In a stroke emergency, every second counts - early detection and rapid intervention can save lives even before a patient reaches the hospital.
"Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are the current standard, but they are expensive, stationary and require special infrastructure," says Dr. Atefeh Zarabadi (PhD '15), CEO and co-founder of AiimSense. "[These technologies] limit timely access to care, especially in medical emergencies like stroke or traumatic brain injuries."
To address this critical gap, Zarabadi and her team have developed a scalable, portable imaging system that uses electromagnetic imaging (EMI) and artificial intelligence (AI) to detect both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes faster and more affordably than traditional methods.
The AiimSense solutions include BrainScreen, a lightweight, a helmet-like device that fits in a backpack and can be deployed in the field - ideal for mobile stroke units or remote clinics. Its companion software, Neural Map Pro, combines AI-powered 3D analytics with Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) integration to provide real-time image visualization of brain conductivity changes, such as bleeding or clots.
"Imagine having [this technology] available in many clinics where it is needed - that is very transformative," Zarabadi says. "It can enhance brain health in general, which is not possible today."
By enabling earlier diagnosis, AiimSense supports faster treatment decisions - such as administering clot-busting drugs within the critical time window - and ensures patients are directed to the right care centers. AiimSense's mission is to democratize access to advanced brain imaging and improve outcomes across both urban and underserved communities.
Powering the "brain economy" with imaging technology
Zarabadi's vision extends beyond health care. At the G7 Canada Brain Economy Summit in Calgary, she joined global leaders in developing the "Brain Economy Declaration" - a policy initiative that recognizes brain health and cognitive capacity as essential to national prosperity.
AiimSense's portable brain scanner exemplifies this vision. By reducing reliance on costly, stationary imaging systems and enabling earlier intervention, it has the potential to lower health-care costs, improve patient outcomes and enhance workforce productivity - all key pillars of what global leaders are calling the "brain economy."
"Achieving global brain health equity starts with making diagnostics accessible everywhere," Zarabadi says. She sees AiimSense contributing in two ways: through its scientific and technological innovation, and by introducing a new imaging modality that makes brain diagnostics more accessible and impactful.
"Early diagnosis and accessible brain imaging are a game changer. The sooner we can diagnose, the more preventative measures we can take into account. By lowering the disability rates and saving lives, this technology can contribute to the global economy."
A multidisciplinary team rooted in Waterloo
Founded in 2019, AiimSense has successfully built its BrainScreen and Neural Map Pro through a multidisciplinary team with deep roots in Ontario's research network, including McMaster University, University of Toronto and Western University.
More than 10 senior team members are Waterloo graduates with decades of industry experience, including their co-founder, Mohammad Chavoshi (MEng '16), a trained senior electrical and computer engineer. AiimSense has also benefited from working with co-op students, research partnerships and support from the Waterloo innovation ecosystem, including the Velocity incubator.
"Coming from academia into entrepreneurship means coming out of your comfort zone," Zarabadi says. "There are certain skills that we need to develop and focus on that are more business related than science. There are good programs like Velocity that help you learn the business side - finding the product-market fit and turning research into real-world impact."
At the 2024 International Conference on Aging, Innovation and Rehabilitation (ICAIR), hosted by The KITE Research Institute at University Health Network (UHN), AiimSense was awarded first place in the Innovative Startup category of the ICAIR Power Play Pitch Competition, receiving a prize of $25,000.
AiimSense also received the Most Innovative Solution Award during the Brain Health Challenge Pitch competition at the Inventures 2025 conference in Alberta, earning $20,000 in funding and the opportunity to showcase their breakthrough brain imaging technology at the Life Science Intelligence USA 2025 Emerging Medtech Summit, where they gained further recognition among global medtech innovators and investors.
Advancing towards brain health for all
Despite the promise, Zarabadi notes that deep tech startups face unique challenges.
"While there are many resources available, meaningful early-stage support that matches the scale and timeline of transformative innovation is still lacking," Zarabadi adds. "If we want these companies to thrive and stay focused on what they do best, we need to bridge that gap with more significant and sustained investment."
She remains confident in AiimSense's potential to reshape brain health diagnostics. Zarabadi envisions the platform evolving into an accessible, routine brain health monitoring tool, which is especially important for aging populations and pediatric care.
The "Made by Waterloo:" series showcases innovative startups founded by University of Waterloo alumni and researchers that are driving Canada's economy forward. These companies, nurtured within the region's vibrant tech ecosystem, are making significant local and global impacts. Through this series, we highlight how Waterloo and these home-grown businesses are fostering prosperity by attracting, developing and retaining the talent essential for fueling Canada's economic growth.
