Source: Entrackr
Shashank Shekhar, previously a senior chief with ShareChat, plans to launch a startup featuring an AI-based learning model. According to people with direct knowledge of the matter, he is currently in the process of raising $4 million in funding, with Peak XV Partners expected to lead the round, as it is currently in stealth mode and will launch in the later half of this year.
“Peak XV Partners is leading the round with participation from a few early-stage institutional and angel investors,” said one source, requesting anonymity “Shekhar has been quietly building this for the last few months and has early prototypes in place.”
What the Startup will do
While not a lot of detail has been released, the startup will apply artificial intelligence (AI) to help individuals learn and develop skills for their career. It is said to be quite similar to Seekho, which is a learning platform focused on careers. Seekho is also raising between $25 to $30 million in a new funding round.
Shekhar’s new startup is expected to provide personalized learning assistance, using AI, to young professionals and job seekers. With significant gains in the interest for online upskilling, it is also believed that the platform could have a considerable audience at launch.
Shekhar’s Story
Shashank Shekhar has several years of experience in digital content and technology. He served as Head of Content at ShareChat from 2016 to 2018, before going on to co-found Circle Internet, a hyperlocal information platform that specifically provided regional content. ShareChat acquired Circle Internet in August 2020. After the acquisition, Shekhar returned to ShareChat and served as Head of Content Strategy and Operations until March 2025.
This venture signifies his return as a founder, with a focus on AI and education.
Use of Funds
The funds raised will primarily be spent on hiring the AI and product teams, improving the platform, and getting ready for the first phase of launch.
“The round is expected to close in the coming weeks. The startup is likely to use the capital to expand its AI and product team, continue development and prepare for an initial rollout,” said another person aware of the development.
Once launched, it is anticipated that the startup will compete directly with platforms such as Seekho, while facing indirect competition from social media platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram, where many content creators post career & skill-building videos.
No Official Comments Yet
Currently, Shekhar and Peak XV Partners have not responded to emails or messages about the funding or the startup in detail.
Key points:
- Shashank Shekhar is raising $4 million for a new AI learning startup.
- The company is currently in stealth mode and will launch later in 2025.
- The platform will help people learn new skills for their careers.
it may offer competition with Seekho and others that rely on content.
