By Wearable robotics developer Astrek Innovations has been selected for the coveted OIST Innovation Accelerator programme of Japan, bagging a Rs-58 lakh grant (70,000 US dollars) that would facilitate the Kerala startup to boost state-of-the-art facilities, funding, training and networking opportunities over the next 10 months.
Supported by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), the 2017-founded Astrek was among the four startups which were chosen globally to participate in the prestigious scheme at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) based in Onna of west-central Japan.
Astrek, which is known for developing rehabilitation and assistive device solutions, won the grant for its flagship ‘Unik Exo’ product. The company is stipulated to spend the grant towards ensuring that old-age homes make use of the portable, adjustable and wearable robotic suit designed to transform rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
Japan has 30 per cent of its population above 80 years of age, and Okinawa Prefecture is among the regions with highest share of geriatrics in the country.
“We need to blend the product to meet the criteria of robotics prevalent in Japan,” said Robin Kanatt, co-founder and CEO of Astrek, based here in suburban Kalamassery. “OSIT is among the world’s companies with greatest amount of research and most number of innovations. This grant will help us use their latest systems and interact with experts worldwide in our bid to earn advice and cooperation.”
This year OIST selection came from an initial pool of applicants from 23 countries. A total of 30 teams were selected to advance to stage-2. From there, 12 teams progressed to stage-3. The four teams that won will now spend the next 10 months in Japan, advancing their solutions, identifying strategic partners and customers, and scaling their startups.
By enhancing patient experience and increasing operational efficiency, Unik Exo exemplifies Astrek’s dedication to patient care through assistive and innovative technology. KSUM is the Kerala government’s nodal agency established in 2006 for entrepreneurship development and incubation activities in the state
