https://www.business-live.co.uk/technology/gloucestershire-tech-start-up-selected-27789104
Anya’s AI-infused app is designed to provide parenting and breastfeeding support.
A tech company founded by an Oscar and Bafta-winning entrepreneur in Gloucestershire has secured a place on a start-up support programme run by Google.
Anya, originally known as LatchAid, is equipped with interactive 3D technology to deliver parenting and breastfeeding support. The company was set up in 2015 by Dr Chen Mao Davies, who was part of the visual effects team for films such as Gravity and Blade Runner 2049.
The Cirencester-based business has now been selected for Google’s growth academy AI for Health, a three-month scheme which provides healthcare and wellbeing startups with growth skills, internationalisation strategies, and access to cutting-edge Google tools and products.
Dr Davies, Anya’s chief executive, said: “This incredible opportunity with Google will undoubtedly enable us to reach more parents worldwide, ensuring that they have access to the necessary support and resources during their transformative journey to parenthood.”
Yuval Passov, who organises Google’s Growth Academy for Start-ups, said: “We’re excited to work with Anya, offering them the best of Google’s people, products and processes and equipping them with the tools needed to scale this innovative app.
“AI is the most profound technology that we’re working on today, and it’s incredible to help drive the growth of a new start-up that is using this powerful technology to make a positive impact on the lives of new parents.”
Dr Davies said the company raised more than £1m in investment last year for its platform. Anya has been used by parents in more than 100 countries and has been widely adopted in health systems, making it available to 4.5 million people in the UK.
