From concept to conception: Our investment in Natalist

When Halle Tecco set out to build Rock Health nearly ten years ago, she saw a need to support entrepreneurs using technology to make healthcare massively better. Today, we’re thrilled to announce our investment in her latest venture, Natalist, a company conceived to close the glaring gaps she encountered on her path to parenthood—and fueled by the belief that those who want to have children deserve a better way. We’re humbled to be a part of Natalist’s $5M seed round and to back an incredible team on a mission to radically improve the fertility experience.

For those who experience challenges, trying to get pregnant can be overwhelming. On a journey often riddled with stigma and pseudoscience, Natalist provides information, warmth, and support. They do this through a combination of beautiful, science-backed conception essentials, evidence-based educational resources, and a judgement-free community to be there every step of the way. Natalist’s products—including The Get Pregnant Bundle—provide individuals with the resources they need, from concept to conception. Above all, Natalist is powered by the experience and empathy of people who have themselves been on the tumultuous journey to parenthood.

Natalist couldn’t have emerged at a better time—venture investment is finally beginning to catch up with the unique needs women experience. Funding for digital women’s health companies, broadly, is on the rise, increasing 812% from 2014 to 2018. So far this year, ten women’s health companies have raised a total of $177M. And digital health’s newest IPO comes in the form of a profitable business built around managing fertility benefits for employers. Beyond just investment, we’re encouraged to see employers increasingly support their workforces through successful, healthy pregnancies. Natalist has already announced its first employer partnership with Benefitfocus, who will subsidize 50% of the cost of Natalist fertility products for its employees.

The healthcare industry is just scratching the surface of empowering women with information about their reproductive health. We’re excited to support the visionary team at Natalist, and are honored to welcome them to the Rock Health family as they help you grow yours.

Are you building a solution for women’s health and wellbeing? We’d love to learn more.