The Egyptian startup Lothgha has achieved a major international milestone, being recognized as one of the top six university-born companies globally at the Hult Prize finals in London. Originally conceived as a student project to address speech disorders and the fear of public speaking, Lothgha has rapidly evolved into a comprehensive digital health platform. By integrating artificial intelligence with traditional speech pathology, the startup is transforming how individuals across the Arab world and beyond access specialized communication therapy.
Scaling AI Solutions For Speech Disorders Globally
Lothgha distinguishes itself by offering an end-to-end digital treatment journey that reduces the reliance on traditional, high-cost therapy models. The platform features the world’s first AI-powered speech test validated by international medical experts and university physicians. Users benefit from personalized digital treatment paths based on specialist curricula, remote speech therapy sessions, and community support groups designed to rebuild vocal confidence. This tech-driven approach has allowed the startup to reach over 66,000 users across more than 80 countries.
Securing International Recognition And Impact Funding
The startup’s trajectory from a Cairo-based university concept to a global competitor highlights the growing strength of the Egyptian social entrepreneurship scene. After winning first place in the 2024 Hult Prize Egypt, Lothgha secured over $70,000 in social impact funding from supporters in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. These investments are fueling the platform’s expansion as it continues to refine its AI algorithms for diverse dialects and speech patterns, making speech therapy more accessible and affordable for underserved populations.
Empowering The Next Generation Of Regional Founders
The success of Lothgha is being utilized as a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs in the MENA region, particularly as Sahat Venture Studio opens registrations for the Hult Prize Saudi Arabia. By demonstrating that student-led ideas can solve complex global health challenges, Lothgha serves as a primary example of “For Profit, For Good.” The startup’s ability to combine commercial scalability with significant social impact is setting a new standard for healthtech ventures emerging from regional universities.
About Lothgha
Lothgha is an AI-powered speech therapy platform dedicated to transforming communication for individuals facing challenges such as stuttering and lisping. Founded as a university-led initiative in Egypt, the platform provides 100% online accessibility, offering both automated exercise modules and on-demand consultations with leading speech therapy experts from the Arab world. By leveraging advanced AI for diagnostic testing and personalized care plans, Lothgha aims to unlock human potential and build communication confidence for users globally.
Source: Sahat Venture Studio
