Tartu-based medical AI startup Better Medicine has secured €1 million in a Pre-Seed round to expand its CE-certified kidney cancer detection tool across Europe, seek FDA clearance, and start pilot projects in the U.S. This funding boosts the company’s total to over €5 million, combining €2.25 million in private investment and €3.7 million in grants, including a €2.5 million award from the European Innovation Council earlier this year.
The investment round was led by Soulmates Ventures, with support from Specialist VC, UT Ventures, and angel investors.
The funds will enable BMVision Kidney, the first AI-based kidney cancer detection model to achieve CE certification under the EU’s Medical Device Regulation, to broaden its reach. This tool assists radiologists in identifying malignant lesions in CT scans, aiming to reduce diagnostic delays and address workforce challenges.
“Radiologists face intense pressure to concentrate on repetitive tasks that are crucial yet don’t require medical expertise,” said Priit Salumaa, Founder and CEO of Better Medicine. “Our AI acts like a thousand-second sets of eyes, constantly vigilant, facilitating early cancer detection and allowing doctors to avoid burnout and focus on essential judgment-required tasks. The result is more human lives saved.”
Radiology departments globally are experiencing increased stress. In the UK, there are only 10 radiologists per 100,000 people, and about half of radiologist vacancies remain unfilled. Meanwhile, the demand for imaging rises due to an aging population and expanded diagnostic pathways. Better Medicine estimates that 12 million hours are spent globally each year on manual lesion measurements and reporting.
By automating key radiology workflow components, Better Medicine claims its tools can ease bottlenecks, minimize human error, and allow radiologists to focus on intricate clinical decisions. Achieving certification places Better Medicine among a select few companies with AI models approved for direct clinical use.
“Better Medicine is addressing a significant and pressing need in oncology diagnostics,” stated Michal Sikyta, Investment Director at Soulmates Ventures. “By equipping radiologists and specialists with dependable AI tools, they enhance patient outcomes and relieve strained health systems. We’re thrilled to support an experienced team poised to transform modern medicine.”
The new funds will also aid the company’s expansion into the U.S. market, aiming to start FDA-aligned clinical trials.