Imarticus Learning’s Acquisition of MyCaptain: A Strategic Move Towards IPO
In a significant development within the edtech sector, Imarticus Learning has acquired Bengaluru-based startup MyCaptain for ₹50 crore. This acquisition marks Imarticus’s fourth in recent years, aligning with its ambitious goal of reaching 5 million learners by the fiscal year 2028.
Expanding into Non-Tech Career Education
Founded in 2016 by Mohammed Zeeshan, Sameer Ramesh, and Ruhan Naqash, MyCaptain offers live cohort-based programs, bootcamps, and mentorship in creative fields such as digital marketing, content creation, and design. The platform has engaged over 500,000 learners, with 60% hailing from tier 2 and 3 cities, and 80% comprising students or early professionals exploring entrepreneurial careers.
By integrating MyCaptain’s 60+ live programs into its infrastructure of 20 training centers across 16 cities, Imarticus Learning aims to strengthen its presence in non-tech career domains and deepen accessibility in smaller cities. This move also brings a grassroots campus network spanning over 1,500 colleges, positioning Imarticus to deliver career education earlier in the learner lifecycle.
Financial Performance and Strategic Growth
MyCaptain reported a revenue of ₹27 crore in the previous fiscal year, achieving EBITDA breakeven. The startup has raised ₹14 crore from investors such as Inflection Point Ventures, MyNavi, Piper Serica, Super Capital, and Ankur Capital. This funding is intended to expand hybrid programs into diverse cities and establish over four regional sales centers. (education.economictimes.indiatimes.com)
Imarticus Learning, founded in 2012 by Nikhil Barshikar and Sonya Hooja, has maintained profitability for the past 7-8 years. The company reported a 16% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching ₹205 crore in FY25, with EBITDA doubling in the same period. (inc42.com)
Path to IPO
Imarticus Learning is preparing to file its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) within the next 4-5 months, aiming to raise ₹750 crore through an initial public offering (IPO). The offering will include both fresh shares and an offer-for-sale by existing shareholders. Investment bank IIFL has been appointed to manage the process. (inc42.com)
The edtech sector has faced challenges, with several startups scaling down operations. However, Imarticus’s consistent profitability and strategic acquisitions position it favorably for public market entry. The company’s diversified portfolio, including programs in finance, data analytics, business management, and human resources, contributes to its robust growth trajectory.
Enhancing Learner Engagement and Accessibility
MyCaptain has built a reputation for high learner engagement, reporting a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 70. The acquisition expands Imarticus’s employee base to over 850 and brings a group of ex-founders into senior leadership roles. This additional entrepreneurial experience is expected to help scale MyCaptain’s offerings by 5X over the next three years.
Imarticus claims to be the only Indian partner authorized to offer preparatory programs for all five top global finance certifications—CMA, CFA, ACCA, CPA, and FRM. The company has impacted over 1 million learners to date and placed more than 75,000 in top companies. It partners with global academic and corporate institutions, including IIMs, IITs, ISB, Oxford, PwC, and KPMG.
Conclusion
The acquisition of MyCaptain by Imarticus Learning signifies a strategic expansion into non-tech career education and a strengthened presence in India’s tier 2 and 3 cities. This move aligns with Imarticus’s growth objectives and positions the company favorably as it prepares for its upcoming IPO.
