UK EdTech Unicorn Multiverse Acquires AI Intelligence Platform Searchlight

The integration of Searchlight's technology and expertise will expedite the adoption of generative AI and machine learning capabilities within Multiverse.Today, Multiverse, a prominent UK-based technology company, made headlines with its acquisition of Searchlight, a leading AI talent software company. This strategic move is poised to revolutionize the landscape of addressing skills gaps within businesses.

Multiverse's core mission revolves around amalgamating work and learning, thereby democratizing access to economic opportunities. The company is committed to bridging critical skill gaps through a pioneering apprenticeship model that integrates human-centered coaching, cutting-edge AI technologies, and advanced tech solutions. This unique approach to learning is distinguished by its emphasis on measurement, practical application, personalized guidance, and unwavering commitment to equity.

By joining forces with Searchlight, Multiverse is poised to amplify its impact on the workforce development sector. The combined expertise and resources of both entities are expected to accelerate the utilization of generative AI and machine learning techniques, offering businesses innovative solutions to navigate the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and development.Multiverse boasts partnerships with over 1,000 organizations, providing comprehensive training programs in data analytics and software engineering. Their commitment to industry collaboration underscores their dedication to equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in today's digital landscape.

In a significant milestone, in June 2022, Multiverse secured a landmark $220 million Series D funding round. Co-led by esteemed investors StepStone Group, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and General Catalyst, this funding round propelled Multiverse to a post-money valuation of $1.7 billion. Notably, this achievement positioned Multiverse as the UK's premier edtech unicorn, marking a significant milestone in the company's trajectory.Established in 2018 and headquartered in California, Searchlight is a pioneering talent intelligence platform renowned for its development of ethical AI solutions aimed at fostering high-performing teams. The company specializes in offering bias-free AI technologies designed to streamline various aspects of talent acquisition, including identifying top candidates, assessing applicants, and validating the quality of hires.

Notably, Searchlight's innovative approach incorporates a unique learning loop, leveraging employee outcome data to continually refine and optimize the hiring process, ensuring each successive hire is an optimal fit for the organization.Following its acquisition by Multiverse, the integration of Searchlight's cutting-edge technology and top-tier talent is expected to drive accelerated adoption of generative AI and machine learning initiatives within Multiverse. This strategic collaboration is poised to unlock new opportunities for innovation and advancement in talent acquisition and development, further solidifying Multiverse's position as a leader in the field of workforce development.

As part of the integration process, Kerry Wang, the CEO of Searchlight, will transition into the role of Director of Products within Multiverse. In this capacity, Kerry will leverage her extensive experience and strategic vision to oversee the development and enhancement of Multiverse's product offerings, ensuring alignment with the company's overarching goals and objectives.Similarly, Anna Wang, the CTO of Searchlight, will assume the position of Head of AI at Multiverse.

Drawing upon her technical expertise and leadership acumen, Anna will play a pivotal role in driving the advancement of AI initiatives across Multiverse's platform. Her strategic guidance and innovative approach will be instrumental in harnessing the full potential of AI technologies to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of Multiverse's offerings.Together, Kerry, Anna, and the entire Searchlight team will collaborate closely with Multiverse's existing talent pool to facilitate the seamless integration of Searchlight's talent intelligence technology into Multiverse's platform.This concerted effort will not only enrich Multiverse's product suite but also position the company at the forefront of AI-driven innovations in the field of workforce development.

Kerry Wang, Co-Founder and CEO of Searchlight, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the shared goals and synergies between Searchlight and Multiverse. Kerry emphasized that both companies are dedicated to empowering organizations to build high-performing teams and individuals to secure meaningful employment opportunities. Recognizing the alignment in their missions, Kerry underscored the potential for collaboration to leverage Searchlight's technology and expertise on a larger scale, particularly with some of the world's largest companies.

By integrating Searchlight's advanced technology and insights into Multiverse's platform, Kerry envisioned the creation of a dynamic workforce development platform equipped to address the evolving needs of both employers and job seekers. This strategic partnership aims to revolutionize the way organizations approach talent acquisition and development, positioning Multiverse as a leader in shaping the future of workforce development.

Euan Blair, the Founder and CEO of Multiverse, expressed his excitement about the acquisition of Searchlight, highlighting how their AI technology can identify skill gaps and provide effective solutions for companies undergoing tech transformations. Blair emphasized the importance of combining Multiverse's scale and learning capabilities with Searchlight's technology and talent to benefit more companies and individuals. The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed. This marks Multiverse's second acquisition, following the purchase of Eduflow, another Y Combinator company, in May 2023.