The third edition of NextEdu, the European acceleration program for EdTech startups, is now open for applications until September 22.
From Helsinki to Turin, the initiative is promoted by Fondazione Sviluppo e Crescita CRT, xEdu, and OGR Torino, supporting startups from across Europe.
NextEdu is an international acceleration program dedicated to startups in the Education Technology sector, launched through the collaboration between Fondazione Sviluppo e Crescita CRT (an impact-oriented entity of Fondazione CRT), xEdu (a leading EdTech accelerator), and OGR Torino.
The program aims to strengthen the education innovation ecosystem by supporting 10 startups in developing transformative learning solutions with strong pedagogical impact.
NextEdu 2025 will explore emerging learning technologies and new models of access to education, taking a cross-disciplinary approach to educational innovation. Key focus areas include experiential and adaptive learning, AI applied to teaching, microlearning, blended learning, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), tools to support neurodiversity and accessibility, corporate training, talent development, and alternative financial models to foster more equitable access to education.
A significant space is also dedicated to reskilling and upskilling solutions, in response to the growing need to develop digital and professional skills for driving innovation and strategic transformation within enterprises. Globally, more than $500 billion in skills development initiatives have been announced over the past twelve months, with $470 billion focused on digital and AI-related training.
The 2025 edition will begin in October at OGR Tech, where selected startups will take part in an intensive four-month program. Applications are open until September 22 on the website: www.xedu.co/nextedu.
A program to drive educational innovation through technology
NextEdu aims to strengthen the EdTech ecosystem in Italy by supporting high-impact pedagogical solutions. The program offers personalised coaching, specialist bootcamps, continuous mentoring, and access to a global network of investors and strategic partners.
Startups will be immersed in the vibrant OGR Tech environment, with access to dedicated workspaces, networking events, and real-world experimentation settings.
By 2030, the global education market is expected to reach $10 trillion, driven by demographic growth in emerging markets and increased demand for upskilling and reskilling in advanced economies. Artificial intelligence is becoming a key enabler in making learning more personalised, flexible, accessible, and connected to the world of work.
Key results from previous editions
In its first two editions, NextEdu accelerated 16 startups working in areas such as e-learning, learning management systems (LMS), AI for education, open innovation, and inclusive learning environments.
The program helped these startups validate their products, expand into international markets, and strengthen their positioning through major events like Slush and xcitED.
Beyond acceleration: an international EdTech community
In addition to the core program, NextEdu offers startups access to a global EdTech community, enabling connections with other innovators within the OGR Tech ecosystem, participation in international events, and continued support even after the program ends.
Applications are open until September 22, 2025.
More information: www.xedu.co/nextedu.
