Press Releases

Today, Congressman Wiley Nickel (NC-13) announced $275,000 in new federal funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support SONOVOICE, Inc., a Raleigh startup developing a portable digital device and smartphone application for voice health evaluations. This investment in North Carolina-based research will help enhance our understanding of vocal health.

Voice disorders affect an estimated 1 in 8 adults in the U.S. annually, costing nearly $15 billion in healthcare expenses. This project addresses the lack of accessible, precise, and affordable tools for diagnosing voice disorders and has the potential to improve the quality of life for millions of individuals with voice disorders. 

“It’s simple: this funding will make it easier for people to get the care they need,” said Congressman Nickel. “By breaking down barriers to diagnosing voice disorders, we’re helping families and improving lives. It’s a step toward better, more accessible health care for everyone.”

The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports research, innovation, and discovery that provides the foundation for economic growth in this country. By advancing the frontiers of science and engineering, our nation can develop the knowledge and cutting-edge technologies needed to address the challenges we face today and will face in the future.