Esme Learning Solutions

Formed in 2019 by Beth Porter and David Shrier and provides online executive education in partnership with leading universities such as MIT, University of Oxford, and University of Cambridge. The company uses AI-enabled digital learning tools as well as lessons from cognitive and neuroscience research, to provide an immersive and collaborative learning experience. Its courses provide executives the opportunity to gain technical skills and learn best business practices from industry experts on a wide variety of topics, including cybersecurity and fintech. As of February 2022, the company had users across 100+ countries.

In August 2021, Esme Learning collaborated with Cambridge Judge Business School to launch executive education online courses in start-up funding and regulatory technology (RegTech). 

In December 2021, Esme Learning merged with Riff Analytics, an AI-driven analytics and collaboration platform, for an undisclosed amount. The acquisition allows Esme to incorporate Riff Video, an AI-enabled real-time visualization tool that provides feedback on participant reactions in meetings, into its platform and allow its users to integrate it into any learning management system (LMS). Esme also plans to expand Riff EDU, Riff’s communication and digital collaboration platform, to include prompts and nudges to enable improved collaborative group behaviors.

In February 2022, the company raised USD 15 million in a funding round led by Hercules Capital. The funding follows its USD 15 million extended Series A funding round in December 2021 and the company is reportedly planning a Series B funding round in 2022. Esme Learning Solutions reported revenue growth of 500% YoY since 2019 and expects to reach an annual run rate (ARR) of more than USD 80 million by Q4 2022.