Deep tech innovation is rarely linear—and Parag Gad’s journey reflects that reality in every way. The founder of X STEP, a medical innovation company operating at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering, and healthcare, has spent close to two decades working on technology that once felt almost impossible: a spinal cord pacemaker that helps people with paralysis regain movement.

In an interaction with Indian Startup Times, Parag opened up about the long road behind X STEP, the momentum that followed Shark Tank India Season Five, and why patience and credibility matter far more than speed in healthcare innovation.

A Journey Built Over Years, Not Moments

Parag moved to the United States in 2008 to pursue his master’s and PhD, a decision that quietly set the course for the next 17 years of his life. There wasn’t a single defining moment that pushed him toward working on paralysis or mobility restoration. Instead, his path evolved gradually—shaped by a deep interest in engineering, a growing curiosity about healthcare, and early exposure to the pharmaceutical world through his father’s work in India.

At UCLA, Parag found the space to bring these interests together. What began as academic research and animal studies slowly progressed into human clinical trials and, eventually, real-world applications. It was a slow, demanding process—one that required scientific discipline and long-term commitment. That same mindset continues to guide how X STEP operates today.

Neuromodulation, Explained Simply

At the heart of X STEP’s work is neuromodulation, which Parag often explains as a pacemaker for the spinal cord. While many assume movement is driven purely by muscle memory, the reality is more complex. Much of it comes from what scientists refer to as spinal memory.

X STEP’s technology works by stimulating specific spinal circuits, helping the body relearn how to move. This isn’t experimental guesswork—it’s built on decades of research, including foundational work by Parag’s PhD mentor, Dr. Edgerton. That scientific depth has been crucial in earning trust from doctors, hospitals, and investors alike.

Taking Deep Tech to Shark Tank India

Pitching a highly technical medical innovation on Shark Tank India Season Five came with its own set of challenges. Deep tech doesn’t always translate easily on television. Still, Parag chose to keep the pitch honest and grounded, presenting X STEP as a company focused on doing things the right way—even if that meant taking the longer route.

The response exceeded expectations. During the episode, Parag asked for ₹1 crore for 1 % equity, seeking strategic partners who could help him scale in India. What unfolded was remarkable: three Sharks—Namita Thapar, Vineeta Singh, and Kunal Bahl—came together to invest ₹1 crore for a 10 % equity stake in X STEP, valuing the company and providing both capital and strategic support.

For X STEP, the show became less about visibility and more about validation—turning years of research into investor belief.

The Tightrope Between Science and Scale

Building a medical device company means constantly balancing clinical rigor with business realities. Parag is clear that speed alone cannot define success in healthcare. Regulatory approvals, patient safety, and evidence-backed outcomes come first—always.

While early-stage startups often feel pressure to grow fast, Parag believes the right investors understand that healthcare innovation operates on a different timeline. The responsibility of bringing a medical device to patients demands caution, clarity, and long-term thinking.

Why India Is Central to X STEP’s Vision

Despite its strong roots in California, India plays a critical role in X STEP’s journey. Parag often describes the company as “born in CA, but built in Ka,” reflecting his intent to develop globally relevant technology with India at its core.

India offers scale, talent, and an evolving med-tech ecosystem. The growing interest from international patients and hospitals has further reinforced the decision to focus on India—not just as a market, but as a foundation for global expansion.

Regulation, Revenue, and Real-World Use

For X STEP, regulatory milestones aren’t just formalities—they’re essential markers of credibility. Highlighting these approvals during the Shark Tank pitch helped underline the seriousness of the work being done.

The company follows a hybrid revenue model that includes device sales, structured therapy programs, and hospital partnerships. This approach allows X STEP to reach patients across different segments while maintaining clinical consistency.

Beyond Mobility: What Comes Next

While helping people regain movement remains the primary focus, Parag shared that neuromodulation has far wider potential. The team is exploring how the technology could impact autonomic and metabolic functions, including applications related to diabetes, cardiovascular health, and blood pressure.

These areas are still under development, but they reflect a broader ambition—to improve overall quality of life, not just physical mobility.

Scaling Without Losing Sight of Safety

Post-Shark Tank, interest in X STEP has grown rapidly. With that comes the challenge of scaling responsibly. For Parag, patient safety is non-negotiable. Every step forward must follow a defined scientific and clinical process, even if that means moving slower than the market expects.

Standardized outcomes, clinical training, and strong hospital partnerships remain central as X STEP expands across regions.

Why Intellectual Property Matters

In deep tech, intellectual property is foundational. Parag sees IP not just as protection, but as a signal of seriousness—critical for attracting global talent, long-term investors, and strategic partners. A strong IP framework also ensures the technology can be scaled internationally without dilution.

Beyond funding, X STEP values the strategic insight of its Shark Tank partners, particularly when it comes to navigating the Indian ecosystem and building sustainably.

Advice for Deep Tech Founders

For founders working on complex healthcare or deep tech solutions, Parag keeps the advice simple: be honest—with yourself and with the market. Present your technology clearly, back it with proof, and let its value speak for itself.

In a startup landscape often driven by fast exits and quick headlines, X STEP stands apart. Parag Gad’s journey is a reminder that real breakthroughs take time—and when built with patience, proof, and purpose, they can create impact that truly lasts.

Interview Conducted By : Arushi Agarwal