Google Assistant backs Wysa and 14 more India deal updates

Google Assistant backs Wysa and 14 more India deal updates

Google, via its assistant investment programme, has invested an undisclosed amount in AI-based Indian mental health startup Wysa. The transaction marks Google Assistant’s first investment in India, per an announcement.

Founded by Jo and Ramakant Vempati in 2015, Wysa combines empathetic listening with evidence-based therapeutic techniques like CBT, meditation, and motivational interviewing to make mental health accessible at scale.

“The Google Assistant Investments programme was launched in 2018 for early-stage startups that share our passion for the digital assistant ecosystem, helping to push new ideas forward, and advance the possibilities of what digital assistants can do. In the post-COVID-19 world, managing our mental health is no longer a medical issue, but a part of everyone’s daily routine,” said Moez Kaderali, Programme Manager for the Google Assistant Investments Programme.

The startup’s funding stands at $3.9 million to date. Its other investors include Kae Capital and pi Ventures.

INDIA DEAL MONITOR

Here are prominent venture capital transactions in India from March 10-14, 2021.