Sports Impact Technologies, an Irish startup developing real-time concussion detection equipment, has closed a €650,000 funding round to advance its behind-the-ear wearable device. The Dublin-based company plans to use the investment to accelerate product development and bring its beta technology to market.
The funding round included private investors and received backing from Enterprise Ireland‘s high-potential startup unit. This latest investment builds on the company’s previous €100,000 Pre-Seed Fund Start financing from Enterprise Ireland.
Real-Time Impact Monitoring Technology
The startup has developed a compact sensor designed to sit discreetly behind athletes’ ears during competition. The device monitors head impacts by recording sudden and sharp head movements, then transmits data and alerts through a mobile application to coaches, medical staff, and safety officials.
This immediate feedback system enables quick decision-making about whether athletes should be removed from play for concussion assessment. The technology aims to identify previously unrecognized head injuries that could lead to more serious complications if left untreated.
Company Background and Leadership
Eóin Tuohy founded Sports Impact Technologies in 2022, establishing the company’s headquarters at NovaUCD in Dublin. The startup previously participated in Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers program at TU Dublin, a financing initiative designed to support early-stage companies.
“Using our smart sensor technology to monitor head impacts in real time, our goal is to make unrecognized concussions a thing of the past – protecting athletes, optimising their performance, and enabling participation” Tuohy said.
Enterprise Ireland Support
Keith Brock, senior client advisor at Enterprise Ireland, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting innovative Irish companies addressing global challenges. The government agency has provided ongoing support through multiple funding programs as Sports Impact Technologies develops its market-ready product.
“This investment reflects our commitment to backing innovative Irish companies that are solving real-world challenges with global relevance” Brock stated. “The team’s wearable sensor technology is a game-changer for athlete safety“
Industry Recognition and Network Participation
Sports Impact Technologies recently earned recognition as winner of the ‘Best New Start’ Award in the Connacht and Leinster regional final of the 2024 InterTradeIreland Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition. The company also participates in the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) network, which supports entrepreneurs in developing technology-based businesses.
The startup’s approach addresses growing concerns about concussion management in sports, where undetected head injuries can have long-term health consequences for athletes. Traditional methods of concussion detection often rely on post-impact assessment, potentially missing injuries that occur during fast-paced play.
Market Development Strategy
With the new funding secured, Sports Impact Technologies plans to complete final stages of product development and launch its beta wearable device. The company’s technology represents a shift toward proactive concussion monitoring rather than reactive assessment protocols currently used in many sports organizations.
The real-time data transmission capability distinguishes the device from existing impact monitoring solutions, providing immediate information that can influence critical safety decisions during competition. This technological approach aligns with increasing emphasis on athlete safety protocols across professional and amateur sports levels.
As Sports Impact Technologies prepares for market entry, the company joins a growing field of health technology startups focused on sports safety applications. The startup’s Dublin location positions it within Ireland’s expanding technology sector, supported by government initiatives promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.