ELSA raises $23M Series C and launches an AI tutor built on its speech data

English-language learning platform with speaking lessons, test and interview preparation and a speech analyser

Speech data collected since 2016 can power a voice-based AI tutor that gives learners live conversation practice, driving growth in new markets and B2B

$23M Series C, taking total raised to $60M

Vu Van started ELSA in 2016. Its platforms grew to include speaking lessons with personalised learning plans, test and interview preparation and a speech analyser. Its last round before this was a $15M Series B in January 2021.

On 2023-09-12 ELSA announced the Series C led by UOB Venture Management, with Aozora Bank, Vietnam Investments Group, Development Bank of Japan and UniPresident, plus returning investors Gradient Ventures, Monk's Hill Ventures and Global Ventures. It launched ELSA AI Tutor the same day, a voice-based tutor that reproduces conversations through generative AI, with role-play scenarios, and remembers past performance to customise lessons.

Years of speech recognition data from the app gave ELSA material to train an AI tutor

English is the leading job requirement worldwide, per CEO Vu Van

New investors in Taiwan and Japan supported expansion in those markets

Learners without access to a live tutor could practise conversation with the AI

ELSA used a pile of proprietary speech data as the input for a generative AI product, rather than competing on a general chatbot.

As of 2023-09-12 ELSA had $60M in total funding, had launched ELSA AI Tutor, and planned expansion in Taiwan, the Middle East, Turkey and Japan with more focus on B2B. TechCrunch reported no usage numbers for the AI tutor.