Education technology is transforming how students learn and how teachers teach, especially in emerging markets. Recently, a global initiative founded at the London School of Economics (LSE), announced its 2025/26 cohort of ventures with the potential to become social unicorns — organisations that can positively impact one billion lives. Among the selected ventures is Pandai, a Malaysian education technology company making learning more accessible, effective, and fun for students across Southeast Asia (100x Impact).
What Is 100x Impact?
100x Impact is a philanthropic investment initiative that identifies and supports mission-driven organisations with the potential to scale globally. Unlike traditional accelerators, it focuses on social unicorns — ventures that may not reach a billion-dollar valuation but are capable of improving a billion lives.
Key features of the program include:
- Catalytic capital: Unrestricted funding to empower organisations to grow with flexibility.
- Bespoke accelerator: A program designed to strengthen strategy, governance, and scalability.
- Access to expertise: Collaboration with LSE researchers and industry experts.
- Peer network: A supportive community of other high-impact ventures.
By combining funding, mentorship, and global exposure, 100x Impact equips selected organisations to grow sustainably while focusing on long-term social good.
Why Pandai Was Selected
Pandai’s inclusion in the 2025/26 cohort highlights its role as a rising leader in education innovation. Together with Solve Education, SwipeRx, and Think Policy, Pandai represents Southeast Asia’s presence in the global conversation about technology-driven solutions for social challenges.
This recognition matters because:
- Regional representation: It puts Southeast Asia on the global map for impact-driven innovation.
- Proven educational impact: Pandai has already reached thousands of students, offering interactive learning tools aligned with national curricula.
- Scalability potential: With support from LSE and 100x Impact, Pandai can extend its reach to millions more learners in the coming years.
Benefits for Pandai and Its Community
1. Access to Flexible Funding
Receiving unrestricted catalytic capital means Pandai can focus on long-term strategies — whether that’s enhancing product features, expanding to new regions, or strengthening partnerships with schools.
2. Expertise and Mentorship
Through LSE’s global insights, Pandai will gain access to evidence-based strategies in education policy, behavioural science, and technology adoption — all essential for sustainable growth.
3. Scaling Beyond Borders
As part of the cohort, Pandai joins a global network of innovators. This opens doors to international collaborations that can accelerate the company’s mission of making quality education accessible to all students, regardless of background.
What This Means for Education in Southeast Asia
Pandai’s journey is not only about the growth of one company. It signals a broader trend: homegrown education startups in Southeast Asia are gaining global recognition. This can inspire more investment, innovation, and collaboration in the region’s education ecosystem.
For students and parents, it means better tools, more engaging learning methods, and greater opportunities to succeed in exams and future careers. For educators, it means access to technology that supports teaching and reduces workload.
Pandai’s selection in the 100x Impact 2025/26 cohort is a proud moment for Southeast Asia. It reflects the potential of local innovation to create global impact, particularly in education. With catalytic funding, expert guidance, and a strong support network, Pandai is poised to scale its solutions to reach millions of students — contributing to the mission of building a more inclusive and effective education system worldwide.