How is your business helping to solve the health, social, or economic challenges created by COVID19?
The neoGuard technology is wireless vital sign monitoring solution that continuously measures 4 parameters: oxygen saturation, pulse rate, respiratory rate and temperature. The product is designed to operate in dynamic clinical environments with low infrastructure, space constraints and limited health staff. Using a single tablet, nurses and clinicians are able to monitor up to 20 patients from one central monitoring application. The system gives off real-time audio and visual alerts if any of the patients' vital signs exceed the acceptable limits - an action that can trigger timely intervention. The technology also employs big data tools to generate clinical insights on disease progression and response to treatment that can help researchers better understand the natural history of COVID-19 infection.Neopenda is currently working with hospital administrators, non-profits, private sector and government agents in both Uganda and the US to deploy and test the neoGuard technology in a number of COVID-19 response facilities and hot spots, including: nursing homes, quarantine centers, pop-up clinics and health facilities at all levels.The neoGuard product extensive safety and performance testing including two IRB-approved phase 1 trials and verification and validation testing by an accredited third party. The innovators have applied to the US Food and Drug Administration for Emergency Use Authorization, and is also preparing a technical file for CE mark certification.
Does your business contribute most to recovery, response, or resilience?
Resilience - we're improving the broader infrastructure for responding to pandemic outbreaks.,Recovery - we're positioned to support in the recovery of those directly affected.,Response - we're responding directly to issues caused or exacerbated by the COVID-19 outbreak.
What is the stage of your product development?
I have a market-ready product/service. I could sell it to customers
What strengths does your team bring? Include skills and personal experience with the problem.
Neopenda's internal team consists of 6 full-time staff based in Chicago, Illinois and Kampala, Uganda, bringing expertise in technology, engineering, global health, entrepreneurship, supply chain operations and quality management systems. The company is also supported by a strong advisory board, mentors, and key partners who constitute a combined 80+ years of experience in relevant fields. Our management team includes:1. Sona Shah, MSc (CEO & Co-founder) - As Neopenda's CEO, Sona has led Neopenda's business strategy for 4+ years. Her broad skill set includes: branding and marketing, fundraising and building partnerships with investors, contractors and various stakeholders from government, private and non-profit sectors.2. Teresa Cauvel, MSc (CTO & Co-founder) - As the technical lead for Neopenda, Teresa is responsible for the design, validation and verification of the neoGuard technology. 3. Assumpta Nantume, MSc (Research Coordinator) - Assumpta is a pharmacist with 5+ years of experience in clinical trials and epidemiological studies. She manages a range of clinical study activities including: planning, budgeting, staff recruitment and training, and overall compliance with GCP and research ethics.4. Crystal Trivedi (Supply Chain and Operations Lead) - Crystal has an extensive background as a quality engineer in the automotive industry, with 10+ years of experience at Tesla and Toyota. She oversees Neopenda's supply chain pipeline and quality management system.
What countries do you operate in?
Neopenda operates in the United States and Uganda.
Is your company headquartered in a US "Opportunity Zone"?
Yes
