Blueroomcare, a Nigerian digital therapy service offering affordable and accessible mental healthcare, has secured pre-seed funding to expand its reach across Africa. The funding round was led by EHA Impact Ventures, with participation from TVC Labs and Innovest Africa.
Founded in late 2021 by Moses Aiyenuro (CEO) and Ebunoluwa Collins (COO), Blueroomcare aims to address the significant mental health challenges faced by the continent. Nearly one billion people worldwide suffer from mental disorders, and access to care is particularly limited in Africa due to stigma, lack of funding, and inadequate resources.
Blueroomcare’s platform connects users with licensed therapists through in-app messaging, video calls, and voice messages. It also integrates advanced algorithms to provide personalized support. The startup’s services range from individual therapy for various issues like grief and anxiety to specialized programs for addiction recovery and family therapy.
The pre-seed funding will be used to enhance the platform’s capabilities, introduce new features, and expand access to a wider audience. Moses Aiyenuro, CEO of Blueroomcare, expressed his enthusiasm for the support of the investors, stating that the funding will accelerate their mission of making quality mental healthcare accessible to everyone.
The need for accessible mental health services is dire in Africa. According to a 2019 report by Al Jazeera, one in four Nigerians suffers from a mental illness. This number is likely to increase given the economic challenges faced by the country.
Blueroomcare’s innovative approach aims to overcome traditional barriers to mental healthcare. By leveraging technology, the platform offers convenient and affordable access to therapy, making it a valuable resource for individuals who may not have been able to seek help otherwise.
“Clients can connect with therapists to address their psychological and emotional needs through therapy plans starting at a weekly rate of ₦4,160 ($2.71). We support businesses through our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), offering services ranging from psychosocial support, and wellness clinics to mental health screenings for teams,” co-founder Ebunoluwa Collins said.
The startup’s growth has been fueled by partnerships with organizations like Reliance Health, an HMO platform. Blueroomcare generates revenue through monthly subscriptions, payments from consumers and insurance companies, and annual platform access fees for businesses.
While Blueroomcare has made significant strides, challenges remain. Finding qualified mental health professionals is a constant concern. However, the company remains optimistic about its future and plans to expand its services to other African countries, collaborating with local partners to provide culturally sensitive care.
Blueroomcare’s success story highlights the growing recognition of the importance of mental health in Africa and the potential for innovative solutions to bridge the gap in access to care. With continued support and investment, the startup aims to increase its users by the end of 2024, making a meaningful impact on the well-being of individuals and communities across the continent.