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IFIA Magazine    March 2025

























                             a  one-stop  solution to  save time  and  provide  relia-ble  answers.
                             Accessibility and Inclusivity
                             OpenAid  is  completely  free,  ensuring  accessibility  for  individuals  with  budget
                             constraints. The team has made sure the app’s information is presented in an
                             easy-to-digest format, accommodating those with limited English proficiency.
                             Their  effort  to  compile,  curate,  and  format  detailed  guidance  from  multiple
                             sources was one of the most challenging aspects of the project.
                             Future Vision
                             In  five  years,  the  team  envisions  OpenAid  becoming  a  household  name  for
                             immigrants and refugees, a trusted resource people turn to for assistance and
                             empowerment. To achieve this, OpenAid needs expo-sure and support from the
                             community. The team is calling on supporters to share the app and help expand
                             its reach, ensuring it becomes a staple for those in need.
                             Inspiration and Personal Connection
                             The inspiration for OpenAid stems from the innovators’ personal backgrounds.
                             All three are first-generation Indian Americans whose parents immigrated from
                             India. They witnessed the challenges their parents faced in adapting to American
                             society and recognized that millions of immigrants face similar struggles each
                             year.
                             From understanding medical insurance and securing a down payment on a home
                             to mastering interview tips, the team’s parents navigated these hurdles without
                             accessible guidance. With this personal connec-tion, Praneeth, Om, and Hitaksh
                             created OpenAid to empower immigrants to become independent and thrive in
                             American society.
                             Recognition and Call to Action
                             Praneeth Doddi, Om Kota, and Hitaksh Tanna were recognized as Top Innovators
                             at the 2024 U.S. Na-tional Innovator Challenge, a testament to their innovative
                             spirit and dedication to making a difference.
                             Innovation World is proud to highlight their story and urges readers to support
                             OpenAid. By sharing this app, you can help expand its reach and impact. Together,
                             we can make OpenAid a beacon of hope and a bridge to opportunity for countless
                             individuals.
                             INNOVATION WORLD IS A PROUD MEMBER OF IFIA.
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