Soundtrace, the Cincinnati-based startup specializing in AI and IoT technology for noise-induced hearing loss prevention, has successfully raised an oversubscribed $2.5 million pre-seed funding round. The announcement was first announced by the Cincinnati Business Courier.
The funding was led by New York's Gutter Capital, with participation from SpringTide and local angel investors. This marks the first investment by both VC firms in the region.
The capital injection will primarily be used to facilitate scaling efforts and expand the workforce to meet the growing customer demand. Notable clients, including Bob Sumerel Tire, Olympic Steel, and Caterpillar Inc., have recognized the value of Soundtrace's solutions.
Soundtrace's key innovation lies in automating Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) hearing conservation program requirements through real-time noise monitoring, audiometric testing, and record-keeping in a cloud-based platform. The company's portable, "booth-less" audiometer simplifies in-house hearing testing, offering convenience and cost savings for safety managers and companies.
Hearing loss is a prevalent occupational issue in the United States, making Soundtrace's solutions highly relevant and impactful. Gutter Capital, known for its investments in software-focused businesses, sees Soundtrace as addressing a pressing need for its customers.