Educational platform seeks to support children with speech impediments
COLUMBIA, Md., (May 12, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced $25,000 of Concept Capital funding provided to Worlds of Hello, an educational platform. TEDCO’s Concept Capital program was created to provide critical early-stage funding for tech companies in need of assistance to further launch and grow their business, allowing Maryland to become a hub for entrepreneurial success.
“There is a large gap between the home and professional support for children with speech delays. This is why I’m developing a program that can be personalized,” said Amy Quarkume, founder of Worlds of Hello and Howard University associate professor. “Thanks to this funding from TEDCO, I can continue to work towards a platform that bridges this gap, helping children to find their voice and continue to grow.”
Worlds of Hello, located in Adelphi, Md., seeks to develop an educational platform to assist children with speech delays. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive learning tools, the platform hopes to provide personalized support. By integrating speech recognition and AI technology, the company hopes to offer a platform that will track and adapt to a child’s progress, offering a fun and supportive environment that can be sustained by educators and parents.
“The Concept Capital program was designed to bridge the gap many entrepreneurs face when starting their business,” said Graham Dodge, vice president of Venture Development at TEDCO. “When access to funding during the ‘friends and family’ stage is not guaranteed, a program like Concept Capital can make a huge difference. We are excited to continue our efforts and support entrepreneurs throughout their journey.”
Worlds of Hello has utilized other TEDCO programs and resources on their journey including Intellectual Property Management from IPGen, Market Search and the Network Advisors program.
“Maryland proudly stands as home to the ‘Best City for Women’ according to WalletHub, and the sixth best city in the nation for women to launch their careers,” TEDCO CEO, Troy LeMaile-Stovall, explained. “By taking this initiative, the State is not only fostering a more inclusive and equitable ecosystem but also strengthening the foundation for long-term sustainability and economic success. TEDCO is proud to be a part of this growth.”
For more information about the Concept Capital program, please click here.