Chicago, IL – Veteran entrepreneurs face unique challenges as they transition from military service to running their own businesses. Recognizing the critical role mental health plays in this journey, Veteran Business Project (VBP) has partnered with Canary Speech to offer veteran a revolutionary AI-powered mental health tool designed to support their well-being and long-term success.

In a recent roundtable discussion, Lynn Lowder, CEO of VBP, and Henry O’Connell, CEO of Canary Speech, discussed how their collaboration is making an impact. The conversation, moderated by Joe Plenzler, a communications advisor to VBP, highlighted how Canary Speech’s AI technology is helping veterans manage their mental health while balancing the demands of entrepreneurship.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), fewer than half of returning veterans who need mental health care receive it. Untreated conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety not only affect veterans’ personal lives but can also undermine their ability to run a business. Without mental health support, veterans may struggle to focus, make decisions, and maintain their business operations—making timely intervention crucial for success.

“What excited VBP about Canary Speech was how easy it is for a veteran to speak into their phone for 40 seconds and, within moments, receive indicators of potential mental health concerns like depression,” Lowder said.

Canary Speech’s AI technology analyzes more than 20,000 data points in a voice recording to provide real-time insights into stress, mood, and energy levels. O’Connell explained that “Canary Speech processes approximately 20,548 different data elements every 10 milliseconds,” allowing veterans to engage in natural, unscripted conversations about their day, and receive instant results.

A key strength of the app is its secure, private approach, which allows veterans to monitor their mental health from home without fear of exposure. “They can use the app in the comfort of their homes, knowing their data is secure and private,” O’Connell said.

Lowder emphasized the importance of real-time monitoring, noting that “veterans often endure stress long before they seek help.” By tracking stress levels through vocal biomarkers, the app helps veterans manage their mental health proactively, providing an essential tool for their overall well-being.

As Veterans Day approaches, this VBP-Canary Speech collaboration serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing responsibility to support veterans in their civilian lives. Offering tools like Canary Speech’s AI technology helps veterans not only manage mental health challenges but also thrive as business owners. By addressing these issues early, we can help ensure veterans are set up for success beyond their military service.

Connect with VBP to learn how you can participate in this initiative and support veteran entrepreneurs. https://veteranbusinessproject.org/contact/