TechCrunch Startup News Language learning marketplace Preply’s unicorn status embodies Ukrainian resilience
Jan 22, 2026
Language learning marketplace Preply has reached a valuation of $1.2 billion after a significant funding round. The company emphasizes the complementary role of AI tools alongside human tutors, enhancing lesson consistency. Despite challenges from the ongoing conflict, Preply maintains its Kyiv office, showcasing remarkable resilience. CEO Kirill BigEye shares how wartime adversity has fostered creativity and strength within the company. Preply joins the ranks of other successful Ukrainian-rooted startups like Grammarly.
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Profitability And AI Fuel Growth
- Preply reached a $1.2B valuation after a $150M Series D and 12 months of EBITDA profitability.
- The company credits AI integration for scaling its 100,000 tutors while preserving human-led teaching.
AI Augments Tutors, Not Replaces Them
- Preply applies AI for lesson summaries, homework and tutor-learner matching to improve consistency.
- The company positions AI as a way to amplify human tutors rather than replace them.
Commitment To Kyiv Office
- Preply kept hiring in Kyiv and now has about 150 employees there despite war-related dangers.
- The Kyiv office stays open 24/7 with generators to provide heat, power and internet during strikes and outages.