Nilay Kulkarni, an innovator devoted to utilizing technology to save lives and bring about transformative change. He started his journey in tech innovation at the age of 14, leading to the creation of a historic stampede prevention system for the Nashik Kumbh Mela, in collaboration with MIT Media Lab. This groundbreaking work resulted in the festival’s first-ever stampede-free year.
Another significant contribution to society was his efficient contact tracing system developed for the Maharashtra State Government during the Covid-19 crisis, reinforcing his commitment to deploying technology for life-saving purposes. He was awarded by the Honorable Governor of Maharashtra for this work.
He has held key leadership roles as the former Director of Engineering at Stoa, an online education startup, and as a technical mentor at TCS Foundation’s Digital Impact Square.
Currently, he is leading Vitt AI, creating Generative AI-driven Financial Research tools to support top-tier Asset Management firms, including hedge funds and private equity firms.
His achievements has been globally recognized, including being honored as one of the “25 Under 25” by the Internet Society in celebration of their 25-year anniversary. He is also a two-time recipient of the prestigious Mercatus Center’s Emergent Ventures grant. His insights have resonated worldwide at platforms like TEDNYC and the Moroccan Entrepreneurship Summit.
His diverse projects include developing accessibility tech in Israel, collaborating on embodied chatbots in Serbia, and digitally restoring ancient Indian sculptures, reflecting his belief in the limitless potential of innovation.