Eyebot gets $20M Series A to boost to expand eye care access

Eyebot, a pioneering startup known for its rapid 90-second vision test kiosks, has successfully raised $20 million in a Series A funding round. This Boston-based company, founded in 2021, is transforming the way individuals access eye care by removing traditional barriers such as long waits for appointments, complicated insurance processes, and high costs. The kiosks, strategically located in malls, universities, retail outlets, pharmacies, grocery chains, schools, and airports, offer a complimentary vision test that can be completed in under two minutes. Each test results in a prescription that is verified by licensed eye care professionals, ensuring that patients receive fast, reliable, and convenient prescriptions. With this latest funding, Eyebot's total financial backing exceeds $30 million, following their seed round in June 2024. Since then, the startup has conducted over 45,000 free vision tests and is poised to exceed half a million annual tests within the next year. Matthias Hofmann, co-founder and CEO of Eyebot, expressed excitement about the company’s rapid growth, stating, "We’ve transitioned from a pilot phase to collaborating with major U.S. companies, rolling out kiosks nationwide and delivering tens of thousands of tests." What distinguishes Eyebot is its unique blend of convenience and medical oversight. Each vision test is assessed by a qualified doctor, and prescriptions are provided under clinical supervision. In cases where the test results are concerning, patients are referred for comprehensive in-person examinations. This combination of speed and clinical validation helps to build trust among users. Hofmann noted a notable interest from parents, particularly in mall locations, where families can quickly stop and use the kiosk while shopping. Eyebot's approach has faced challenges, particularly in gaining acceptance from traditional eye care providers who were initially skeptical about the accuracy of such rapid tests. However, concerns have diminished as providers learned that experienced doctors review all results. As Eyebot enters the commercialization phase, the vision test remains free for users, while a verification fee applies for prescriptions. The company also leases its kiosks to optical retailers, eyewear brands, and independent eye care practices. With the Series A funding, plans are in place to enhance kiosk deployment and expand the team in product development, clinical operations, and business growth, according to the CEO. The funding round was led by General Catalyst, with contributions from returning investors such as AlleyCorp, Baukunst, Village Global, Humba Venture, Ravelin, and Ubiquity Ventures.