Kanopy, Inc.

Kanopy, Inc. is a US-based video streaming service that provides access to a vast library of films, documentaries, and educational videos, funded through partnerships with public libraries and universities. Founded in 2008 in San Francisco, US, Kanopy, Inc. offers a video streaming platform that delivers educational and cultural content.

The company was acquired by OverDrive, Inc. in July 2021 from L Squared Capital Partners, enhancing OverDrive's catalog for libraries worldwide. The current CEO is Kevin Sayar, while Cory Scancella is noted as the founder. Kanopy provides a video streaming service that features a large selection of films, documentaries, foreign cinema, and educational videos.

This service is made available to users at no cost through partnerships with public libraries and universities. Accessible on TVs, mobile devices, tablets, and desktop computers, Kanopy caters to library patrons, university students, and educational institutions across markets such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and select parts of Europe and Asia. Kanopy's revenue model relies on its partnerships with public libraries and educational institutions, which fund the service for their patrons. Libraries and universities pay for access to Kanopy's extensive catalog, allowing users to stream content without advertisements.

This unique structure enables quality content delivery at no direct cost to end-users, while establishing institutional contracts that ensure library cardholders and university students can access the service. Following its acquisition by OverDrive, Inc. in July 2021, Kanopy plans to leverage this partnership to expand its offerings and enhance its platform for libraries globally. The integration aims to provide a more comprehensive video catalog to users.

The acquisition's rationale emphasizes adding valuable content to enhance library services worldwide, aligning with their strategy to deliver impactful educational resources.