Digital health start-up Oto has announced the close of a £510,000 pre-seed funding round.

The platform aims to support those suffering with tinnitus by using what it describes as “accessible, science-backed, and evidence-based” digital tools. Oto’s mobile app consolidates the latest therapy techniques to support people to maximise their quality of life with tinnitus, which has no cure and impacts up to one in seven people around the world.

The company also revealed that it has been selected to join the Y Combinator accelerator programme, an initiative that provides seed funding for start-ups.

The new investment will be spent on accelerating clinical validation, growth, and strengthening the company’s international user-base.

“It is a huge achievement for us to be accepted onto Y Combinator and we’re incredibly excited to be a part of such a prestigious global movement that has an unparalleled track record for success,” said Dr Edmund Farrar, co-founder of Oto. “I know personally just how debilitating tinnitus can be and so as a team, we’re looking forward to learning from the very best innovators and entrepreneurs as we explore new ways to accelerate our growth and make a difference in the lives of as many people living with tinnitus as possible.”

Farrar, who is a former RAF doctor, added: “Coupled with our pre-seed investment round, 2022 is shaping up to be a truly formidable year for Oto and for the tinnitus community.”

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