What is Piper?
Founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, CA, Piper is dedicated to enhancing STEAM education for learners and classrooms globally. The company specializes in creating student-centered, hands-on learning experiences that are aligned with current pedagogical approaches. Piper provides educators with an easy-to-implement, standards-aligned curriculum and professional development to ensure successful classroom integration. Through project-based learning, Piper aims to build confidence in STEAM education, spread digital fluency among students from diverse backgrounds, and inspire the next generation of inventors.
How much funding has Piper raised?
Piper has raised a total of $9.8M across 3 funding rounds:
Angel/Seed
$2.1M
Series A
$7.6M
Debt
$150K
Angel/Seed (2016): $2.1M with participation from Owl Ventures
Series A (2017): $7.6M led by Stanford University, Owl Ventures, and Reach Capital
Debt (2020): $150K supported by PPP
Key Investors in Piper
Owl Ventures
Owl Ventures is a global leader in education technology investing, focusing on innovative solutions that enhance learning experiences. The company supports a diverse range of edtech companies, including those providing tools for personalized tutoring, virtual classrooms, and workforce upskilling. With a deep understanding of the K-12 space and a strong network, Owl Ventures plays a crucial role in scaling its portfolio companies globally. Their commitment to democratizing access to quality education drives their investment philosophy and partnership approach.
Reach Capital
Reach Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on education and workforce development. The company's investments expand access to education and economic opportunities and inspire people to reach their full potential. As one of the most diverse firms in venture capital with more than 20 years of classroom teaching experience across the team, Reach Capital has backed over 130 education companies, including many of the biggest and most beloved brands across early childhood, K-12, higher education and lifelong learning. Learn more at www.reachcapital.com.
Stanford University
Founded in 1891, Stanford University is one of the world's leading research universities. Stanford is known for its entrepreneurial character, drawn from the legacy of its founders, Jane and Leland Stanford, and its relationship to Silicon Valley. Research and teaching stress interdisciplinary approaches to problem solving. Areas of excellence range from the humanities to social sciences to engineering and the sciences. Stanford is located in California's Bay Area, one of the most intellectually dynamic and culturally diverse areas of the nation.
What's next for Piper?
The recent major strategic investment signals a pivotal growth phase for Piper, likely enabling the company to scale its operations, expand its product offerings, and deepen its market penetration. With a focus on hands-on learning and educator support, Piper is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for effective STEAM education solutions. Future developments may include further curriculum innovation, broader adoption in educational institutions, and enhanced digital tools to support remote and blended learning environments.
See full Piper company page