Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
October 01, 2022
HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced that MOVIA Robotics, based in Bristol, was named September’s “Innovator of the Month.” Founded in 2010, MOVIA is a collaborative robotics company building systems and software to help people on the autism spectrum learn and grow using robotic technology. Their products – HomePal™ for family use, Teacher’s Aide™ for school use, and TheraPal™ for clinician use – incorporate several robot models and provide evidence-based Robot-Assisted Instruction (RAI) to meet the individualized needs and learning goals of those with ASD.
“Too often people on the autism spectrum – especially children – aren’t given the support they need to succeed. The team at MOVIA is changing the game through their innovative, evidence-based robots that help kids learn, grow, and build their confidence. I look forward to seeing their continued growth in the state,” said Murphy.
“We are developing our products to help close the gap between the needs of people with autism and the tools available to their parents, teachers, and clinicians. Using evidence-based practices from education and autism therapy, combined with the interactive and engaging capabilities of robotics and AI, we aim to make it easier for those with special needs and the community that supports them to achieve their goals. Our goal is to make affordable and accessible tools that help the community and make a difference by improving the quality of life for these challenged individuals,” said Timothy Gifford, Founder and President of MOVIA Robotics.
“We are excited to be helping people and changing their lives. MOVIA currently has over 400 systems around the world at schools, clinics, youth organizations, care facilities, and homes. Our RAI system is an alternative way for individuals to learn – it meets them where they are and empowers those who serve them,” said Muniba Masood, MOVIA’s Chief Executive Officer. “When we see sheer joy on the face of a child or adult practicing a skill, and then having the confidence to use what they have learned during a social interaction, it makes what we do so worthwhile!”
Murphy believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a strong economy. In the U.S. Senate, he has introduced two bipartisan pieces of legislation to incentivize angel investors to put more money into startup companies—the Angel Tax Credit Act and the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act. Startup companies create an average of 2 million jobs each year.
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