NextWork, a Wellington-based online education startup offering to train 1000 students in the entry-level AWS certification for free, has recently raised $2.3 million in pre-seed funding. The round was led by Kiwi VC GD1 and included Blackbird, Icehouse, Phase One Ventures, and the founders of Eucalyptus.
Founded by Amber Joseph, NextWork has embarked on a mission of global significance-to upskill workers with tech talents. Offering its platform worldwide, NextWork is a personalized learning platform that empowers users to control the pace and style of their learning. The initial focus is on an entry-level AWS certification course, designed to cater to individuals with ‘zero experience’ in tech. Joseph acknowledges the challenges faced by adult learners, who often juggle their learning with existing jobs and family responsibilities.
Amber Joseph said about the company and its mission:
At best, online learning isn’t working; at worst, it’s stalling our progress as the gap between technology and how well prepared we are to use it is widening. This type of education has been essential, but there is a lot of ‘noise’ out there, and it’s hard for learners to determine which institutions and classes are credible. We aim to recruit 1000 participants into tech as soon as possible and prove that our approach is the best way to implement learning journeys for non-technical candidates at scale.
Joseph further added:
Beyond certification, people need to better understand issues such as the demands of a new career, industry connections, and even help prepping for an interview. The startup’s first official cohort of students will enable it to refine the learning experience further as it prepares to take the offering globally.
The company believes every individual should work at a job they enjoy and should be able to choose any talent that will succeed.
GD1 co-managing partner John Kells, a firm believer in the rapid shift of education to online platforms, stated:
Many platforms claim to offer personalisation or ‘self-paced’ learning, but their content remains static, leaving the user to ‘go slower’. NextWork, however, stands out by delivering on the promise of a truly unique learning experience. The platform’s success is evident in the positive response from users, and GD1 is excited to witness the growth of this world-class offering.
