Axcel Learning, a NYC-based professional education company backed by Alpine Investors, has announced the acquisition of KMK Optometry, a leading provider of comprehensive optometry board exam preparation and coaching services. Axcel aims to empower the modern workforce, and its partnership with KMK signifies its entry into the healthcare education industry.
However, the amount of the transaction was not disclosed.
Founded in 2005 by Kyle Cheatham and Melissa Cheatham, KMK is the trusted partner of choice for optometry students. It is revered for its commitment to empowering students and aims to elevate patient care worldwide. The platform offers online test prep courses for all three parts of the American NBEO optometry board exams and the Canadian OEBC exam. It also provides small group coaching sessions, a community platform for students retaking NBEO exams who need additional support, and career solutions to match new optometry graduates to employers.
Speaking on the deal, Kyle Cheatham, Founder and CEO of KMK, said:
I am incredibly proud of not only KMK Optometry’s growth since the company was founded over 20 years ago but also the thousands of students whose academic and career trajectories we have positively impacted to date. Partnering with Axcel will enable KMK to embark on our next phase of growth and innovation so that we can support even more optometry students, schools, and practices in achieving their goals.
With the support of Axcel and under new leadership of CEO Jonah Berg, KMK is poised to embark on an ambitious journey of expansion and innovation across the test prep and coaching offerings, further cementing its position as the premier destination for students on their journey to becoming optometrists.
Melissa Cheatham, Co-founder of KMK, added:
Our essence is defined by our commitment to continuous improvement, connection and academic integrity. We immediately recognized that Axcel is the partner that will uphold our values and continue cultivating an environment where they thrive.
Axcel believes the strategic and cultural alignment with KMK is a significant milestone, underscoring its commitment to driving innovation and excellence across the professional education landscape and now into healthcare.
Jonathan Zeidan, CEO of Axcel, shared his excitement about the partnership:
We are thrilled to join forces with KMK, a beacon of excellence in education. Together, we are ready to shape the future of optometry education and beyond.
As part of the agreement, DC Advisory served as the exclusive financial advisor to KMK Optometry.
Axcel Learning specializes in buying, building, and operating world-class professional education businesses. By partnering with and investing in founder-owned enterprises, the company offers unmatched flexibility for passionate founders endeavouring to see their businesses resourced for rapid growth. It primarily focuses on areas of the workforce with a persistent need for more specialized talent.
