Hyderabad served as a platform for women entrepreneurs to highlight their innovative solutions at the recent TiE Women Global Summit. From environmentally friendly packaging derived from seaweed to artificial intelligence tools that assist doctors in interpreting brain signals, these entrepreneurs presented ideas aimed at addressing significant global issues.
The standout at the Hyderabad round was Avinya NeuroTech, led by Sowmya Darapaneni, which secured a cash prize and the opportunity to represent the city at the upcoming TiE Global Summit in January. Avinya NeuroTech is dedicated to making sophisticated brain monitoring accessible by utilizing simple, AI-driven tools. Their flagship products, NeuroAstra and NeuroPaahi, are designed to assist medical professionals in swiftly interpreting brain signals, thereby improving response times in emergencies.
NeuroAstra is an AI-based software that analyzes EEG (electroencephalogram) readings and generates reports in real-time, a process that traditionally takes hours. Meanwhile, NeuroPaahi is a portable device that enables continuous monitoring even in locations outside of large medical facilities. Sowmya expressed her vision for the future, stating, “Our goal is to make neuro-monitoring efficient, affordable, and accessible across India,” aiming to empower doctors in smaller clinics to detect conditions like seizures and brain injuries without relying on costly imported equipment.
Other notable startups presented a diverse array of innovations. Aditi Mullick, the founder of Prasinos Tech Innovations, is developing advanced systems based on nanobubbles and ozone to enhance water quality. “Our goal is to make clean water technologies both effective and affordable,” Mullick said, noting that her pilot project successfully increased oxygen levels in a Pune lake.
Shailaja Bangaru, who heads Rare & Authentic Extracts LLP, is addressing the plastic pollution crisis by creating biodegradable, edible films from seaweed and guar gum that dissolve in water. “Sustainability must be practical,” she emphasized, explaining that her goal is to develop packaging that is safe, simple, and leaves no waste behind.
In the pet food industry, Rachna Gujral is leading Skylish Petcare, which focuses on providing fresh, preservative-free food made with human-grade ingredients. “Pet parents today want to know what goes into their pets” food,” she remarked, highlighting her commitment to nutritional balance and transparency.
Prayushi Mathur, a graduate of IIIT-Hyderabad and founder of AjnHawk Technologies, is leveraging drones and AI to assess road conditions, construction sites, and overall infrastructure quality. “Technology can make public infrastructure safer and maintenance more proactive,” she noted.
In the realm of fashion and crafts, Avani Reddy“s Aharya Indie Craft Connect is merging traditional Indian textiles with contemporary design, collaborating with artisans and weavers nationwide. “Aharya is about reclaiming our craft heritage and making it relevant to a new generation,” she said.
Finally, Nishtha Rohatgi“s AI.HYR (Providentia Labs) focuses on automating the hiring process through AI-driven candidate screening and multilingual interviews. “Our platform is built to help companies make hiring more objective and data-driven,” she explained, with the company now extending its services to the UAE and US markets.
