Cyprus-based venture capital firm Kinisis Ventures has joined a $1.8 million pre-seed funding round for Janus Labs AI, a US startup developing technology that aims to monitor the health of dogs and cats by measuring brain activity without physical contact.
The round was led by New York Angels, with participation from Harvard Business School Alumni Angels of Greater New York and SkyRiver Ventures. It brings Janus Labs AI’s total funding to $2.6 million, according to the company. Kinisis Ventures’ individual investment amount has not been disclosed.
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Janus is developing a system that combines contactless measurements of brain activity with physiological data. According to the company, its artificial intelligence software analyses each animal’s individual patterns to monitor physical and mental wellbeing, identify potential early health changes and recommend personalised care.
Unlike conventional pet trackers, which primarily monitor activity or vital signs, Janus is attempting to gather information about an animal’s neurological state. The company believes this could help owners recognise changes in their pets’ health and behaviour that existing monitoring devices might miss.
Andreas Panayi, co-founder of Kinisis Ventures, said the firm’s interest in Janus stems from its work with technologies that combine physical sensors, AI software and advanced data analysis.
“Janus Labs is going after something genuinely different in a pet-tech market that has grown crowded with activity trackers,” Panayi said.
He also pointed to Kinisis’ preference for founders willing to tackle technically challenging problems in markets where established solutions remain limited.
Kinisis Ventures operates across Cyprus and the US East Coast, investing in early-stage technology companies with international growth potential. Its first venture capital fund focused on Cyprus-registered startups, helping them access international markets, particularly the US.
In September 2024, Kinisis announced its second fund, KV Fund II, expanding its investment strategy to consider opportunities originating in both Cyprus and the US. The fund targets early-stage businesses in sectors where Kinisis can provide industry experience, commercial connections and access to co-investors.
The investment in Janus follows the firm’s broader interest in sensor technologies and data-driven products, including previous investments in wearable health technology and robotics.
Janus Labs AI, meanwhile, reports holding nine US patents and having conducted five published studies involving humans, alongside clinical validation involving several dog breeds.
The startup completed the 2026 SOSV NY/IndieBio accelerator and received the Best Product award at The Ventures Startup Awards during New York Tech Week. It was also selected among the top 10 startups at the SF Tech Week Consumer AI Pitch Fest.
