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Indian-origin founders win Alabama Launchpad competition
The firm secured $100K to develop an AI-driven mental health platform, BrightLyf, for statewide impact.
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Bhavana P - Wed, 28, May 2025
- 16:11 EDT
- 83
Jaydeep Patel, left, Vamsi Jupudi, and John Budala lead Cognera Health, seeking to improve the state's mental healthcare. / Troy University
A mental health startup led by Indian-origin founders has claimed top honors in the Alabama Launchpad competition, securing $100,000 in non-dilutive seed funding.
Cognera Health, led by Troy University alumni Vamsi Jupudi and Jaydeep Patel, triumphed in the Life Sciences track, earning statewide recognition for its innovative approach to mental healthcare through artificial intelligence.
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With the prize money from the Launchpad program, the firm is set to fast-track development of its AI-powered platform, BrightLyf, designed to provide continuous, accessible support for individuals between therapy sessions—addressing a critical gap in the current mental health system.
Their journey began with a win at the 2024 Troy Starters Business Idea Competition hosted by the Troy University IDEA Bank and the Sorrell 360 Center. After the win, the duo brought on seasoned healthcare executive John Budala as president, strengthening their leadership team.
Jupudi, who serves as the CEO, described the Alabama Launchpad experience as transformative, praising the intensive mentorship and strategic guidance provided by industry leaders. “Winning has not only validated our efforts but has also sparked conversations that were previously unimaginable,” Jupudi said. “We are currently engaged in some truly promising discussions with investors and potential partners.”
Patel, originally a practicing counselor, emphasized the platform’s mission: to provide accessible, continuous mental health support through innovative, AI-powered solutions. “Our mission has been clear from the start: to help those in need and save lives through accessible mental health care,” he said.
“The Alabama Launchpad win, with its $100,000 prize and invaluable mentorship, is one of many affirmations of our goals. We’ll keep pushing to make Cognera Health the leading solution in mental health care, transforming lives across Alabama and beyond,” Patel added.
Alabama Launchpad, a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, is the state’s most active early-stage seed fund investor. Since 2006, it has invested over $6.4 million in more than 120 startups.
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