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TechJuice

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Pakistan-Based Allia Health Grabs $2M for Better Mental Healthcare

  • Allia Health, a Pakistan-based healthtech startup, has secured $2 million in funding led by billionaire investor Tim Draper.
  • The startup, founded by Saroosh Khan, aims to revolutionize global mental healthcare starting with Pakistan.
  • Investors from Stanford Healthcare Innovation Lab and U.S. angels also participated in the funding round.
  • Allia Health's AI-powered platform assists therapists in the U.S. with treatment planning, telehealth, and progress tracking.
  • The company's goal is to transform mental healthcare in South Asia by building trust, access, and improving outcomes.
  • Allia Health's platform is HIPAA-compliant, free for individual therapists, and includes AI assistants and one-click assessments to reduce burnout.
  • The startup plans to partner with local clinics in Pakistan to digitize mental healthcare and overcome challenges like broken records systems and public mistrust.
  • Allia focuses on clinicians rather than patients to create a sustainable ecosystem for proactive and measurable care.
  • The funding will be used to enhance clinical tools, expand engineering team in Pakistan, and grow internationally.
  • Allia Health's success signifies growing interest from global investors in Pakistan's healthtech sector, particularly in mental health.
  • The startup has gained traction in the U.S. and is poised to make significant strides in reshaping digital health in the region.
  • Saroosh Khan's journey from Pakistan to the U.S., including education at Stanford, has contributed to Allia's mission to improve mental healthcare.
  • The platform is designed to tackle challenges in Pakistan's mental healthcare system and rebuild trust and access.
  • Allia Health's engineering team is based in Pakistan and is working on localized tools to address specific challenges in the country.
  • The startup's strategy focuses on partnering with clinics and leveraging technology to provide better mental healthcare services in Pakistan.
  • Allia's approach aims to enhance mental healthcare outcomes, improve access to care, and change the narrative around mental health in South Asia.

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Futurefundraisingnow

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What’s wrong with expert opinions about fundraising?

  • Expert opinions on fundraising can sometimes be overwhelming due to providing too much information, making it challenging for the questioner to act on the advice.
  • Experts tend to suffer from the Curse of Knowledge, attempting to share all their expertise when asked a question, resulting in answers that may not be practical or actionable for the questioner.
  • When receiving highly specific questions like choosing between red and blue for fundraising, experts often provide extensive background information rather than concise and practical guidance.
  • Experts are advised to offer focused and specific answers to questions, like stating a color choice and providing a couple of reasons to support it, to help questioners with actionable advice.
  • Questioners are encouraged to frame their inquiries to elicit precise responses from experts and to ask follow-up questions if initial responses are too overloaded with information.

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Startup Story

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illumine Raises $2.5M Seed Funding to Revolutionize Global Childcare Management with AI

  • illumine, an AI-driven startup in the early childhood education sector, secures $2.5 million in seed funding led by Prime Venture Partners.
  • The funding will be used to enhance product innovation and expand globally to establish itself as a childcare management software leader.
  • CEO Navneet Rastogi's personal experience inspired illumine's creation to improve communication in childcare.
  • illumine is the first AI SaaS platform specifically tailored for the childcare industry worldwide.
  • The platform is already operational in 3,000 childcare centers across 56 countries, such as the U.S., UAE, Europe, Southeast Asia, and India.
  • Prime Venture Partners sees illumine as a solution to the underdigitized childcare industry, enhancing operations and learning outcomes through AI.
  • illumine empowers educators by automating administrative tasks and providing features like communication tools, progress tracking, billing, compliance, and more.
  • The AI technology in illumine is adaptable to different childcare settings, catering to various provider needs.
  • The funding will aid illumine's expansion plans, including hiring, product development, and market growth in North America and other regions.
  • With a focus on scalability, educator support, and parental trust, illumine is reshaping early childhood education with AI at its core.

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Inc42

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Exclusive: Ex-Unacademy CBO Abhinav Agarwal’s New Eyewear Startup Raises $2.2 Mn

  • Former Unacademy CBO Abhinav Agarwal is launching an eyewear startup and has secured $2.2 million in seed funding led by India Quotient.
  • Angel investors participating in the funding round include notable names like Gaurav Munjal, Kunal Shah, Kunal Bahl, and others.
  • The startup, currently in stealth mode, will use the funds for research, brand building, team expansion, and inventory.
  • Agarwal, with prior experience at Unacademy and cofounding DoorMint, aims to enhance eyewear quality in India without compromising on design or experience.
  • The startup plans to sell products online and through physical stores, with a virtual try-on feature on its upcoming website.
  • The founder highlights the gap in quality eyewear available at premium prices and aims to address this gap in the market.
  • The evolving eyewear industry, now a blend of utility and fashion, presents a significant opportunity due to increasing disposable incomes.
  • The Indian eyewear market is projected to reach $6.24 billion by 2025 with a growth rate of 5.26% till 2029 according to Statista.
  • Competition for the startup includes tech players like Lenskart and ClearDekho, alongside traditional brands like Titan and Himalayan Eyewear.
  • Agarwal's venture plans to focus on retail outlets for better user engagement and feedback, aiming to leverage the personal touch of in-store experiences.
  • The formal launch of the startup is expected in the upcoming months, coinciding with the opening of its first physical store.
  • Despite competition, the startup sees potential in the market due to the growing consumer interest in eyewear as a fashion statement.
  • The news was initially reported by Inc42 Media.

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Siliconangle

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Base44 joins Wix in $80M deal to support natural language software development

  • Wix.com Ltd. has acquired Base44 Inc. for about $80 million, with additional earn-out payments through 2029.
  • Base44 offers an artificial intelligence-powered platform for creating custom software solutions using natural language.
  • Base44's AI-powered no-code platform enables users to build web applications with natural language prompts, known as 'vibe coding'.
  • The platform uses a chat-based interface to generate back-end, front-end, database, authentication, and deployment infrastructure.
  • Base44 stands out for its fully integrated environment, eliminating the need for third-party services for storage, email, analytics, or authentication.
  • Base44 was profitable before the acquisition and had over 20,000 users as of March, with notable customers like eToro Group Ltd. and SimilarWeb Ltd.
  • Wix plans to maintain Base44 as a separate product and business, leveraging its scale and support while preserving its unique identity and momentum.
  • Base44's CEO Maor Shlomo views the acquisition as an opportunity to achieve greater scale, distribution, and product velocity with Wix's support.

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Siliconangle

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Domino Data Lab introduces new AI governance, data management features

  • Domino Data Lab Inc. introduces new features for managing AI models and data processing.
  • The updates are part of the startup's AI platform, used by over a fifth of the Fortune 1000.
  • The platform helps in preparing datasets, deploying AI models, and monitoring their performance.
  • New features focus on AI governance, allowing engineers to collect data on risks and share them.
  • Enhancements include easing technical data management and introducing conditional approvals for models.
  • Automation is implemented for AI governance reviews and risk management policies.
  • A dashboard breaks down AI infrastructure expenses, offering budget alerts for cost control.
  • The Spring 2025 Release aims to provide enterprises with an AI factory for scaling AI products.
  • Integration with NetApp's ONTAP data management platform and new Domino Apps feature added for data accessibility.
  • The company offers Zero-to-AI service to accelerate AI projects from pilot to production.
  • These platform updates are introduced alongside a message from co-founder John Furrier.
  • Voting and community support are highlighted for keeping content free and relevant.

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TechCrunch

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Grifin secures $11M to make investing less intimidating for its female user base

  • Grifin, an investment app, has raised $11 million in Series A funding, bringing the total raised to $22 million.
  • The app aims to simplify investing by automatically purchasing stocks in brands where users shop.
  • Grifin has surpassed 500,000 registered users and boasts 1 million total app downloads and 100,000 monthly active users.
  • The company plans to invest the new capital in software engineering, UX design, and product development.
  • Upcoming features include an AI chatbot and family plans for young investors.
  • Grifin was founded in 2017 and evolved into an adaptive investing model that invests $1 from user transactions into related stocks.
  • The app provides educational material on financial literacy and plans to expand its offerings.
  • An AI chatbot is in development to summarize articles, provide quick answers, and offer insights into individual accounts.
  • Grifin ensures the accuracy of the chatbot's answers before launch due to potential variability in AI responses.
  • The app's user base consists of women in their late 40s to 60s and younger women aged 18 to 24.
  • Grifin considers adding budgeting tools and family plans to share accounts with family members.
  • The funding round was led by Nava Ventures with participation from various other investors.
  • Freddie Martignetti from Nava Ventures joined Grifin's board as a partner.
  • The company's success reflects investors' confidence in its model and capacity to disrupt traditional investing methods.
  • The stock market can be intimidating for many Americans, with only 62% of U.S. adults owning stocks directly.
  • Grifin's model has shown success, with increased spending at associated stores after users purchase related stocks.
  • Grifin emphasizes the importance of educational material and accuracy in responses from its upcoming AI chatbot.

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Startup Story

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Darwix AI Raises $1.5 Million to Build Unified GenAI Stack for Sales Conversations Across Enterprises

  • Gurugram-based startup Darwix AI secures $1.5 million in funding to develop its omnichannel generative AI platform for enhancing enterprise sales conversations.
  • Funding round includes Rebalance, Inflection Point Ventures (IPV), and angel investors like Ankit Nagori and Sanjay Suri.
  • Darwix AI, founded by Ajay Sethi and Hanit Awal, offers a unified GenAI stack integrating voice, chat, email, and in-person interactions for enterprises.
  • Platform aims to provide end-to-end visibility and actionable intelligence across all customer touchpoints, unlike fragmented solutions.
  • Goal is to enhance every conversation, digital or human, with context, intelligence, and automation.
  • Darwix AI is expanding globally, focusing on the US market, with a presence in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
  • Startup targets top players in BFSI and Retail sectors with its AI-driven conversational intelligence suite.
  • Transform+ product supports sales teams with real-time assistance and analytics through omnichannel interactions and embedded AI.
  • Plans include accelerating hiring, scaling product roadmap, and expanding across industries with GenAI adoption as a core strategy.
  • Darwix AI positioned as a category-defining player in conversational AI, aiming to lead globally in this space.

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ISN

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Operant AI unveils MCP Gateway to secure emerging runtime AI workflows

  • Operant AI has introduced MCP Gateway to enhance security for AI systems utilizing the Model Context Protocol (MCP).
  • MCP Gateway offers active-blocking security for AI workflows leveraging MCP servers and agents amidst increasing MCP adoption globally.
  • Model Context Protocol is crucial for enabling large language models to securely interact with APIs, databases, and software tools.
  • Gartner predicts a significant integration of MCP features by API gateway vendors and iPaaS providers in the coming years.
  • In India, MCP adoption is on the rise across various sectors like IT services, fintech, and healthcare as the AI market expands.
  • Challenges posed by MCP-aligned agents include prompt injection attacks, data leaks, and inter-agent spoofing threats.
  • Operant AI argues that traditional cybersecurity tools are inadequate for safeguarding dynamic AI architectures like those using MCP.
  • MCP Gateway addresses security concerns by providing capabilities such as live mapping, risk monitoring, and real-time enforcement for AI workflows.
  • Operant AI plans to collaborate with AI infrastructure vendors to integrate MCP Gateway features into their offerings directly.
  • The company emphasizes that MCP Gateway is part of its broader AI Gatekeeper suite and is compatible with leading cloud platforms.
  • Operant AI, founded by experts from Apple, VMware, and Google, is supported by notable investors and recognized by Gartner for its AI security efforts.

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TechBullion

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WhiteBIT: How to Keep the Startup Spirit in a Global Company

  • WhiteBIT crypto exchange was founded during the bear market of 2018 and upholds a bold and innovative character to this day.
  • The company prioritizes maintaining a startup spirit and open communication within its culture even as it expands globally.
  • Team members at WhiteBIT can work on groundbreaking projects, gain global market experience, and enhance their international expertise.
  • WhiteBIT focuses on building an integrated ecosystem of products that deliver a seamless user experience and promote cross-functional collaboration.
  • The company encourages internal entrepreneurship, allowing new ideas to be quickly tested and scaled if successful.
  • An example of this approach is Whitepay, a crypto payment solution that originated from an employee's idea and evolved into a successful product.
  • WhiteBIT values innovation and agility, considering the startup mindset a strategic asset for product development and global partnerships.
  • The company has established partnerships with FC Barcelona, FACEIT, Visa for a co-branded WhiteBIT Nova card, and Bequant.
  • WhiteBIT's organizational structure avoids rigid hierarchies, allowing teams to operate autonomously and drive quick decision-making and innovation.
  • The company invites individuals seeking challenges in the Web3 space to join their team and contribute to shaping the future of the industry.

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ISN

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Bengaluru-based electric motorcycle maker Oben Electric raises Rs 50 crore

  • Bengaluru-based electric motorcycle manufacturer Oben Electric raised Rs 50 crore in an extended Series A funding round, totaling Rs 100 crore in Series A and Rs 200 crore overall capital raised.
  • Existing and new investors like Helios Holdings, Sharda Family Office, and the Kay Family participated in the funding round to aid in expanding retail presence, manufacturing acceleration, and product portfolio diversification.
  • The startup plans to grow its retail outlets from 37 to over 150 across 50 cities by fiscal year 2026, focusing on after-sales infrastructure and production capacity enhancements.
  • Oben Electric aims to launch the 'O100' platform, offering electric motorcycles priced below Rs 1 lakh, emphasizing performance and durability for cost-conscious Indian consumers.
  • The company's vertical integration strategy involves in-house development of batteries, motors, and control units to ensure cost control and product quality.
  • The startup's current lineup includes the Rorr and Rorr EZ models, tailored for urban commuting, with prices ranging from Rs 99,999 to Rs 1,29,999 and featuring top speeds of 95 km/h and accelerating 0-40 km/h in 3.3 seconds.
  • Oben Electric is gearing up for a Series B funding round targeting $30 million later in 2025 to support international expansion and further product development, aspiring to be a global player in two-wheeler electric mobility.

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Medium

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Relocate AI — A Small Step Toward Smarter, Kinder Global Migration

  • The project Relocate AI aims to make global migration smoother and more user-friendly by leveraging technology.
  • The project is currently in the early test phase to gather feedback and validation.
  • The goal is to utilize AI to simplify the relocation process and reduce complexity for individuals moving across borders.
  • The project does not intend to replace immigration experts but rather empower individuals earlier in their journey.
  • The vision is to create a movement towards a more streamlined, human-centered approach to migration.
  • The project encourages feedback and collaboration from those who resonate with the idea.
  • The idea is to make the process of moving countries akin to booking a flight, promoting simplicity and efficiency.
  • Email contact for collaboration: [email protected].

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“From the shop floor to the boardroom” – Paris-based Pelico raises €34.7 million to advance GenAI in its Supply Chain Orchestration platform

  • Pelico, a French Supply Chain Orchestration platform, has raised €34.7 million in a strategic financing round led by General Catalyst to expand in North America.
  • The funding round, which included investors 83North and Serena, brings Pelico’s total funding to €62.6 million.
  • Founded in 2019, Pelico aims to address operational challenges in supply chain management by providing a real-time, AI-powered platform.
  • The company has offices in Paris, Miami, and Frankfurt and caters to global manufacturers like Airbus, Safran, Eaton, and Daikin.
  • Pelico's platform has enabled customers to reduce parts shortages by 40%, increase on-time deliveries by 15%, and cut MRO cycle times by 40%.
  • The company has seen significant growth, with 300% revenue increase year-over-year, and has tripled its headcount since 2022.
  • Pelico plans to use the recent funding to accelerate expansion in North America, hire in data science and engineering, and invest in Agentic AI for smarter supply chains.
  • Investors like General Catalyst and Microsoft recognize Pelico's potential to transform manufacturing operations through AI-driven insights and optimization.

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Inc42

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MobiKwik Shares Crash 10% As Lock-In Period Ends

  • Shares of MobiKwik dropped by 9.8% to INR 243 as lock-in period for pre-IPO shareholders ended.
  • 3.8 Cr shares previously under lock-in are now tradable, causing the stock to close at INR 245.70, down 8.7% from the previous day.
  • MobiKwik shares have decreased by nearly 12% compared to its IPO issue price of INR 279.
  • The decline followed a Finance Ministry denial regarding imposing MDR on UPI transactions over INR 3,000, deemed speculative and baseless.
  • Fintech sector advocates for MDR on UPI transactions to boost revenue streams.
  • MobiKwik CEO anticipates new revenue streams with potential MDR on UPI transactions.
  • MobiKwik's net loss surged to INR 56.03 Cr in Q4 FY25 as compared to INR 67.1 Lakh in the previous year.
  • Operating revenue slightly increased to INR 267.78 Cr in Q4 FY25 from the prior year's INR 264.98 Cr.
  • Major losses stemmed from the lending vertical, leading financial services revenue to decrease from INR 73 Cr to INR 56 Cr.
  • MobiKwik aims to introduce new services to boost revenue, expecting a rise in payment revenue post the introduction of Pocket UPI.

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Inc42

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Techfino Bags INR 65 Cr To Offer Loans To MSMEs

  • Techfino, an NBFC, raises INR 65 Cr from Stellaris Venture Partners and Saison Capital.
  • The funding will be used to expand branch network, strengthen tech stack, and scale up operations.
  • Techfino leverages a robust technology platform for underwriting with external APIs.
  • Founded in 2019, Techfino offers financial assistance to MSMEs, focusing on Tier II and III cities.
  • It provides loans against property, education loans, and operates in multiple states.
  • The company claims to have disbursed over 1 Lakh loans and surpassed INR 200 crore in AUM.
  • Indian NBFCs have been attracting investments, with Flexiloans and Bizloan securing funds recently.
  • Fintech giants like Jio, MobiKwik, Flipkart, and Spinny are also expanding their NBFC arms.
  • Spinny, Vayana, and Kuhoo have received NBFC licences from the central bank.

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