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Prosus-backed Neara, an Australian infrastructure modelling company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help energy networks operate more efficiently and mitigate the effects of natural disasters, such as extreme weather, was recently named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024.

By using 3D, network-wide models for engineering-grade simulations and analytics, Neara’s AI platform allows utility operators –– currently spanning 1M+ square miles and 8M+ assets in operations –– to design efficient networks, enhance wildfire and vegetation management programs, as well as bring renewable projects online faster using their existing infrastructure.

Over the last several months, Neara has expanded its presence in Europe and the US. The platform’s AI functionality enables sophisticated analysis to understand how networks behave in real-world environments during any scenario — empowering grid operators to make highly accurate decisions.

Earlier this year, Neara was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024. Founded in 2016, the start-up joins stalwarts such as Nvidia, YouTube and Taco Bell on the list. First compiled three years ago, TIME100 Companies is the annual list of the world’s most influential businesses. The companies are evaluated on key factors including impact, innovation, ambition, and success. Being named one of the TIME 100 Most Influential Companies is a testament to the increasing impact and relevance of Neara’s mission to future-proof networks, and ensure energy infrastructure is resilient, efficiently monitored, and adaptable to the world’s ever-changing energy consumption needs.

Neara has also been included in Fast Company’s list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024. This list is a touchstone for businesses that are shaping industry and culture, and moving the world forward through their innovations. Since 2008, this list has been the definitive source for recognizing the organizations that are transforming industries and shaping society. Neara was selected from among the thousands of submissions evaluated by Fast Company‘s editors and writers through a competitive application process.

Prosus is proud to back Neara as it uses AI to solve energy, infrastructure and climate challenges. The growing recognition for the impact delivered by Neara supports our thesis of unlocking the future of technology in an AI-first world through innovation, investment and a strong operational focus.

To know more about how Neara’s efforts help critical infrastructure deliver reliable outcomes and address extreme weather and climate change, click here. Also watch the video below.