UCL’s edtech accelerator programme launches in the Americas

The Edtech Labs programme has been rolled out in Toronto, Canada, marking the starting point of the London university’s American expansion

University College London’s (UCL) edtech accelerator programme Edtech Labs has launched in Toronto, signalling the initiatives arrival into North America.

In partnership with Knowledgehook, a Canada-based edtech firm, the programme hopes to shine a spotlight on ambitious founders who are looking to apply UCL’s research methods in educational products.

The cohort of twelve startups from across the continent, convened in Toronto on 12 May, and are being hosted at the Knowledgehook offices.

The 12-week programme consists of applying the UCL Edtech Labs’ research-focused method to their products and ventures. The programme will offer participants expert advice and culminates in a Demo Day, where participants will pitch to investors, publishers and policy makers.

Houtan Froushan, programme director and founder of UCL Edtech Labs, said: “We’re excited to bring our programme to the Americas via Toronto which is abuzz with edtech fever.

“This expansion embraces the many opportunities that become available through international collaborations and cooperation with innovators and developers around the world. It is estimated over the next 30 years, we will see a further two billion learners, so developing businesses and designing products with the learner at the heart is fundamental if we are to fulfil our joint purpose of improving education for everybody, everywhere.”

Knowledgehook has become UCL Edtech Labs’ partner in the Americas, encompassing North, Central and South America. The partnership strives to combine the innovative approach and regional-sector knowledge of Knowledgehook with the London learning innovations programme that has grown out of UCL.


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