Journey to the Future: My Experience at the European Innovation Academy 2019
Intro:
The entrepreneurial journey is laden with challenges and uncharted territories. As the co-founder of a promising startup, I embarked on an enriching journey by joining the European Innovation Academy (EIA) in 2019. Our ambitious plan was to launch a VR streaming company tailored for educational purposes and catering to individuals with disabilities. Looking back from 2023, it's incredible to reflect on how that idea has grown in relevance.
The Genesis of Our VR Vision:
At the cusp of the 5G revolution and while VR discussions were budding in the tech sector, we envisioned a platform that could bridge the physical gap and create an immersive experience. Our target audience was unique – we focused on delivering VR-driven educational experiences to special needs students and individuals with disabilities.
Research & Challenges:
1. Deep Dives into Special Education: Our journey took us to special needs classes across China and Hong Kong. This was an eye-opener, revealing the genuine challenges educators face and the gaps in available resources.
2. Interviewing Individuals with Disabilities: Gaining insights directly from individuals with disabilities highlighted the potential impact of VR streaming. However, it also shed light on the accessibility issues and the need for adaptive controls tailored to their specific requirements.
3. Technological Limitations: In 2019, 5G and VR were both emerging technologies. Crafting a seamless experience required us to navigate technological uncertainties, latency issues, and device compatibilities.
4. Funding Hurdles: Despite our potential and the praise received at the EIA, securing funding was a tough nut to crack. Investors were wary of an untested concept, especially in a technology that was in its infancy.
Accolades & Future Potential:
Our idea was recognized at the EIA for its innovation and was awarded as a "highly potential idea." Although we didn't secure immediate funding, this acknowledgment validated our concept and encouraged us to persevere.
Fast forward to 2023, our idea's value proposition has skyrocketed, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quarantine measures and the subsequent shift to remote solutions have magnified the demand for immersive remote experiences like VR streaming.
Conclusion:
The journey through the European Innovation Academy was transformative. It validated our belief in the VR streaming vision and instilled a determination to see our idea come to fruition. As the world adjusts to new normals, it's heartening to know that our foresight can now serve as a beacon for many looking for immersive remote experiences.
It's a testament that innovation, even if ahead of its time, will find its moment to shine. And for us, that moment is now.
