Silence Speaks, an innovative startup based in Oxfordshire, has been awarded the prestigious “StartUp For Good” accolade at the UK finals of the StartUp Awards 2024, sponsored by Vestd. The recognition is expected to enhance the startup’s visibility among potential partners, social enterprises, charities, and enterprise customers who support sign language users and their communities.
Pavan Madduru, the Founder and CEO of Silence Speaks, expressed his delight at receiving the award, stating, “This recognition provides us with invaluable exposure to our target audience. It’s an honour to be acknowledged for our work.” The startup aims to leverage cutting-edge Generative AI technology to foster social inclusion, specifically for those who are hearing or speech impaired.
Silence Speaks has developed a unique application that facilitates real-time social interactions for the hearing and speech impaired. The app aims to support both sign and non-sign language users, allowing individuals to engage in basic services such as transportation, healthcare, and communication. Madduru noted that the mission of Silence Speaks is to empower the deaf community, enhancing their ability to connect with hearing individuals.
With a focus on social inclusion, the startup is actively seeking partnerships with interpreters, advocacy groups, schools, and colleges. Madduru emphasised the company’s goal of delivering seamless services to 250,000 British sign language users by 2025, with aspirations to expand its reach to 70 million sign language users worldwide.
The UK StartUp Awards, supported by Starling Bank, highlight the achievements of early-stage businesses across the nation. The awards provide an opportunity for startups to gain recognition, increase brand visibility, and network with industry contacts and potential investors. This year, over 1,600 entries from ten regions across the UK were submitted, with thirty-five awards presented in various categories, including Graduate StartUp of the Year and Business to Business Services StartUp of the Year.
Adeel Hyder, Managing Director of SME Banking at Starling Bank, remarked on the inspirational atmosphere at the inaugural national final. “It was uplifting to see so many young businesses thriving, especially after the challenges of recent years. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists. They are a welcome boost to the UK economy, creating job opportunities and developing skills for future growth,” he said.
Professor Dylan Jones-Evans, the founder of the UK StartUp Awards, praised this year’s winners, noting that they represent the best of UK entrepreneurship. He stated, “The national winners showcase incredible entrepreneurial talent across the UK, with innovative ventures spanning AI, Cleantech, and MedTech, as well as outstanding firms in sectors like consumer products and tourism.”
Silence Speaks’ recognition at the StartUp Awards highlights the growing importance of inclusivity in technology, especially as it pertains to enhancing communication and social interaction for the hearing and speech impaired. The startup’s commitment to using technology for social good exemplifies the potential impact of innovative solutions in addressing community challenges.
For more information about the UK StartUp Awards, visit https://startupawards.uk/.
