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Laerdal Medical, based in Stavanger, Norway, develops and manufactures medical simulation products, including resuscitation manikins, airway management equipment, and training programs for emergency medicine and first aid. The company pivoted from a publishing and toy company to healthcare training tools in the late 1950s, establishing itself as a leading global supplier of products for both hospital and pre-hospital settings. It operates with over 2,000 employees across 26 countries, serving healthcare providers, educational institutions, and voluntary organizations worldwide. Laerdal Medical is known for its significant collaboration with figures like Peter Safar, often recognized as the "father of resuscitation," and is currently led by Executive Director Tore Lærdal. The organization also founded the Laerdal Foundation for Acute Medicine in 1980 to support research and education in the field. It was founded in 1940 by Åsmund S. Lærdal.
Key people at Laerdal Medical.
Key people at Laerdal Medical.
Laerdal Medical is a global leader in healthcare simulation and training solutions, specializing in products that improve medical education and patient safety. Founded in 1940 in Stavanger, Norway, the company builds advanced medical training manikins and simulation systems such as the iconic Resusci Anne CPR manikin and the high-fidelity SimMan 3G. Laerdal serves healthcare professionals, educators, and emergency responders worldwide, addressing critical needs in resuscitation training and acute medical care. The company has demonstrated strong growth momentum by continuously innovating in simulation technology and expanding its global reach[1][2][8].
Laerdal Medical originated from Åsmund S. Lærdal’s early work in toy manufacturing and soft plastics. The idea to develop medical training manikins emerged in the late 1950s when Laerdal collaborated with anesthesiologist Dr. Bjørn Lind and Dr. Peter Safar, a pioneer of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This partnership led to the creation of Resusci Anne in 1960, the world’s first CPR training manikin, which revolutionized resuscitation education. Over time, Laerdal transitioned fully from toys to life-saving medical products, establishing the Laerdal Foundation for Acute Medicine in 1980 to support research and education in emergency medicine[1][2][4][7].
Laerdal rides the growing trend of simulation-based medical education, which addresses the critical need for safer, more effective healthcare training. The timing is crucial as healthcare systems worldwide emphasize reducing medical errors and improving patient outcomes through realistic practice environments. Market forces such as increasing demand for standardized resuscitation training, advances in simulation technology, and global health initiatives favor Laerdal’s solutions. The company influences the broader ecosystem by setting industry standards, fostering research, and enabling scalable training programs that save lives[3][6][8].
Looking ahead, Laerdal Medical is poised to expand its impact by integrating emerging technologies like virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into its simulation platforms. Trends such as personalized learning, remote training, and global health equity will shape its journey. Laerdal’s continued commitment to innovation and collaboration suggests it will remain a cornerstone in medical education, driving improvements in patient safety and emergency care worldwide. Its legacy, rooted in pioneering resuscitation training, will likely evolve to meet the complex challenges of modern healthcare[1][6][8].
Laerdal Medical has 1 tracked investment across 1 company. The latest tracked deal is $41.0M Series B in Sovato in November 2025.
| Date | Company | Round | Lead Investor(s) | Co-Investor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 4, 2025 | Sovato | $41.0M Series B | Michael Gross, Beringea, Michael Gross | GS Ventures, Intuitive Ventures, Polaris Partners, Puma Venture Capital, Teladoc Health, Vitalize Venture Group, Laerdal, Polaris Partners |
