March 28, 2025: Symbionic, a Chennai-based prosthetics startup, was recently featured on the Shark Tank India Season 4 finale: the Divyang Special, and secured a deal with Shark – Namita Thapar. The startup has developed innovative and inexpensive prosthetic arms, with interchangeable attachments, called Krea Adaptive, to suit the day-to-day needs of people with upper limb amputation.
Symbionic was established after its co-founder, Rishi Krishna, met with a freak bus accident in 2018 on his way to Pondicherry, which led to the amputation of his right arm through the elbow. Thus, after a painful journey of buying and trying to use an uncomfortable prosthetic arm, an idea evolved to create a prosthetic arm, which would adapt to the needs of People with Disabilities (PwDs). The Krea Adaptive, adapts to different uses with interchangeable attachments, and the Titan Bionic arm, is capable of fully functioning as a natural arm.
The company was accelerated and mentored by AssisTech Foundation (ATF) under their flagship program, cATalyst AT Startup Acceleration Program, as a part of the 2nd Cohort. ATF is India’s pioneering Assistive Technology (AT) ecosystem that has impacted the lives of over 1 million Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) through its high-impact programs and initiatives, in 6 years. ATF’s acceleration program provides support in technology, business, product development, and organization building, and is funded through CSR projects and grants by investors from their ecosystem.
Rishi Krishna, CEO & Co-Founder of Symbionic, commented, “We are thrilled to receive this investment for Symbionic, from Namita Thapar and the grant from Mr. Jeet Adani. This investment marks a significant milestone in our journey to revolutionize accessibility and empower individuals with disabilities. ATF has been a constant force of guidance since Symbionic’s early days. With the support of our mentors, investors, and advisors we are committed to the development of innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life for people facing challenges in their daily lives. This partnership strengthens our vision to create a more inclusive society, and we are excited for the next chapter of growth and impact.”
Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, showed interest and saw potential in the startup. She offered Rs 40 lakh for 2% equity and Rs 40 lakh as debt at 10% interest for three years, stating that she wanted to be a risk taker betting on them and the innovation India needs. Rishi and Symbionic countered with an offer of Rs 40 lakh for 1% equity plus 1% advisory equity and Rs 40 lakh as debt at 10% interest for three years. Namita agreed to this offer, marking a significant milestone for the company. The startup has also bagged a grant of 1 crore from Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airports, and Gautham Adani’s son during their product pitch on Shark Tank India. The episode ended on an inspiring note, celebrating resilience, innovation, and the power of believing in one’s dreams. Notably, Symbionic is backed by the investment of Kumar Vembu, CEO & Co-Founder, Zoho, through his investment firm, Mudhal Partners.
Prateek Madhav, CEO & Co-Founder, AssisTech Foundation, commented on the occasion, “We are incredibly proud of the success Symbionic has achieved in securing a solid capital from Shark Tank India. This milestone is a testament to their vision, hard work, and dedication to creating innovative solutions in Assistive Technology. At AssisTech Foundation, we believe in nurturing startups that make a real impact on society, and this achievement validates the potential of what they are building. We remain committed to supporting entrepreneurs who drive positive change, and we look forward to seeing the lasting difference they will make in the lives of many.”