The math-learning platform founded by Neelakantha Bhanu, the world’s fastest human calculator, is making big strides in transforming math education with a fresh round of Series B funding.
Credits: Financial Express
Introduction to Bhanzu: Shaping a New Era in Math Education
An inventive edtech platform called Bhanzu is stepping up to the challenge of revolutionizing math instruction for pupils everywhere. Established by Neelakantha Bhanu, who is renowned throughout the world as the “fastest human calculator,” Bhanzu has expanded quickly by providing AI-powered customized learning experiences that adjust to the particular requirements of every learner. A remarkable $16.5 million Series B fundraising round headed by Epiq Capital and backed by Z3Partners, Lightspeed Ventures, and Eight Roads was made possible by the startup’s well-received approach to math education.
In Bhanzu’s latest funding announcement, Bhanu shared that the capital would support the company’s expansion into new markets, particularly in the U.S., which holds untapped potential for innovative math education solutions. Bhanzu aims to leverage the funding to further build its AI capabilities, enhance product offerings, and expand its team, while maintaining a strong focus on positive cash flow.
Neelakantha Bhanu: From Mental Calculation Champ to Edtech Pioneer
Born in 1999 in Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, Neelakantha Bhanu developed a fascination for mathematics early on. His achievements include winning India’s first-ever gold medal in the Mental Calculation World Championship at the Mind Sports Olympiad in 2020, a title that placed him in the global spotlight. By the age of 21, he had broken four world records and 50 Limca Book records in mental calculation. With Bhanzu, he now brings his expertise and passion for math to millions of students worldwide, aiming to make learning math enjoyable and accessible.
“Math is a skill, not just a subject,” Bhanu says. “By building Bhanzu, we’re shifting mindsets and enabling students to think of math as a dynamic, problem-solving tool rather than a subject they need to master by rote.”
Personalization through AI: Bhanzu’s Unique Approach
Bhanzu sets itself apart from traditional math education platforms by using advanced AI to create a tailored learning experience. The platform adapts lessons in real-time based on each student’s performance and progress. This dynamic personalization allows for a more engaging and effective learning experience, where students can develop strong problem-solving skills and build confidence in math.
The courses, which are designed for students from kindergarten to grade 9+, use AI algorithms to track learning patterns and adjust difficulty levels. Bhanzu’s platform ensures that students can progress at a comfortable but challenging pace, giving them the support they need to overcome math anxiety and build a positive relationship with the subject.
Credits: Inshorts
“Most traditional math curricula haven’t kept pace with the changing needs of learners,” says Bhanu. “By integrating AI, Bhanzu provides a curriculum that truly engages students and enhances their understanding of math fundamentals.”
Expanding Horizons: Targeting Growth in the U.S. and Beyond
Bhanzu is focused on the U.S. math education sector with its latest investment. Bhanu claims that billion-dollar corporations that haven’t completely embraced the promise of technology to improve learning outcomes dominate the U.S. market. This gap could be filled by Bhanzu’s creative method, which presents a novel substitute for rigid curricula that could not engage today’s kids.
Because Bhanu and his team think that children in the U.S. might greatly benefit from a more participatory, individualized approach to arithmetic, the U.S. market is a key growth area for Bhanzu. In addition to the United States, Bhanzu has made progress in the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and India, where the site already has a devoted user base.
Epiq Capital’s Endorsement: A Strong Vote of Confidence
Partner at Epiq Capital Chinmay Katdare said he was thrilled to be a part of Bhanzu’s initiative to upend the conventional math education market. A uncommon accomplishment for startups in the education sector, Katdare pointed out that Bhanu has put together a strong team and a solid business plan that supports rapid expansion while maintaining a positive cash flow.
“We are ecstatic to collaborate with Bhanu and his group,” Katdare stated. They have a track record of success and an innovative strategy that complements our investment philosophies. Bhanzu has the potential to change math education globally, and we are excited to help them along the way.
