Miss Pittsburgh's Tech Company Aids Sexual Assault Victims

PITTSBURGH, PA — Although she recently was crowned the United States of America Pageant's Miss Pittsburgh, Madison Campbell would prefer to discuss how her four-year-old tech company assists sexual assault victims.

And why it's moving to Pittsburgh.

Campbell, 27, is the CEO of Leda Health, which provides at-home evidence kits for those who have been sexually assaulted. Initially located in New York City, the company is relocating its office to Butler Street in Lawrenceville.

"I believe Pittsburgh has an opportunity to be the next big tech hub and we want to be part of that," the Bridgeville native told Patch. "In less than five years we’ve raised almost $10 million in venture capita, and have helped people naturally and internationally."

Leda provides early evidence kits the permit people who have been sexually assaulted to collect their own evidence at home rather than in a hospital. Campbell conceived the idea for the company after being sexually assaulted in college.

Leda partners with businesses, colleges and other organizations so the kits are available to anyone needing one. The company's services include self-administered DNA collection, emergency contraception and sexual transmitted infection testing.

"We offer all of the services you receive in a hospital in the care and comfort of your own home," Campbell said.

With its move to Pittsburgh, Leda hopes to hire additional employees to aid in its mission.

"We have 15-20 employees right now," Campbell said. "We'd like to increase that to about 35."