German startup TRAIT secures €1M to enhance its AI-driven training app with empathetic support

Berlin-based TRAIT (previously Twaiv), a running training plan app, announced that it has secured €1M in a seed round of funding from HTGF, the angel club – better ventures, and other private investors.

Founded in 2021 as “Twaiv”, TRAIT rebranded on July 12, 2024, to better reflect its mission of helping individuals achieve their training goals and lead active, fulfilling lives.

By combining science-based training with a supportive community, TRAIT has witnessed rapid growth, with downloads increasing by 178 per cent annually. 

The app addresses common issues like inflexible plans and lack of support, keeping users motivated even when life gets challenging.

Johannes Dierkes, Investment Manager at HTGF, says, “We are excited about TRAIT’s vision and approach to creating an empathetic and adaptive AI training platform for athletes. It’s designed to strengthen individuals not just physically, but also mentally.”

Capital utilisation

The proceeds will help TRAIT develop a training environment that focuses on both performance and runner well-being. The founders aim to set a new industry standard by emphasizing human interaction and social support. 

The funds will enhance TRAIT’s AI platform to provide a more personalised and empathetic experience for runners.

TRAIT co-founder, Raphael Jung, says, “With TRAIT, we have developed an app that is as empathetic and understanding as a human coach would be. We help people get back into sport.”

“We combine sports science and AI training with real social, mutual supportiveness. With the help of HTGF, selected business angels from better ventures and other private investors, we are ready to revolutionise the way people think about being fit.”

Brief about High-Tech Gründerfonds

High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF) has been financing tech startups with growth potential since 2005, supporting over 750 startups. 

With around €1.4B under management across four seed funds, HTGF focuses on high-tech startups in digital tech, industrial tech, life sciences, and chemistry. 

The fund has attracted around €6B from external investors and successfully exited over 180 companies. HTGF’s investors include the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, KfW Capital, and 45 diverse companies.