Startup Secures USD100K to Build AI Mental Health Platform BrightLyf
An innovative mental health venture founded by entrepreneurs of Indian descent has emerged victorious in the Alabama Launchpad competition, receiving USD100,000 in non-dilutive seed funding to advance its AI-driven platform, BrightLyf.
Cognera Health, spearheaded by Troy University graduates Vamsi Jupudi and Jaydeep Patel, was recognized in the Life Sciences category for its cutting-edge use of artificial intelligence to enhance mental health services across Alabama.
The funding from Alabama Launchpad will accelerate the creation of BrightLyf, an AI-powered solution aimed at bridging the support gap between therapy appointments. The tool is designed to offer ongoing, easily accessible care, tackling a major shortfall in the mental health ecosystem.
The company's rise began with its victory at the 2024 Troy Starters Business Idea Competition, organized by Troy University's IDEA Bank and Sorrell 360 Center. Following this success, the founders brought seasoned healthcare leader John Budala on board as president, expanding their executive team.
CEO Vamsi Jupudi called the Launchpad journey transformative, crediting the mentorship and strategic input they received from industry experts. 'Winning this competition has been a game-changer. It's opened doors to opportunities we hadn't imagined,' Jupudi noted, highlighting their ongoing talks with investors and collaborators.
Jaydeep Patel, a former counselor and now co-founder, highlighted the platform's central mission: delivering consistent, AI-enhanced mental health support. 'Our goal has always been to save lives by making mental health care more accessible and effective,' he said.
Patel further noted that the combination of funding and guidance from the Alabama Launchpad validates their vision. 'This is just the beginning. We're determined to position Cognera Health at the forefront of mental healthcare innovation in Alabama and beyond.'
Alabama Launchpad, part of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, is recognized as the state's most active early-stage seed investor. Since its inception in 2006, it has injected over USD6.4 million into more than 120 emerging businesses.
