Torch Acquires Praxis Labs to Shape the Future of AI-Driven Workforce Development

In a strategic move signaling the growing convergence of artificial intelligence and human-centered leadership development, Torch—a leading executive coaching and leadership enterprise—has officially acquired Praxis Labs, a rising force in immersive learning and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) training. The financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

Founded in 2019, Praxis Labs made waves in the corporate learning space by providing AI-powered coaching tools, simulation-based skill assessments, and scalable training experiences designed to cultivate equitable workplaces. Despite a lean team of fewer than 20 employees, the company’s client roster boasted heavyweights such as Amazon, Google, Target, Zoom, and eBay.

Praxis Labs co-founder and CEO Elise Smith emphasized the importance of strategic alignment in the acquisition, stating, “As a small company serving some of the world’s largest organizations, we knew we needed powerful partnerships—across both product and go-to-market strategies—to amplify our impact.”

Smith and her co-founder, Heather Shen, found a natural fit in Torch CEO Heather Conklin. Their shared vision for equipping the next generation of leaders resonated deeply at a time when enterprises across the United States are grappling with how to responsibly integrate AI into human development without sacrificing empathy or connection.

“There was a clear opportunity to bring together Torch’s contextual coaching and organizational insights with Praxis’ strengths in AI coaching, practice environments, and measurable skill-building,” Smith explained.

Praxis Labs previously raised $15 million in Series A funding in 2021, a milestone that made Elise Smith one of the few Black women founders at the time to surpass $1 million in venture capital. Backers included high-profile names such as Emerson Collective, Penny Jar Capital (founded by NBA star Steph Curry), Precursor Ventures, and Ulu Ventures.

With the acquisition, both Smith and Shen will step into leadership roles within Torch, taking on responsibilities as Head of AI Growth and Head of AI Product, respectively. The broader Praxis team will also be integrated into Torch’s expanding mission.

Commenting on the broader significance of the acquisition, Smith noted, “Every executive team today is asking the same fundamental question: How do we prepare for a future where humans and AI must coexist, collaborate, and co-lead—without losing the human connection that powers real transformation?”

This acquisition underscores a growing trend among U.S.-based companies to future-proof their workforce development strategies by investing in scalable, AI-enhanced leadership solutions. As organizations race to upskill in a landscape defined by automation and agility, the fusion of behavioral science, coaching, and artificial intelligence may prove to be the defining blueprint for 21st-century success.

As AI begins to redefine leadership at every level, how can organizations ensure that empathy, equity, and human insight don’t get lost in the code?