Evidence pays: why proof of impact drives EdTech success

In an evolving EdTech landscape, evidence is no longer just an academic exercise—it’s a commercial imperative. In a new guest article for Brighteye Ventures Sidekick, the Jacobs Foundation’s Libby Hills explores why proving that EdTech products work isn’t just beneficial for learners but also good for business.

Drawing from the Jacobs Foundation’s internal analysis, Libby highlights a compelling trend: EdTech companies that invest in evidence generation see stronger financial returns. In two of the Foundation’s EdTech funds, K-12 companies with evidence-backed products had 50-70% higher Multiple on Invested Capital (MOIC) ratios than those without evidence.

According to data from Teacher Tapp, 87% of teachers now want clear proof that EdTech works before adopting it—up from 79% in 2019. Policymakers and investors are raising the stakes, too, with initiatives like the UK Department of Education’s EdTech Evidence Board and investment firms like A-Street calling for a new model that prioritizes quality and research-backed solutions.

In the rapidly evolving Edtech landscape, particularly with the rise of AI-enabled products, there’s a growing imperative for companies to prove their solutions work. But many founders still view evidence generation as a cost centre rather than an investment. Our data and experience tells a different story—one where having evidence isn’t just about ticking a box, but about creating tangible business value.

Libby Hills, writing in the first guest article on Brighteye Ventures Sidekick

Libby Hills, writing in the first guest article on Brighteye Ventures Sidekick

As the conversation around evidence in EdTech gains momentum, the Jacobs Foundation is committed to elevating expectations across the sector. Read the full article to learn more, and stay tuned for Libby’s next piece, where she will explore practical strategies for building a compelling evidence base.