Strategic Education, Inc. (NASDAQ: STRA) has opened applications for the second cohort of its Signal Labs program, an edtech commercial pilot initiative that connects startups with the company's network of universities and education platforms.

The 2026 Winter/Spring cycle opened for applications on August 10, 2026, with a closing date of September 11, 2026. New venture partners Rethink Capital Partners and New Markets Venture Partners have joined the program alongside existing partner LearnLaunch Fund + Accelerator.

Signal Labs pairs startups with Strategic Education's portfolio, which includes Capella University, Strayer University, Torrens University, Sophia Learning, and Workforce Edge. Each participating startup is guaranteed a pilot with at least one Strategic Education division. Pilots do not include a paid commercial engagement.

The program's first cohort launched in June 2026 and includes Internexxus, an AI-powered job-search platform, and Virtual Internships, a platform offering project-based work experience. Virtual Internships conducted pilots with both Capella University and Australia-based Torrens University.

Signal Labs targets startups working in experiential learning, skills assessment, AI fluency, allied health, credentialing, AR/VR, non-degree learning pathways, and operational efficiency. The program favors companies with an established product, existing revenue, and an active user base.

"Signal Labs is designed to help promising innovations move beyond ideas and into real-world application," said Karl McDonnell, CEO of Strategic Education.