The Future of EdTech: AI, Mergers, and Strategic Investments with Reach Capital’s Jomayra Herrera and Owl Ventures’ Lyman Missimer

Send us Fan MailJomayra Herrera is a Partner at Reach Capital, where she leads investments in companies like Guild Education and Handshake. She is passionate about diversity in venture capital, serving on the board of SomosVC to promote Latino representation.Lyman Missimer is the former Head of M&A and Partnerships at Newsela, where he led key acquisitions, including Formative. Now at Owl Ventures, Lyman focuses on corporate development and strategic investments in EdTech.💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:The biggest EdTech challenges and opportunities driving investments and acquisitions.How AI is transforming education and what it means for schools and EdTech companies.Strategic choices between building, buying, or partnering in today’s market.The increasing importance of non-academic outcomes like mental health tools in K-12.Why trust and relationships are crucial for successful exits in EdTech.✨ Episode Highlights:[00:03:56] EdTech investment trends focus on solving labor shortages and mental health.[00:07:10] M&A driven by data consolidation, build, buy, or partner decisions. [00:14:46] Trust and relationships are key in successful M&A.[00:17:00] Go-to-market approaches differ for various EdTech tools.[00:20:25] AI is a tool; strong models and data ensure success.[00:22:39] AI adoption in education needs proper educator training.🎉 Special Event: StartEd’s EDTECH WEEK 2024!Don’t miss the #1 EdTech event in NYC, celebrating its 10th anniversary from October 8-10, 2024! With 200+ speakers, exclusive networking, and discussions on the latest in EdTech, it's a must-attend.Tickets are selling fast—register at https://bit.ly/edtechweek-register and use promo code INSIDERS2024 for 20% off your general registration ticket to join us in NYC!😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders! Follow our Podcast on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicSign up for the Edtech Insiders newsletter.Follow Edtech Insiders on LinkedIn!🎉 Presenting Sponsor:Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now. Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead. Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.