Valkee develops a pocket-sized light therapy headset that channels bright light through the ear canals to affect brain function. Its daily 12-minute treatment has been studied since 2008 by the University of Oulu for benefits to mood and wellbeing. The product launched in Europe in 2010 under a CE Class II medical device certification. Clinical trials are ongoing in jet lag, cognitive performance and different types of depression. The company raised €7.4m in a Series A to support growth and currently plans to use proceeds to expand market areas, its reseller network and additional use cases. Founded in 2007 and based in Oulu, Finland, Valkee counts both returning and new shareholders among its investors. Valkee sells a Sci‑Fi–style device that shines bright light into users' ear canals and is worn like headphones. The company positions the product as a nonpharmaceutical alternative to treat SAD and as a way to mitigate jet lag, recommending 8–12 minute sessions. University of Oulu research cited by the company suggests the brain may be photosensitive and could receive more stimulation from light delivered via the ears than through the eyes. Valkee targets the tech market and markets the device as an electronic alternative to pills or drinks. The device retails for €185 (TechCrunch readers were offered a 20% discount code). The product ships in Europe but does not yet ship to the U.S.

Total raised

$10M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series A

Latest activity

Jun 2013