MasterClass joined the Unicorn Club on May 13, 2021, after raising a $225 million Series F funding round led by Fidelity Investments, valuing the company at $2.75 billion. Headquartered in San Francisco, California, United States, MasterClass provides subscription access to high-production-value online courses taught by world-class experts and celebrities across writing, cooking, filmmaking, sports, and more.
Keep reading to learn how MasterClass grew into a premium global learning brand by combining cinematic content, expert instructors, and a subscription model.
What Is MasterClass and What Does It Do?
Founded in 2012, MasterClass is an online education platform that offers video-based courses taught by leading professionals—from actors and writers to scientists and chefs. Each course features high-quality video lessons, downloadable workbooks, and interactive assignments.
Users can access the platform through web and mobile apps (Android and iOS) via a subscription model that unlocks all courses for an annual fee. Beyond learning new skills, MasterClass focuses on inspiration, allowing learners to gain insights directly from icons like Serena Williams, Martin Scorsese, and Gordon Ramsay.
How Much Funding Has MasterClass Raised?
- Series F Round
- Date: May 13, 2021
- Amount Raised: $225 million
- Lead Investor: Fidelity Investments
- Purpose: Expand international content, develop mobile experiences, and enhance production capabilities.
- Earlier Funding Rounds
- Supported by institutional investors like IVP, the total capital raised now stands at $461 million.
Total Funding Raised: $461 million
Latest Funding Date: May 13, 2021
Latest Known Valuation: $2.75 billion
Employee Count: 623 (as of Dec 31, 2022)
Stage: Series F
Key Investors
- Fidelity Investments
- Details: One of the largest asset management firms globally, known for backing high-growth technology and media ventures.
- Focus Areas: Consumer internet, digital content, fintech, and education technology.
- IVP (Institutional Venture Partners)
- Details: Venture capital firm specializing in growth-stage companies in consumer and enterprise technology.
- Focus Areas: SaaS, media, and digital marketplaces.
Where Is MasterClass’s Headquarters?
MasterClass is headquartered in San Francisco, California, United States. Its operations include content production, technology development, and global marketing efforts focused on online learning innovation.
What’s Next for MasterClass?
MasterClass continues to expand its global reach by adding localized content and exploring new learning formats such as live sessions and immersive experiences. The company aims to bridge the gap between inspiration and skill development while maintaining its premium content quality and cinematic storytelling approach.
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