Through the Global Mentors program, teachers can create classes on a variety of topics open to all site users. The project aims to create a community where members can search for a topic and find certified teachers and classes to help them.

Singh said the website is unique in that it offers a variety of tools, such as a video conference feature and a “white board” where mentors can draw and write information their students can see.

Singh also stressed that Global Mentors aims to be a more personal experience than merely searching several websites or watching how-to videos online. All mentors who wish to teach a class are screened to ensure they have proper credentials.

“Individuals control the classroom and what’s to be taught,” Singh said. “We control for content intent and quality of the overall programs.”

Lisa Smith, a radio host on CBS, was a keynote speaker at the presentation. Smith said she has been searching for a teaching platform for several years where she can reach a wide range of individuals.

“There’s nothing I’ve been able to find that can do this, and I’ve looked,” Smith said. “To host a webinar can be a couple hundred (dollars).”

Students joining the website do not have to pay a price unless an instructor wishes to charge for a particular class. With certain exceptions, teachers must charge a fee for the class, 15 percent of which goes to the site.

Smith said one benefit of the website was being able to connect to multiple communities and individuals worldwide.

“This is all about networking and letting people know that you are out there,” Smith said.

Singh said he is working to ensure networking can occur on a global level and underprivileged individuals without a computer can access the site through local organizations in their area. Although the site just launched, Singh said there has been some interest in India.

Okemos resident B. D. Agrawal, who attended the launch, is skeptical about the program’s effectiveness globally because of difficulties with different time zones, languages and payment with foreign currencies.

“The concept is very good, but for a prototype they should have started right here (in the Lansing area),” Agrawal said.

East Lansing Mayor Vic Loomis said the presence of any new company in East Lansing is a positive thing for the city.

“We always appreciate when companies locate in the city,” Loomis said. “We see that as an expression of confidence.”