Hyderabad Women Innovate with Sustainable Solutions at TiE Summit

Women entrepreneurs from Hyderabad presented their groundbreaking innovations at the recent TiE Women Global Summit, showcasing solutions aimed at tackling significant global challenges. From sustainable packaging derived from seaweed to artificial intelligence (AI) tools designed to assist healthcare professionals, the event highlighted the potential of female-led startups.

Emerging as the winner of the Hyderabad round was Avinya NeuroTech, founded by Sowmya Darapaneni. The startup, which received a cash prize of ₹100,000, will represent Hyderabad at the TiE Global Summit in January 2024. Avinya NeuroTech focuses on making advanced brain monitoring accessible through user-friendly AI-powered tools. Its products include NeuroAstra and NeuroPaahi, designed to enhance the ability of doctors to quickly interpret brain signals in critical care scenarios.

NeuroAstra is a software solution that analyses EEG (electroencephalogram) data using AI, providing instant reports that would typically require hours to generate. Meanwhile, the NeuroPaahi device enables real-time monitoring, even outside traditional hospital environments. “Our goal is to make neuro-monitoring efficient, affordable, and accessible across India,” Sowmya stated, emphasizing her vision for widespread detection of seizures and brain injuries in smaller clinics.

Innovative Solutions Addressing Environmental and Health Challenges

Other startups at the summit also demonstrated innovative approaches to pressing issues. Aditi Mullick, founder of Prasinos Tech Innovations, is working on nanobubble and ozone-based systems to enhance water quality. “Our goal is to make clean water technologies both effective and affordable,” she noted, referencing a pilot project that nearly doubled oxygen levels in a lake in Pune’s Pimpri-Chinchwad area.

In the fight against plastic pollution, Shailaja Bangaru of Rare & Authentic Extracts LLP is developing biodegradable, edible films made from seaweed and guar gum that dissolve in water. “Sustainability must be practical,” she said, highlighting the need for packaging solutions that are both safe and environmentally friendly.

Meanwhile, Rachna Gujral, founder of Skylish Petcare, focuses on providing fresh, preservative-free food for pets made from human-grade ingredients. “Pet parents today want to know what goes into their pets’ food,” Rachna explained, underscoring her commitment to nutritional transparency and trust.

Another notable participant, Prayushi Mathur, an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIIT-H), heads AjnHawk Technologies. This startup utilizes drones and AI to monitor road conditions, construction, and infrastructure quality. “Technology can make public infrastructure safer and maintenance more proactive,” she asserted.

Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Modern Technology

In the fashion and crafts sector, Avani Reddy‘s Aharya Indie Craft Connect is merging traditional Indian textiles with contemporary designs, collaborating with artisans and weavers nationwide. “Aharya is about reclaiming our craft heritage and making it relevant to a new generation,” Avani said, aiming to create fashion that respects tradition while looking forward.

At the intersection of human resources and technology, Nishtha Rohatgi‘s AI.HYR (Providentia Labs) automates hiring processes through AI-driven candidate screening and multilingual interviews. “Our platform is built to help companies make hiring more objective and data-driven,” she said, noting the firm’s expansion into the UAE and US markets.

The diverse range of innovations presented by these women entrepreneurs not only highlights their creativity and determination but also signals a growing trend of female leadership in addressing critical global challenges. Their work showcases a commitment to sustainability, health, and social responsibility, reinforcing the importance of empowering women in the entrepreneurial landscape.