Dublin-based startup Sports Impact Technologies has secured €650,000 in Pre-Seed funding for its behind-the-ear wearable device that detects dangerous head impacts in real time, addressing the issue of undetected concussions in sports.
The round was led by private investors with support from Enterprise Ireland’s High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) programme. The funds will aid the final product development stages and the commencement of beta testing with athletes in September, as stated by the company.
Founded in 2022 by Eóin Tuohy, Sports Impact Technologies is creating a lightweight sensor that discreetly monitors head accelerations behind the ear, sending data and alerts via an app to coaches, medics, or officials. This aims to facilitate immediate, informed decisions on player removal for concussion assessment.
Despite growing concussion awareness in professional and amateur sports, detecting concussions in real time, especially at lower levels, remains a significant challenge. Athletes often continue to play through symptoms, risking long-term neurological damage.
“It is estimated that between 5 and 10 percent of players experience a concussion each sports season, with 50% going unreported or undetected, leading to long-term health issues,” said Eóin Tuohy, CEO and founder of Sports Impact Technologies.
“Our smart sensor technology monitors head impacts in real time, aiming to eliminate unrecognised concussions, protect athletes, enhance performance, and support participation.”
The beta phase will pilot across diverse sports like rugby, American football, soccer, hockey, and GAA, starting in September 2025, with a full commercial launch planned for early 2026.
“We’re excited to close this funding round with the support of private investors and Enterprise Ireland,” Tuohy added. “The investment will facilitate the final product development stages and market entry of our beta wearable.”
Sports Impact Technologies has participated in Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers Programme at TU Dublin, secured €100,000 from the Pre-Seed Start Fund, and is a client of the ESA Business Incubation Centre. In 2024, the company won the ‘Best New Start’ award at the Connacht and Leinster regional final of the InterTradeIreland Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition.
Enterprise Ireland, having supported the venture early on, views the startup as part of a rising trend of Irish companies tackling global markets with specialized hardware and deep-tech solutions.
“Enterprise Ireland is proud to back Sports Impact Technologies through our High-Potential Start-Up funding,” said Keith Brock, Senior Client Advisor, Enterprise Ireland.
“This investment signifies our commitment to supporting innovative Irish companies addressing global challenges. The team’s wearable sensor technology is revolutionary for athlete safety, and we’re excited to support their product market launch.”