Italy’s Zanichelli Editore has launched ZNEXT, a €60M initiative focusing on developing technology businesses in education, work, lifelong learning, and wellbeing.
ZNEXT will invest in edtech and other technology companies through a venture builder model and M&A arm, led by Elena Lavezzi.
The initiative is fully funded by Zanichelli Editore, aiming for long-term revenue growth in the learning market.
Funds will be allocated to a venture builder for early-stage funding and an M&A arm for high-growth startups.
ZNEXT will provide support and resources to help portfolio companies grow.
This marks a strategic expansion for Zanichelli Editore, known for its educational publishing legacy.
The initiative complements the existing Zanichelli Venture fund, marking a significant move into technology investment.
Elena Lavezzi brings experience from Uber and Revolut to ZNEXT, focusing on unlocking human potential through technology.
Unlike traditional VC models, ZNEXT is designed for sustainable growth with a focus on human development technologies.
Ferrante Enriques, a major shareholder, highlights the importance of investing in technology for human adaptability.
ZNEXT and Zanichelli Editore aim to enable individuals worldwide to adapt to evolving lifestyles through technology.
The initiative reflects a long-term commitment to education and human development.
Elena Lavezzi emphasizes Zanichelli’s history and the importance of adapting to change.
The focus is on diversification and innovation, aligning with the company’s longstanding evolution.
ZNEXT represents a new chapter in Zanichelli’s history, paralleling the continuous innovation over 150 years.
The initiative is aimed at unlocking human potential through world-class technology, driven by energy and ambition.
The company's perspective is focused on long-term human development and adaptability to societal changes.