Creatively Focused, an educator-driven technology company based in Mendota Heights, Minnesota, has raised $3 million in seed funding. The round was led by York IE, with participation from Mairs & Power Venture Capital, Groove Capital, and Gopher Angels.
The company plans to use the funds to expand its reach to all 50 states and support more special educators. Creatively Focused was founded by Elizabeth Orme, who is also the company's CEO. Orme is a former special education teacher who saw the need for a technology solution that could help special educators save time and reduce burnout.
Creatively Focused's platform, axis3, is a web-based application that streamlines district resources, provides targeted skill training, and bridges paperwork demands. This helps special educators focus on what they do best: teaching students. axis3 also offers a curated resource library and personalized services to help special educators connect with their peers and stay up-to-date on the latest best practices.
Since its launch in 2022, Creatively Focused has already supported more than 1,000 special educators in public K-12 school districts across the country. With the additional funding, the company plans to expand its reach to all 50 states and provide support to even more special educators.
Marshall Everson, Vice President of Investments & Strategy at York IE, has also joined the Creatively Focused Board of Directors. Everson will collaborate with existing board members Orme and Keeley to help drive the company's vision and mission forward.
