byteXL Raises $9M Series B to Expand AI Skilling in Indian Engineering Colleges

byteXL Closes $9M Series B

byteXL, a Hyderabad-based edtech company, has raised $9 million in Series B funding. The round was led by Elevar Equity, with participation from existing investors Kalaari Capital and Michael & Susan Dell Foundation.

Founded in 2020 by brothers Karun and Sricharan Tadepalli, byteXL partners with engineering colleges to embed industry-relevant technology and AI skilling directly into the academic experience. The company focuses on tier-2 and tier-3 cities in India, where access to high-quality technical education and industry connections is often limited.

Model and Reach

byteXL operates a hybrid B2B model that combines an industry-aligned curriculum, hands-on practical learning, technology platforms, and trained educators. This integrated approach spans the four-year engineering degree, ensuring students graduate with skills that match employer demands.

The platform currently reaches approximately 200,000 students through partner institutions across India. With the new funding, byteXL plans to invest in AI-enabled learning, assessment, student analytics, and personalised tools to enhance outcomes and scale its impact.

Investor Confidence

The Series B round brings together a mix of impact and venture investors. Elevar Equity, which led the round, focuses on underserved markets and has a history of backing scalable, inclusive businesses. Kalaari Capital, an early backer, continues to support byteXL's growth, while the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation's participation highlights the social impact potential of the company's model.

Acquisition Relevance

For strategic acquirers in education technology, workforce development, or corporate training, byteXL offers a unique asset: deep penetration into India's engineering college system, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Its B2B2C model provides a pipeline of skilled talent and a platform for upskilling at scale.

As AI and technology skills become critical across industries, byteXL's focus on embedding these capabilities into formal education could make it an attractive target for global edtech players, IT services firms, or companies seeking to build a talent pipeline in India. The company's existing reach of 200,000 students and partnerships with colleges create a foundation for expansion into adjacent markets such as corporate upskilling or job placement.