New digital learning platform puts trusted brands at the head of the classroom
MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 11, 2016 — The Big Know announced today that it has raised $3 million in Series A funding, following a highly successful launch in October. Led by LFE Capital, the financing includes investor Steve Shank, founder of Capella Education Company. The new investments will accelerate the company’s growth through the addition of talent and technology capabilities supporting the company’s vision of creating a new model for consumer engagement: “Brand As Teacher.”
Created and launched by digital innovation company GoKart Labs last year, The Big Know helps the world’s brightest brands and organizations unlock their expertise to enrich the lives of consumers through highly engaging and carefully-designed online courses.
Following the success of the company’s first courses sponsored by UnitedHealthcare and AARP’s Life Reimagined, The Big Know is releasing new online courses this year across a variety of subjects, including a course on happiness by renowned author and psychologist Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky and a course on longevity by New York Times best-selling author Dan Buettner.
“The success of our initial courses has shown how much consumers love great online courses made possible by trusted brands,” said Don Smithmier, Founder and CEO of The Big Know. “We are excited to partner with LFE Capital for this initial round of funding. This has tremendous implications for not only the growth of our company, but for the well-being of people who want to move their lives forward and for the brands who want to make it possible.”
“The Big Know is a terrific fit with our investment focus – products and services that help people lead healthier lives,” said Leslie Frecon, Managing Partner of LFE Capital. “Don Smithmier and his team bring tremendous expertise and a powerful vision to this innovative new platform.”
About The Big Know
The Big Know is a digital learning platform built to change the way brands interact with consumers. Taking a cue from the success of the higher education industry and MOOCs, The Big Know unlocks the knowledge and expertise of the world’s best organizations to bring outstanding learning experiences to the world. The Big Know’s mission is to change lives through the power of education. They are establishing the important role of brand as teacher by connecting top experts to curious minds. www.thebigknow.com
About LFE Capital
LFE Capital is a private equity firm based in Minneapolis that provides growth capital to second stage businesses in the Health and Wellness sector. Its team believes that superior investments are found in smaller companies where the commitment to innovation and the opportunity to create significant value drive performance. A relationship with LFE Capital brings expansion capital and an operations oriented investor who will dedicate the time and resources required to build successful businesses. www.lfecapital.com
About GoKart Labs
GoKart Labs—one of Inc’s fastest growing private companies in the U.S.—is a purpose-built innovation company. GoKart invents and delivers digital solutions for complicated business challenges. They are small by design in order to stay nimble and deliver fast, intuitive solutions, just like their namesake, the gokart. They partner with clients who positively impact lives, primarily in the health, education, and financial wellness industries. Clients include National Geographic, Target, US Bank, Mayo Clinic, Laureate Education, Gander Mountain, and more.
www.gokartlabs.com
