efforts since our founding in 2008. To date, nearly a fifth of all of our investments have been made in this sector. Our roots in education grow deep. From our Limited Partners which include several world-renowned institutions of higher education to one of our firm’s partners who is a former teacher for Teach-for-America, the mission of educating the next generation is engrained in our DNA.
Understand Market Dynamics
Since 2008, Serent has partnered with 12 high-growth education businesses, including 8 companies in K12, to help them accelerate their growth. We have a deep appreciation for the nuances of serving this diverse market. With pedagogical and administrative needs differing widely by region, state, district and even individual rooftop, not to mention age range and student population type, addressing the K12 market is far from one-size-fits-all. Traditionally long sales-cycles and shifting federal, state and local funding sources add to the complexity. In our experience, success in the K12 market often requires a regional geographic ground-game with intimate local knowledge, grass-roots customer advocates, and relationship-based sales.
That said, COVID has caused tectonic shifts in K12 education. From blended learning transitioning from philosophical ideal to necessity overnight, to engagement and effectiveness leading the list of district priorities, to students and parents continually seeking and gaining greater control over their learning journeys, and finally, district administrators being thrust into the roles of nimble, pivoting quasi-entrepreneurs with increased pressure to retain their students. We are fortunate to have a front row seat to these changes through our portfolio.
Entrepreneurs Behind Bootstrapped Ed Tech Companies
We take pride in being a top-50 founder-friendly growth-oriented firm and the only founder-friendly investment firm with a dedicated focus on K12 education technology. With our deep understanding and experience in the K12 market, the Serent team is here to partner with edtech founders like you, helping you navigate the shifting landscape, maximize long-term shareholder value, and generate the impact and results your offerings deserve. Regardless of which corner of this exciting market you are focused on, we look forward to meeting you, hearing about your journey and exploring how we can partner.