Unibuddy is a U.K.-based peer-to-peer education technology company. The edtech startup is dedicated to help students share experiences and serve as an outlet to create an authentic “voice” for the university. Unibuddy uses a simple widget that is integrated into an existing institution’s website. This allows students, prospective students, and student ambassadors to chat and talk, even if the prospective student has not applied yet. The goal is to create a sense of culture and belonging; allowing universities to be more social. Unibuddy currently works with 150 institutions across the globe.
The edtech startup announced that it has raised $5 million in Series A funding, which was led by Fred Destin of Stride VC. Other notable investors include Bart Swanson, Daniel Borel, Shakil Khan, Diego Fanara, and more. The proceeds will be utilized to continue growing and expanding into new areas and institutions around the world. The company looks to continue growing its team and expanding into the United States. Unibuddy has raised a total of $7 million since foundation.
Series A Follows Recent Partnership With U.K. Admissions Service
On June 20, 2019, Unibuddy announces it had entered into a pilot partnership with the U.K. Admissions Service (UKAS). The goal is to help continue connecting students with prospective students. The partnership will start running this summer with a small group of university partners.
The London-based startup has seen over half a million conversations on its platform. Unibuddy’s pilot program with UKAS will help the startup continue to connect U.K.-based students. The expansion with UKAS also helps connecting international students.
“The key is to communicate to your prospects that your university is a welcoming, friendly environment. One way to do this is by showcasing your international students: who they are and what they’re doing. Encourage students from around the world to have a presence on your website and in your comms. Our partners do a great job of this by creating Unibuddy profiles or posting blogs, and it’s the perfect outlet for your international students’ voice. It also has the benefit of reassuring others who are considering studying at your institution,” according to Unibuddy.
