In a significant boost for digital inclusivity among seniors, Family.cards, a burgeoning healthtech startup, has announced the successful closure of a €1.2 million seed funding round. The investment was led by Brandenburg Kapital and OHA Osnabruck Healthcare 7 Ventures, with participation from existing backers, Antler and Birdhouse.
Founded in 2022 by Teo Ortega and Simon Hafner during their residency at Antler in Berlin, Family.cards is dedicated to bridging the digital divide faced by the elderly. With research indicating that approximately 69 million seniors in Europe struggle with touchscreen technology due to various cognitive and physical challenges, the startup has developed an innovative solution that enables these individuals to engage with digital services via their television. Their user-friendly card system, connected through a card reader, facilitates functions like video calling, photo sharing, and accessing exercise content, thereby fostering a sense of connection and independence among seniors.
With this new funding, Family.cards aims to enhance its technological framework, expand its app offerings in the card-store, and grow its team to facilitate entry into additional European markets. “We are incredibly grateful for the confidence shown by our investors,” remarked Teo Ortega, co-founder and CEO of Family.cards. “This investment empowers us to refine our platform and expedite our market introduction, ultimately enabling more seniors to embrace the digital world with ease.”
Katja Kühnel, Senior Investment Manager at Brandenburg Kapital, highlighted the necessity for tailored digital solutions for older adults, stating, “Family.cards is tackling a crucial gap in the market that addresses the needs of an underserved demographic.”
The vision of Family.cards reflects a broader industry shift towards inclusivity and accessibility in technology. As demographic changes continue to reshape Europe, innovative companies like Family.cards are essential in ensuring that older adults can navigate and thrive in a digital landscape. This funding round not only signifies investor confidence but also underscores the growing recognition of the unique challenges faced by the elderly in adopting new technologies.
Editorial Perspective
Family.cards is poised to make a significant impact on the healthtech industry, particularly in enhancing the quality of life for seniors. The combination of Teo Ortega’s entrepreneurial experience and Simon Hafner’s technical expertise forms a formidable foundation for addressing the complexities of digital accessibility. Their commitment to creating intuitive, age-friendly technology is both timely and necessary, considering the aging population across Europe.
As Family.cards gears up to scale its operations, the potential for growth and influence in this niche market is substantial. By enabling seniors to engage with essential services and maintain connections with loved ones, the startup is not only fostering independence but also promoting mental well-being among older adults. The team’s strategic approach and dedication to user-centric design demonstrate a clear understanding of the target audience, positioning Family.cards as a leader in the emerging market for elder-friendly technology.
In a time when digital literacy is increasingly vital, initiatives like Family.cards are crucial in ensuring no one is left behind. As the company moves forward with its expansion plans, its efforts could pave the way for more inclusive technological solutions across Europe.
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