Following differences with co-founder, Manish Maheshwari quits Invact

“I am moving out of Invact to first take a break for a few months and then pursue new opportunities. It is heartbreaking for a founder to leave the startup, like a mother leaving her baby. I am going through the same emotion,” Manish Maheshwari, Co-founder and CEO of Invact Metaversity, tweeted on May 27, 2022, as he stepped down from his role at the edtech start-up.

Prior to his exit, there were news reports of trouble in Invact as differences reportedly arose between the two co-founders – Maheshwari and Tanay Pratap.

To offset further speculations and clear the air, Invact Metaversity tweeted, “Over the last few days, we have been in the news, more than we have ever been! So here is the official update. Manish Maheshwari has stepped down from his position as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Invact, Inc. as of May 27, 2022.”

At the same time, Invact acknowledged that there were some differences between the two co-founders in its tweet, stating, “The decision to part ways was not an easy one, but ultimately, @manishm and @tanaypratap had diverging visions for the company’s long-term prospects. Invact will continue and under leadership of Tanay will pursue its vision to make quality education accessible via Metaversity.”

It added, “Manish will focus on new endeavors. The company places on record Manish’s tremendous contributions to Invact’s business since its incorporation and expresses its gratitude. The Company and Manish wish each other the best of luck for the future.”

On his part, Maheshwari tweeted, “I have full trust in @tanaypratap. I will be cheering from the sidelines for Invact to become the next unicorn and ultimately go for an IPO under his leadership.” “We both are passionate and uncompromising about what we believe in, as founders usually are. While we are parting ways, we have fond memories of working together not just as colleagues, but also as brothers,” he added.

Prior to joining Invact, Maheshwari was Twitter India Head. He had also worked as CEO of Network18, as well as with Flipkart and P&G.