In a world where technology continually pushes boundaries, Backyard Creators, a
startup incubated at AIC RAISE, stands out as a beacon of innovation and compassion.
Founded by twins Raman and Lakshmanan, who hold degrees in Electronics and
Communication Engineering (ECE), this startup is dedicated to solving pressing medical
issues with a focus on assistive technology, particularly in the field of acoustic and
hearing aid technology.
The Birth of an Idea
The inception of Backyard Creators is deeply rooted in a poignant and personal
experience. Near their home, a small child suffering from congenital hearing loss faced
a heartbreaking situation. The child’s parents, unable to afford the exorbitant cost of the
necessary surgery, were forced to sell their home to finance their child’s open skull
surgery. This incident profoundly impacted Raman and Lakshmanan, igniting a desire to
find a more accessible solution for families in similar predicaments.
Introducing Impulse: A Game-Changer in Hearing Aid Technology
Globally, congenital hearing loss presents a significant challenge, with the primary
solution being hearing aid implantation. This invasive procedure involves placing a
magnified electrode inside the skull, a process fraught with risks and costs up to 15
lakhs per implant. Post-surgery, patients face numerous restrictions, such as an inability
to undergo MRI scans or participate in adventurous sports. Furthermore, the surgery
must be performed before the child reaches the age of eight.

Backyard Creators’ breakthrough product, Impulse, addresses these challenges
head-on. Impulse is the world’s first non-surgical hearing device for children born with
hearing loss, completely eliminating the need for open skull surgery. This innovative
solution has dramatically reduced the cost of hearing aid implants from 15 lakhs to just
80,000 INR
Validated Success and Broad Impact
The technology behind Impulse has been rigorously validated, with over 50 children
experiencing the ability to hear for the first time since birth through this device. The
twins’ dedication and expertise have led to the development of two patented
technologies, ensuring their invention stands on solid ground both scientifically and
commercially.
The Role of AIC RAISE
The journey of Backyard Creators began in 2020 when Raman and Lakshmanan
participated in AIC RAISE’s Hackoholics event as students. The success of Backyard
Creators is a testament to the comprehensive support provided by AIC RAISE. From the
early stages of ideation through to prototype development, AIC RAISE offered structured
guidance, access to domain experts, and state-of-the-art prototyping resources.
Financial support alleviated development costs, while strategic mentorship provided
both technical guidance and business strategy advice.

Additionally, AIC RAISE facilitated crucial connections with industry partners and
oversaw the validation and testing phases to ensure that the Impulse met user needs.
Assistance with intellectual property protection further safeguarded Backyard Creators’
innovations, enabling them to bring their revolutionary hearing aid technology to market.
Recognition and Awards
The innovation has been recognised by top tech giants like Samsung, Oppo, HDFC and
others. They also got funds from the AIC RAISE and many Government Organisations.
They received a grant of 10 lakhs from the BUILD 3.0 program by BOEING, organized
with support from KIIT-TBI. Their accolades also include the “Best Sustainable Startup
Award” at the Global Pitch Competition finale 2021-2022, organized by TiE University,
and the C2P Social Entrepreneurship Summit award. Additionally, they won the
TNSI-2019 Award (Tamil Nadu Student Innovators – Madurai Region) from the
Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute, Tamil Nadu.

Recently, Backyard Creators were honored with the coveted innovation award by the
honorable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru. M.K. Stalin. The award ceremony, graced
by dignitaries including Thiru. T.M. Anbarasan, Minister of MSME, and Tmt. Archana
Patnaik IAS, Secretary of MSME, Thiru. C. Uma Shankar, I.A.S., Additional Chief
Secretary / Director further acknowledged the startup’s significant contributions to the
field of assistive technology.
Furthermore, various other incubation centers have recognized the potential of
Backyard Creators’ initiatives and have extended their support through funding. These
partnerships not only provide crucial financial backing but also open doors to valuable
resources, mentorship opportunities, and networking connections within the startup
ecosystem.
The Future of Backyard Creators
As Backyard Creators continues to develop and refine their technology, their mission
remains clear: to provide affordable, non-invasive hearing solutions to children
worldwide. Raman and Lakshmanan’s story is a testament to the power of innovation
driven by empathy and the relentless pursuit of a better future for all.
Backyard Creators is not just a startup; it is a symbol of hope and a brighter, more
inclusive world where technology bridges gaps and transforms lives.