Ed Tech Game Firm Receives $1M in Research Funding

A West Lafayette-based startup that makes science-focused games for elementary-age students has received $1 million in Small Business Innovation Research funding from the National Science Foundation. Explore Interactive, which markets its MindLabs interactive games, has also been awarded $75,000 from Elevate Ventures through the SBIR/STTR Phase II Matching Program.

In addition to the funding, the education technology company has also announced a partnership with Mascot Hall of Fame in Whiting.

The company says the partnership will allow it to bring its STEM-based educational content to even more students.

“This funding will allow us to both build compelling content and bring augmented reality together with the engineering design process for the first time for young students,” said Explore Interactive Chief Executive Officer Amanda Thompson. “We’re also excited to partner with the Mascot Hall of Fame to reach a wider audience through combining our interactive AR platform with the museum’s engaging approach to STEM through sports and entertainment.”

Launched in 2017, Explore Interactive uses augmented reality to teach science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts to elementary students.