Chinese Startup Gestala Raises Record $21.6M for Non-Invasive Ultrasound Brain-Computer Interface

Chinese startup Gestala has raised $21.6 million in an angel round, marking the largest early-stage funding in China's brain-computer interface (BCI) industry.

The funding, secured just two months after the company's launch, was led by Guosheng Capital and Dalton Ventures, with participation from Tsing Song Capital, Gobi Ventures, and others.

Revolutionary Ultrasound BCI Technology

Gestala develops non-invasive ultrasound-based BCI systems to stimulate and read brain activity without implants.

Founded by serial entrepreneur Phoenix Peng, who also founded implantable BCI firm NeuroXess, Gestala is headquartered in Chengdu with offices in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Early clinical trials demonstrated that a single session reduced chronic pain scores by 50%, with effects lasting one to two weeks.

Ambitious Growth and Future Roadmap

The capital will fund R&D, team expansion from 15 to 35 members, and construction of a manufacturing facility.

Gestala aims to complete its first-generation prototype by the end of 2026.

Future applications include a wearable helmet for home use targeting depression, stroke rehabilitation, Alzheimer's disease, and sleep disorders.

China's Surging BCI Ecosystem

This investment highlights China's booming BCI sector, outpacing global rivals with rapid clinical trials and policy support.

Competitors like BrainCo and StairMed have also raised substantial funds, signaling a shift toward non-invasive alternatives to firms like Neuralink.

With total commitments over $58 million and a valuation between $100 million and $200 million, Gestala is set to transform neuromodulation.