NetApp, the global cloud-led, data-centric software company, has unveiled Cohort 12 of its flagship startup accelerator program, NetApp Excellerator. Recognizing the pivotal role of data in fueling business growth, Cohort 12 spotlights five startups developing cutting-edge solutions in data management and artificial intelligence domains.

This latest cohort introduces five deep tech startups: NEMA AI, Zeron, Chaos Genius, Kensu, and Blockfenders. These startups have been chosen for their strong affinity for data-related fields, encompassing high-potential areas like data exchange, cloud cost optimization, and cybersecurity. Demonstrating the global reach of NetApp Excellerator, three of these ventures operate in the US market alongside their operations in India.

NEMA AI leverages neuroscience and AI to provide insights into consumer behavior using brain scan technology. Their mission focuses on personalizing and optimizing learning, branding, and marketing strategies, with a special emphasis on improving education for children. Kensu offers a no-code AI data observability platform that assists businesses in identifying, diagnosing, and resolving data quality issues. The startup is currently exploring a Proof of Concept (PoC) for its business model.

The 12th cohort of NetApp Excellerator stands as a robust platform for women entrepreneurship, with NEMA AI, Chaos Genius, Zeron, and Kensu led by women. Over the course of this cohort, these women-led startups will receive mentorship through NetApp ExcellerateHER, a dedicated initiative supporting women-led deep tech startups. Since its launch in 2020, NetApp has seen a consistent increase in women-led startups, accounting for 38% of all participating startups.

Through NetApp Excellerator, startups gain access to resources, mentors, and industry experts worldwide, offering them valuable exposure and knowledge. Over the past seven years, NetApp has mentored a total of 77 startups, including 28 global startups and 17 women-led startups.

Speaking about the launch of NetApp Excellerator Cohort 12, Ravi Chhabria, Managing Director, NetApp India, stated, “This cohort marks an exceptional change with four out of the five businesses being led by women. We also have many focusing on data-driven solutions. We take pride in witnessing the growth of the NetApp Excellerator program and look forward to fostering growth and supporting participants to thrive in the deep-tech ecosystem.”

Adapting to the ever-evolving dynamics of the tech sector, the NetApp Excellerator program has continuously evolved. The collaboration between NetApp’s mentors, leaders, and startups has driven significant advancements in the realm of deep tech. The success stories of program alumni, who have collectively raised over $350 million, including five startups raising over $160 million in the past year alone, reflect the program’s impact.

Launched in 2017, the NetApp Excellerator Program has been acknowledged as one of India’s top five accelerator programs for corporate innovation by NexTT Awards. The program includes a Proof of Concept (PoC) model that enables entrepreneurs to demonstrate the real-world effectiveness of their solutions. In collaboration with NetApp, startups refine their minimum viable products (MVPs) and identify new use cases, subsequently using this information to develop their go-to-market strategies.