Neurodiverse Technologies develops adaptive, research-driven simulation platforms that empower neurodivergent individuals to build real-world readiness and confidence.
Our products—including SANDI for driver readiness and NAVIS for interview and employment preparation—combine neuroscience, virtual reality, and machine learning to create accessible, data-informed training environments.
As a Vanderbilt University spin-off, we bridge academic innovation and real-world impact, helping individuals gain independence while enabling institutions to deliver evidence-based readiness programs at scale.
Neurodiverse Technologies develops adaptive, simulation-based tools that bridge the gap between therapy, education, and independence for neurodivergent individuals. Our mission is to create inclusive technologies that empower users to build confidence and readiness for real-world milestones—whether learning to drive, interviewing for a job, or transitioning into independent living.
Our flagship product, SANDI (Simulator for Advanced Neurodiverse Driving Instruction), supports neurodivergent and cognitively diverse learners in preparing for the driving test through realistic, low-stakes virtual simulations. SANDI has demonstrated its ability to reduce anxiety, improve performance, and increase readiness for safe driving.
Building on this foundation, our newest platform, NAVIS (Neuro-Adaptive Virtual Interview Simulator), addresses employment readiness. Many neurodivergent adults face barriers during the hiring process due to anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and social communication challenges. NAVIS provides a safe, adaptive virtual environment where users practice interviews and receive AI-driven feedback on tone, pacing, and nonverbal communication.
By combining neuroscience, machine learning, and human-centered design, Neurodiverse Technologies is redefining assistive technology for the neurodiverse community. Our scalable solutions reduce inequities, empower individuals, and support organizations in building more inclusive pathways to independence and employment.
Leadership & Expertise
- Jan Schlueter – Co-Founder & CEO
Expert-Entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience in commercialization and technology ventures. Serves as Entrepreneur in Residence at Vanderbilt’s Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, guiding the company from research to real-world impact with a focus on creativity, innovation, and AI. - Dr. Nilanjan Sarkar – Co-Founder & CTO
Vice Dean of Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering and Professor of Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering. His groundbreaking work in affective computing and adaptive systems forms the scientific foundation of SANDI and NAVIS. Expert in robotics, AI, and human-machine interaction. - Dr. Keivan Stassun – Key Advisor
Director of the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, MacArthur “Genius” Fellow, and leading advocate for diversity in STEM. Provides strategic guidance on neurodiversity innovation and impact.
Together, the team unites science, technology, and empathy to empower neurodiverse lives through evidence-based, scalable solutions.
Neurodiverse Technologies is in the early commercialization stage. SANDI has transitioned from research to market with active deployments in non-profits, driving schools, and high schools across the U.S., generating pilot revenue and validating simulation-based training.
NAVIS is in prototype and validation phase, developed in collaboration with Vanderbilt University’s Frist Center for Autism and Innovation and School of Engineering, with licensing support from Vanderbilt CTTC. It is undergoing pilot testing with university transition programs and workforce partners.
Strategy for NAVIS
Builds on SANDI’s proven B2B2C pathway through institutional partnerships. Key channels include:
- Clinical and Educational Partners
Service providers, universities, and vocational programs integrating NAVIS into pre-employment training. - Government and Nonprofit Programs
Workforce agencies and advocacy organizations providing NAVIS as part of supported job-readiness services. - Corporate Inclusion Initiatives
Companies improving neuroinclusive hiring and onboarding, serving both candidates and recruiters.
Developing strategic partnerships via Vanderbilt, corporate allies, and autism-focused programs. Aligning with neurodiversity initiatives in technology, insurance, and healthcare sectors to ensure broad reach and impact.
Neurodiverse Technologies generates revenue through a multi-tiered subscription and licensing model, building on SANDI’s success in clinical, educational, and rehabilitation licenses.
Revenue Streams
- Institutional Licensing
Annual licenses for service providers, universities, and vocational programs, including platform access, analytics, and support. - Corporate Partnerships
Enterprise subscriptions for companies integrating NAVIS into HR/training for inclusive hiring—serving candidates and teams in a dual-use model. - Bundled Readiness Solutions
Future combined offerings of SANDI and NAVIS as a comprehensive suite under one subscription for continuous support from driving to employment.
This approach drives sustainable, recurring revenue while maximizing social impact through mission-aligned institutions and enterprises.
nvestment Opportunity
We are seeking to complete a $1 million seed round to accelerate commercialization of NAVIS and strengthen leadership in adaptive readiness training. Funding will drive sales growth, market expansion, and scalability ahead of Q1 2026 launch.
Use of Funds
| Allocation | Percentage | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sales | 45% | Direct B2B outreach, CRM automation, channel partner development, industry events, and customer onboarding for providers, universities, and corporations. |
| Marketing | 35% | Targeted digital campaigns (LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram), trade shows, inclusion conferences, content marketing, webinars, and referral programs to build awareness and leads. |
| Operations | 20% | Key hires in Sales, Marketing, and Finance, plus infrastructure for scalability and client success. |
We seek mission-aligned investors experienced in digital health, workforce innovation, and social impact to open strategic partnerships. This round will enable successful NAVIS launch, client network expansion, and recurring revenue growth—closing the gap between ability and opportunity for neurodivergent individuals.
Neurodiverse Technologies combines neuroscience, virtual reality, machine learning, and adaptive AI to create personalized simulation platforms. SANDI is commercially deployed with proven impact on reducing anxiety and improving driving readiness for neurodivergent users.
NAVIS features an adaptive AI framework and VR environment developed with Vanderbilt collaborators. It is in pilot testing, with focus on refining user experience, feedback, and insights. Next phase (supported by Vanderbilt Catalyst Fund) includes algorithm training, expanded pilots, and preparation for full commercial release in Q1 2026.
These tools deliver data-informed, low-stakes training that empowers independence and equity.
Neurodiverse Technologies has received $350,000 from angel investors (The Frist Family and the Kligfeld Family).
Additionally, awarded $70,000 through Vanderbilt’s Innovation Catalyst Fund for NAVIS development (non-dilutive grant).
