In an exciting showcase of Northeastern University’s entrepreneurial prowess, three outstanding students and one venture-affiliated individual have emerged triumphant in BostInno’s esteemed 25 Under 25 list for the class of 2023. This recognition not only solidifies Northeastern’s standing as a hotbed for innovation but also underscores the exceptional caliber of talent nurtured within our university. Join us in celebrating these trailblazers who are setting new standards for success and impact. Read the full story here.
- Shaan Arora, 22; Cory Gill, 22 – Co-founders of Alia Software Inc.
- Meet Shaan Arora and Cory Gill, the dynamic co-founders of Alia Software Inc., and relentless go-getters since their early days at Northeastern University. Graduating with degrees in computer science and business, respectively, Arora and Gill have pioneered Alia, an embedded Shopify app for ecommerce retailers. Alia enables shoppers to delve into a business’s story and products, offering rewards for engagement and thereby boosting conversions and sales. Despite their demanding schedules, Arora and Gill have already achieved remarkable success, with Alia acquiring 42 clients and driving over $130,000 in sales since its launch in April 2023.
- Natalie Hill, 23 – Digital Marketing Coordinator at Greentown Labs
- A testament to the symbiotic relationship between Northeastern and leading institutions, Natalie Hill’s journey began during her co-op at Greentown Labs. Now the digital marketing coordinator, Hill manages various digital platforms for the climatetech incubator, showcasing her prowess in social media, website management, and videography. Her impact extends beyond digital realms, as evidenced by her successful coordination of Greentown Houston’s climatetech summit. Hill’s dedication and skill set position her as a rising star in the field, embodying the collaborative spirit between Northeastern and influential organizations.
- Vivek Udaykumar, 21 – Project Manager at Banyan Tree Global and Lead Organizer at Techstars Startup Weekend Boston 2023
- Hailing from India, Vivek Udaykumar is a master’s student at Northeastern University, balancing academic pursuits with a fervor for community building. Immersing himself in the startup space upon his arrival in the U.S., Udaykumar has quickly become a driving force in Boston’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. As the lead organizer for Techstars Startup Weekend Boston 2023, he orchestrated a global entrepreneurship event that facilitated valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, Udaykumar is developing a platform to unite the Indian community in the U.S. with the entrepreneurship community, showcasing the global impact of Northeastern students.
- Rediet Merra Tegegne, 25 – Head of Operations at Rooted Living
- While not a Northeastern student, Rediet Merra Tegegne plays a pivotal role as the head of operations at Rooted Living, a sustainable snack company founded by Northeastern student Rachel Domb. Working full-time at biotech company Quanterix Corp., Tegegne has contributed significantly to Rooted Living’s expansion, transitioning from a direct-to-consumer online brand to an official supplier for a central BGOOD location at Northeastern University’s dining hall. Her efforts have also seen Rooted Living products stocked in various stores around Boston and Cambridge, showcasing the fruitful collaborations between Northeastern and external partners.
Conclusion:
These four individuals exemplify the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit thriving at Northeastern University. As they make waves in their respective fields, their achievements underscore the university’s commitment to nurturing talent that not only excels academically but also drives positive change in the world. Congratulations to our outstanding students and affiliates on this well-deserved recognition in BostInno’s 25 Under 25!