Berlin-based healthtech innovator clare&me has successfully raised €3.7 million in its latest funding round, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance mental health support through artificial intelligence. The round was spearheaded by Munich’s YZR Capital, with key contributions from Kodori Ventures, Material Ventures, and existing angel investors, along with early-stage investor Antler. Additionally, the Development Bank of Berlin (IBB), European funds, and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research have provided grant funding to support the initiative.
Clare&Me, founded in 2021 by Emilia Theye and Celina Messner, has introduced Clare, an AI-powered virtual mental health coach designed to offer scalable and accessible psychological support. The startup aims to bridge the gap caused by the shortage of therapy places and long waiting times, particularly in the UK. Clare delivers cognitive-behavioral therapy through interactive phone calls and messages, providing users with personalized guidance for managing anxiety and fostering long-term mental resilience.
Christoph Klink, Partner at Antler, expressed his enthusiasm for the founders: “Emilia and Celina’s passion and innovative approach truly impressed us from the beginning. They are not just developing advanced AI technology but are addressing a profound social issue with remarkable dedication. Their work is already making a significant impact across Europe, and we are thrilled to continue our support.”
Markus Feuerecker, Founding Partner at YZR Capital, praised the team’s vision and accomplishments: “From day one, Emilia and Celina’s drive and vision have been evident. Their ability to transform their ideas into impactful solutions is inspiring. We are excited to lead this funding round and support their continued growth and innovation.”
The new funding will propel clare&me’s development of the first Clinical Large Language Model (CLLM), which will be trained by psychotherapists to refine mental health interventions. The capital will also facilitate technical advancements, team expansion, and partnerships with German clinics, broadening the reach and efficacy of their solutions.
Emilia Theye, co-founder of clare&me, reflected on the company’s journey: “It’s incredible to see how our once-questioned vision is now widely embraced. This funding will enable us to advance our clinical AI, grounded in the latest research and ethical principles, to make a lasting psychological impact.”
Celina Messner, co-founder, added: “Our team’s dedication to reimagining mental health technology is both challenging and rewarding. The research funds validate our technical excellence and underscore the importance of our pioneering work in this field.”
Editorial Opinion
clare&me’s recent funding achievement not only underscores its potential but also highlights a critical shift in the mental health landscape. As mental health challenges continue to grow globally, innovations like Clare are essential in providing scalable and effective support. The integration of AI with cognitive-behavioral therapy represents a significant advancement, offering a more accessible alternative to traditional therapy methods.
The company’s focus on developing a Clinical Large Language Model is particularly noteworthy. This initiative promises to enhance the precision and effectiveness of mental health interventions, addressing the needs of millions who currently face barriers to adequate support. With a strong foundation in research and ethical considerations, clare&me is well-positioned to lead the way in this evolving field. Their approach not only tackles the immediate shortage of therapy services but also sets a new standard for integrating technology with mental health care.
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