At the heart of every successful venture is a visionary leader, and Dean Tomlin is no exception. With 15 years of experience in EdTech sales and strategy, Dean recognised the challenges faced by companies in connecting with resellers and expanding their reach. This insight led to the creation of SPYRO - a platform designed to empower EdTech innovators by simplifying their journey to global markets.
In this Q&A, we sit down with Dean to explore the inspiration behind SPYRO’s unique name, his ambitions for the platform, and his vision for the future of the EdTech industry.
Join us as we dive into Dean's thoughts on what sets SPYRO apart and how it aims to transform education for generations to come.
Q: What inspired you to start SPYRO?
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Dean: I’ve spent years in the EdTech industry, and I noticed a real need for a better way for companies to work with resellers. I wanted to create a platform that simplifies the whole process, allowing EdTech creators to focus on what they do best - innovating - while we handle the logistics.
Q: What does the name "SPYRO" mean, and why did you choose it?
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Dean: SPYRO means “basket used to carry seeds.” In our case the seeds are knowledge and learning – the seed also represents the potential for greatness - and the dandelion represents our determination to help EdTech companies spread innovation to classrooms worldwide in a what is currently a difficult environment. We’re not just a platform; we’re a vehicle for growth and transformation in education.
Q: What are your ambitions for the future of SPYRO and the EdTech industry?
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Dean: I see SPYRO becoming the go-to platform for EdTech companies looking to expand. I want to build a vibrant community where innovative ideas can thrive, ultimately reshaping the landscape of education.
Q: What makes SPYRO different from other platforms?
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Dean: SPYRO stands out because we focus on providing visibility and management tools specifically for EdTech companies. We help them track their partnerships and facilitate international sales whilst providing actionable insights into their performance, enabling them to refine their growth strategies and maximise their impact.
Q: Why do you work with resellers rather than selling directly to schools?
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Dean: The importance of local resellers cannot be underestimated. They are the service providers, the trainers, the customer support, the local language speakers who provide boots-on-the-ground for EdTech companies. They understand the needs of their local schools and they bridge the gap between innovation and education for busy educators. SPYRO helps to enable resellers to provide the best resources to educators working in regions where the supplier may not have the resources to target.
Q: How do you envision technology evolving in education?
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Dean: Technology will continue to be a game changer in education, with more personalised learning experiences and broader access to resources. Platforms like SPYRO will facilitate these advancements, making it easier for educators to adopt and integrate new tools that enhance learning.
Q: What advice would you give to EdTech startups trying to break into the market?
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Dean: My biggest piece of advice is to identify what makes you unique and understand your target audience deeply. The EdTech market is competitive, so leveraging platforms like SPYRO to streamline your outreach and adapt based on feedback is essential for standing out.
Ready to take your EdTech solution global?
Join Spyro today and simplify your path to international success.
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