Early Education Mobile App Attracts $2.2 Million in Funding

Daycare, preschool and child development centers aren’t the first things that come to mind when browsing Apple’s App store, but now there is a new early education mobile app. After all, why shouldn’t early educators benefit from mobile technology? That’s exactly what Dave Vasen, founder and CEO of Brightwheel was thinking before he developed the first early education mobile app for early education providers. 

On June 17, Brightwheel—a groundbreaking mobile platform for preschools, daycares and afterschool programs—received $2.2 million in seed funding. The funding comes as the latest version of the early education mobile app was released for iOS and Android. The new version includes the addition of new features previously unavailable to the public. 

Brightwheel is the first of its kind: a free, easy-to-use mobile SAAS platform for early childcare providers. However, Brightwheel is also proving valuable to parents and guardians who struggle to stay informed about daily activities and educational progress—something Vasen was personally familiar with. 

Vasen recognized the challenges faced by childcare providers after the birth of his first child. Not being connected with his daughter during the workday was difficult for the new father; he also observed overworked childcare providers. This scene is likely familiar to parents who need childcare programs, daycares, or after school services. Many early development providers face strict regulatory systems, long hours, and an incredible amount of paperwork to manager in addition to focusing on their real job—taking care of children.  

Brightwheel helps parents and administrators stay connected; allowing teachers and caregivers to practice cohesive programs in class or at home. With Brightwheel, teachers can track attendance in multiple classrooms, record daily observations, and share photos and notes about activities happening throughout the day. Other features include paperless billing for tuition and fees, and community settings for grandparents, nannies or friends. Brightwheel is integrated for both web based and mobile access.  

The childcare market in the United States nears $45 billion each year, so it’s surprising that few tools like Brightwheel have been made available—something Vasen says he is happy to have changed. 

PRE Ventures and Eniac Ventures raised the seed capitol with assistance from CrossLink Capitol, Golden Venture Partners, Red Swan Ventures and Sherpa Ventures. 

Brightwheel is free for parents and administrators and is now available in the Apple App Store and for Android devices.