Finnish edtech startup Kide Science has raised €1.5 million of seed funding to focus on global expansion, particularly in Asia. The round was led by Sparkmind.vc, which is investing from its recent €40 million fund dedicated to the edtech sector.
“Kide Science stands out because of its very strong pedagogical proposition,” says Kai Talas of Sparkmind.vc. The pedagogical model is based on one of the founder’s research at the University of Helsinki. Dr. Jenni Vartiainen was studying science education in young children in Finland and set up science clubs to observe them in the act.
The success and growing demand for her science clubs formed the basis of Kide Science. The platform brings its young users into imaginary science scenarios, encouraging them to solve real problems through storytelling and play-based activities. Plus, features for teachers and parents help guide the kids through lessons and experiments.
“It’s increasingly clear that giving young children key science skills is vital to understanding the world around them,” says CEO Sari Hurme-Mehtälä. “Our hands-on, scenario based approach helps spark their curiosity and enthusiasm for the subject at home and at school.”
Since launching at the end of 2017, the Helsinki-based startup has raised €2.4 million and gained customers in 14 global markets. In Finland, Kide Science serves the largest private kindergarten chain (200 locations and 10,000 children) and produces a TV show on YLE, Finland’s national public service broadcaster. Outside of Europe, the company has signed deals in MENA and Asia, including a large chain of learning centres in China.
The new investment will help the edtech startup pursue the opportunities in Asia and across key international homeschooling markets. The funding will also go to developing its product for parents, as well as hiring new employees in global business development and marketing.
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