Throne Raises $4M to Revolutionize Gut Health with AI-Powered Toilet
Throne, an Austin-based startup, has secured $4 million in seed funding to develop its AI-powered smart toilet device. The device, which mounts onto existing toilets, uses computer vision and AI to monitor gut health. This funding round was led by Moxxie Ventures founder Katie Jacobs Stanton, with participation from other venture capitalists and angel investors, including Lance Armstrong.
From Poker Joke to Health Innovation
The idea for Throne originated in 2021 as a playful concept during a poker game. Co-founders Scott Hickle and Tim Blumberg initially dismissed the smart toilet idea as a joke. However, after their nurse-hiring software startup faced challenges in 2023, an investor's suggestion reignited their interest in the concept.
Research and consultations with medical professionals, including Hickle's mother, a gerontologist, confirmed the potential of analyzing waste for health insights. The device aims to monitor conditions like IBS, ulcerative colitis, colon cancer, kidney disease, and prostate health.
Building the Throne Team and Securing Funding
Despite initial skepticism from some investors, Hickle and Blumberg persevered. A pivotal moment came when they pitched the idea to Lance Armstrong, who became an early investor. They also recruited John Capodilupo, former CEO of WHOOP, as Chief Product Officer.
Further serendipitous connections led to introductions to Katie Jacobs Stanton and partnerships with researchers at the University of Washington and the University of Chicago. These partnerships will be crucial for validating the device's software and ensuring its effectiveness.
Looking Ahead to 2026 Launch
Throne's smart toilet device is currently in pre-production, with a planned launch date of January 2026. The company aims to empower individuals to proactively monitor their gut health in the privacy of their homes. With this new funding, Throne is well-positioned to bring its innovative technology to market.
Other investors in the seed round include Accomplice, Long Journey Ventures, V1.VC, Night Capital, Retron VC, and Myelin Ventures.
