Our Story

Inspired by stories of underserved Medicaid parents—and by her mom, an OBGYN-turned-pediatrician who cares for them—UC Berkeley researcher Hannah Botelho founded Orka to make birth support truly accessible and sustainable.

Doulas are essential. Yet many are overwhelmed by billing, credentialing, and endless admin. Orka changes that. We automate the insurance maze, streamline daily workflows, and help doulas connect with more families who need them.

Our name comes from orca whales: powerful, matriarchal leaders who guide and protect their pods. Like them, we believe caregivers—especially those ushering new life into the world—deserve strength, independence, and a community that has their back.

At Orka, we're building a future where the people who support families are finally supported themselves.