Finalist OF 2025

Sara Technology

Universities:
University of Southern California, Columbia Business School
Country:
United States of America
Industries:
Education, EdTech, AI/ML

Supports these SDGs:

SDG Goal 1
SDG-4 graphic info card
SDG-10 graphic info card
Team photo
Sara Technology co-founders: Weiji Huang, Jiaxin Zhang, and Zhonghao Shi (not pictured)

AI speech tutor for children with speech difficulties

For millions of children, speaking clearly isn’t easy. Whether it’s a speech challenge or learning a new language, struggling to communicate can be isolating. Kids may be misunderstood, left out, or even bullied, all because of the way they speak.

Sara Technology was created to change that. Designed by speech-language pathologists and built with engineers and AI researchers, Sara helps kids practice tricky sounds through personalized feedback and fun, gamified activities. Starting with content for the 10 most common sounds, Sara delivers engaging, tailored exercises that kids actually want to use. With more sounds and languages coming soon, Sara’s mission is simple: helping every child communicate with confidence and find their voice.

Impact

Sara Technology is making speech support accessible for children and language learners. Designed by certified speech-language pathologists, the AI-powered platform delivers personalized, evidence-based articulation exercises through engaging, gamified activities. The app provides real-time, cue-based feedback and progress tracking, enabling children to practice challenging speech sounds independently. With versions tailored for both parents and professionals, Sara Technology bridges the gap in speech therapy access, enhancing communication skills and confidence for underserved learners.

230+

beta users are on their way to confident, clear speech.

515K

children projected to receive personalized speech practice by 2030

50%

higher grade progression

Anna Li
Clarity of speech gives children the confidence to connect with others, to laugh without fear, and to grow into themselves. That is the future we are working toward for every child.

Jiaxin Zhang

Cofounder & CEO

Connect with Sara Technology