Guarav Manchanda
Startups developing tangible products–hardware, as opposed to software–have the added challenge of overcoming people’s resistance to technology adoption. Every new thing enounters resistance to change, but hardware is at a disadvantage compared to new apps and other software in that it is not already on a screen that is familiar to users. Research into obstacles to adoption is a key concern for hardware startups, says Guarav Manchanda, Chief Program Officer, at MassChallenge.
Mr. Manchanda shared his insight into hardware development and the evolution of the social sector with startup founders during a fireside chat at the American Society of Mechanical Engineers ISHOW Americas. His host was Iana Aranda, President of Engineering for Change and Managing Director of Sustainability at ASME.
ISHOW supports early-stage startups in the development of hardware that improves lives in underserved communities and meets sustainability goals. Speaking that audience, Mr. Guarav offered his ideas about what makes innovations impactful.
“Innovators need to have a vision of what they want to build by having an open mind, listening, making discoveries, and investigating why people are not adopting certain technologies. Moreover, how the community will be impacted or feel about the technology support system and psychology as opposed to assuming that their innovations will be adopted.”
Asked about investors’ receptiveness to hardware innovations, Guarav observed that most want a return on investment. Right now, it is hard to access public funding, and things have changed after COVID-19.
“Accessing capital to advance innovations has become more difficult, as expectations around ventures have shifted. Support systems and investment choices are harder to navigate, making it more challenging to raise funds than in previous years. Innovators must now demonstrate traction and position their innovation in terms of impact,” he observed.
He also mentioned the role of software tools and communities. “While there are inclusive communities and versatile software tools that can support everyone, building genuine human connections remains essential—because people thrive when they collaborate with others,” he noted. He advised innovators to connect with mentors and experts to get their ventures to scale.
For more on ASME ISHOW Americas, please see thisishardware.org.
About the Author
Mercy Nduati is the Engineering for Change Editorial Fellow for 2025. She also works on the editorial staff of the Vennomax Media Network that publishes the Industrial Journal magazine. And she has written for the magazine Kenya Engineer, published by the Institution of Engineers in Kenya. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication and media from Egerton University.
