Shashank Shekhar, a former senior executive at ShareChat, is preparing to launch a new AI learning startup. He is currently raising around $4 million for the venture, which is still in stealth mode.
According to insiders, the funding round is being led by Peak XV Partners, with participation from a few early-stage venture capital firms and angel investors. The startup is expected to be officially announced later this year.
Similar to Seekho
While the name of the new company is not yet public, those close to the project suggest it may resemble Seekho, a career-focused edtech platform. The model will likely combine short, structured content with AI-driven personalisation for users.
Shashank has already built early prototypes, and the startup’s development phase is reportedly well underway. The upcoming funds will be used to hire more AI and product specialists and prepare the platform for launch.
Strong Background Helps
Shashank Shekhar brings strong experience to his latest project. He was Head of Content Strategy and Operations at ShareChat between 2016 and 2018. After leaving, he co-founded Circle Internet, a hyperlocal content platform focused on regional updates and community information.
ShareChat later acquired Circle in 2020. Following the acquisition, Shekhar returned to ShareChat in a senior leadership role, where he continued until resigning in March 2025 to begin work on this new startup.
Edtech Faces Competition
While Seekho is viewed as a direct competitor, other platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram could also become rivals, especially for short-format educational content. These platforms have growing user bases and are attracting creators who offer learning material in bite-sized videos.
Despite these challenges, the focus on AI and career skills may help Shekhar’s new venture stand out. The startup hopes to provide a more personalised and structured experience than traditional social media content.
Future Plans Ahead
Sources suggest that the funding round is expected to close within weeks. Once secured, the team will focus on expanding development and finalising its product offerings.
The startup aims to make learning more accessible, efficient, and engaging using AI tools. If successful, it could become a significant player in India’s fast-growing edtech and skilling sector.
What is an AI Learning Startup
An AI learning startup combines artificial intelligence with educational content to help users learn faster and smarter. These platforms often personalise lessons, track progress, and adapt to each learner’s pace. As technology and demand grow, such startups are gaining popularity for job-focused and skills-based training.
