Chelsie Carvajal
Photo Courtesy of PACE Healthcare Capital
Nans Rivat, Vice President at PACE Healthcare Capital, stands out for his dedication to advancing responsible artificial intelligence in mental health care. Headquartered in Chicago, PACE Healthcare Capital is a leading digital health venture firm investing in impactful, capital-efficient software and tech-enabled companies, often outside traditional VC hubs.
Rivat leads investments in technology-driven startups and shares his knowledge with future leaders through public speaking and mentorship. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and the practical needs of patients and clinicians, while also encouraging young entrepreneurs to pursue meaningful solutions.
Leading the Conversation on Responsible AI
Rivat has become a recognized voice in the responsible use of artificial intelligence for mental health. At events such as Health2Tech in Chicago, he addresses the benefits and risks of using AI in sensitive healthcare settings. He highlights the importance of trust, fairness, and transparency in AI systems, especially when they affect vulnerable groups seeking mental health support. Rivat’s talks emphasize that AI should support, not replace, human therapists, and that technology must be designed with patient safety and privacy in mind.
Through his role at PACE Healthcare Capital, Rivat leads investments in startups that use AI to address challenges like provider shortages and access gaps. He works closely with companies such as Backpack Healthcare, where AI helps match patients with therapists and reduce missed appointments. These solutions aim to make care more accessible, especially for children and families who rely on Medicaid. Rivat’s efforts reflect a broader movement in the industry to apply AI responsibly, following guidelines that promote fairness, accountability, and data privacy.
Rivat’s advocacy for responsible AI has positioned him as a thought leader in the mental health technology space. He participates in international collaborations and industry discussions, helping to shape guidelines that protect users and support ethical innovation. His work encourages others in the field to prioritize safety, trust, and real-world impact when developing new tools.
Inspiring and Guiding Future Entrepreneurs
Rivat’s influence extends to the next generation of entrepreneurs. He regularly serves as a speaker and judge at pitch competitions focused on mental health innovation, where he offers feedback and encouragement to early-stage founders. At universities such as Johns Hopkins, he has lectured on the importance of early-stage investment and the unique challenges faced by mental health startups. These engagements give students and young professionals practical insights into the realities of building technology for healthcare.
By sharing lessons from his own experience, Rivat helps aspiring entrepreneurs understand the value of responsible technology development. He stresses the need for solutions that are both effective and trusted by patients and clinicians. His mentorship encourages founders to consider ethical design, data privacy, and real-world validation as they develop their products.
Rivat’s commitment to education and mentorship has a ripple effect across the industry. He helps create a culture where new leaders think carefully about the social and ethical impacts of their work. This approach supports the growth of startups that aim to make a positive difference in mental health care.
Personal Motivation and Industry Impact
Rivat’s dedication to mental health innovation is deeply personal. After experiencing depression in his early twenties, he developed a strong sense of empathy for those facing similar challenges. This perspective shapes his investment decisions and his advocacy for responsible technology. He believes that effective mental health solutions must be safe, inclusive, and grounded in real-world needs.
At PACE Healthcare Capital, Rivat combines his background in finance with his passion for mental health. He leads deal sourcing, due diligence, and portfolio support for companies that use technology to improve access and outcomes. His work with startups like Backpack Healthcare and Headlight demonstrates his commitment to supporting solutions that address provider shortages and health disparities.
Rivat’s professional and personal experiences position him as a leader in the movement toward responsible AI in mental health. He continues to inspire others through public speaking, mentorship, and investment, helping to drive meaningful change in the sector. His efforts highlight the importance of combining ethical innovation with practical action, ensuring that technology serves both patients and the wider community.