• Eduba, an Iraqi edtech startup, was acquired by a major telecom conglomerate in a seven-figure deal, marking a significant milestone for the company.
• Initially launched as a school management app in 2019, Eduba gained traction in private schools and aimed to expand into a comprehensive super app for the education sector.
• Despite fundraising challenges, the acquisition discussions focused on strategic partnerships and product integration, leading to Eduba’s full integration into the telecom giant’s growth strategy.

Eduba, an Iraqi edtech startup, has been acquired by a major telecommunications conglomerate in a seven-figure deal, according to media reports.

The acquisition was announced on a Tajarib episode broadcasted on Iraq 24 TV and shared across Tajarib’s social media platforms.

Eduba Origins and Early Success

Founded in Baghdad in 2019 by Azad Hassan, Haider Shaaban, and Raed Kadhem, Eduba began as a school management app. It quickly gained traction with private schools and earned accreditation from the Ministry of Education, signaling its strong market performance.

Expansion Plans for a Super App

Hassan and his team had ambitious plans to transform Eduba into a super app serving educational stakeholders from kindergarten to K-12. While the platform already featured dashboards for teachers, students, and guardians, their goal was to broaden its scope into a more comprehensive tool.

The envisioned super app would incorporate a learning management system, communication tools, fintech solutions, and even ride-hailing services, offering a centralized platform to meet all stakeholder needs.

Challenges in Fundraising

Eduba initially sought to fund its expansion through equity investment, but faced resistance. Most capital is not interested in equity investment or partaking in fundraising; they aim to take complete control of the business,” Azad commented. “Entrepreneurs are left with few options, often conceding significant value.”

Acquisition Negotiations

Furthermore, subsequent talks covered key issues such as product placement, strategic partnerships. The deal also covered market expansion, and integration with the acquirer’s existing portfolio. These discussions culminated in the seven-figure acquisition by a leading internet service provider (ISP) conglomerate.

Eduba Future Growth and Integration

Additionally, Eduba’s integration into the telecom giant’s operations ensures the startup’s innovations. That will also play a role in a broader strategy focused on scaling, market expansion, and innovation as the ISP extends its influence across the sector.