Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, known as a16z, is backing a new startup led by prominent neurosurgeon Edward Chang, Echo Neurotechnologies Corp, according to sources familiar with the deal.

This marks the VC’s entry into the brain-device industry.

Echo Neurotechnologies, based in San Francisco’s China Basin neighborhood, has secured around US$50 million in funding, with potential for additional investment.

The company focuses on brain-machine interfaces that allow patients to control external devices with their thoughts via implanted electrodes.

Chang has contributed to advancements in brain implant technology, such as a 2023 project that enabled a paralyzed woman to communicate using AI.

Other companies in the field, including Neuralink and Synchron Inc., are also conducting similar clinical trials to assist paralyzed individuals and restore sight to those who are blind.

Neither Chang nor Andreessen Horowitz has commented on the funding details.