Fireside Chat with EdTech Unicorn Founder, ApplyBoard's Martin Basiri

TL;DR

Apply Board, a transformative educational platform, connects international students with global educational opportunities.

Transcript

okay great well hi everyone thanks so much for joining us today I'm Christine Tsai CEO and founding partner of 500 startups I'm excited to be here today with Martin Buser a CEO and co-founder of apply board apply boards mission is to educate the world they empower people around the world to study abroad and access the best education their platform ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🎓 The journey of Apply Board's founding by Martin Buser and his brothers highlights the importance of addressing challenges in the education system for international students.
• 💗 Apply Board's success as a unicorn company reflects the growing demand for transformative educational platforms that simplify and enhance the study abroad process.
• ❓ The company's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic showcases the importance of strategic partnerships and persistent efforts in navigating challenges and achieving growth.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Apply Board start, and what was the inspiration behind it?

Apply Board was founded by Martin Buser and his brothers after realizing the challenges international students face in accessing educational opportunities abroad. The complex process of studying in a different country led them to create a platform that simplifies the process.

Q: How did Apply Board navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of fundraising?

Apply Board faced obstacles during fundraising due to the global pandemic, with investors backing out and uncertainty in the market. However, through persistent efforts and the support of strategic investors like Drive Capital, they were able to secure funding and continue their growth.

Q: How does Apply Board plan to leverage the changes in education due to COVID-19 for long-term success?

Apply Board sees opportunities in adopting new technologies, enhancing assessment methods, and improving the overall learning experience. They aim to capitalize on the shift towards online learning and personalized education to support students in achieving their academic goals.

Q: What is the cultural ethos at Apply Board, and how does it align with the company's mission and values?

Apply Board's corporate culture focuses on diversity, value creation, and collaboration. The company fosters a supportive environment where employees have the freedom to grow and take ownership of their work. Trust, passion, and planning are key elements that drive Apply Board's culture and align with its goal of helping students succeed globally.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Apply Board connects international students with educational opportunities in Canada, the US, and the UK.

• Founded by Martin Buser and his brothers, Apply Board aims to simplify the complex process of studying abroad.

• The company recently became a unicorn, raising $75 million in funding with a valuation of $1.4 billion.