Koko
Koko is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the youth mental health crisis by providing free, evidence-based digital mental health interventions through partnerships with major online platforms. Their approach includes detecting youth signaling mental health struggles via keyword detection and targeted ad placement, then redirecting them to free helplines, peer support, and self-help courses. Founded by researchers and engineers with a strong advisory board, Koko leverages AI and peer-to-peer support to scale mental health assistance, reaching over 4 million people globally. The organization operates on a nonprofit model, focusing on accessible, ethical, and scientifically supported mental health solutions integrated into platforms young people already use.
Koko
Koko is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the youth mental health crisis by providing free, evidence-based digital mental health interventions through partnerships with major online platforms. Their approach includes detecting youth signaling mental health struggles via keyword detection and targeted ad placement, then redirecting them to free helplines, peer support, and self-help courses. Founded by researchers and engineers with a strong advisory board, Koko leverages AI and peer-to-peer support to scale mental health assistance, reaching over 4 million people globally. The organization operates on a nonprofit model, focusing on accessible, ethical, and scientifically supported mental health solutions integrated into platforms young people already use.
TL;DR
Sector: AI-powered community moderation / digital mental health (evidence shows both descriptions)
Headcount: 30 employees
Funding (reported): ≈ $3.0M–$3.5M across early rounds; latest reported pre-seed 2022-03-29
Origins: Originated at the MIT Media Lab; based in New York City
Company Overview
Problem Domain
Community moderation, online safety, and youth digital mental-health support
Industry
Software / Mental health technology
Funding Track Record
Latest reported round per provided evidence
Investor Signal
“Investors reported in evidence include Union Square Ventures and Omidyar Network”