Amsterdam-based Anywyse, an edtech startup, announced on Thursday, May 11 that it has closed an undisclosed investment from edtech investors and educational institutions.
“We’re thrilled to have UvA Ventures join our latest funding round as we continue to pursue our goal of providing innovative learning solutions for students with learning disabilities and those seeking a more convenient and time-efficient way to learn, by leveraging the powerful combination of academic research and technology,” says Julien Jukema, CEO of Anywyse.
Anyway: Revolutionising the learning experience
Founded in 2021 by Julien Jukema, a University of Amsterdam (UvA) alumnus, Anywyse aims to revolutionise learning by making knowledge accessible through audio.
Jukema’s inspiration stemmed from his personal experience of chemotherapy, which temporarily impaired his reading ability.
During this time, he discovered podcasts as a valuable source of learning.
However, he noticed a lack of didactic podcasts focused on helping listeners retain information. Determined to make a difference, Jukema embarked on a mission to create a solution.
Presently, Anywyse employs seven people working diligently to bring this change.
Pilot projects
Currently, the startup is engaged in pilot projects with several innovative partners, including the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, Noordhoff, the International School of Amsterdam, and six colleges in the UK.
By collaborating with these institutions, Anywyse aims to develop and refine its unique approach. This employs generative AI technology to transform written content into engaging audio learning experiences.
These audio bites, ranging from 10 to 15 minutes in duration, are designed to enhance knowledge retention using scientifically-proven methods.
Teachers and learning and development (L&D) experts can simply upload their written material, and Anywyse technology handles the audio script and voice.
With already a significant 32.5 per cent higher knowledge retention than traditional podcasts, users have praised the impact Anywyse has had on their learning experience
According to Marloes D., advisor for innovative education at the teaching and learning center of the University of Amsterdam, “Anywyse is a valuable asset for a university to have when looking at the future of learning.”
Recently moved to Startup Village Amsterdam, having participated in the ACE Incubator program and received investment from ASIF Ventures and now UvA VUmc AMC HvA Ventures Holding BV, Anywyse has become an example of what a strong startup ecosystem can do.
“What drew us to this startup is audio technology’s potential to diversify learning methods. Anywyse has a cutting-edge platform that can reach over 1 billion people worldwide with dyslexia and ADHD”, says Marleen Kappert, Investment Manager at UvA Ventures.
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