SymphoMe: case study

SymphoMe, founded by Ifeanyichukwu Ezinmadu in 2023, is an innovative platform transforming music education through AI and gamification. The platform uses smart audio technology to offer a personalised, engaging learning experience for music students, focusing initially on piano lessons. SymphoMe stands out by integrating real-time feedback, tailored learning pathways, and exam preparation aligned with global standards, making music education more accessible and effective.

After hearing about the Black Founders Programme through a friend who was applying at the time, Ifeanyichukwu was drawn to the opportunity to expand his business acumen, connect with other Black founders, and gain resources to improve SymphoMe’s investment readiness. The programme offered the perfect combination of mentorship, networking, and workshops, addressing his goals of fundraising, team building and product development.

With research showing that only 0.2% of overall investment funding in the UK goes to Black founded companies, Digital Catapult’s Black Founders Programme was created in 2023 to support deep tech startups on their scaling journeys, and to tackle systemic barriers in the UK tech sector including bias in investment decisions and limited access to networks.

SymphoMe’s journey began with Ifeanyichukwu’s passion for music education, which stemmed from his own experience as a student and teacher. He identified gaps in the market for personalised learning tools and spent a year researching, eventually developing the SymphoMe platform with AI and gamified features that enhance student engagement and performance.  

However, despite the innovative nature of SymphoMe, Ifeanyichukwu faced significant challenges especially in securing investment and attracting talent for his team. The struggle to raise funds, coupled with racial biases and the lack of representation in tech investment, made it difficult to grow the business. Additionally, developing a product that met both students’ and teachers’ needs proved challenging, leading to several iterations of the platform based on user feedback.  

Throughout the programme, SymphoMe improved its product development, with ongoing user testing and feedback loops guiding the evolution of the platform. Additionally, the mentorship and networking led to key strategic partnerships and investor introductions.  

One key outcome was the deepened understanding of investment strategies, particularly in navigating alternative funding routes. Through the programme, Ifeanyichukwu gained insights into how to scale his business effectively, preparing SymphoMe for future funding rounds and expansion into new markets.  

The future of SymphoMe is bright, with projections to reach 100,000 users by Q4 2026. With ongoing mentorship and industry partnerships, Ifeanyichukwu plans to expand SymphoMe’s offerings and scale internationally. Digital Catapult’s support has paved the way for future industry collaborations, including with music institutions and tech partners, all of which will contribute to SymphoMe’s growth trajectory.  

The Black Founders Programme offers critical support to Black entrepreneurs navigating the tech and creative industries. It provides access to funding opportunities, industry insights and a network of peers, enabling founders to address common challenges such as securing investment, developing product market fit, and creating sustainable business models. For SymphoMe, the programme continues to serve as a foundation for growth, setting the stage for expansion and long-term success in the music sector.  

“The Black Founders Programme offers the opportunity to be part of a strong, supportive network, helping to bridge the funding gap and open doors for collaborations and partnerships. I’m excited for the future and the possibilities that lie ahead for SymphoMe” says Ifeanyichukwu.  

The Black Founders Programme is a 14-week accelerator targeted at pre-seed or seed stage, Black-founded companies creating innovative products and services in the digital entertainment industry. The aim of the programme is to fast track high-growth potential startups from a business and investment perspective, providing the support needed to increase their investment readiness levels. Sony Music UK and Sony Music Publishing UK are collaboration partners for this programme and played an active role in supporting business growth and facilitating connections.