Zomato isn’t the only one going global via an M&A model. Ed-tech startup Simplilearn, which raised a $15 Million Series C round specifically for US expansion, has today announced that it is acquiring California-based Market Motive, in a deal valued at $10 Million.
Simplilearn currently already offers over 250 courses via its e-learning platform, and with Market Motive in its kitty, Simplilearn will now have a slew of new digital marketing courses coming up on its platform. Both these companies have been in an content-sharing partnership since 2014, wherein Market Motive’s curriculum was streamed seamlessly into Simplilearn’s LMS alongside 250+ other courses.
Market Motive, founded in 20017 and HQ-ed in California, is an e-learning platform offering courses in digital marketing space. Currently offered disciplines include Web Analytics, Conversion Optimization, PPC Advertising, Social Media Marketing, SEO, Mobile Marketing, Email Marketing, Content Marketing and Display Advertising Foundations.
Michael Stebbins, who co-founded Market Motive and is now Simplilearn’s Chief Innovation Officer, said in a blog post,
Simplilearn has vast resources that will enable us scale a great customer experience and to continue to build industry leading digital marketing curriculum. And Market Motive has a refined an enviable system, and reputation, for rapid delivery of business curriculum that is authoritative and up-to-date.
Market Motive will continue to operate as an independent arm of Simplilearn with co-founder Michael Stebbins staying on as CEO, the company said. Stebbins will also become Chief Innovation Officer at Simplilearn and work with Prashant Parmar, director of US operations.
The merged company, which has already helped more than 400,000 professionals in over 100 countries see $4 billion worth of pay raises, is now turning its attention to an expanded presence in the U.S. where it aims to offer “turnkey solution to professionals” trying to advance in their field and struggling college grads, under-employed and beleaguered by student debt.
Stebbins further adds,
Through the process of acquisition, I have come to know and admire Krishna and the executive staff of Simplilearn. We share a passion to change lives through training and certification.
The combined entity is now gearing up for a new product launch for 2016.
