Prickly Pear Health will showcase how it’s helping women’s brain health at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Iman Clark, the visionary CEO of Prickly Pear Health, is set to present her innovative approach to women's brain health at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. Her journey began nearly a decade ago when she relocated from Tunisia to the United States for graduate studies. After joining a company that developed gamified experiences for individuals with neurodegenerative disorders, Clark recognized a significant gap in how women's health, particularly brain health, was being addressed. During her time in the industry, Clark observed that a substantial number of older adults, particularly women, were grappling with multiple chronic conditions. "I realized that most people over 75 have two to three chronic conditions, and despite our efforts, the challenges remain daunting," she remarked. Further research revealed that approximately 70% of individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease are women, prompting her to delve deeper into the intersection of gender and brain health. She discovered alarming statistics: women are twice as likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, and three to four times more likely to experience migraines. This realization ignited her passion for creating Prickly Pear Health—a platform dedicated to supporting women's cognitive wellness. The company offers a voice-first, AI-driven companion designed for women aged 30 to 50, assisting them in navigating hormonal changes that can impact brain health. The technology enables users to log daily reflections through voice recordings, which are then analyzed by Prickly Pear’s AI to monitor cognitive shifts. Additionally, it integrates data from various health trackers, such as Apple Health and Garmin, to provide personalized health insights. Clark emphasizes the urgent need for innovation in women's health, highlighting how women are eager to take charge of their health narratives. Officially launching a free version of her service in May, Clark is preparing to unveil a premium version this October to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Month and Menopause Awareness Month. Focus groups conducted at Arizona State University revealed that women in their late 30s to early 50s often experience brain fog and mental fatigue, frequently attributing these symptoms to hormonal changes only years later. "These women are often overlooked or misdiagnosed when they first notice symptoms like brain fog or mood variations," Clark noted. With midlife being pivotal for brain health, she aims to bridge the existing gaps in traditional healthcare approaches. The inspiration for the company’s name stems from the resilient prickly pear cactus, symbolizing strength and thriving through adversity. Clark views existing menopause apps as symptom trackers, insisting that Prickly Pear Health takes a proactive approach to detect and address issues. She successfully raised $350,000 in a challenging pre-seed funding round, particularly as a woman of color in the tech space. By cultivating relationships with potential investors prior to her funding request, she navigated the fundraising landscape strategically. Clark encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seek advice rather than merely asking for business. With excitement, she anticipates showcasing her solution at Disrupt, describing it as an unparalleled platform for innovative ideas. "Women’s health innovation isn't niche; it’s the future of healthcare," she asserts, eager to connect with like-minded investors and partners at the event. Attendees of TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 will have the opportunity to engage with Prickly Pear Health and explore numerous other pitches and workshops, making connections that can propel their businesses forward.