iLERNA Acquires Universidad Isabel I: Strengthening Its Educational Leadership
Deal News | Jul 03, 2025 | Finance Community ES 2 - Corporate M&A
In a strategic acquisition that underscores its expansion into the higher education sector, iLERNA, a leading vocational training provider in Spain, has acquired Universidad Isabel I. Arcano Partners and Baird Global Investment Banking advised iLERNA and Jacobs Capital on this transaction. Universidad Isabel I is an esteemed online university in Spain, offering over 40 academic programs and serving nearly 5,000 students. This acquisition positions iLERNA as a formidable integrated educational entity in Spain, covering the entire education spectrum from vocational training to postgraduate studies, while creating substantial synergies. Jacobs Holding, an international Swiss investment group with assets of around 7 billion euros, holds a majority stake in iLERNA since 2024. The acquisition aims to leverage iLERNA’s capabilities in both digital and in-person education, thus strengthening its leadership in the sector.
Sectors
- Education
- Private Equity
Geography
- Spain – Both iLERNA and Universidad Isabel I operate in Spain, making it the central geography for this acquisition.
- Switzerland – Jacobs Holding, the majority stakeholder in iLERNA, is based in Switzerland, highlighting its influence on the transaction.
Industry
- Education – The acquisition strengthens iLERNA's position in the education sector, particularly in online higher education, through its integration with Universidad Isabel I.
- Private Equity – Jacobs Holding, a private equity group, plays a crucial role as a majority stakeholder in iLERNA, supporting the acquisition and strategic growth.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| iLERNA | Acquirer | Company | A leading vocational training provider in Spain with a diverse range of educational offerings. |
| Universidad Isabel I | Target | Company | An online university in Spain known for its innovative and digital-first approach to higher education. |
| Jacobs Holding AG | Majority Stakeholder in iLERNA | Company | A Swiss international investment company with significant assets under management focused on sustainable investments. |
| Arcano Partners | Financial Advisor | Company | Acted as a financial advisor to iLERNA and Jacobs Capital during the acquisition. |
| Baird Global Investment Banking | Financial Advisor | Company | Provided financial advice alongside Arcano Partners for the acquisition. |