Stefanie Broes of Moonbird wins ticket to Draper University’s Hero Training Programme in Silicon Valley: Know more

Stefanie Broes, founder of Moonbird has won the Golden Ticket to the Draper University Hero Training Programme in Silicon Valley. The development was announced via a LinkedIn post by Andy Lurling, founding partner of LUMO Labs.

The prize also covers flight expenses, on-campus lodging, and access to co-working facilities in downtown San Mateo, California, US.

Andy Lurling also mentioned that because of the “high quality” of pitches, there were two more winners: Athalis Kratouni of Tenbeo and Mario Edoardo Simmaco of GreenAnt.

The Draper’s Silicon Spring Pitch Prize is a collaboration between LUMO Labs, Draper University, and local partners. It reflects Draper University’s commitment to connecting global innovation hubs and promoting diversity among participants.

Draper’s Silicon Spring Pitch Prize had a panel of judges including Madelon Strijbos, Robin Hendrickx, Margherita Marchetti, Bart Budde, Philipa O.W. Biritwum, Loïc Struyvelt, Frank Claassen, and Khadija Ghazi of Draper University.

A handheld breathing pacer

Brussels-based Moonbird is an intuitive handheld breathing pacer. It moves like a balloon expanding and contracting in your hand. All you have to do is match your breathing to the rhythm of your Moonbird. This helps trigger your body’s natural relaxation response.

Stefanie Broes, co-founder of Moonbird mentioned, “After seeing more and more friends and family members struggling with insomnia, stress, and anxiety attacks, the truth is that these emotions are increasingly becoming part of our daily lives, and even more so amid the pandemic.” 

“While medication can sometimes be the answer, it is not always necessary and there are other proven techniques people can turn to.”

The founders of Moonbird, brother and sister duo Stefanie and Michael Broes, noticed that many people didn’t have easy access to the benefits of breathing exercises. So, they made a handheld device to help. It lets people keep track of how they’re doing with their breathing exercises and manage their stress better.

Additionally, it comes with an app providing educational content on the importance of breathwork. The app also allows users to track their progress over time by monitoring biofeedback and the effects of breathing exercises.

Brief about LUMO Labs and Draper University

Founded in 2016 by Andy Lürling and Sven Bakkes, LUMO Labs supports impact-driven software startups through its LUMO Fund II. This multi-stage capital fund offers a two-year venture builder programme aimed at helping portfolio companies achieve financial success and social impact. 

The firm focuses on funding startups aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas like Sustainable Cities & Communities, Good Health & Well-Being, and Quality Education. Its investment areas include AI/Data, Blockchain, Internet of Things, Robotics and Drones, and Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality.

Draper University, founded in 2012 by Silicon Valley venture capitalist Tim Draper, operates on the belief that “to change the world, we have to change education”. Through hands-on training, an innovative curriculum, and thought leadership, Draper University aims to empower individuals to make a positive impact on the world.