SpeechVive commercializes a small device that fits like a hearing aid, detects when a patient is speaking, and elicits louder, clearer speech via an involuntary reflex known as the Lombard Effect. The technology is based on research by Jessica Huber, Ph.D., in Purdue University’s Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and targets speech clarity issues in Parkinson’s patients. The company plans to design, build and test a telehealth platform that will enable speech pathologists to program the SpeechVive device remotely. That telehealth capability is intended to expand access to elderly or physically impaired patients who cannot travel to speech pathologists. Financially, SpeechVive raised $2.275M in seed funding including a two-year $1.3M NIH grant and $975K from investors. The funds are earmarked primarily for development and testing of the telehealth platform to support remote programming and broader patient reach. SpeechVive commercializes a behind-the-ear smart device designed to reduce speech impairments associated with Parkinson's disease by prompting louder, clearer speech. The technology was developed over the past decade by Jessica Huber in Purdue University's Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. Clinical data collected over four years show the device is effective in 90% of users. SpeechVive plans a U.S. sales launch in the second quarter of the year and has completed funding to support that launch. The company received nearly $700,000 in Series A funding and previously obtained $2.25 million in NIH research grants. Leadership includes president and CEO Steve Mogensen, who cited market research and clinician interest as evidence of substantial demand. Market context in the U.S. includes more than 1.5 million people diagnosed with Parkinson's, with about 89% experiencing voice-related change and at least 45% experiencing speech-related change.

Total raised

$4M

Funding rounds

3

Latest round

Grant

Latest activity

May 2016