Bhanzu Secures $16.5M in Series B, Eyes US Expansion with AI-Powered Math Learning

India-based eddtech platform Bhanzu has raised $16.5 million in a Series B funding round, led by Epiq Capital and Z3 Partners. The round saw participation from existing investors, such as Lightspeed Ventures and Eight Roads. Although the company did not reveal its current valuation, sources estimate it now stands between $115 million and $120 million, marking a modest increase from its previous valuation of $100 million in 2022.

The funds will be used to support Bhanzu’s expansion into the US market, alongside its existing presence in India, the UK, and the Middle East. Bhanzu plans to address a gap in the US market, which is dominated by large, outdated companies that have yet to embrace technological advancements or update their curricula.

Founded in 2020 by Neelakantha Bhanu, the “world’s fastest human calculator,” Bhanzu has experienced growth with an 8x increase in its business since the last funding round and maintains positive cash flow.

Bhanzu focuses on experiential learning, offering math courses designed to boost cognitive skills and reduce math anxiety for children aged 5 to 16. Bhanzu’s personalized, AI-driven curriculum adapts to each student’s learning style, fostering problem-solving abilities and building confidence in math through interactive group sessions.

Bhanzu’s approach departs from traditional rote learning by using advanced AI to tailor lessons in real-time, ensuring students learn optimally. The method engages students and prepares them for success in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. The company has already trained over 30,000 students and plans to expand its reach.

With the new funding, Bhanzu plans to develop its innovative curriculum further, which has already gained traction in India and other regions. As the company continues to scale, it plans to capitalize on the growing demand for tech-driven education solutions.

Despite posting a surge in losses, Bhanzu has demonstrated strong growth since its last funding round, with a 13x increase in operating revenue to Rs 47.33 crore in FY23. 

The company reported a nearly 18x jump in losses to Rs 70.99 crore for the same period. However, Bhanzu’s rapid growth and positive cash flow highlight its potential in the competitive edtech space, where it competes with companies like Cuemath, Unacademy, Adda247, and Skillmatics. 

The funding boost comes at a time when the edtech sector is witnessing a resurgence, with startups like PhysicsWallah, Eruditus, and upGrad securing investments.