Meet Bioniks, the startup building prosthetic solutions to improve users’ mobility and accessibility
- 4 March 2024
by Elizaveta Agurbash
The Robotics for Good Innovation Factory is an AI for Good competition supporting supporting start-ups that are using AI and robotics to solve sustainable development challenges. On 20 February 2024, during the AI for Good session Meet the Robotics for Good start-ups advancing sustainable development – 2nd session, startups were invited to pitch their solution in front of the Robotics for Good Innovation Factory judges.
After thorough discussions and presentations, the judges awarded the first prize to Bioniks. This Pakistani startup designs prosthetic solutions especially tailored for children, aiming to significantly improve user mobility and accessibility.
As the winner, Bioniks received a prize package including a Grand Finale ticket to the AI for Good Global Summit 2024, a VIP Pass, an exhibition booth, a pitching opportunity, travel support, a residency at MassRobotics, and invaluable exclusive mentoring from esteemed judges, among other networking prospects.
We spoke to Anas Niaz, Co-Founder & CVO of Bioniks, a pioneer in AI-driven bionic limbs. Here are five key insights about the winner.
Can you tell us about your winning solution?
Bioniks, a social enterprise, leads the way in pioneering innovative solutions for individuals with disabilities, offering AI-powered, affordable bionic limbs. Our prosthetics, utilizing cutting-edge technology, are custom-designed, cost-effective, and non-invasive, revolutionizing accessibility for all. Equipped with sweat and water-proof sensors, crafted from durable materials like carbon fiber and aircraft aluminum, our bionic arms cater to diverse age groups, starting from 3.5 years. Bluetooth connectivity enables remote troubleshooting, while our mobile app facilitates 3D stump scans for customized orders, delivering prosthetics directly to doorsteps. Bioniks aligns with seven crucial Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), driving progress towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Where are you from and what regions do you work in?
Bioniks is headquartered in Karachi, Pakistan, with all operations and manufacturing conducted locally. While our primary focus remains in Pakistan, we have also served individuals from Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with aspirations for global expansion. Our aim is to provide borderless assistive technology solutions, promoting tele-rehabilitation, particularly in regions affected by conflict or natural disasters.
How can your solution help to solve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals?
Bioniks is committed to making substantial contributions across various SDGs. We address SDG 1 (No Poverty) by creating economic opportunities for individuals with disabilities, promoting financial independence. Our accessible prosthetic solutions contribute to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), enhancing overall health and well-being. Additionally, we support SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through inclusive employment opportunities and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering technological innovation. Bioniks also champions SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality) by promoting inclusivity and SDG 13 (Climate Action) through environmentally conscious practices, while actively supporting SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaborative partnerships.
What is your biggest challenge as an AI and Robotics start-up?
In the challenging landscape of the AI and Robotics industry in Pakistan, we face several obstacles. Restricted access to cutting-edge technology, bureaucratic hurdles in importing essential components, and the absence of grants and local investors amplify the struggle. The brain drain phenomenon further depletes the local talent pool. Despite these challenges, the inception of Bioniks signifies resilience, driving positive contributions to humanity through AI and Robotics despite formidable obstacles.
Why did you join the Innovation Factory Pitching Competition?
I initially aimed to attend the AI for Good Global Summit in July 2023 but couldn’t. Upon discovering the Innovation Factory Pitching competition in November 2023, I seized the opportunity. Making it through the initial screenings, I found myself here, sharing my vision for a more inclusive and accessible future through.
In conclusion, the Innovation Factory session underscored the importance of unlocking the full potential of AI and robotics. The speaker shed light on the intricate challenges and opportunities of robotics and AI, stressing the indispensable need for collaboration among experts and leaders across various sectors.
As the AI for Good Global Summit 2024 approaches, the resonating call to actively engage in substantive conversations highlights the pivotal role of constructive dialogue in shaping the trajectory of future innovations towards a sustainable future.
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