Dubai-based education technology startup Key2Enable is preparing for global expansion by shifting to a franchising model for its specialized learning solutions. The company, which gained significant traction after a successful appearance on Shark Tank UAE, designs technology and software to empower children with special needs, addressing a critical gap in the global education market.
From Shark Tank Success to Global Ambition
In January 2024, Key2Enable secured an investment of over $300,000 on the popular entrepreneurship show Shark Tank UAE. This injection of capital has helped propel the startup from its proof-of-concept phase toward full-scale commercialisation, which is planned for the second quarter of 2026. The company is leveraging this momentum to scale its impact beyond its current operations in the UAE and Turkey.
Innovating with Literacy Labs
At the heart of Key2Enable’s new strategy is its “Literacy Labs” product. This comprehensive package involves setting up entire educational rooms equipped with the company’s proprietary technology and software. For a price of $50,000, a partner receives a fully functional lab with 10 individual student workstations, a smart TV, and complete staff training. The company is already deploying these labs through government partnerships, with four operational in the UAE, 10 planned for Turkey, and 20 set to open across Portugal.
A Shift to a Recurring Revenue Model
Instead of relying on one-off sales of its labs, Key2Enable is building a franchising model to ensure sustainable growth and recurring revenue. Local entrepreneurs worldwide will be able to license Key2Enable’s intellectual property and products, investing their own capital to establish labs in their respective countries or states. According to Chief Strategy Officer Indranil Chatterjee, this model includes monthly commitments that create a stable financial pipeline for the company.
Tapping a Blue Ocean Market
With an estimated 240 million children living with disabilities globally, many of whom are excluded from education, Key2Enable sees a vast and underserved market. Chatterjee described the special education sector as a “blue ocean market,” noting the lack of advanced operators. The company’s mission is to provide effective, scalable solutions to meet this pressing need, positioning itself as a leader in the special needs EdTech space.
About Key2Enable
Key2Enable is a Dubai-based EdTech company that develops assistive technology and software to facilitate learning and inclusion for children with physical and mental impairments. After gaining prominence and funding on Shark Tank UAE, the company is expanding its reach through a global franchising model centered on its “Literacy Labs” product.
Source: AGBI
