Annabelle Stephenson
In an innovative move that could reshape the landscape of eye care accessibility, the Calgary-based startup RetinaVision has recently secured substantial funding to propel their revolutionary portable eye testing device forward. The company aims to leverage advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) to democratize eye care services.
RetinaVision’s visionary approach has attracted a diverse array of investors, including HaloHealth as the lead investor, along with contributions from Spring Impact Capital, StartupTNT’s angel investment syndicate, Haskayne Student Fund from UCeed, York Angels, and other independent angel investors. This remarkable collaboration underscores the industry’s recognition of the transformative potential of RetinaVision’s technology.
The brainchild of CEO Amirah Halwani and COO Hasan Alavi, RetinaVision emerged from a shared passion for revolutionizing eye care practices. Halwani, a visionary entrepreneur with a background in biomedical engineering, recognized the untapped potential of merging cutting-edge technology with healthcare during her studies. On the other hand, Alavi, a seasoned business strategist with experience in healthcare consultancy, brought a wealth of knowledge to the table, complementing Halwani’s technical expertise.
The duo’s journey began when they met at a healthcare innovation conference in 2017. Inspired by a shared vision of making eye care more accessible, they joined forces and embarked on a mission to develop a portable eye testing solution that could transcend traditional barriers.
After years of dedicated research and development, RetinaVision unveiled its groundbreaking portable eye test device, which seamlessly integrates VR glasses and advanced analytical software. This innovative device allows eye care providers to assess field-of-view data with precision and conduct comprehensive eye tests remotely, offering a new frontier in vision assessment.
One of the key milestones in RetinaVision’s journey was the successful implementation of their device in Canadian clinics, marking a significant step towards bridging the accessibility gap in eye care services. By collaborating with optometrists and ophthalmologists, RetinaVision aims to extend the reach of their technology to the elderly population residing in retirement homes, enabling them to undergo essential eye tests conveniently.
With the recent funding injection, RetinaVision is poised to expand its team, introduce enhanced eye testing capabilities, drive device sales, and obtain essential certifications to propel its growth trajectory. This strategic roadmap reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and its unwavering mission to redefine eye care norms.
RetinaVision’s success story underscores the transformative power of technology in addressing long-standing healthcare challenges. By offering a cost-effective, efficient, and portable solution that rivals traditional diagnostic tools, RetinaVision is spearheading a paradigm shift in the field of eye care, paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible future for vision health.
