Appa Health Awarded $2M Phase II SBIR Grant from the National Institute of Mental Health
Oakland, CA - Appa Health, a pioneering mental health startup focused on teen mentorship, is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $2M direct to Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The grant was led by co-investigators, Dr. Michael Pullmann, Research Associate Professor from the University of Washington and Dr. Katrina Roundfield, Co-Founder at Appa Health. This significant award underscores NIMH's commitment to innovative mental health solutions, especially during these challenging times when up to 87% of teens are struggling with their mental health.
Appa Health's core mission is to empower teens with world-class mentorship and lifelong mental health skills. Appa’s app provides teens with trained college graduate mentors who serve as supportive role models, alongside video-based mental health skills content. Appa’s video content is delivered by TikTok mental health therapist influencers who explain mental health skills in a teen-friendly style across a 12-week curriculum.
Recognizing the critical role of schools in teen mental health, Appa Health has been collaborating with school districts to ensure struggling students receive the supplementary support they need to thrive.
"This grant is not just a milestone for Appa Health but a testament to the growing awareness and urgency of mental health issues among teens," said Robert Miller, CEO of Appa Health. "With these funds, we can continue to build evidence that our innovative virtual mentorship model makes a tangible impact on teens in need."
The NIMH grant will specifically fund:
A rigorous randomized control trial in partnership with the University of Washington to test the impact and effectiveness of Appa's mentoring intervention.
Product development enhancements to better serve teens.
Essential support for the research team at Appa Health, allowing them to focus on monitoring, analyzing, and reporting key outcomes, thereby ensuring the program's continued growth and adaptability.
Within the scientific community, this grant represents an encouraging vote of confidence from renowned mental health stakeholders at the NIMH. The anticipated publications and research stemming from this partnership will further cement the evidence base for the effectiveness of Appa’s innovative program.
"This is more than just a grant; it's a recognition of the importance and potential of our mission," added Miller. "Together, with the NIMH, the University of Washington, and school districts, we are poised to make a lasting difference in teen mental health."
For more information about Appa Health or to get involved, please visit www.appahealth.com or contact info@appahealth.com.
