In a recent episode of the popular German startup show "Die Höhle der Löwen," two entrepreneurs from Dortmund, Andrea Gößlinghoff and Matthias Geenen, presented their innovative software aimed at teaching German as a second language, titled "Sag es auf Deutsch." The pitch, which aired on May 5, 2025, sought an investment of 70,000 EUR in exchange for a 10 percent stake in their company, M&A Lernsoftware.
The valuation of the company stood at 630,000 EUR before the investment. The software, which offers 18 different topics and around 600 words and sentences, utilizes eight distinct game types for vocabulary training. It is designed to be user-friendly, running on Windows, macOS, and iPads, and is available in both individual and school versions.
During their presentation, Gößlinghoff and Geenen highlighted the pressing issue of language integration in German schools, where teachers often face classrooms filled with students who have little to no proficiency in German. According to Gößlinghoff, a primary school teacher, "In a typical classroom, there can be 28 children, some of whom do not speak German or are not literate. How can we meet the needs of all these children simultaneously?" This question underscores the urgency of their project.
The duo’s software aims to bridge the gap for children who struggle with language acquisition, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds or those who have not had access to early education. Geenen explained that the app allows children to independently learn the alphabet, build a foundational vocabulary, and practice grammatical structures, all while teachers can focus on the rest of the class.
"What I appreciate most as a teacher is that children can work independently with the app while I continue with the rest of the class," Gößlinghoff added. This empowers students to learn at their own pace in a supportive environment.
The software not only supports children but also aligns with broader educational goals, as it is currently being utilized in over 1,500 schools, including all primary schools in Gelsenkirchen. The founders believe that digital learning tools like theirs can significantly enhance educational equity, providing opportunities for those who might otherwise struggle to integrate into the educational system.
In addition to the software, the founders offer accompanying workbooks to further support the learning process. This comprehensive approach to language learning aims to ease the burden on teachers while also giving students the tools they need to succeed.
During the pitch, the investors, known as the "Lions," reacted positively to the product. Carsten Maschmeyer, one of the investors, praised their initiative, stating, "What you are doing is exemplary. Language is the future. Without it, one cannot advance in education. Without education, one cannot progress in life." Tijen Onaran, another investor, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, viewing it as a vital contribution to educational equity.
As the pitch unfolded, a competitive atmosphere developed among the investors, with multiple Lions vying for the opportunity to invest in the startup. Ultimately, Maschmeyer and Onaran offered the requested 70,000 EUR for a 10 percent share in M&A Lernsoftware. The founders accepted the deal, marking a significant milestone for their company.
Despite the excitement surrounding their pitch, Gößlinghoff and Geenen acknowledged the challenges of marketing their product to schools. They explained that navigating the bureaucratic landscape of educational institutions can be daunting, as decisions often involve multiple stakeholders, including school administrations and local governments. They hope that the backing from their investors will provide the strategic support needed to enhance their visibility and reach.
In addition to the core language learning software, M&A Lernsoftware is also developing a math program titled "Rechne sicher in Mathematik," which is currently in the works. This program aims to provide additional educational support, further expanding the company’s offerings.
The founders have expressed their commitment to creating accessible, effective educational resources that cater to the diverse needs of learners. They believe that their approach not only facilitates language learning but also promotes social inclusion, allowing individuals to participate more fully in society.
As the episode concluded, the positive reception from the investors and the public demonstrated a growing recognition of the importance of educational technology in addressing the challenges faced by learners in today’s diverse classrooms. The successful pitch serves as a testament to the potential impact of innovative solutions in the education sector.
With the backing of experienced investors, Andrea Gößlinghoff and Matthias Geenen are poised to make significant strides in the realm of language education. Their journey highlights the critical role that startups can play in reshaping educational landscapes and fostering inclusivity.
