Online language learning social network Busuu.com, which enables users to talk to native speakers via video chat, topped the list, followed by bettermarks.com, an adaptive maths learning platform; and The Student Room Group, the UK’s largest online student forum.

Online language learning social network Busuu.com topped the list

“These three companies stood out for us as having a real grasp on the opportunities and direction of the edtech and e-learning market,” Charles McIntyre, CEO of IBIS Capital and co-founder of EdTech Europe, commented.

“Each of these companies were able to demonstrate robust business plans and clear scope for growth and scale into other markets.”

The rankings are produced annually in cooperation with media investment and advisory firm IBIS Capital.

This year’s list was dominated by adaptive learning and virtual classroom environments, areas that present “huge opportunities for innovators to disrupt the market” commented Benjamin Vedrenne-Cloquet, CEO and co-founder of Edxus Group.

“We hope that by highlighting some of the impressive and important work firms are doing in this market, we’ll help to facilitate growth and attract funding to ensure European EdTech companies can compete with their global counterparts,” Vedrenne-Cloquet added.

An industry-led panel including representatives from TSL, Pearson and Emerge Education judged the awards, taking into account criteria such as innovation, scale, market impact and revenue growth in Europe over the past year.

Jason Geall, CEO of The Student Room, which comprises digital learning platforms TheStudentRoom.co.uk, GetRevising.co.uk and MarkedbyTeachers.com, called the win a testament to the team and its 2.5 million registered student users.

“We are very excited about what the future holds and will continue to expand our efforts to fuel the power of social learning, by delivering even more great learning tools and resources whilst nurturing and further growing the community of students that utilise them,” he added.

The announcement of the EdTech 20 marks the opening of applications for the the EdTech Movers & Shakers index of the 50 most influential people in education technology, and shortlisted entrants will also be considered for application to future SXSWedu LAUNCHedu competitions.