Austin-based startup Throne is changing the way health technology inventors and investors work together. Their novel AI-powered toilet-environment device aims to improve individuals’ gut health for consumers. Scott Hickle is the founder of Throne and now is co-founder and CEO. The company has closed on $4 million in seed financing, with Katie Jacobs Stanton, founder of Moxxie Ventures, leading the round.
Now at a pre-production working prototype stage, Throne’s device is planned for consumer release in January 2026. Hickle’s revolutionary technology is inextricably tied to his remarkable story. It all began with a friend introducing him to his gastroenterologist uncle. It was this collaboration that kicked off the creative spark for Throne. It powered an effort to forecast flare-ups of chronic diseases and ultimately fatal cancers.
The seed financing round was very popular bringing notable investors including: Stanton, Accomplice, Long Journey Ventures, V1.VC, Night Capital, Retron VC, and Myelin Ventures joined as well. Women’s celebrity angels are supporting Throne with their trust VOCAL and economic support. Notable winners include Lance Armstrong, Rupa Health co-founder Tara Viswanathan and TrueMed founder, Justin Mares.
Hickle’s passion for health care innovation is palpable. This deep-seated passion is reflected in his family lineage, as his father is both a medical doctor and an entrepreneur with multiple doctor-created medical devices. This family inspiration stoked Hickle’s passion to create a device that would have a dramatic effect on patient health.
“That’s hilarious. Clearly, you would name that company Throne,” said Hickle, humorously reflecting on the unique branding of his startup.
While it’s been an exciting experience for Throne as they work on building their prototype, it hasn’t come without its bumps in the road. One of Throne’s current investors was originally against the idea and wanted to cash out on the investment. Despite this setback, the founders persevered and leveraged their Austin connections to secure an introduction to Lance Armstrong’s business manager—a pivotal moment for the company.
Hickle is thankful for all the serendipitous connections that have paved Throne’s way so far. “It’s better to be lucky than good, and we just get so dumb lucky. All the time,” he remarked.
Throne’s AI-powered toilet is more than just a convenience. Its goal is to improve humanity’s health by providing information about your gut health, which can assist in the early detection of serious medical conditions, like cancer. The startup envisions its device as a tool for individuals to monitor their health proactively, potentially transforming how people think about their digestive wellness.
As the company moves towards its planned launch in January 2026, it remains committed to refining its product through rigorous testing and feedback from early users. The team at Throne share an objectivist ideal to bring powerful artificial intelligence into our everyday lives. Their goal is to improve people’s ability to manage their own health and health care while reducing the pressure on healthcare systems.
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