Somareality
Somareality about their journey: “Birdhouse offered the crash course we needed to take our startup to the next level”
Julia Kern, co-founder Somareality
In the dynamic field of digital neuropsychology, Somareality is pushing boundaries with their innovative eye-tracking technology. According to Julia Kern, Somareality's co-CEO, their participation in Birdhouse's program has been instrumental in guiding their strategic direction to new heights.
When someone is undergoing a training session, are they relaxed or stressed? SomaReality likely has the answer. Founded in 2019, this startup develops digital biomarkers based on eye-tracking data to provide real-time cognitive insights. Unlike traditional neuropsychological assessments that rely on pen-and-paper tests, offering only a snapshot of a person's mental state, Somareality's technology provides continuous, objective measurements.
Accelerating with a laser-sharp focus
Upon joining Birdhouse's hybrid program in 2022, the Austria-based startup experienced immediate advantages.
"The program provided a much-needed laser-sharp focus," Julia recalls. "Birdhouse offered a crash course that rapidly propelled our startup to the next stage of growth—bringing our first biomarker to market and scaling it. We quickly gained traction.”
Somareality's success is undeniable, with their technology currently being utilized by high-profile clients like Lufthansa. "We aimed for international reach from the beginning, driven by our ambitious vision," Julia adds.
Mentorship that makes a difference
Together with fellow startups from their cohort, Somareality was immediately connected to a network of experienced mentors who provided their industry-specific expertise and guidance throughout their accelerator journey.
"Birdhouse's advisor system allowed each startup to select a few mentors to help tackle specific challenges," Julia recalls. "You see, as a founder, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the multitude of tasks at hand and lose sight of the bigger picture. Being in the trenches of product development, you might develop tunnel vision. That's where the outside perspective of mentors proved invaluable, challenging our beliefs and helping us maintain a balanced approach to commercializing our product.”
“Birdhouse Ventures' follow-up investment greatly contributed to our success and growth!”
Leveraging the network effect
Mentor-guided strategic approaches to various markets proved crucial, but connecting with fellow founders also made the entrepreneurial learning process less lonely.
"Engaging with other startups allowed us to discuss work-life balance and navigate the often-challenging path of an early-stage startup," Julia shares. "Having a supportive network of those who understand the journey made a significant impact."
Julia adds: “Birdhouse Ventures' follow-up investment, together with other investment partners, in our company, after the program ended, also greatly contributed to our success and growth!”
This 1.5 million euro investment will propel SOMAREALITY's transition to a B2B SaaS model, fueling product development and international expansion. The funding will enhance their cutting-edge eye-tracking technology, already attracting major clients like Intuitive Surgical and Lufthansa Aviation, positioning the company for further breakthroughs in non-invasive cognitive monitoring.
Somareality's success is evident, and they’re gearing up for the future. “While our primary focus has been on gaining initial traction with individual biomarkers, we're now integrating machine learning to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the human mind's complexities,” Julia concludes.
