Risepoint Company Profile

Background

Risepoint, formerly known as Academic Partnerships, is an education technology company dedicated to expanding access to affordable, workforce-focused online degree programs. Established in 2007, the company partners with over 100 regional public and private universities to develop and grow high-return-on-investment (ROI) programs in critical fields such as nursing, teaching, business, and public service. Risepoint's mission is to create enduring growth through accessible education, enabling more students, especially working adults, to advance their careers and meet employer and community needs.

Key Strategic Focus

Risepoint's strategic focus centers on supporting universities throughout their entire journey, offering adaptable services at every step. The company specializes in:

Marketing Services: Implementing integrated marketing strategies to effectively reach prospective students.

Partner Success: Providing dedicated change management teams to ensure sustainable growth.

Student Support: Offering comprehensive support to enhance student retention and success.

Faculty Support: Assisting faculty in developing and delivering high-quality online courses.

By focusing on these areas, Risepoint aims to help universities reach new students, increase enrollments, and serve the workforce with relevant education.

Financials and Funding

Risepoint is a for-profit online program manager owned by Vistria Group, a private equity firm. The company has been recognized for its significant contributions to the education technology sector, serving more than 55 colleges and universities and providing technology, marketing services, and student support services.

Pipeline Development

Risepoint continuously collaborates with university partners to develop and launch online programs in critical fields. Recent initiatives include:

Gwynedd Mercy University: Launched new online graduate programs in nursing and education in May 2025.

King University: Expanded access to advanced nursing education with new online programs in partnership with Risepoint in May 2025.

Texas A&M International University: Expanded online criminal justice graduate programs in partnership with Risepoint in April 2025.

These developments demonstrate Risepoint's commitment to providing workforce-relevant education that meets the needs of adult learners.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Risepoint leverages advanced technological platforms and innovative methodologies to support its university partners. Notable aspects include:

Integrated Marketing Approach: Utilizing data-driven strategies to effectively reach and engage prospective students.

Comprehensive Support Services: Providing end-to-end support, including student engagement, faculty assistance, and performance monitoring.

Research and Insights: Conducting annual studies, such as the "Voice of the Online Learner" report, to understand and address the evolving needs of online learners.

Leadership Team

Risepoint's leadership team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the company's mission:

Fernando Bleichmar: Chief Executive Officer since 2022, recognized for his leadership with Comparably's Best CEO Award in 2024.

Deanna Raineri, Ph.D.: Promoted to Chief Academic and Product Officer in February 2025, bringing extensive experience in academic services and innovation.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The education technology sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for online learning solutions. Risepoint operates in a competitive landscape, focusing on partnerships with regional universities to deliver affordable, workforce-relevant programs.

Competitor Analysis

Risepoint's primary competitors include:

HotChalk: Provides online program management services, focusing on technology and marketing solutions.

Noodle: Offers a network-based approach to online program management, emphasizing collaboration among institutions.

edX: A massive open online course (MOOC) provider offering a wide range of courses and programs.

Bisk Education: Specializes in online program management and corporate training solutions.

Risepoint distinguishes itself through its focus on regional universities and commitment to affordable, high-ROI programs.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Risepoint has established significant partnerships to strengthen its market position and innovation capacity:

Florida Tech: Partnered to offer online degree programs designed to meet the needs of students seeking alternatives to on-campus education.

Sheridan College: Collaborated to offer flexible online programs geared toward busy working professionals, launching in January 2025.

Operational Insights

Risepoint's strategic considerations include:

Focus on Regional Universities: Partnering with institutions that have a significant impact on their students and communities.

Commitment to Affordability: Ensuring programs are accessible and provide a strong return on investment for students.

Comprehensive Support: Offering end-to-end services, from marketing to student and faculty support, to ensure program success.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Risepoint's strategic roadmap includes:

Expansion of Partnerships: Continuing to collaborate with additional regional universities to broaden the reach of affordable online education.

Innovation in Online Learning: Leveraging technology and research to enhance the quality and effectiveness of online programs.

Focus on Workforce Alignment: Ensuring programs meet the evolving needs of employers and communities, thereby enhancing student employability.

Contact Information

Website: risepoint.com

General Inquiries: hello@risepoint.com

Media Inquiries: media@risepoint.com

Risepoint's commitment to expanding access to affordable, workforce-focused education positions it as a leader in the education technology sector, dedicated to supporting universities and students in achieving their goals.