Introduction:
In a move signaling the growing convergence of AI and leadership development, Torch, a people development platform known for its coaching and mentoring solutions, has officially acquired Praxis Labs, an immersive learning platform focused on equity and inclusion. This strategic acquisition marks a new chapter in how organizations will nurture the next generation of inclusive leaders through the power of AI and experiential learning.
What is Praxis Labs?
Praxis Labs gained recognition for its VR/AR-powered leadership training programs that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). It offered immersive, story-driven learning modules that allowed users to experience real-world workplace scenarios from diverse perspectives. The platform combined AI-driven insights with emotional intelligence to help leaders build empathy, reduce bias, and foster a more inclusive workplace culture.
She and her co-founder, Heather Shen, met Torch CEO Heather Conklin as they were both already working in the leadership development space.
“We were immediately struck, not just by our shared values and mission, but also by how we aligned on what was needed to really future-proof the next general workforce,” Smith continued. “There was a clear connection and opportunity to connect Torch’s contextual coaching and organizational insights with Praxis’ AI coaching, practice, and skill assessments.”
Heather Conklin, the CEO of TorchImage Credits:Heather Conklin
Praxis Labs launched in 2019 and worked with companies such as eBay, Zoom, Amazon, Google, and Target to build out more equitable and inclusive workplaces through leadership training and skill assessments. It notably secured a $15 million Series A back in 2021, making Smith one of the few Black women at the time to raise more than $1 million in venture capital funding. Investors in that round included Emerson Collective, Steph Curry’s fund Penny Jar Capital, Precursor Ventures, and Ulu Ventures.
Smith and Shen will join Torch as head of AI growth and head of AI product, respectively. The Praxis team will also be joining Torch.
“Right now, every company and executive team is facing this pivotal question: How will they prepare and manage this next generation of work with humans and AI, while maintaining the human connection that’s essential for real workforce and company transformation?” she said.
Torch’s Vision: Coaching Meets AI-Powered Learning
Torch is a well-established name in the leadership development space, offering personalized coaching and mentoring tools. With Praxis Labs now in its ecosystem, Torch aims to combine immersive learning with personalized leadership coaching, enabling a holistic development journey powered by AI.
This acquisition signifies the evolution from traditional, one-size-fits-all leadership training models to AI-enhanced, behavior-based learning journeys that adapt to individual growth needs.
