Type: Private
On the web: http://www.blackboard.com
Employees: 1,780
Employee growth: 50.5%

Chalk up Blackboard's success to the Internet. Blackboard develops software that lets schools create Internet-based learning programs and communities. Its software connects teachers, students, parents, and administrators via the Web, enabling Internet-based assignments, class websites, and online collaboration with classmates. The software also includes a content management system for creating and managing digital course content. Other modules include transaction, community, and payment management tools that enable students to use their college IDs for meal plans, events, and tuition payments. In 2011 Blackboard was bought by Providence Equity for about $1.64 billion.

Key numbers for fiscal year ending December, 2010:
Sales: $447.3M
One year growth: 18.7%
Net income: $16.6M
Income growth: 110.4%

Officers:
Chairman: Matthew L. Pittinsky
President, CEO, and Board Member: Michael L. Chasen
President, Blackboard Learn K-12: Jessie Woolley-Wilson

Competitors:
Jenzabar
Pearson Education
SunGard Higher Education

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