Kodree secures $10M to scale AI upskilling coding platform globally
Kodree, a coding and tech upskilling platform developed by Rist Labs, has secured $10 million in user acquisition financing from financial services firm PvX Partners, as it looks to expand its global reach and scale adoption of its AI-supported learning model.
The platform, which operates in 185 countries, focuses on hands-on learning rather than video-based instruction, reflecting a wider shift in EdTech toward applied skills development. The funding will be used to increase marketing spend and accelerate user growth without equity dilution.
Kodree is the first product from Rist Labs, a Ukraine-based studio founded by the team behind Mate academy, including Roman Apostol, Anna Apostol, and Max Lysak. The company is focused on building AI-powered consumer learning products for global markets.
Practice-first model supported by AI mentor
Kodree is structured around a “learning-by-doing” approach, with users completing exercises and real-world projects supported by an AI assistant that provides feedback and suggests solutions. The platform is designed for both career switchers and professionals looking to improve technical skills.
Oleksandr Bartosiuk, CEO of Kodree and former Head of Product at Mate academy, says: “About 80% of the learning process in Kodree is hands-on practice. The AI assistant helps users move faster by suggesting solutions, checking answers, and providing feedback along the way. We don’t believe in passive learning through watching YouTube videos — it creates an illusion of knowledge but doesn’t build real skills.”
The model positions Kodree within a growing segment of EdTech platforms focused on measurable skill acquisition rather than content consumption, particularly in areas such as coding and technical roles.
Rist Labs expands product development strategy
Rist Labs was established as a product studio to formalize internal experimentation within Mate academy and develop new AI-driven learning products for international audiences.
Max Lysak, Co-founder of Mate academy, says: “At Mate academy, we’ve constantly experimented with new product ideas. Over time, this evolved into a dedicated R&D direction. Rist Labs gives us a way to systematically build new global products.”
Kodree operates as a standalone company under this structure, with its own leadership and financial model, while drawing on the technical and operational expertise of its parent organization.
Financing model reflects shift in EdTech growth strategy
The $10 million facility from PvX Partners is structured as non-dilutive user acquisition financing, allowing Kodree to scale marketing without giving up equity. PvX specializes in cohort-based financing models for consumer applications, providing capital linked to performance and growth metrics.
This approach is gaining traction among EdTech companies seeking alternatives to traditional venture funding, particularly in a market where user acquisition costs remain high and profitability timelines are under scrutiny.
The focus on marketing-led growth, combined with a practice-driven product model, suggests Kodree is positioning itself to compete in a crowded global skills market where differentiation increasingly depends on outcomes rather than content volume.
ETIH Innovation Awards 2026
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