Imbellus builds simulation-based cognitive assessments that evaluate how people think instead of what they know. The company designs complex, abstract simulation challenges by working with organizations known for creativity and problem solving to study real-world skill application. It translates observed skills and attributes into the language of learning science and psychometrics to create assessments. Imbellus aims to replace standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT and AP exams. Rebecca Kantar is the founder and CEO. The company is based in Los Angeles and completed a $14.5M Series A, bringing total funding to $23M. Imbellus develops non–multiple choice, interactive tests designed to assess how candidates think—focusing on creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving rather than rote memorization. The company is working with CRESST to design these assessments and to identify attributes linked to top job performance. Launched last fall, Imbellus partners with employers to benchmark desirable attributes and has secured a partnership with a major Fortune 500 company to design a tailored screening process. Founder Rebecca Kantar, who dropped out of Harvard at 19, previously sold a company to GLG and leads the team. Investors in the company include Upfront Ventures, Thrive Capital, GLG and Ashton Kutcher’s Sound Ventures, which backed a $4 million raise. The team says it hopes the approach will reform corporate hiring and eventually influence the education system.

Total raised

$19M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series A

Latest activity

Oct 2018