In today’s fast-paced world of technology and innovation, few things can be as transformative as the intersection of AI and mental health. Earkick – our AI-powered mental health platform with a multi-modal LLM companion that measures, tracks, communicates and helps improve mental health in real time – has recently captured the attention of students at the Duke Impact Investing Group (DIIG).
This encounter with Duke University’s largest student-run investment fund has opened up a world of possibilities for Earkick, as these students recognized the potential of our solution.
Join us as we delve into the story of Earkick’s partnership with DIIG, from the initial email to the closing of the deal.
A Promising Connection
It all started with an email from Zach Beischer, an investment analyst at DIIG, expressing his excitement about Earkick’s mission to utilize data in tracking mental health. DIIG, known for its commitment to investing in socially impactful products, was particularly intrigued by the potential of Earkick’s technology.
This connection marked the beginning of an inspiring collaboration that would bring together the aspirations of Earkick, impact investing, and the student community. Students have been the largest and most influential audience of Earkick since launching the Earkick selfcare companion app in 2021.
More Than A Venture Fund
As the first and only undergraduate-run impact fund at Duke University, DIIG stands out as an exemplar of student-driven entrepreneurship and social change. Managing $250k in assets, DIIG has made a name for itself by investing in early-stage startups and founders that are passionately building impactful technology.
However, DIIG is more than a venture fund and provides support beyond their investment; their talented consulting and data science teams help startups design products, bring ideas to market, as well as analyze user data and build machine learning models.
An Thorough Due Diligence Process
Following the initial email, we founders of Earkick embarked on an extensive due diligence process with DIIG. Weeks of meticulous research, analysis, and conversations ensued as DIIG explored the potential of Earkick’s platform.
DIIG’s commitment to understanding the software space and their professional process deeply impressed us founders, further building the conviction that they are an ideal partner for Earkick.
Closing the Deal
After thorough discussions, both Earkick and DIIG were excited to move forward. With shared values and a common vision, the investment deal was finalized in June 2023. The partnership meant more than just financial support; it symbolized the convergence of passion, innovation, and social responsibility.
Earkick’s platform, aimed specifically at students, aligned perfectly with DIIG’s desire to partner with entrepreneurs building products that deliver undeniable value to customers while having a positive social impact individually and at scale.
“DIIG is incredibly excited to work with Earkick, a next generation mental health platform helping both teams and individuals approach wellness in a proven, effective way,”
says Daniel Wolf, DIIG’s General Partner.
Looking Ahead
As Earkick and DIIG join forces, our shared commitment to impact more lives using technological innovation is bound to create a ripple effect that will extend beyond Duke University’s campus. We won’t stop until we’ve touched the lives of every student in need.
Interested in joining Earkick’s mission? Stay tuned for more updates on our journey with DIIG. Together, we can create a brighter, more mentally resilient future for all.