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Code.org

Category: AI in Education

An initiative by Code.org to introduce students and teachers to the world of artificial intelligence through engaging, hour-long activities. Code.org was founded in 2013. The company is led by Hadi Partovi. Based in Seattle, USA. Team size: 201-500. Total funding raised: Code.org, the parent organization of Hour of AI, is a non-profit funded by philanthropic donations. While a specific funding amount for the 'Hour of AI' initiative is not disclosed, it is part of a broader AI education effort supported by a significant partnership with Microsoft. Microsoft has pledged $75 million to help expand access to computer science education.. Latest round: As a non-profit, Code.org does not have traditional funding rounds. The most recent major financial support comes from a partnership with Microsoft, announced in 2023, to support the 'Hour of AI' initiative.. Key investors include Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Infosys Foundation.

Founded
2013
Headquarters
Seattle, USA
Team size
201-500
Total funding
Code.org, the parent organization of Hour of AI, is a non-profit funded by philanthropic donations. While a specific funding amount for the 'Hour of AI' initiative is not disclosed, it is part of a broader AI education effort supported by a significant partnership with Microsoft. Microsoft has pledged $75 million to help expand access to computer science education.

Value proposition

To demystify artificial intelligence and make it accessible to everyone, providing a simple, hands-on, and engaging way to learn the fundamentals of AI and its ethical implications.

Products and solutions

Hour of AI activities (e.g., AI for Oceans, Dance Party AI Edition), AI-focused curriculum modules for different grade levels, Professional development resources for teachers on AI topics, Videos and tutorials explaining AI concepts

Unique value

Hour of AI leverages the global brand and reach of Code.org's successful 'Hour of Code' movement to introduce AI concepts to millions of students and educators. Its focus on short, accessible, and creative activities makes learning about a complex topic like AI less intimidating and more engaging for a young audience.

Target customer

K-12 students and teachers, with a focus on beginners and those with no prior experience in computer science or AI.

Industries served

Education (K-12)

Technology advantage

The primary advantage is Code.org's established platform, which is used by millions of students and teachers worldwide. This provides a massive distribution channel for the Hour of AI content. As a non-profit, it can focus on educational outcomes rather than commercial ones, and it has strong backing from major tech companies.

How they differentiate

Hour of AI, an initiative by the non-profit Code.org, differentiates itself by offering a free, one-hour introductory curriculum to AI, making it highly accessible to K-12 students and educators. It leverages the massive global brand and network of its predecessor, the 'Hour of Code'. Its partnership with Microsoft provides significant resources and credibility.

Main competitors

Khan Academy, Google for Education, Coursera

Key partnerships

Microsoft, Amazon, ETS, ISTE, Khan Academy

Notable customers

New York City Department of Education, Chicago Public Schools, Los Angeles Unified School District

Major milestones

Successful launch of the 'Hour of AI' initiative in 2023, evolving from the 'Hour of Code'., Secured a major partnership with Microsoft to develop and promote AI curriculum., Integration of AI-powered tools like a teaching assistant for educators., Widespread adoption of the 'Hour of Code' program in major school districts, setting a precedent for 'Hour of AI'.

Growth metrics

While specific metrics for 'Hour of AI' are not yet widely public, the 'Hour of Code' initiative has reached over 1 billion participants, indicating a massive potential audience and growth trajectory for the new AI-focused program.

Market positioning

Hour of AI is positioned as a global, non-profit leader in providing foundational AI literacy for the K-12 education sector. It aims to demystify AI for a broad audience, similar to how the 'Hour of Code' successfully introduced coding to millions of students worldwide. Its focus is on accessibility and ease of use for beginners.

Geographic focus

Global. While it has a strong presence in the USA, the 'Hour of Code' initiative reached students in over 180 countries, and 'Hour of AI' aims for a similar international reach.

Patents and IP

As an open, non-profit educational initiative, Hour of AI does not have any public patents. Its value lies in its open-source curriculum and educational materials.

About Hadi Partovi

Co-founder and CEO of Code.org, a non-profit dedicated to expanding access to computer science education. Angel investor in several tech companies including Facebook, Dropbox, and Airbnb. Previously worked at Microsoft, where he led the Internet Explorer team.

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