Founderz
Founderz is a Barcelona-based online AI Business School offering Microsoft co-certified professional diploma programs and shorter courses to individual professionals and enterprises globally, delivered through a Virtual Campus platform with an AI-powered mentor built on Azure OpenAI.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2021
- HeadquartersBarcelona, Spain
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2B and B2C
- OfferingSoftware
What Founderz does
Founderz is a Barcelona-based online education company that operates an AI Business School serving both individual professionals and enterprise clients. The platform delivers microlearning-format professional diploma programs (typically 3-4 months) and shorter specialized courses focused on applied AI, including AI & Innovation (the flagship at $1,250), AI in Sports, AI in Health, AI in Finance, AI for Creatives, AI in Procurement and Supply Chain, AI for Legal Teams, Responsible AI Leadership ($490), and Productivity with Copilot ($290). All flagship programs are co-certified with Microsoft, reflecting Founderz's status as a Microsoft Worldwide Training Partner. Programs are distributed globally through localized websites (Spain, Mexico, Colombia, LATAM, UK, US) with installment payment plans via Stripe and Aplázame.
The underlying technology combines a Virtual Campus (interactive online campus with live Virtual Rooms and peer circles) and Founderz Fellows, an AI-powered virtual mentor built on Azure OpenAI that provides 24/7 real-time learning support across text, audio, and video modalities without data persistence. Founderz applies two proprietary learning frameworks, AI-THINK (blending entrepreneurial thinking with hands-on AI application) and DSLA (Discover, Share, Learn, Achieve), and has co-developed a Responsible AI Toolkit with Microsoft. The technology architecture is leveraged through Microsoft integration rather than proprietary AI research.
The business model combines consumer self-serve enrollment (PLG) with B2B enterprise training. Revenue streams include individual course fees (subscription and one-time license), corporate training contracts with progress reporting, installment financing, and co-marketing initiatives through Microsoft. Claimed scale includes 700,000+ trained professionals, 1,700+ enterprise clients, and delivery in 50+ countries, supported by 11-50 employees. In June 2026, Fitch Learning (owned by Hearst Corp) and HearstLab took a majority stake, integrating Founderz into Hearst's financial education portfolio.
Founderz firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Founderz
- Legal name
- Founderz Emprendimiento, S.L.
- Website
- https://founderz.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2021
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Short description
- Founderz is a Barcelona-based online AI Business School offering Microsoft co-certified professional diploma programs and shorter courses to individual professionals and enterprises globally, delivered through a Virtual Campus platform with an AI-powered mentor built on Azure OpenAI.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Founderz industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Online AI Education
- NAICS
- Computer Training (61142), Professional and Management Development Training (611430), Educational Support Services (61171)
- SIC
- Services-Educational Services (8200)
- akta.pro primary industry
- AI Tutoring Systems (Conversational Tutors, Homework Helpers) (EDAFAFAC)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- AI-Powered Tutoring & Study Assistant Platforms (EDANAGAD), Certification & Credentialed Creator Programs (MPACALAI), Corporate/L&D Course Licensing from Creators (B2B Upskilling) (MPACALAH), Creator Course Marketplaces (Multi-Instructor Catalogs) (MPACALAA)
Keywords
Where Founderz is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Barcelona
- HQ country
- Spain
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices3 records
Markets served
Founderz business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B and B2C
- Offering type
- Software
- Cost components
- Personnel, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Operations
Revenue model
- Professional Diploma Programs: Online AI training programs in microlearning video format delivered over 3-4 months. Programs include AI & Innovation, AI in Sports, AI in Healthcare, AI in Finance, AI for Creatives, AI for Procurement & Supply Chain, and Legal AI. Programs are certified by Founderz and Microsoft with dual credentialing.
- Specialized AI Courses: Shorter certificate courses focused on specific AI applications, such as Responsible AI Leadership (2 months, $490) and Productivity with Copilot (14 hours, $290). These courses target professionals seeking specific skill development.
- Corporate Training / B2B: Tailored AI adoption programs for enterprise teams and organizations, helping companies upskill workforce in AI. Programs are customized to organizational needs with progress tracking and reporting shared with the inviting organization.
- Installment Payment Plans: Flexible payment options including 6-installment financing plans (e.g., 6 installments of $208.33 for AI & Innovation program), enabling broader accessibility to professional education programs.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription | Monthly | AI & Innovation Professional Diploma - 3-month online program |
| Subscription | Annual | AI in Sports Professional Diploma |
| Subscription | Annual | Responsible AI Leadership Course - 2-month program |
| Subscription | Annual | Productivity with Copilot Course - 14-hour program |
| Freemium | Pay-as-you-go | Free Introductory AI Courses |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels4 records
Marketing channels7 records
Founderz product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Founderz sells online AI education programs delivered through its proprietary Virtual Campus platform. The portfolio includes multi-month professional diplomas (AI & Innovation, AI in Sports, AI in Healthcare, AI in Finance, AI for Creatives, AI in Procurement & Supply Chain, AI for Legal Teams), shorter certificate courses (Responsible AI Leadership, Productivity with Copilot, AI Literacy), and tailored enterprise AI upskilling programs. All programs include dual Founderz-Microsoft certification, 24/7 AI mentor support, and access to a peer learning community.
Product overview
Founderz is an AI Business School offering a platform-plus-modules architecture. The core Virtual Campus provides the learning infrastructure with features like Virtual Rooms and the My Fellow AI mentor, while distinct Professional Diplomas and Certificates serve as the primary product modules. Programs include AI & Innovation (flagship), AI in Sports, AI in Health, AI in Finance, AI for Creatives, AI in Procurement & Supply Chain, and AI for Legal Teams, all certified alongside Microsoft. Shorter specialized courses include Responsible AI Leadership and Productivity with Copilot. The Founderz Docz knowledge hub provides supplementary educational content. Enterprise training programs extend the offering to organizational clients. Programs use the AI-THINK methodology and blend entrepreneurial thinking with hands-on AI application.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- Founderz Fellows: AI-powered virtual mentors who accompany students in real time during their learning journey.
- Founderz Docs
Products and services
- AI & Innovation Program Flagship 3-month online professional diploma program teaching AI fundamentals and practical applications for working professionals. Covers AI assistants, automation platforms, and data analysis systems. Certified by both Founderz and Microsoft. Priced at $1,250 single payment or 6 installments of $208.33.
- AI in Sports Program Specialized professional diploma program applying AI to sports performance, analytics, and management. Developed with GSIC (Global Sports Innovation Center) powered by Microsoft. Triple-certified by Founderz, GSIC, and Microsoft. Priced at $950.
- Responsible AI Leadership 2-month online course focused on responsible AI deployment, ethics, and governance in business environments. Equips leaders to implement AI with appropriate safeguards and ethical considerations. Priced at $490 with Founderz certification.
- Productivity with Copilot 14-hour online short course teaching Microsoft Copilot usage for workplace productivity. Covers advanced functions and AI agent design for process automation. Priced at $290.
- AI Literacy Foundational online course covering essential AI concepts and literacy for professionals. Part of the AI for Business offerings designed to help organizations adopt AI skills.
- AI in Health Program Specialized professional diploma program applying AI to healthcare, including diagnosis improvement, treatment personalization, and patient care optimization. Developed with experts from Hospital Universitario La Paz and Microsoft.
- AI in Finance Program Professional diploma program applying AI tools to financial sector operations. Covers AI applications in finance, accounting, and investment. Certified by Founderz, Barcelona Finance School, and Microsoft.
- AI for Creatives Program Master's program teaching generative AI for creative professionals. Covers complete AI-assisted production workflows, advanced tools, and legal considerations for creative work.
- AI in Procurement & Supply Chain Program Professional diploma program applying AI to procurement and logistics processes. Covers automation, decision-making, and efficiency improvements in supply chain management.
- AI for Legal Teams Program Professional diploma program applying AI to legal operations and legal technology (LegalTech). Developed in partnership with KPMG and Microsoft.
- Enterprise Training Programs Tailored AI adoption programs for organizations and enterprise teams. Helps companies acquire AI skills, achieve greater agility, and produce measurable results. Includes organizational learning management and progress tracking with reporting shared with the inviting organization. Serves clients including Deloitte, Vodafone, Nestlé, KPMG, Siemens, BBVA, Repsol, and others.
- AI in Action Program bringing AI to small businesses, focusing on practical applications for everyday business operations. Developed in partnership with Microsoft.
Quantifiable outcome
- CE Europa women achieved 28% corner-kick effectiveness and 89% accuracy in tactical predictions using Founderz AI training methods
- +6 more outcomes
Companies that use Founderz
Customer profileNamed customers26 records
Segments4 records
Ideal customer profiles3 records
Founderz technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration4 records
AI capability7 records
Feature6 records
Founderz partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Twelve partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and minor.
- Babson CollegeflagshipFirst U.S. institution to partner with Founderz, developing AI and innovation offerings within Babson's Professional & Executive Education portfolio. Programs include four badges and one certificate blending entrepreneurial thinking with hands-on AI application using the AI-THINK methodology. Programs are delivered fully online and taught by Founderz executives and Microsoft industry leaders.
- Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)flagshipAcademic partner for the ERIA Chair on Employability and Responsibility in AI, launched at the Palacio de la Zarzuela with King Felipe VI. Partnership focuses on developing responsible AI talent and preparing young Spaniards for an AI-driven job market. Also involved in university-level AI course development.
- MicrosoftcoreMicrosoft Worldwide Training Partner providing Founderz with exclusive technology access, Microsoft expert training delivery, and dual certification for graduates. Partnership enables Microsoft-recognized credentials within the Training Services Partners program. Microsoft has featured Founderz on Windows Spotlight globally and selected Founderz to train millions of Europeans through AI Skills 4 All program.
- GSIC powered by MicrosoftcoreStrategic partner for AI in Sports program development. GSIC (Global Sports Innovation Center) powered by Microsoft contributes expertise in sports technology to the AI in Sports curriculum.
- Hospital Universitario La PazcoreClinical expert partner for AI in Healthcare program. Experts from the hospital contribute to curriculum development and teaching for the AI in Healthcare professional diploma.
- Barcelona Finance SchoolcoreAcademic partner for AI in Finance program, providing finance sector expertise and co-certification for the AI in Finance professional diploma.
- KPMGcoreStrategic partner for AI in Cybersecurity and LegalTech programs. KPMG collaborates with Founderz and Microsoft to develop specialized curriculum for these emerging AI applications.
- Fundación Princesa de GironaminorPartnership to provide AI training to young Spaniards. Founderz has trained over 200,000 young people in AI in collaboration with the foundation and Microsoft.
- Xunta de GaliciaminorRegional government partnership to provide AI training to young Galicians. Founderz trained 45,000 young people in Galicia in collaboration with Microsoft and the regional government.
- Generalitat ValencianaminorRegional government partnership to promote AI training in the Valencia region in collaboration with Microsoft.
- Fundación ONCEminorPartnership to offer scholarships for AI training to people with disabilities, promoting inclusive AI education.
- CE Europa WomenminorWomen's football club sponsorship and AI analytics partnership. Founderz provides AI training and data analysis support to the team, which achieved historic promotion to Spain's First RFEF using AI-powered tactical predictions. Fifteen players completed Applied AI training.
Scale indicators7 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights6 records
Founderz competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Coursera: Global online learning platform partnering with universities and tech companies (including Microsoft, Google, IBM) to deliver professional certificates and specializations. Directly comparable to Founderz in offering AI and tech credentials with employer-recognized certification, but at much larger scale and broader catalog.
- Udemy: Public marketplace for creator-led professional and tech courses including AI, data, and productivity training. Overlaps with Founderz on B2C AI upskilling and corporate Udemy Business, though Udemy's model is multi-instructor marketplace vs Founderz's curated proprietary curricula.
- DeepLearning.AI: Andrew Ng-led AI education provider offering short courses, specializations, and corporate AI training programs. Most direct specialist competitor in applied AI upskilling for working professionals, with similar focus on practical tool usage and enterprise cohorts.
- DataCamp: Online learning platform focused on data science, AI, and analytics skills for individuals and enterprises. Comparable product/market overlap with Founderz on applied AI training for professionals, with a strong B2B enterprise tier and certification programs.
- Udacity: Nanodegree-based tech upskilling platform acquired by Accenture, focused on AI, data, cloud, and programming programs with enterprise and individual learners. Comparable to Founderz in project-based AI curricula and employer-recognised credentials.
Broad incumbents
- edX (2U): University-affiliated online learning marketplace offering professional certificates, MicroMasters, and executive education including AI tracks. Broader incumbent with academic-grade brand; overlaps with Founderz on AI for Business and corporate upskilling, but less focused on non-technical professional cohorts.
- Pluralsight: Enterprise tech skills platform offering AI/ML, cloud, and cybersecurity learning paths with skill-assessment and analytics. Comparable to Founderz's enterprise B2B training motion and corporate AI upskilling, though historically more developer-centric.
Emerging players
- Maven: Cohort-based professional learning platform featuring AI, product, and leadership courses from industry practitioners. Comparable to Founderz on premium-priced, cohort-style applied AI programs for working professionals, with overlapping enterprise demand.
- 365 Data Science: Online data and AI training provider offering career-track programs, certificates, and AI courses for individuals and enterprises. Smaller, more niche competitor overlapping with Founderz on applied AI and data analytics upskilling.
- MindStudio / WeCP / Airtm AI training platforms: Emerging AI-skills assessment and training platforms targeting enterprise L&D and workforce certification. Adjacent emerging players serving similar buyer (corporate L&D) with AI capability assessments and credentialing workflows.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat4 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
Founderz social profiles
Digital presenceFounderz compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance3 records
Founderz financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Founderz leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles3 records
Founderz funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds3 records
Investors2 records
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Founderz M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Founderz
What does Founderz do?
Founderz sells online AI education programs delivered through its proprietary Virtual Campus platform. The portfolio includes multi-month professional diplomas (AI & Innovation, AI in Sports, AI in Healthcare, AI in Finance, AI for Creatives, AI in Procurement & Supply Chain, AI for Legal Teams), shorter certificate courses (Responsible AI Leadership, Productivity with Copilot, AI Literacy), and tailored enterprise AI upskilling programs. All programs include dual Founderz-Microsoft certification, 24/7 AI mentor support, and access to a peer learning community.
Is Founderz a public or private company?
Founderz is a private company. It is classified as corporate owned and is currently operating.
When was Founderz founded?
Founderz was founded in 2021. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is Founderz based?
Founderz is headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, in the Europe region.
How does Founderz make money?
Four revenue lines are on record. Professional Diploma Programs are the primary driver. The others are specialized AI Courses, corporate Training / B2B and installment Payment Plans.
Who are Founderz's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Coursera, Udemy, DeepLearning.AI, DataCamp and Udacity. Broad incumbents are edX (2U) and Pluralsight. Emerging players are Maven, 365 Data Science and MindStudio / WeCP / Airtm AI training platforms.
Does Founderz have an API?
No public API is recorded for Founderz.
What industry is Founderz in?
Founderz's product category is Online AI Education. Its primary akta.pro industry code is EDAFAFAC, AI Tutoring Systems (Conversational Tutors, Homework Helpers), with a secondary code of EDANAGAD, AI-Powered Tutoring & Study Assistant Platforms. Its NAICS code is 61142 and its SIC code is 8200.