Age: 17
Company: SmartSportsUSA, LLC, seller of a patent-pending trampoline monitoring and notification device.
Title: Founder and president
Hometown: Prospect, Kentucky
Resides: Prospect
Education history: Senior at North Oldham High School
Hobbies: Traveling, soccer, golf
Instagram: @darshshah16
Favorite tech gadget: Xbox
How did you get into the career you have today?
Growing up, I enjoyed watching “Shark Tank,” which imprinted in my mind the importance of being an innovator. It also helped me learn that innovation can help solve day-to-day challenges through out-of-the-box thinking.
This thought process is what allowed me to innovate a patented trampoline safety device when my parents had concerns about buying a trampoline. With the help of mentors, I was also able to start a company, SmartSportsUSA LLC, and raise a $50,000 seed investment from friends and family.
What’s one thing you want to accomplish before turning 30?
I would like to continue growing my company, SmartSportsUSA, to improve trampoline safety for everyone around the world. Before the age of 30, I hope to have had an impact on reducing the amount of trampoline related injuries by launching SmartSportsUSA’s products.
Who has been one of your top mentors? Why?
My father, Himanshu Shah, has always motivated me to think out-of-the-box, and his hard work and discipline has really inspired me in my everyday life and throughout my entrepreneurial journey.
He serves as a reminder to me that with hard work, anything is possible.
What’s one thing Kentucky can do to improve its tech and/or startup ecosystem?
Being exposed to innovation and entrepreneurship in an early age can better influence younger generations in Kentucky to be more involved in technology and the startup ecosystem.
For this, I believe school systems should incorporate courses around technology and entrepreneurship in high school. Furthermore, students should be made aware at an early age of innovation grants available from the State of Kentucky.
Also, the patent process at times is not easily accessible and understood, so having exposure to this process can really stimulate the innovation ecosystem in Kentucky.
What’s something about you that people might not know?
Growing up I have always played soccer, from third grade to my senior year in high school. Recently, I have picked up a new hobby: golf. I also like to hike and travel. Recently I was able to hike in the Chilean Patagonia.
