Singapore‑based kids’ technology company MyFirst has raised more than US $8 million in a Series A funding round led by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India, highlighting strong investor confidence in its mission to build safe, purpose‑built digital experiences for children.
Funding Breakdown and Investors
The funding round, led by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India, marks a significant milestone for MyFirst as it looks to deepen and scale its integrated KidsTech ecosystem.
Unlike some reports of prior raises, no widely reported $2 million seed round in 2023 has been confirmed in current sources — this Series A appears to be the company’s most prominent funding milestone so far.
Participation from a major VC like Vertex underscores strong confidence in MyFirst’s differentiated product suite and growing market adoption.
Company History and Mission
Founded in 2018 by G‑Jay Yong and Brian Tan, MyFirst develops a purpose‑built children’s technology ecosystem that combines devices, connected services, and a secure family platform designed specifically for kids’ first digital experiences.
Its product lineup includes smart devices such as the myFirst Fone watchphone, cameras, headphones, and the myFirst Circle family app — a closed, encrypted, ad‑free social platform where children can safely message and share moments with family and approved friends.
Serving over one million families in more than 60 countries, the company aims to redefine how children interact with technology by offering age‑appropriate tools with built‑in safety and parental controls.
Impact on KidsTech and Global Expansion
In contrast to adult‑oriented platforms, MyFirst’s ecosystem is crafted for children’s communication, creativity, and digital exploration within a controlled environment, addressing a growing demand among families for safer tech alternatives.
The new funding will support international expansion across North Asia, the Middle East, the United States, and Europe through partnerships with major retailers and telecommunications companies, including distribution via Walmart and Best Buy.
CEO G‑Jay Yong stressed the importance of accessible, kid‑focused technology: “Every child deserves their first digital device to be built just for them,” noting that the new capital will help deliver safer tech experiences to more families worldwide.
Vertex Ventures’ Jessica Koh highlighted that the shift toward products purpose‑built for children, rather than repurposed adult tech, represents a significant and under‑penetrated market opportunity.
Future Outlook and Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, MyFirst plans to invest in product development and enhance its secure, family‑oriented digital platform. Its ecosystem integrates hardware and software to support children’s digital engagement while giving parents peace of mind.
This Series A raise positions MyFirst as a leader in the global KidsTech wave, with potential for broader product innovation and expanded geographic reach in the coming years.
Maria Lourdes
