Patronus receives 11 million euros for smart emergency call for senior citizens

The Berlin-based start-up Patronus has closed a financing round of 11 million euros. The round was led by 3TS Capital Partners, with UVC Partners and other investors also participating.

The capital will be used to expand the company's market leadership in the field of mobile emergency call solutions and for new products related to family, well-being and a planned AI companion.

Everyday problem instead of technology problem

The starting point for Patronus is a well-known shortcoming of traditional home emergency call systems. Although they are installed, they are rarely worn. Reasons include design, convenience and a perceived stigma.

Founder Ben Staudt also identified this problem in his own environment. Many of us in the editorial team are familiar with the eternal discussions with relatives and the corresponding generational conflict. Discussions with over 1,000 senior citizens confirmed that emotional factors are decisive for usage.

Smartwatch as an integrated solution

Patronus has therefore opted for a smartwatch that looks like an ordinary watch and can be seamlessly integrated into everyday life. The watch works independently of the smartphone via an integrated SIM card and enables a direct connection to an emergency call center at the touch of a button in an emergency.

According to the company, 85% of users wear the watch every day. In total, Patronus has over 25,000 active users and has already processed more than 500,000 emergency calls.

The service is supplemented by an app for relatives. This provides information about the status of the watch and informs them immediately in an emergency. Around 50,000 relatives are already using the application, which not only provides practical safety but also emotional relief.

AI companion as the next development step

With the new capital, Patronus is planning to develop an AI-based companion that will be particularly effective against loneliness in old age. The aim is to combine safety, social interaction and well-being more closely.

The need for such solutions is growing. Around 9.6 million people over the age of 75 live in Germany alone. Digital offerings that promote independence and safety in everyday life are therefore becoming increasingly important.

Established provider in the German market

Patronus was founded in 2020, employs around 70 people and is now one of the largest providers of mobile emergency call solutions in Germany.