Riipen

Riipen Networks Inc. operates an experiential learning platform designed to bridge the gap between higher education and the workforce. The company was founded in 2013 by Dana Stephenson and Dave Savory, who conceived the idea while they were students at the University of Victoria. Their firsthand experience with the disconnect between academic studies and real-world job skills fueled their ambition to create a solution. Stephenson, with a background in commerce, and Savory, focused on computer science, combined their expertise to build the initial platform.

The core of Riipen's business is a two-sided marketplace that connects students and educators with companies for project-based learning opportunities. For educational institutions, the platform provides a structured way to embed work-integrated learning into their curriculum, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge to tangible business challenges. This model addresses the growing demand for graduates who possess practical, job-ready skills. Companies, ranging from non-profits and small businesses to large corporations like RBC and IBM, utilize Riipen to engage with emerging talent, crowdsource ideas, and build their brand within the academic community.

Riipen's revenue is primarily generated through a subscription-based model. Higher education institutions pay an annual license fee for access to the platform, which includes tools for project creation, student-employer matching, and progress tracking. This software-as-a-service (SaaS) approach provides a predictable revenue stream. The platform's projects are versatile, covering areas such as market research, data analysis, and digital marketing, and can be integrated into various academic disciplines. A significant feature is the 'Level UP' program, a government-supported initiative that provides paid project opportunities for students, further incentivizing participation from all stakeholders. By facilitating these collaborations, Riipen aims to enhance graduate employability and provide businesses with a direct pipeline to vetted, skilled talent.

Keywords: experiential learning, work-integrated learning, edtech, higher education, talent pipeline, project-based learning, future of work, skill development, academic-industry collaboration, SaaS