Whispp clinches second prize in NN Social Innovation Startup Award
Whispp converts whispered or impaired speech into clear, natural voices, a feature that empowers those with speech disabilities to communicate more effectively.
Published on November 29, 2024
Whispp, the innovative Dutch startup transforming lives through AI voice technology secured second place at the NN Social Innovation Startup Award in Bilbao. The technology, which reduces stutter frequency by 85% through whispered speech conversion, addresses a global need affecting 300 million people with voice disabilities. Along with a €50,000 grant, Whispp will receive a year-long mentorship program from NN Group and Rubio Impact Ventures, positioning them for greater impact in accessibility technology. The company's real-time audio-to-audio conversion technology stands out for its minimal latency and language-independent approach, marking a significant advancement in assistive communication technology.
By leveraging AI, Whispp converts whispered or impaired speech into clear, natural voices, a feature that empowers those with speech disabilities to communicate more effectively. This innovation not only enhances daily interactions but also boosts the confidence of users, enabling them to engage in phone and video conversations seamlessly. The company's dedication to addressing the needs of individuals with speech disorders is evident in its unique real-time audio-to-audio solution, which stands apart from traditional systems plagued by latency issues.
Impact and recognition
The recognition at the NN Social Innovation Startup Award underscores Whispp's potential to transform lives globally. As part of Impact Europe Week, an initiative dedicated to social innovation and impact investing, the event celebrated startups that are driving meaningful change through technology. Whispp's second-place finish, alongside a €50,000 grant, highlights its role in shaping the future of accessibility solutions. The award ceremony brought together key players from the AI and social innovation sectors, fostering an environment of collaboration and knowledge sharing aimed at tackling pressing social challenges.
Whispp's ambition extends beyond current achievements. Founder and CEO Joris Castermans, motivated by his personal experience with stuttering, envisions a world where Whispp's technology is universally available on smartphones and laptops. This vision aligns with the company’s mission to create a more inclusive world by providing tools that enable fluid communication irrespective of speech impediments. The drive to improve speech recognition and translation for diverse languages and dialects further illustrates Whispp’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Whispp is TIME's Best Invention of 2024
Former G&A winner Whispp has been named one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2024. The company wins in the Accessibility category.
Partnerships and future prospects
Through the mentorship program offered by NN Group and Rubio Impact Ventures, Whispp is poised to enhance its business model and expand its reach. This opportunity will provide access to a network of experts and investors, essential for scaling operations and refining their technology. Such support is crucial as Whispp continues to innovate and adapt its solutions to meet the evolving needs of its users. The broader impact of these efforts is reflected in Whispp's recognition as one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2024, a testament to its groundbreaking role in accessibility technology.