Uvaro Acquires Tech Education Leader Lighthouse Labs to Strengthen Workforce Development Across Canada

TORONTO, Ontario (January 14, 2025) – Uvaro, a leader in career success and workforce development programs, today became one of Canada’s largest and most impactful workforce development organizations with the acquisition of tech education leader Lighthouse Labs. This acquisition redefines how individuals, businesses and communities can respond to the future of work, creating a national platform and network that advances them with the in-demand skills and tools to thrive in a fast-changing economy.

"As industries evolve and emerging technologies like AI rapidly reshape the job market, addressing workforce challenges is more critical than ever," said Joseph Fung, CEO of Uvaro. "This acquisition allows us to expand the depth and breadth of our programs, combining Uvaro’s Career Success framework and go-to-market expertise with Lighthouse Labs’ technical training. As the workforce becomes more tech-enabled, our combined efforts will ensure that Canadians remain at the forefront. By preparing for tomorrow’s challenges, we’re creating opportunities today.”

The acquisition is a strategic move that aligns with wider job market trends, including the Government of Canada’s launch of AI-focused programming and investments in a digitally skilled workforce. This isn’t the first time Lighthouse Labs has been at the forefront of technical change. Over the past 11 years, it has pioneered intensive hands-on training for mid-career professionals with an unprecedented 80% job placement rate, while driving success in Canada’s tech industry. These strengths now complement Uvaro’s established advantage in workforce development, creating even more solutions to help Canadians adapt to the pace of change and unlock greater career opportunities.

"Lighthouse Labs has always been deeply driven by the commitment that technological change is an opportunity for all. We are thrilled to take that vision to its natural next stage,” said Jeremy Shaki, CEO of Lighthouse Labs. “This acquisition represents a shared passion for addressing today’s workforce challenges and strengthens our ability to deliver technical skills training and career development for Canadians. By aligning with national priorities like digital skills training, we’re helping Canadians seize opportunities and prepare for the digital economy. The future of work isn't waiting—and neither are we."

Through strategic partnerships with non-profit organizations, employers and funders across Canada, Uvaro blends national-scale solutions with a deep understanding of regional needs, opens doors to new career advancement opportunities for Canadians and empowers individuals to thrive in the rapidly evolving job market. By helping underrepresented groups realize their potential and enabling mature workers to harness AI-driven advancements to stay ahead of the curve, Uvaro strengthens productivity and builds resilient communities. This acquisition reinforces Uvaro’s commitment to driving personal and professional growth while boosting Canada’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Tyton Partners served as financial advisor, and McCarthy Tetrault served as legal advisor to Lighthouse Labs. Gowling WLG served as legal advisor to Uvaro.

For more information, visit uvaro.com.

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About Uvaro

Uvaro is at the forefront of skill development and career services, specializing in transforming the workforce to meet the demands of today’s industries. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, Uvaro continues to drive Career Success and excellence in the workforce. As a Certified B Corp, we’re part of a global movement for a productive, inclusive, and equitable economy. For more information about our new AI Courses or to explore partnership opportunities, please visit https://uvaro.com.

About Lighthouse Labs

Lighthouse Labs is a leading tech education company that empowers individuals to transform their lives through hard work and dedication. Committed to closing the digital skills gap, it supports equity-deserving groups to ensure technological change is an opportunity for all. Now in its 11th year, Lighthouse Labs has trained over 40,000 students with full-time and part-time programs in cybersecurity, data science, data analytics, web development and more. For more information, please visit www.lighthouselabs.com.