Minds merge as education tech firms unite

An education technology company has merged with a southern counterpart to strengthen its national presence and expand its service offering.

Newcastle-headquartered quality management specialist Mesma has joined forces with Kent-based advisory and programme management provider Strategic Development Network (SDN) to form the new SDN Mesma Group.

By combining their expertise, Mesma and SDN aim to increase their work with Government, employers and post-16 education providers to improve technical education and employability support.

The new group will continue to operate under the established SDN and Mesma names, maintaining offices in the North and South of England. 

Bosses say the deal secures 20 skilled roles and associate contracts across the businesses, with plans to create five new jobs in 2026. 

They add the group is targeting £3 million in additional revenue over the next three years.

Lou Doyle, Carole Loader, Colin Bentwood and Gerry Baker, the new leadership board of SDN Mesma Group, which is composed of the founders of Mesma and SDN, said: “Our companies have grown side by side for over a decade.

“This exciting new chapter allows us to build a business for the future together. 

“We can combine our expertise and expand our reach while staying grounded in the values and relationships that matter most to us and our clients.”

The merger coincides with a major update to Mesma’s software platform, which now includes new artificial intelligence-powered features to help clients streamline quality improvement processes.

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