Multiverse, Apprenticeship Unicorn, Acquires Searchlight to Shift Focus to AI

Multiverse, a prominent U.K. unicorn renowned for its innovative apprenticeship programs that facilitate technology skill acquisition while individuals are on the job, has recently made an acquisition to further enhance its capabilities. The company has acquired Searchlight, a startup specializing in AI-driven recruitment and assessment products. Multiverse intends to leverage Searchlight’s technology to develop new AI products aimed at expanding its training services for professionals.

Euan Blair, founder and CEO of Multiverse, expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing how Searchlight’s AI capabilities will enable Multiverse to better assess the skills required within companies and deliver effective solutions. The acquisition represents a strategic move to combine Multiverse’s extensive reach and renowned learning programs with Searchlight’s cutting-edge technology and talented team.

Searchlight, co-founded by twin sisters Kerry and Anna Wang, boasts a clientele that includes prominent tech companies such as Udemy, Zapier, and Talkdesk. Kerry Wang, CEO of Searchlight, assured that existing customers will continue to be served until the conclusion of their contracts, after which Multiverse will transition away from Searchlight’s recruitment services to focus on its core business.

This acquisition highlights the growing significance of AI in startups operating at the intersection of work and education. By integrating AI into professional training services, edtech companies like Multiverse aim to address recruitment challenges and enhance learning experiences for individuals.

While AI and recruitment have encountered controversy in the past due to issues such as bias, Searchlight claims to have implemented rigorous measures to ensure fairness and accuracy in its AI models. Kerry Wang emphasized the shared goal of Multiverse and Searchlight to promote equitable access to economic opportunities.

In the wake of the acquisition, Kerry Wang will assume the role of director of product at Multiverse, while Anna Wang will lead the AI division. Multiverse’s commitment to leveraging AI in learning underscores the potential of technology to personalize learning experiences and cater to individual needs at scale.

Founded and led by Euan Blair, Multiverse has established itself as a leader in apprenticeship programs, catering to a diverse clientele including major corporations and government organizations. While initially focused on apprenticeships, Multiverse has expanded its offerings to encompass professional training for employed individuals.

Multiverse has already implemented AI-based services, such as a personalized AI assistant coach for users. With the acquisition of Searchlight, Multiverse aims to further enhance its platform and credibility, catering to customers seeking modern and effective training solutions.