Bright Breaks, the Halifax startup that produces online wellness videos for employees, has closed a $2.525 million funding round led by new investor Build Ventures.

Returning backers Concrete Ventures and Invest Nova Scotia also joined the funding round – which follows on from the company’s $1.45 million round announced in September 2022.

Bright sells subscriptions for online fitness and wellness classes targeted at businesses looking to encourage healthy lifestyles for their employees, especially those in remote or hybrid work environments. The company previously did business as Cribcut, selling haircuts on-demand.

“We believe that Bright Breaks has the potential to make a significant impact on the well-being of employees worldwide, and we are excited to be part of their journey,” said Rob Barbara, lead investor at Halifax-based Build Ventures. “This investment signifies our confidence in their team and their ability to create a positive change in the workplace.”

The company got started offering haircuts in work places – a model that was disrupted when the pandemic hit. So CEO David Howe and his team pivoted, soon selling online exercise and wellness classes that employees could watch during work breaks, whether they were in the office or at home.

Bright Breaks said in a press release it aims to tackle the hidden challenges of these work environments, including physical discomfort and mental stress.

Its approach to workplace wellness is rooted in scientific research, including a systematic review of over 80 studies that supported taking regular breaks during work hours, said the company. This analysis showed that incorporating breaks throughout the workday enhances well-being and boosts overall work performance.

Bright Breaks’ clients include such multi-nationals as Hyundai, Rakuten Kobo, PandaDoc, and Hatch. Their staffs can access more than 300 live breaks per week and an extensive on-demand library, automating the scheduling of seven-minute wellness breaks directly into employees’ calendars using AI. Its goal is to one day be used by  its clients' 1 million employees.

The company said it wants to use the latest funding to expand its reach, upgrade its studios, and solidify its “position as a top workplace wellness brand in North America.” The money will also support its marketing efforts and the development of new features.

“This funding fuels our commitment to support HR leaders in fostering a healthier, happier, and more engaged remote workforce,” said Howe in a statement. “Together, we can inspire a new era of well-being in the workplace.”