Cofertility is the startup that co-founders Lauren Makler and Halle Tecco have founded. Their unique approach to egg donation and fertility preservation is quickly getting them national recognition. The company provides women with the chance to freeze their eggs for free. In exchange, they ask these women to donate half of the harvested eggs to other women or couples who can’t conceive. Through this model, we not only provide essential care to those who need it, we help women and girls be empowered to make their own reproductive health decisions.
Founded with the mission to create a better egg donation experience for everyone, Cofertility has built a community of incredibly diverse egg donors. Nearly 55% of these women have graduate degrees, reflecting the program’s penetration into highly educated populations. The startup has raised a total of $16 million in funding, including a recent $7.25 million Series A round led by Next Ventures and Offline Ventures, with participation from Initialized, Gaingels, and other investors.
With its “Split” program, Cofertility has a more scalable solution to the traditional process around egg donation. Unlike most startups, the startup has hundreds of potential donors at its fingertips and a quick click away. That wealth of donors is meant to address the classic issue many clinics struggle with — few potential donors making matches improbable. Expanding access to donor eggs is essential to help intended parents realize their dreams. The expenses are high too, usually requiring $10,000–15,000 for an egg donation procedure, for each of the couples’ attempts.
The firm understands that for donors, compensation is a dealbreaker. Although all donors are compensated for their donations, the pricing structure is different based on the donor’s profile. Jewish donors’ eggs usually fetch a premium. That’s likely due to aggressive market demand from homebuyers in that demographic.
Cofertility is dedicated to breaking down the stigma that exists around egg donation. So let me be clear—there is no shame in whatever way you come to parenthood. Thanks to a philanthropic donor who was inspired to freeze her own eggs, we now have this thrilling opportunity,” said Lauren Makler. She spoke to the importance the program has had in normalizing these conversations.
The startup’s approach underscores a growing demand for transparency and ethical practices in fertility treatments. Cofertility’s model fosters a caring community among women. At an OBGYN office, they can feel empowered to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
“At any given time, we have hundreds of donors that are available for intended parents,” – Lauren Makler
Leave a Reply