Women in Tech: Claire Dixon
tl;dr
Meet Claire Dixon, founder of Neuraura, a neurotechnology startup that’s not just about innovation; it's about addressing the health equity gap.
As with many startups, the company has shifted its focus since its founding. Neuraura's trajectory took a significant turn when the company pivoted its focus from invasive neurotechnology to addressing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Dixon became CEO in 2022.
Neuraura: Transforming Women's Health
Claire Dixon’s background is a testament to her adaptability and drive. With a foundation in engineering and consulting, she navigated through various industries before finding her footing as an entrepreneur. Working at the University of Calgary, Dixon helped establish Creative Destruction Lab Rockies, where she discovered her affinity for mission-driven ventures and found her "people"–the individuals committed to making a difference through innovation and who would go on to be her co-founders.
As with many startups, the company has shifted its focus since its founding. Neuraura's trajectory took a significant turn when the company pivoted its focus from invasive neurotechnology to addressing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Dixon became CEO in 2022. This shift was fuelled by a blend of research insights, personal experiences, and a deep-seated desire to tackle overlooked health issues for women. Personal experiences, including her own struggles with fertility, fuelled Dixon’s determination to make a difference.
PCOS, a condition affecting approximately one in five women, remains a glaring issue in healthcare that Neuraura aims to fill, notes Dixon. “Unfortunately, PCOS is a major example of the health equity gap,” Dixon says. “Its impact is huge, not just to individuals, but to their families, and the health system, and even employers.”
Explore more healthtech startups in our Issue: For Your Health.
Recognizing the profound impact of the condition on metabolic, reproductive/menstrual and mental health, Neuraura has embarked on a mission to develop non-invasive solutions that could alleviate symptoms and empower women to take control of their health.
“The reality is that in women's health, there isn't a lot of great research,” Dixon notes. “It’s significantly underfunded. Luckily, we stumbled across a golden nugget of really strong research, and we’re translating that to help people.”
The core of Neuraura's innovation lies in translating that groundbreaking research into practical solutions. By harnessing low-frequency electrical stimulation, Neuraura is developing at-home devices that can regulate glucose levels, improve menstrual regularity, and enhance blood flow to the ovaries. This technology not only tackles immediate symptoms but also holds promise for broader applications within and beyond women's health, such as endometriosis and obstructive sleep apnea.
However, Neuraura's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Securing funding, a perennial obstacle for many startups, has been daunting. The stigma surrounding women's health issues and the lack of awareness among investors have also posed hurdles, but Neuraura remains undeterred, leveraging grants and partnerships to advance its mission.
The company is also actively pursuing manufacturing partnerships to bring its devices to market. Collaborations with academic institutions and clinical researchers aim to validate its solutions, with a goal of widespread adoption and impact. Looking ahead, Neuraura is continuing to evolve. Its digital MVP launching in May in celebration of women’s health month is starting with evidence-based content and complementary clinical and wellness solutions to empower women with knowledge and support, Dixon says.
“I’m proud of what we’re building, and the impact we’re having,” Dixon says. “By addressing critical gaps in women's health with innovative solutions, we’re not only transforming lives but also challenging the status quo in healthcare.”
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