OrbitHCI, a Boston, MA-based based startup advancing smart devices for the family, raised $1m in seed round of funding.
The round was led by FKA with participation from Google Ventures.
Founded in 2014 by Keith Kocho, CEO, OrbitHCI is developing Bloom, a smart device to enable family members to connect, and ensure each other’s well-being,
FinSMEs
01/03/2015
Press Release
FKA and Google Ventures Back OrbitHCI to Keep Families Connected
February 23, 2015 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time
BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–OrbitHCI, a Boston based technology startup, today announced a $1 million seed round led by FKA (the tech venture firm Formerly Known as Atlas) with participation from Google Ventures. OrbitHCI is developing smart devices to enrich family well-being by helping grandparents, parents and grandchildren to connect and share peace of mind.
“The founding team is a passionate group of experienced entrepreneurs”
“Delivering on the promise of technology for the aging market is a $30 billion global opportunity,” said Jeff Fagnan, partner at FKA . “Orbit’s efforts represent a new class of simple and engaging products that leverage wearable technologies to create a unique user experience that will revolutionize the way we interact with our parents and grandparents. Keith and his team have the experience and the passion to bring this vision to life. We’re excited to back them.”
Moving beyond transactional tools like medical alarms and fitness trackers, OrbitHCI’s products will enable family members to reliably but unobtrusively connect, and ensure each other’s well-being, whether they live down the street or across the country. OrbitHCI believes that frequent connecting, communicating and sharing are the best ways to be aware of someone’s happiness, health and safety. Research continues to show that social engagement is a key factor in maintaining long-term health.
“The founding team is a passionate group of experienced entrepreneurs,” says Keith Kocho, co-founder and CEO of OrbitHCI. “We have aging parents and kids of our own so we understand the challenges. Sensors do not measure quality of life. There are many reactive products out there that treat people like assets to be monitored. Every generation has stories to tell and we believe technology should make that easier, not get in the way. Our vision is to help families share more, and worry less.”
About OrbitHCI
OrbitHCI, founded in 2014, is dedicated to improving family well-being. We believe beautiful, simple technology can make it easier for families to connect and share peace of mind. For more information visit: www.bloomcloser.com.