LOS ANGELES — Tombot, the California-based robotics company behind the lifelike robotic puppy Jennie, has raised $6.1 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round to accelerate the development and delivery of its groundbreaking health and senior care product line.
The investment round, led by Caduceus Capital Partners, drew support from both new and returning backers. The funding will be used to expand the company’s team, complete final engineering and safety certifications, and prepare for the initial rollout of its flagship product, which already has over 16,000 customers on its pre-order and waitlist.
Tombot’s robotic dog Jennie is designed to support individuals suffering from the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), mild cognitive impairment, and other mental health conditions. Developed in collaboration with clinical experts and patients—and brought to life with the help of Jim Henson’s Creature Shop—Jennie offers the emotional benefits of pet ownership without the responsibilities or risks associated with caring for a live animal.
“Jennie was created for the millions of seniors who can no longer safely care for real pets but still need the companionship and comfort they provide,” said Tom Stevens, Tombot’s CEO and co-founder. “Our goal is to fill that gap with technology that’s emotionally engaging and clinically effective.”
Jennie is fully interactive, responding to voice, touch, and movement with lifelike behavior. She’s rechargeable, cleanable, and can be paired with a caregiver app to help manage user experience and reduce caregiver stress. Tombot aims to deploy the robotic puppy in a variety of settings, from private homes to assisted living and memory care communities.
The demand for such technology is growing rapidly. By 2030, the U.S. senior population is expected to surpass 73 million, with increasing prevalence of cognitive and emotional health challenges. Caduceus Capital’s senior managing partner, Dave Vreeland, said Tombot is well positioned to meet this need.
“Loneliness and chronic illness are issues our aging society can no longer address through human caregivers alone,” Vreeland said. “Tombot is leading the charge in a sector that’s poised for explosive growth.”
With this latest investment, Tombot is preparing to bring its robotic companions into the lives of patients and families seeking comfort, companionship, and innovative mental health support.
