Bridge
About Us
At WelcomeBridge, we believe no newcomer should navigate alone.
We’re building AI-powered tools that connect immigrants with the resources, support, and clarity they need - quickly and in their language.
This is where compassion meets innovation.
WHY WE BUILT WELCOMEBRIDGE
Ivaylo’s Journey: Turning Struggle into Innovation
WelcomeBridge was born from Ivaylo’s firsthand experience as the child of immigrants navigating unfamiliar systems in a new country. Watching his family struggle with everything from legal paperwork to healthcare, education, and employment - despite being hardworking and resourceful - left a lasting impression.
Years later, with a background in technology and a drive to make an impact, Ivaylo set out to change that experience for others. He built WelcomeBridge to offer what his family never had: a trusted, AI-powered companion to guide immigrants through complex systems with clarity, confidence, and dignity.
This platform isn’t just a project. It’s a promise - to ensure that no one else has to go through the journey alone. WelcomeBridge is a modern support system for a global reality, built with empathy, innovation, and hope.
OUR VISION: A World Where No One Has to Navigate Alone
We envision a world where every immigrant - no matter their language, status, or origin - can access life-changing support through one unified platform. WelcomeBridge makes it easy to connect with legal aid, healthcare, housing, education, and employment services with dignity, transparency, and control. We are committed to building a future where support is instant, inclusive, and intelligent.
MEET OUR ADVISORS
Guided by Leaders Who Believe in Change
Technology ADVISOR
Plamen Petrov, Ph.D.
Plamen is a senior technology leader with deep expertise in AI, data, and advanced analytics. As the former Chief Data Officer at Anthem and current CTO at Concord, he has helped transform global organizations by using data to drive innovation. He also teaches at Northwestern University and the University of Illinois, bringing both academic and real-world insight to WelcomeBridge.
Immigration Law ADVISOR
Paul Haar, Esq.
Paul is a nationally recognized immigration attorney and the founder of IMMcounsel, with deep expertise in U.S. business, talent, and employment-based immigration. He advises startups, growing companies, and individuals on navigating complex immigration pathways, combining legal rigor with a practical, human-centered approach. Through his legal practice and advocacy, Paul brings clarity, strategic insight, and real-world perspective to support WelcomeBridge’s mission.
Scientific ADVISOR
Martin P. Mintchev, Ph.D.
Martin is a distinguished scientist and professor with expertise in biomedical engineering, medical devices, and applied physics. As an internationally recognized faculty member at the University of Calgary, his work bridges science, technology, and human health, with a strong focus on translating research into real-world applications. He brings rigorous, evidence-based scientific insight to WelcomeBridge, helping ensure that its technology-driven solutions are grounded in integrity, methodological excellence, and long-term impact.