The e-learning industry is booming, and for startups, choosing the right course platform can make all the difference in scaling their business.
Whether you’re looking to sell courses, train employees, or build an educational brand, the right platform can help you monetize content, engage learners, and automate processes.
This guide lists the 5 best online course platforms for startups in 2025, focusing on ease of use, affordability, marketing tools, and customization.
I have covered everything from all-in-one solutions to budget-friendly picks only after consulting with successful teachers and start-ups in the field of education just to help you make the best choice.
So, let us get started!
How to Use This Guide: Compare features, pricing, and best use cases to find the perfect platform.
Table of Contents
Best Course Platforms for Startups: Quick Comparison
There are 5 course platforms listed here, ranging from beginner-friendly tools to advanced all-in-one solutions. These platforms offer various pricing models, features, and customization levels, but none are perfect for everyone.
| No. | Platform | Best For | Pricing | Free Trial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Teachable | Selling courses with ease | Starts at $39/month | Free Basic Plan |
| 2 | Thinkific | Customization & control | Starts at $49/month | 30-Day |
| 3 | Kajabi | All-in-one business solution | Starts at $149/month | 14-Day |
| 4 | Podia | Budget-friendly startups | Starts at $9/month | 30-Day |
| 5 | LearnWorlds | Interactive learning | Starts at $24/month | 30-Day |
Note: Always check for transaction fees, scalability, and integrations before committing!
1. Teachable
| Price Range | $39/month to $199/month |
| Bussines Plan | Customizable |
| Transaction Fee | 0 to 5% |
| Best For | Coaches, educators, entrepreneurs |
| Customization | Moderate |
| Special Features | Built-in payment processing, tax handling, mobile app |
Teachable is an excellent platform for startups looking for a user-friendly solution to create and sell courses. With a drag-and-drop builder, built-in payment processing, and automated tax handling, it removes technical barriers for course creators.
It also offers basic marketing tools to help drive sales, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs focused on monetizing their expertise.
2. Thinkific
| Price Range | $49/month to $149/month |
| Bussines Plan | Customizable |
| Transaction Fee | No Transaction Fee |
| Best For | Customization & scalability |
| Customization | High |
| Special Features | API integration, White-labeling, and Option to create communities |
Thinkific provides more control and flexibility than Teachable, making it perfect for startups that want full branding customization without transaction fees. It supports white-labeling, meaning you can fully brand your courses and has powerful tools for building online communities.
With its scalability, Thinkific is an excellent pick for businesses that plan to expand their course offerings.
Disclaimer: Thinkific Payments charges processing fees: 2.9% + $0.30 per U.S. transaction, plus 1% for international cards and currency conversion if applicable. Payouts are processed within 2 business days.
3. Kajabi
| Price Range | $89/month to $319/month |
| Bussines Plan | No Separate Plan |
| Transaction Fee | Kajabi has no fees, but Kajabi Payments charges 2.9% + $0.30 |
| Best For | Business owners needing an all-in-one solution |
| Customization | High |
| Special Features | Email marketing, automation, memberships |
Kajabi is a premium all-in-one platform integrating course creation, email marketing, automation, and memberships under one roof. It’s perfect for startups that need a complete business solution to manage their digital products and customer interactions.
While its pricing is higher, the value it provides through advanced marketing and sales funnel automation makes it a top choice for serious entrepreneurs.
4. Podia
| Price Range | Starts at $9/month |
| Bussines Plan | No Separate Plan |
| Transaction Fee | 0 to 5% |
| Best For | Budget-conscious startups |
| Customization | Moderate |
| Special Features | Digital downloads, memberships, no transaction fees |
Podia is an excellent low-cost alternative to other platforms, making it ideal for startups on a tight budget. It allows users to sell courses, memberships, and digital products.
The platform is simple and beginner-friendly. Its built-in email marketing tool helps you connect with students and drive sales effortlessly.
5. LearnWorlds
| Price Range | Starts at $24/month |
| Bussines Plan | |
| Transaction Fee | No transaction fees |
| Best For | Interactive & engaging learning |
| Customization | High |
| Special Features | Quizzes, gamification, video tools |
LearnWorlds is designed for startups that want to create engaging and interactive learning experiences. It includes gamification, quizzes, video tools, and certificates, making it ideal for educators who prioritize student engagement.
With high customization options and analytics, it’s a great choice for businesses looking to improve learner outcomes.
Which Course Is Best For The Future In 2025?
Courses focused on AI, digital marketing, coding, cybersecurity, and business automation are expected to be the most in demand.
Platforms that support interactive learning and community-driven models will dominate the e-learning space. And hence I recommend the above course-making platforms to you in 2025.
However, if you do not like these options and want to look for more, here are the key Factors to Consider for Future-Proof Courses and platforms:
- Technology & AI Integration – Courses in AI, machine learning, blockchain, and automation will be in high demand as businesses increasingly adopt these technologies.
- Digital Marketing & Content Creation – With the rise of social media, personal branding, and e-commerce, courses on SEO, paid ads, influencer marketing, and video production will remain highly relevant.
- Software Development & Cybersecurity – As digital transformation continues, skills in coding (Python, JavaScript, full-stack development), cybersecurity, and ethical hacking will be crucial for future jobs.
- Business & Entrepreneurship – Many individuals are looking to start their own businesses. Courses on startup growth, e-commerce, sales funnels, and digital products will be popular.
- Personal Development & Soft Skills – Leadership, public speaking, emotional intelligence, and productivity courses will be valuable as companies prioritize employee well-being and professional growth.
- Health & Wellness – Courses related to mental health, fitness coaching, and holistic wellness will grow as people focus on a healthier lifestyle.
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Conclusion: TeachableIs Overall Is The Best Course Platform Starting $39
Choosing the right course platform is crucial for startups looking to create and sell online courses effectively. Factors like pricing, ease of use, customization, and marketing tools play a significant role in determining the best option. If you’re comparing leading platforms, Teachable vs Thinkific is a common debate, as both offer unique features tailored for different needs. Understanding their differences can help startups make an informed decision and scale their online education business successfully.
Each platform has strengths, so it’s crucial to assess pricing, features, and long-term potential before committing. Start with a free trial to find the perfect match for your business.
Start scaling your courses and earning biog today!
FAQs
Which Course Is Best For Startup Business?
Courses on business strategy, digital marketing, and AI-powered automation are ideal for startups.
What is the Best Platform for Course Creation?
Teachable and Thinkific are great for beginners, while Kajabi is best for an all-in-one solution.
What is the Largest Online Course Platform?
Udemy and Coursera are the largest, but Teachable and Thinkific dominate the independent creator space.