Kenya-based health tech startup Ilara Health has secured $4.2 million in debt-equity funding in a pre-Series A round, aiming to expand its clinic-support services across the East African region. The funding will facilitate the scaling of operations in Kenya and the rollout of a business-to-business (B2B) health and occupational service, enhancing access to healthcare for uninsured workers.
Investment Backing and Funding Details
The pre-Series A round, totaling $2.5 million in equity, was led by DOB Equity, with participation from the Philips Foundation and existing investors such as AAIC Investment, Angaza Capital, Black Pearl Investments, and Perivoli Innovations. Additionally, debt investment came from Alphamundi, Kiva Capital, and Boehringer Ingelheim, bringing Ilara Health’s total funding to $11.7 million, including debt, equity, and grant funding.
Evolution of Ilara Health’s Services
Initially focused on leasing diagnostic devices to clinics in 2019, Ilara Health has evolved to provide a broader range of support services to private healthcare operators. The startup now facilitates access to pharmaceutical products and essential items like hospital furniture on credit, enabling clinics to offer quality primary healthcare services to patients.
Expansion Strategy and Market Position
Ilara Health targets the private healthcare sector in Kenya, catering to clinics that serve individuals with medical coverage or those able to pay out of pocket. The startup aims to address the quality of care issue prevalent in the country’s healthcare system by equipping clinics with necessary resources and enabling efficient operations through digitization.
Partnerships and Service Offerings
Partnering with manufacturers like Butterfly Network, Ilara Health provides diagnostic devices, including low-cost portable ultrasound tools, to its network of clinics. Additionally, the startup offers a monthly subscription-based practice management software to digitize clinic operations and improve business management.
Future Growth Plans
In its next phase of growth, Ilara Health plans to expand its reach through the B2B health and occupational service, collaborating with employers to provide employees access to outpatient services at partner clinics. By addressing the healthcare needs of uninsured individuals and enhancing clinic capabilities, Ilara Health aims to contribute to improving healthcare accessibility and delivery in Kenya.
Founders’ Vision and Background
Co-founded by Emilian Popa, Maximilian Mancini, and Sameer Afzal Farooqi, Ilara Health seeks to bridge gaps in Kenya’s healthcare system by leveraging technology and strategic partnerships. With extensive experience in management consulting and investment, the founders are committed to driving positive impact in Africa’s healthcare sector through innovation and collaboration.
