Thursday, September 18, 2025
Home Blog Page 6

Could African Wellness Ingredients Be the Next Big Thing in Sustainable Beauty?

By
StartupValley
-
0
Kanafrik has been nominated for the Green Start-up Slam

Kanafrik has been nominated for the Green Start-up Slam (Start-up Pitches on Stage) during the GTF CONNECT LOS ANGELES CONFERENCE on November 15

Mariama, Kanafrik is a pioneering initiative in the sustainable and zero-waste space. What inspired you to start Kanafrik, and how did your journey lead to this point?

I have always believed that if food is good enough to eat, it should be good enough to feed our skin. In the past, I worked in the beauty field, and for a very long time, I crafted my own cosmetics at home, beginning around 2004 or 2005. I even had a blog called Kitchen and Cosmetics. I’ve always been passionate about natural, clean beauty and using ingredients from Africa. Kanafrik’s products are largely inspired by what I have personally used over the years; I design and create all the recipes for Kanafrik, bringing my artistic background into each one. Founding Kanafrik was inspired not only by this passion but also by my curiosity about African ingredients, which led me to create our top sellers, like the Chebé hair cream ,body butters and  scrubs made with African superfoods.

I saw a significant gap and lack of representation—a need for a store that could showcase African wellness ingredients and invite the world to discover their benefits in a way that is both beneficial and inclusive. With my commitment to sustainability, I noticed that the continent didn’t have a shop like this, so I created Africa’s first sustainable store, with sections for food, skincare, and natural ingredients, as well as a recycling program for customers to return and refill their Kanafrik glass jars. I even sourced jars from young students who sold them to support their families, helping pay for school fees and basic needs.

I wanted to preserve traditional methods of making raw ingredients that were at risk of disappearing.

During my travels to Africa, I would seek out natural products, only to be directed to local markets where a few women offered these ingredients—often without much local interest and sometimes not in ideal conditions. My activism in sustainability, combined with my love for natural ingredients, the opportunity to address a gap in the global beauty market, and the need to promote sustainable practices on the continent, all inspired me to create Kanafrik.

I wanted to make Made-in-Africa ingredients accessible to the world, introduce these ingredients to a global audience, and invite the new generation, diaspora, and global consumers to embrace Made in Africa with pride. I wanted to show that Africa has so much more to offer than the usual stereotypes of conflict and poverty—that we have a wellness culture that has yet to be fully tapped.

The beauty products you offer are handmade and clean. How do you maintain a balance between craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental impact when developing new products?

At Kanafrik, we emphasize quality and sustainability by ensuring our product remain handcrafted, allowing us to uphold transparency and authenticity in every ingredient we use. This approach aligns with our core values, fostering a closer connection with our customers by involving them directly in the making of our clean beauty products.

For items like shampoos, conditioners, based  we integrate scientific advancements to enhance their effectiveness, while maintaining the natural, handcrafted essence that defines Kanafrik. This balance of tradition, innovation, and environmental consciousness lets us uphold the highest standards of quality and sustainability. By blending these elements, Kanafrik stands out as a brand dedicated to wellness for people and the planet, delivering products that are as impactful as they are meaningful.

You have been recognized  globally for your work empowering women and girls, including by the UN. How does your mission to support women and girls intersect with Kanafrik’s business goals?

 I truly love this question because it brings me back to my beginnings, my “why,” and my passion for empowering women and girls. Human rights and dignity have always been core motivators in my journey, and I began my first company as a nonprofit, There Is No Limit Foundation, to empower women, girls, and their communities. This commitment to empowerment has remained a guiding principle in all my endeavors. I often say that a business focused solely on profit is missing a vital purpose, and Kanafrik embodies this belief by integrating empowerment directly into its model.

With Kanafrik, we prioritize working with women producers and local farmers, sourcing ingredients like cacao butter and other essentials. When Kanafrik was founded, I made a personal investment in a women’s shea butter collective, as supporting women’s economic empowerment has always been central to my values. Moving forward, as Kanafrik is now establishing its base in New York, we’ll continue collaborating with local farmers in the USA and Africa. This dual approach allows us to blend our empowerment and sustainability values into our communities, supporting local suppliers in both regions while reducing our carbon footprint. Through this, we’re advancing our vision of our  “farm-to-skin,” and “farm-to-table , steam to roots creating food and skincare that are healthy for people and good for our planet while creating opportunities for women and farmers across the globe as Kanafrik grows.

Can you share more about Kanafrik’s partnerships with local producers and artisans in Africa? How do these collaborations support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) you are passionate about?

Kanafrik’s partnerships are built on empowering women producers and local farmers. By sourcing our raw ingredients from them, we support their economic growth and provide our customers with quality, sustainable products. We also collaborate directly with artisans from Mariama Fashion Production, where I design the prints and accessories that my artisan partners transform into fabrics. These fabrics are used to create zero-waste products, such as Kanafrik’s popular green reusable totes, pouches, and cosmetic bags, along with our signature pillows and textiles, embodying Kanafrik’s commitment to sustainability and empowerment.

Moving forward with our new vision, Kanafrik will expand these partnerships to include producers in the United States as we establish our base in New York. This shift allows us to enhance our global impact, creating a balanced supply chain that honors African heritage while supporting local artisans, farmers, and women producers in the U.S., Africa, and wherever Kanafrik will operate in the future.

Our efforts align closely with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). By integrating U.S. producers and artisans alongside our African partners, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint, advocate for climate action (SDG 13), and promote a healthy lifestyle for consumers. Kanafrik’s “farm-to-skin” and “farm-to-table” steam to roots approach embodies our commitment to making a holistic impact on both people and the planet, upholding our new vision: “Wellness for you, Wellness for the planet.

You’ve been involved in projects like Designs 4 Unity and your Peace Collection for the UN. How do these global initiatives influence your work with Kanafrik?

 Designs 4 Unity and the Peace Collection are both deeply connected to my belief in empowerment, human rights, and global unity. Designs 4 Unity provides opportunities for global artists across fashion, beauty, art, and culture to come together to create. This initiative empowers not only one community but opens doors for a global impact, much like my vision for Kanafrik.

I have had the honor of working with the United Nations multiple times, including when I was invited as the designer for International Peace Day. For this event, I created the Peace Collection to carry a message of unity and peace, values I hold dear. This collection went beyond fashion; it symbolized the power of collaboration. For the first time, I brought together African artisans and Mexican artisans through Mazehual via Designs 4 Unity, showing that cross-cultural unity can drive positive change.

This experience translates directly to Kanafrik. As I work to bring Africa’s wellness culture to the world, I’m building bridges that empower communities and inspire inclusivity. Kanafrik isn’t just about products; it’s about fostering a connection between people and the planet, bringing a piece of Africa to the world that heals, nourishes, and empowers. Just as Designs 4 Unity and the Peace Collection were rooted in a mission of positive change, Kanafrik embodies a commitment to environmental sustainability and cultural respect, aligning with my lifelong passion for global impact.

As a founder, you wear many hats. What has been the most rewarding part of building Kanafrik so far, and what do you hope to achieve in the next five years?

Starting Kanafrik has been one of my proudest achievements, as it combines all my passions—beauty, fashion, empowerment, sustainability, and cultural heritage. Through Kanafrik new vision and direction I’m bringing Africa’s essence to the world by introducing the first African, globally-inspired, sustainable luxury zero-waste lifestyle brand, promoting wellness for people and our planet. Kanafrik will also be  the world’s first fully zero-waste brand that combines clean beauty, food, coffee shops, spa, and hospitality with cultural touches, all fully focused on sustainability.

In the next five years, I see Kanafrik expanding beyond the boundaries of a store into a global movement that addresses the urgent need for sustainable, health-focused living. My vision includes establishing a flagship Kanafrik Zero Waste Store, launching Kanafrik Zero Waste Epicerie, Kanafrik Zero Waste Coffee Shops, and Kanafrik Zero Waste Spa wellness services, as well as introducing sustainable food trucks under the Kanafrik Zero Waste brand that carry our values. Additionally, in the next phase, Kanafrik will develop into hospitality with a vision to deliver a fully immersive zero-waste experience, combining African culture, wellness, and sustainable living. Kanafrik will inspire people worldwide to live healthier, more sustainable lives, setting a new industry standard while honoring Africa’s beauty and cultural wealth.

How do you see the future of the sustainable beauty and wellness industry evolving, especially in terms of the integration of African heritage and modern sustainability practices?

I am hopeful for the future of sustainable beauty and wellness, as I know that startups like Kanafrik will contribute significantly to this impact and drive global change. People are increasingly craving access to foods, cosmetics, and environments that are healthy and transparent. Currently, the beauty and food industries are filled with chemicals and harmful ingredients, and there is no place that fully delivers the experience Kanafrik offers—wellness for both people and the planet. We are introducing the world’s first sustainable zero-waste shopping experience. I believe this will set a high bar for others to follow, and the new generation is demanding this transparency in what they eat and use.

Regardless of Kanafrik’s African inspiration, it caters to everyone as an inclusive brand, with a special section in our store dedicated to the world, called Kanafrik Kulture. We’re combining African heritage with modern sustainability practices, creating an experience that invites everyone to connect with our unique vision of wellness for people and the planet.

Your store is Africa’s first sustainable zero-waste store. Can you walk us through what a typical shopping experience is like for someone visiting Kanafrik?

At Kanafrik, shopping has always been an immersive experience that goes beyond a simple transaction. When customers enter, they step into a world crafted specifically for them, filled with unique touches and an environment where every element reflects our vision, sustainability, and cultural authenticity. From the store’s scent to the visual display of natural ingredients and the textures of my signature decor, the store embodies a harmonious blend of African heritage with authentic yet minimalist modern sustainability.

Customers can see and feel the raw ingredients used in our products, including Kanafrik’s popular, large shea butter display in African cooking pots—a signature activity that invites exploration. In our new vision, we’re creating even more experiences, educating customers on what goes into their skincare and the positive impact of their shopping choices on the planet. We’ll have new interactive stations like our “farm-to-skin” bar, where skincare chefs and specialists guide customers through custom beauty creations made from fresh, organic ingredients. In the future, our zero-waste kitchen will offer a “steam-to-roots” experience that highlights African-inspired, plant-based dishes and superfoods, creating a sensory journey aligned with our zero-waste and wellness principles.

The atmosphere is enhanced with music, art, and textiles designed by me and Mariama Fashion Production artisans, showcasing the artistry of African craftsmanship with minimalist and modern contemporary designs. This visual and sensory experience, along with the transparency and quality of our products, helps customers connect deeply with what they purchase and inspires them to embrace a sustainable, planet-first lifestyle.

Kanafrik’s products draw inspiration from African botanical treasures and beauty rituals. How do you ensure the authenticity and sustainability of the ingredients you source from across the continent?

 We’ve developed a thoughtful approach to sourcing that honors the authenticity of African botanical treasures while upholding sustainable practices.

Africa is one of the few places where nature remains largely unspoiled. Many of the key ingredients we use come from ancient trees, revered as “trees of life,” such as the baobab, shea, and kinkeliba, while others like moringa grow naturally in the wild. Each ingredient in Kanafrik products is carefully selected, not only for its heritage and effectiveness but also for its alignment with our core values. We partner directly with trusted women-led cooperatives and local farmers in Africa who practice sustainable farming and harvesting techniques. Through these partnerships, we gain full transparency into the sourcing process, allowing us to verify the quality and purity of each ingredient from origin to application. Additionally, we test raw ingredients in the laboratory to ensure that they retain all nutrients and benefits, like our A-grade shea butter, which is chosen specifically to nourish and enrich the body.

Our collaboration with Mariama Fashion Production artisans also enables us to integrate authentic craftsmanship into our brand. In our new vision, we are committed to continuing this emphasis—whether through materials used in our packaging or design elements in our store. This dedication ensures that our products truly reflect our heritage while making a positive impact both locally and globally, supporting the communities where our ingredients are rooted.

The beauty and wellness industry has traditionally been less focused on sustainability. What challenges did you face when entering this market with a sustainable and clean beauty focus?

Entering the beauty and wellness industry with a sustainable focus came with challenges, but these became opportunities that shaped Kanafrik’s distinct value. Competing with fast production and established brands on price was tough, yet our dedication to quality, authenticity, and strong brand values helped us stand out. Customers quickly fell in love with our products and immersive experiences, which offered a transparency and cultural richness rarely seen, filling a unique gap in the market.

Another challenge was sourcing sustainable, high-quality packaging in Africa. We took a hands-on approach, working directly with women-led cooperatives and local farmers to ensure ethical practices and ingredient authenticity, while navigating limited sustainable packaging options and making use of what was available. Additionally, launching our brand during COVID confinement posed significant obstacles, but thriving in that period proved the value and future potential of brands like ours. Educating our consumers about the long-term health and environmental benefits of our products fostered trust and loyalty.

Ultimately, these challenges strengthened Kanafrik’s mission. Now, with our new vision and direction, our “farm-to-skin” and “farm-to-table” philosophies will bring consumers closer to the origins of their products, emphasizing a holistic approach that supports wellness for people and the planet. By transforming obstacles into opportunities, Kanafrik is a compelling choice for investors seeking sustainable, purpose-driven growth.

How do you see the future of the sustainable beauty and wellness industry evolving, especially in terms of the integration of African heritage and modern sustainability practices?

 I am optimistic about the future of the sustainable beauty and wellness industry, especially as more brands embrace transparency and prioritize health, authenticity, and environmental impact. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that they trust and understand, demanding clean ingredients and practices that respect both people and the planet.

Kanafrik is uniquely positioned to lead in this space by bringing Africa’s rich heritage into modern sustainability practices. With our emphasis on “Wellness for you, Wellness for the planet,” we’re pioneering an approach that doesn’t just follow trends but creates a standard for future brands to aspire to. We are the first African globally-inspired, zero-waste lifestyle brand combining clean beauty, food, coffee shops, spas, and hospitality—all centered on a sustainable, immersive experience.

In this evolving market, we believe that people will increasingly look for brands that foster a sense of cultural appreciation and authenticity. Kanafrik aims to meet that demand by offering an inclusive, global experience through our “Kanafrik Kulture” section, where customers can discover curated global wellness products alongside our African-inspired offerings. By blending African heritage with modern practices, we’re setting a new bar for the industry, one that aligns with a conscious lifestyle and encourages others to follow suit.

Finally, what advice would you offer to entrepreneurs looking to make a difference in the sustainable and clean beauty sector?

 When entering any sector, especially sustainable and clean beauty, it’s crucial to think beyond profits. Place people and the planet at the center of your purpose. Always ask yourself, “What value am I bringing to my community and to the world? What problem am I solving?” This mindset has guided me even when resources were limited, as my businesses were entirely self-funded.

I’m thrilled to be part of the Green Tech Festival’s Green Startup Slam, which offers me the opportunity to share my vision with global communities, build Kanafrik’s vision as it was meant to be, and raise awareness and funds for our mission. With Kanafrik, our mantra—“Wellness for you, Wellness for the planet”—drives every decision. For entrepreneurs, I believe that approaching business with integrity and a commitment to sustainability will resonate with both consumers and investors, creating a foundation for meaningful and lasting impact.

Credit: Kanafrik

Thank you Mariama Camara for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

How AI is Transforming Radiology: Can It Redefine Diagnosis?

By
StartupValley
-
0
contextflow Markus Holzer, CEO and Co-Founder of contextflow

From Research to Radiology: How contextflow is Pioneering AI Solutions for Medical Imaging

Could you briefly introduce contextflow and the team behind it, and tell us what inspired you to start the company?

contextflow is a company I co-founded in Vienna with a mission to transform radiology workflows using artificial intelligence. Our flagship product, ADVANCE Chest CT, is designed to assist radiologists in analysing chest CT scans, especially for complex conditions like lung cancer, interstitial lung disease (ILD), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). ADVANCE Chest CT integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, providing both quantitative and qualitative insights that allow radiologists to make faster, more accurate diagnoses.

The team behind contextflow brings decades of expertise in medical imaging, AI, and healthcare innovation:

I’m Markus Holzer, CEO, with a background in Computer Science and Innovation Management from the Vienna University of Technology. My focus is on guiding contextflow’s strategic direction and ensuring our solutions meet real clinical needs.

Georg Langs, our Chief Scientist, is a Professor at the Medical University of Vienna and a research affiliate at MIT’s prestigious CSAIL (Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory). Georg leads the technical and scientific vision at contextflow, drawing on deep expertise in imaging analysis.

Allan Hanbury, a Professor of Data Intelligence at the Vienna University of Technology, has coordinated major EU-funded AI projects, bringing invaluable experience in data science and medical informatics to the team.

Marcel Wassink, our Chief Commercial Officer, is a seasoned executive who built Philips’ speech recognition business, which was later acquired by Nuance and ultimately by Microsoft. Marcel drives our sales and partnership strategies, leveraging his extensive experience in scaling businesses within the healthcare sector.

The idea for contextflow was inspired by our work on the EU-funded KHRESMOI project, where we experienced the challenges radiologists face daily: growing workloads, specialist shortages, and increasingly complex cases. We saw an opportunity to bring advanced AI from research into clinical practice, supporting radiologists with tools that help make their jobs a bit easier and diagnoses more precise, ultimately benefiting patients with faster, more reliable results

What is the vision behind contextflow, and how do you plan to achieve it in the next few years?

With a focus on chest CT imaging for conditions like lung cancer, ILD, and COPD, contextflow aims to equip radiologists with AI tools that increase diagnostic accuracy, efficiency, and confidence. Our goal is to make radiology workflows more effective and allow radiologists to concentrate on providing high-quality patient care by reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks.

We have recently shifted our focus to securing reimbursement in Europe, starting with lung cancer. Achieving this milestone will be key to making our technology widely accessible and to supporting radiologists in identifying and managing lung cancer cases more effectively. By demonstrating the clinical and economic value of our tools, we aim to ensure that hospitals and healthcare providers see both cost savings and improved patient outcomes with contextflow’s solutions.

Who is your primary target audience, and how do you ensure that their specific needs are met with your solutions?

Our primary target audience includes radiologists and radiology departments, particularly those managing high volumes of chest CT cases, as well as healthcare administrators focused on cost-effectiveness and improved patient outcomes. Additionally, we work closely with PACS vendors and hospital IT teams to ensure smooth integration into existing workflows.

To address the specific needs of radiologists, we design our AI tools to support their daily routines by reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks and improving diagnostic accuracy for challenging cases like lung cancer, ILD, and COPD. We collaborate directly with radiologists during the development process, gathering continuous feedback to refine and adapt our solutions so they’re clinically relevant and intuitive. Our focus on demonstrating the clinical and economic value of our tools is also central to our efforts to secure reimbursement, which will make contextflow more accessible and impactful in European hospitals.

For healthcare payers, we emphasise the cost savings our solutions can bring, as our tools help radiologists diagnose more quickly and reduce the likelihood of costly follow-up procedures. By partnering closely with radiologists, hospital IT, and administrative stakeholders, we ensure our solutions are both effective and aligned with the operational needs of modern healthcare facilities.

What are some of the key challenges you have encountered in the healthtech or medtech industry, and how has contextflow managed to overcome them?

One of the key challenges in the healthtech industry is the complexity of integrating new AI technologies into existing clinical workflows. Hospitals often operate with different PACS systems, each with unique configurations and requirements, which can make seamless integration a significant hurdle. At contextflow, we address this by working closely with PACS vendors and hospital IT teams to ensure our solutions fit naturally into radiologists’ daily routines without disrupting their workflow.

Another major challenge is demonstrating the clinical and economic value of AI tools in healthcare. Health systems are often cautious about adopting new technologies unless there’s a clear benefit to both patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness. To address this, we conduct rigorous clinical studies and gather real-world data to validate the effectiveness of our AI tools, focusing specifically on measurable benefits like time savings and diagnostic accuracy improvements. This data not only helps radiologists but also supports our efforts to secure reimbursement in Europe, which is a critical focus for us in the coming years.

Finally, the regulatory landscape in healthtech can be challenging, with rigorous standards to ensure patient safety. contextflow has achieved CE certification for our ADVANCE Chest CT under Europe’s new MDR framework, which required substantial investment in quality management and compliance processes. By meeting these high standards, we demonstrate our commitment to safety and efficacy, which is crucial for building trust among healthcare providers and patients alike.

In a highly competitive market, what makes contextflow stand out from other companies in the field?

What makes contextflow stand out in the competitive AI radiology market is our comprehensive approach to chest CT imaging and our commitment to making a real impact on radiologists’ workflows. Our flagship product, ADVANCE Chest CT, isn’t just about detecting a single disease; it provides radiologists with comprehensive support for multiple conditions, including lung cancer, ILD, and COPD. By covering a range of findings in one tool, we help ensure radiologists don’t miss any crucial details within a scan, which sets us apart from many solutions that focus narrowly on one or two patterns.

Workflow integration is another important differentiator. We know that radiologists don’t have time for interruptions or complex new systems. That’s why our solution is designed to fit seamlessly into their existing PACS, allowing them to access AI insights without changing their usual routine. This smooth integration makes our technology not only easier to adopt but also genuinely valuable in everyday practice.

We have also put a lot of effort into making our technology transparent and trustworthy. Our AI is designed to explain its findings, so radiologists can see how results are generated and have confidence in what the tool presents. This is a major factor for adoption in clinical environments, where transparency is crucial.

Clinical validation has also been a key focus.

We’ve conducted extensive studies and partnered with leading medical institutions to ensure our tools deliver real value in a clinical setting. This evidence-based approach demonstrates the effectiveness of our solutions, which supports our goal to secure reimbursement in Europe, starting with lung cancer.

Ultimately, by combining comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, easy integration, transparency, and a clear focus on reimbursement and clinical impact, contextflow brings unique value to radiology departments that is unmatched in the market. We’re here to support radiologists in their work, not replace them, and that’s a mission we stand firmly behind.​

Can you share any exciting developments or new features that contextflow is planning to introduce in the near future?

We’re excited to share some recently released and upcoming developments at contextflow aimed at enhancing radiologists’ workflows and improving patient outcomes:

Malignancy Scoring Integration: We’ve incorporated a malignancy Similarity Index (mSI) into ADVANCE Chest CT. This feature analyses lung nodules for malignancy, assisting in early cancer detection and reducing unnecessary procedures. In clinical studies, the mSI has been shown to detect cancer up to one year sooner while reducing false positives.

TIMELINE Feature for Nodule Tracking: Our TIMELINE feature allows radiologists to visualize and quantify changes in lung nodules over time, facilitating efficient follow-up assessments and treatment planning.

Incidental Pulmonary Embolism Detection: We are introducing an incidental Pulmonary Embolism (PE) feature, designed to alert radiologists to potential cases of PE that may otherwise go undetected. This feature will help radiologists identify PEs in chest CT scans where the primary focus might be elsewhere, ensuring that critical findings are not overlooked.

Focus on Reimbursement: We’re actively pursuing reimbursement approvals in Europe, starting with lung cancer applications. Securing reimbursement is pivotal for making our technology accessible to a broader range of healthcare providers and patients, thereby amplifying its impact.

What role does artificial intelligence play in your technology, and how do you see its future within the medical sector?

Artificial intelligence is at the core of contextflow’s technology. Our AI-driven tools analyse and interpret chest CT images, detecting complex patterns associated with conditions like lung cancer, ILD, and COPD. By automatically highlighting relevant findings and providing quantitative insights, AI helps radiologists make faster, more accurate decisions, reducing the likelihood of missed diagnoses and allowing them to focus on high-quality patient care.

AI’s role is not to replace radiologists but to support them by handling repetitive tasks, providing contextual information, and identifying subtle patterns that might otherwise be missed. For example, our AI doesn’t just detect a lung nodule; it tracks changes over time and offers insights on malignancy likelihood, which can be critical in early cancer detection and treatment planning.

In the future, I see AI playing an even larger role in the medical sector as its capabilities expand to cover more imaging modalities and other areas of healthcare. AI will likely be instrumental in helping healthcare systems manage increasing workloads, ensuring diagnostic consistency, and potentially identifying new biomarkers that advance medical research. As AI becomes more integrated and accepted, I envision it as a critical partner for healthcare providers, supporting them in achieving better outcomes while maintaining a human-centered approach to medicine.

Building a startup is not easy—what are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learnt along the way?

Building contextflow has been an incredible journey, filled with both challenges and rewarding lessons. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learnt is the importance of focus and  prioritisation. In a startup, resources are often limited, and there are countless directions you could go. It’s essential to stay clear on your mission and prioritise initiatives that drive real value for users. For us, that has meant focusing on building solutions that genuinely improve radiologists’ workflows and patient outcomes.

Another key lesson is the importance of building strong relationships and partnerships. From day one, we’ve collaborated closely with radiologists, PACS vendors, and hospital IT departments to ensure our tools are effective and seamlessly integrate into existing workflows. Listening to feedback from end users has been invaluable, as it allows us to continuously adapt and refine our solutions based on real clinical needs.

Adaptability is also crucial. The healthcare and regulatory landscapes are constantly evolving, and being able to adjust quickly to changes in technology, compliance requirements, or market dynamics has been critical to our growth. For example, our recent focus on securing reimbursement for lung cancer in Europe reflects our adaptability to meet both clinical and economic needs.

Lastly, I’ve learnt the importance of having a mission-driven team. Surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision and are passionate about making a difference is essential for long-term success. Our team’s dedication to improving healthcare through AI has kept us moving forward, even when things get tough.

For other aspiring entrepreneurs, what are three essential pieces of advice you would give when starting a company in the tech or healthcare space?

For anyone looking to start a company in the tech or healthcare space, here are three key pieces of advice I’d offer based on my experience with contextflow:

Understand the Problem Deeply: Before diving into solutions, spend time understanding the pain points of your end users. In healthcare, this means working closely with professionals on the ground, whether they’re doctors, administrators, or IT staff. At contextflow, our close collaboration with radiologists has been invaluable in developing tools that actually solve real-world challenges.

Navigate the Regulatory Landscape Early: Healthcare is a highly regulated industry, and compliance requirements can be a significant barrier if not addressed from the start. Research the regulatory landscape early and build these considerations into your development process. This will save time and resources down the road and ensure that your product is safe, effective, and meets industry standards. Achieving CE certification for ADVANCE Chest CT was a crucial milestone for us, and having regulatory insights from the start made that process smoother.

Build a Mission-Driven Team: In the healthcare sector especially, the work can be challenging and progress may feel slow at times. Surround yourself with people who believe in your mission and are passionate about making a difference. A dedicated, resilient team is essential for tackling the unique challenges of healthcare and keeping you motivated through the ups and downs.

Starting a company in healthcare can be complex, but if you keep your mission clear, stay focused on real clinical needs, and build a strong, committed team, the journey can be incredibly rewarding.

How does contextflow address the evolving demands of radiologists, and what feedback have you received from your users so far?

At contextflow, we prioritise understanding and addressing the evolving needs of radiologists. Our flagship product, ADVANCE Chest CT, is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows, providing comprehensive support for conditions like lung cancer, interstitial lung disease (ILD), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By automating repetitive tasks and offering quantitative insights, we enable radiologists to focus more on patient care.

User feedback has been instrumental in refining our solutions. Radiologists have expressed appreciation for features like the TIMELINE view, which facilitates efficient follow-up imaging analysis. Dr. Gerlig Widmann, Managing Senior Physician at the University Department of Radiology at the Medical University of Innsbruck, highlighted the value of this feature in clinical practice, noting its utility in analysing follow-up scans.

Additionally, our focus on transparency and integration has been well received. Jacob Visser, Chief Medical Information Officer & Head of Imaging IT and Value-Based Imaging at Erasmus MC, emphasised the importance of contextflow’s transparent approach compared to other AI solutions, appreciating its design that supports workflow while leaving final decisions to the radiologist.

By continuously engaging with radiologists and incorporating their feedback, we ensure that our tools evolve in line with their needs, ultimately enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.

What are your thoughts on the future of AI in healthcare, and how do you think it will change the industry over the next decade?

I believe the future of AI in healthcare is incredibly promising, with the potential to transform nearly every aspect of the industry. In the next decade, I expect AI to play a pivotal role in helping healthcare providers manage the growing complexity and volume of medical data, improve diagnostic accuracy, and ultimately provide more personalised patient care.

In radiology specifically, AI will continue to evolve from being a supportive tool to a highly integrated, essential component of diagnostic workflows. AI-powered tools like ours will help radiologists focus on more complex cases by automating repetitive tasks and providing insights that may be challenging to detect with the human eye alone. Over time, as AI systems become more advanced and gain the trust of healthcare professionals, they could even identify new biomarkers, contributing to earlier detection and new treatment pathways.

Beyond radiology, AI’s ability to analyse large-scale data could enable truly personalised medicine, where patient care is tailored based on specific health profiles and predicted responses to treatments. I also foresee AI becoming crucial in preventive care, helping predict patient risk factors and enabling earlier intervention to prevent diseases before they progress.

Of course, for AI to reach its full potential, the industry will need to address challenges such as regulatory standards, data privacy, and ensuring that AI remains a transparent, trustable tool for clinicians. But with the right focus, AI has the potential to make healthcare more effective, accessible, and patient-centred over the coming decade.

How do you maintain a balance between innovation and regulatory compliance in the medtech sector, especially as you continue to grow?

Balancing innovation with regulatory compliance is essential in the medtech sector, particularly as we scale. At contextflow, we see compliance not as a barrier but as a guiding framework that ensures our solutions are safe, reliable, and effective. We incorporate regulatory requirements from the very start of our development process, which allows us to innovate within a structured and compliant framework.

Our approach to maintaining this balance involves building strong internal processes for quality management and working closely with regulatory experts to keep up-to-date with evolving standards. For instance, achieving CE certification for ADVANCE Chest CT under Europe’s MDR framework was a critical milestone for us. By embedding compliance into our product lifecycle, we can continue to develop new features and expand our offerings without compromising on patient safety or quality.

As we grow, we also prioritise transparency and collaboration with healthcare providers and regulatory bodies. We make it a point to ensure our AI solutions remain explainable, so radiologists and healthcare institutions can trust the technology. This balance between pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and adhering to rigorous standards is central to our mission. It allows us to bring cutting-edge AI tools to radiology while staying aligned with the regulatory requirements that keep patients safe.

Bildcredits contextflow

Thank you Markus Holzer for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Are We Finally Solving the Data Access Problem for SaaS Startups?

By
StartupValley
-
0
Veriam Founder Jeroen de Bruijn

Veriam, a company specializing in secure access and subscription management solutions, is redefining how SaaS startups handle data access, billing, and identity management

What inspired the founding of Veriam, and could you tell us more about the people behind the company?

Veriam was founded by Martijn Kaag, Raymond Roelands, and myself. We were motivated by the need for accurate, reliable metrics necessary to build a sustainable society. We founded a company with this purpose, Metrics Matter, but we quickly identified a critical gap—infrastructure for exchanging ESG data securely, and at scale within supply chains. Specifically, we found that fragmented authentication, authorisation, and subscription management systems were standing in the way of effective ESG data sharing. This was how Veriam came to be. 

With our combined experience in the industry, we were confident that we could create a better solution. Since starting Veriam in January of this year, we’ve been focused on developing a platform that integrates authentication and authorization with subscription, invoicing, payments, and licensing. 

It’s important to note that our platform’s value goes beyond ESG, bringing significant value to all SaaS providers looking to manage access and subscriptions for any type of cloud-hosted data or digital product. 

What vision does Veriam have for the future of secure identity and access management, and what steps are being taken to achieve this vision?

Veriam envisions a future where our access and subscription management platform facilitates the secure, easy exchange of data, helping businesses grow while giving users a single login for all products, subscriptions, and data across any organization using Veriam. 

As a Veriam user, managing your access and billing in one place with a single login speeds up onboarding, saves time, and reduces costs. This integrated approach can lead to significant savings across supply chains, with billions of euros in potential savings for service providers and their customers or partners.

The benefit of Veriam’s reusable login is driven by widespread use. This is why we’re adopting a growth model similar to platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, offering our access management feature for free to SaaS startups. Users can easily invite their customers or partners to join. As our platform expands, we will introduce premium services, generating revenue while remaining committed to our social mission. 

How does Veriam identify the needs of its primary audience, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, and tailor its offerings to meet those needs?

At Veriam, we focus on understanding the unique challenges that small and medium-sized SaaS providers face, especially when it comes to managing access and subscriptions with limited resources. We know that many traditional solutions can be costly and complex, so we’ve designed Veriam to be affordable, easy to use, and quick to set up. By offering a free access management feature, we’re enabling startups to securely manage user accounts without the high costs or complexity. We want to give smaller businesses the tools they need to succeed, no matter their size.

SaaS startups face extensive challenges in access management, particularly when integrating complex systems that often require significant custom code and time-consuming maintenance. Veriam addresses these challenges by offering a flexible, out-of-the-box SaaS solution that minimizes coding and setup effort, enabling easy integration with existing platforms. This reduces the workload on IT teams, accelerates deployment, and ensures robust, compliant access management without the usual integration hassles.

What differentiates Veriam’s platform from other identity and access management solutions on the market?

What sets Veriam apart from other identity and access management solutions is our unified approach that combines access and subscription management into a single platform. This design makes the user experience simple, allowing for quick setup and management. Users can log in once to access all their product subscriptions and data across any organization using Veriam, which enhances usability and integration.

We also help service providers by reducing integration code by 99%, making it much easier to implement our solution.

In what ways does Veriam’s solution specifically enable smaller organizations to manage security and access as efficiently as larger enterprises?

Our solution helps smaller organizations efficiently manage security and access by offering our access management feature for free. Unlike larger companies with the resources for complex systems, smaller businesses can leverage our platform without incurring high costs. Our platform is easy to use and quick to implement, making it an ideal solution for companies with limited resources.

We make the integration process simple, allowing users to set it up with fewer than 10 lines of code. This cuts the usual integration workload by 99%, enabling smaller organizations to adopt our solution quickly and focus on what they do best instead of dealing with complicated technical issues.

What are some of the biggest challenges the team has faced since launching, and how have these shaped Veriam’s approach or products?

One of the main challenges Veriam faces is creating a new market segment that doesn’t currently exist. We are competing against large, established organizations with significant user bases and valuations, which adds pressure to our efforts. Then, our approach involves targeting multiple verticals simultaneously, making our challenge more complex than if we were solely focused on identity and access management. 

How does Veriam envision its growth in the next few years, and are there any new features or expansions currently in development?

Our primary focus is on releasing the first fully integrated solution that combines identity and access management with subscription management, invoicing, payments, and licensing. This unique approach makes integration easier for users, allowing them to tap into all of these features with less than 10 lines of code.

We’re also working on integrating more third-party identity providers and enhancing data validation capabilities. Ultimately, the plan is to build a marketplace that allows customers to purchase software directly through our platform. Our main objective, however, is to make it easier for users to integrate their existing identities while allowing third-party providers to connect easily with our solution.

Identity and access management is set to expand as more services transition from on-premise to SaaS solutions, which will call for new methods to secure these environments. Similarly, subscription management is evolving, with traditional perpetual licenses giving way to on-demand solutions. 

We also see account reusability becoming increasingly important. We’ve already seen this shift in other areas where users log in with Google or Microsoft, instead of creating new credentials. Then, in payments, users have one PayPal account rather than sharing card details with each service provider. Proprietary accounts are likely to fade away. With our solution that combines identity management, access control, and subscription management, Veriam is well-positioned to lead in this evolving landscape.

What role does customer feedback play in Veriam’s ongoing development, and how is it integrated into product improvements?

Customer feedback is central to Veriam’s ongoing development. We actively collect insights from clients to understand their evolving access and subscription management needs and pain points. This feedback is systematically analyzed and prioritized, allowing us to make targeted product enhancements that improve functionality, ease of use, and integration. By aligning our development closely with customer input, Veriam ensures that our solutions continuously adapt to and address real-world challenges.

What are three key pieces of advice you would offer other founders who are just starting their entrepreneurial journey?

Create a balanced team: Surround yourself with people who complement your strengths and skills to build a strong foundation, whether they’re co-founders, executive team members, or initial employees. Trust and a clear division of responsibilities can make decision-making and execution significantly easier and faster.

Stay close to your customers: Early customer feedback is invaluable. Use it to validate and refine your product, and keep an open feedback loop to ensure your solution evolves with real customer needs.

Focus on sustainable growth: It’s easy to chase quick wins, but it’s important to prioritize building a scalable, resilient business model. Stay agile, but set clear goals and metrics to ensure your growth is both strategic and manageable.

Could you share some of the core values driving Veriam, and how these values shape the everyday work and decision-making processes within the company?

At Veriam, we focus on accessibility and sustainability as the backbone of our work. We want to make access and subscription management easy and affordable, especially for smaller organizations that often face resource limitations. This means developing tools that are straightforward to implement and use, so more businesses can handle security and data sharing without extensive setup.

Sustainability is central to our mission. A major driver of our solution is supporting global regulations on Scope 3 CO2 emissions, which require businesses to securely exchange CO2 data across their supply chains. Our platform is designed to provide a strong solution for this need.

Photographer Suzan Alberts

Thank you Jeroen de Bruijn for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

A 10-step guide to transform your ideas into stunning images

By
StartupValley
-
0
prompt
surreal nature background

How to write the perfect AI prompt

As text-to-image generative AI continues to gain momentum, the ability to craft effective prompts—concise, creative instructions for AI tools—is emerging as a key advantage for businesses looking to leverage AI for their visual content. While AI-generated images have opened new possibilities to create unique visuals, the difference between good and great often comes down to the tool but also – the prompt.  

Prompts are at the core of AI-driven creativity. The right prompt with the right tool can turn a simple idea into a powerful visual that truly captures your creative vision. It’s not just about what you want to see; it’s about understanding how to communicate that vision to the AI tool in a way that yields the best results and ultimately create the right image for what you need.

For the right project, AI-generated content offers SMBs and SMEs a way to unlock creative potential, streamline marketing efforts, and create time efficiencies. To unlock these benefits, here’s a 10-step guide to help anyone build compelling prompts and get the most out of text-to-image generative AI tools.

Step 1: Protect Your Creativity

First things first. Ensure that the generative AI tool you’re using produces images you can use in your marketing and advertising materials. This means, choosing a tool that is commercially safe and provides legal protection for your outputs. This safeguards you from creating something that may include elements that are legally protected. AI tools should amplify your creativity, not expose you to risk.

Step 2: Start with a Clear Vision

Begin by visualizing the scene you want to create. Think of a basic noun, verb, and setting/location, and then build out your prompt with adjectives and descriptive phrases. The clearer your initial concept, the better the AI tool will translate it into a compelling image. 

Step 3: Be Detailed and Specific 

Don’t hesitate to create longer, more descriptive, and complex prompts, generative AI thrives on detail. Approach your prompts as if you’re telling a story, using comma-separated keywords to enhance your narrative. Also, tools like iStock’s AI Generator, with its recent model updates, allow you to be incredibly detailed and see how your desired features come to life thanks to advanced upscaling and increased 4K generation capabilities. 

Step 4: Describe the Scene’s Environment

Mention the setting where the scene takes place. For example, if you want an outdoor scene, specify if it’s in a forest, on a beach, or in an urban environment. Also, consider where your vision is located; after all, a “forest” in Brazil is hardly the same as one in Washington state.

Step 5: Highlight Key Elements

Identify the main subjects or focal points of the image. If it’s a person, describe their appearance, clothing, and expression. For objects, focus on their size, shape, and placement. Experiment with language, even if you like the first image you generate. Try different words and phrases to see how they alter the outcome.

(Image credit: Created with Generative AI by iStock)

Step 6: Incorporate Emotions and Mood

Use aesthetic terms in your prompts to refine the overall look and feel of the image. Terms like “retro,” “sharpened,” or “monochrome” can guide the AI’s creative direction. Instructions like “vibrant colors,” “soft lighting,” or “moody atmosphere” can add a different style.  If you’re not sure which keywords to use, reference this extensive list of artistic keywords for AI image prompts. Also, consider adjusting parameters like color and mood filters to generate images with specific tones and feelings to align it to your vision. 

Step 7: Include Action or Dynamics

If the scene involves movement or interaction, describe what’s happening. This could be as simple as “a cat playing with a ball of yarn” or “a city bustling with people.” Descriptors like “future,” “vintage,” or “historical” can add layers of context to your output.

Step 8: Consider Perspective and Angle

Specify the viewpoint or angle from which the scene should be captured. This could be a bird’s-eye view, close-up, or wide shot, which influences the composition and framing.  Refine your image by using camera controls, distinguishing lens type or depth of field, including wide angle, telephoto, shallow, or deep, to create the look of an image captured by a camera.

Step 9: Review, Refine and Iterate

Before finalizing your prompt, review it for any ambiguity or missing details. Use AI’s modification tools to tweak the visual further.  You can add, replace, or remove elements from an image or expand or reduce the image ratio to fit the format you need. Even, when you are fully satisfied with an image, explore variations of that image and keep the active prompt text handy for future reference. Keep experimenting and iterating with your favorite prompts and other elements to spark fresh, bold ideas. 

Step 10: Prioritize Authenticity

While AI tools offer incredible creative possibilities, it’s important to be authentic to your audience. iStock’s VisualGPS report revealed that a striking 87% of Britons want to know if an image is AI-generated. Consider if you need to label AI-generated content — particularly when generating people or showing a real product — as consumers value transparency and appreciate knowing the origin of the images they interact with. This helps you build trust and credibility. 

With this guide, SMBs, SMEs and AI enthusiasts are now equipped to prompt more effectively, harnessing the power of generative AI tools to produce high-quality, impactful marketing visuals. 

Mainpicture: Credit_istock-Vizerskaya

Pictures: istock pictures

By Bill Bon, Senior Director of Creative Operations at iStock

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Reimagining a Classic: The Ongoing Evolution of 2048

By
StartupValley
-
0
Gabriele Cirulli founder 2048

2048, a developer of addictive puzzle games, is capturing the attention of casual and hardcore gamers alike with its latest release.

How did the idea for 2048 first come about, and what inspired you to create it as a weekend project?

I built 2048 in a weekend, just for fun. At the time, I was obsessed with two similar games, 1024! and 2048 by Saming. While both games shared similarities with my version of 2048, I wanted to put my own spin on it by creating a version with a different color scheme and better animations. To be honest, it was mainly meant as a test of my skills.

What is the vision for 2048 as you celebrate this decade milestone, and how do you plan to achieve it in the coming years?

I want to keep 2048 true to its core while modernizing it to stay engaging for both new and longtime players, young and old. The first step in this process was introducing power-ups, which allow players to develop new strategies and provide a boost when facing the game’s challenges. For example, one of the power-ups is the highly requested ‘Undo’ feature, which lets players correct mistakes and refine their strategy. Moving forward, I aim to keep adding features that make the game as fun and dynamic as possible. Some ideas I’m exploring include leaderboards, multiplayer modes, and even more types of power-ups

With 2048 being such a widely recognized game, who would you say is your core audience, and how do you ensure that the new version continues to meet their needs?

2048 is enjoyed by a diverse range of players, both young and old. Interestingly, younger individuals who weren’t around when the game first launched are now discovering it. My version of 2048 aims to target casual players while also providing opportunities for more hardcore gamers. The goal is to create a fun and effortless experience that allows people to enjoy themselves and take a break from their daily routines.

What were some of the main challenges you faced when initially launching 2048, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge with the initial launch of 2048 was its sudden popularity, which took me completely off guard. The hardest part was managing my emotions and stress related to the unexpected success and figuring out how to stay on top of it all. I believe I navigated the situation reasonably well, although there are a few things I would approach differently in hindsight. However, I have no regrets about the experience.

In what ways does the new 2048 edition stand out from the original game, and what are some of the unique features that players can look forward to?

My goal was to honor the original game by preserving its essence in this new version. I felt the original was beginning to show its age, and I wanted to create a more timeless experience for players. This involved refreshing its look and feel by improving the animations and design. Eventually, the idea to add power-ups came about, becoming an integral part of the game. These power-ups allow players to do much more and tackle challenges that were previously difficult to overcome. However, for those who prefer a more challenging experience, a ‘Classic’ mode without power-ups is still available

How did you approach the decision to release a special version of 2048 for Amazon Prime members, and what benefits does it offer to players?

2048 Plus for Amazon Prime members is a special version of the game that includes three additional power-ups beyond those offered in the standard version. When the opportunity came about to provide this exclusive experience for Prime members, similar to what other games in this space do, I thought it would be great to infuse it with elements of exclusivity, such as a distinct dark board design and unique power-ups. The idea behind this version is to give players more enjoyable tools to work with, lifting some of the game’s constraints and allowing for greater creativity in gameplay.

Considering the evolving mobile gaming landscape, what do you see as the biggest challenge for 2048 moving forward, and how do you plan to address it?

I consider my version of 2048 primarily a web game rather than a mobile game, even though there are standalone mobile apps published by my partner, Solebon. While I am not deeply immersed in the mobile gaming landscape, my goal was to ensure that this version of 2048 works well on mobile devices for users who want to play on the go. One trend I’ve noticed in mobile gaming is how cheap and ad-ridden some experiences feel. Many mobile games are heavily advertised online, yet the ads often misrepresent the actual game, requiring players to watch numerous ads and make in-app purchases to enjoy the game. My version of 2048 is ad-supported as well, but I want to move toward a fairer model where ads support the site without obstructing gameplay, and any future paid offerings I create provide genuine value for money rather than gatekeeping core game features.

What do you think sets 2048 apart from other puzzle games, and how has it maintained its appeal over the years?

I’ve never fully understood the formula behind 2048’s popularity, but I believe it lies in its accessibility—players can simply browse a website to start playing—and its addictive nature once they understand how to play. The game doesn’t allow for easy wins, which encourages many players to keep coming back for more.

Are there any specific future developments or new gameplay elements that you’re particularly excited about introducing to 2048 fans?

In the upcoming period, I’ll be focusing on improving the quality of the version I’ve just released, addressing bug fixes and implementing minor enhancements like dark mode and different animation options for those who prefer less motion. As for the long term, I’ve been considering features such as leaderboards and multiplayer options. However, there’s no telling when I’ll be able to develop these, as I’m a one-person team, and such features can take a lot of time to implement. But those are the ideas I’ve been contemplating!

For those interested in launching their own game or startup, what are three key pieces of advice you would offer based on your experience with 2048?

I’m not an expert in these areas, so I’ll share the things I’m working on improving myself

  1. Engage with people or allow them to use your product as early as possible before spending months building something that might not work.
  2. Remember that done is better than perfect. Don’t waste time polishing something if you’re unsure it will be effective (as mentioned in point 1).
  3. When people give you negative feedback, especially if it’s emotionally charged, try to look beyond the emotional language and understand what they’re trying to convey. Don’t take it personally. Often, if someone expresses strong negativity about something you’ve done, it’s because they genuinely care—either about you or about what you’ve built. Acknowledge their concerns, but try not to let their words affect you emotionally

How has your perspective on 2048 changed since its inception, and what personal goals do you have for the game and its community moving forward?

Early in 2048’s life, I distanced myself from it due to the stress it caused me, which I had not fully processed. Over the past few years, I’ve been able to reconnect with it and eventually quit my job to work on it full-time. I want 2048 to remain an engaging game by adding new features while preserving its core mechanics. At the same time, I aim to make it sustainable for myself to continue working on the game full-time, but I refuse to do so by introducing cheap purchases or increasing the number of ads. If I decide to add paid features in the future, I will ensure that they are implemented thoughtfully and do not hinder those who wish to enjoy the game for free from having a complete experience.

Picture @private

Thank you Gabriele Cirulli for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

What You Need to Know About Ethereum: How It Differs from Bitcoin

By
StartupValley
-
0
Ethereum: How It Differs from Bitcoin

Ethereum is often mentioned in the same breath as Bitcoin, but the two cryptocurrencies have significant differences in their function and intended purposes. While Bitcoin is primarily viewed as digital gold or a store of value, Ethereum is the foundation for an entire ecosystem of decentralised applications (dApps) and smart contracts. At DiviCoins, our experts frequently share insights into cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, helping users understand its unique features and how it fits into the broader crypto landscape. In this article, we’ll explore how Ethereum functions, how it differs from Bitcoin, and some lesser-known facts that make Ethereum a key player in the crypto world.

Key Differences Between Ethereum and Bitcoin

While both Bitcoin and Ethereum are built on blockchain technology, their design and purpose set them apart in several ways:

Purpose: Bitcoin was designed as a peer-to-peer payment system and a decentralised alternative to traditional currencies. Its main goal is to be a store of value, much like gold. On the other hand, Ethereum is a decentralised platform that enables developers to build and deploy smart contracts and decentralised applications. Bitcoin is money, while Ethereum is a programmable network for various blockchain-based applications.

Blockchain: Bitcoin and Ethereum run on blockchain technology, but Ethereum’s blockchain is more advanced and flexible. Ethereum’s blockchain not only records transactions like Bitcoin but also supports smart contracts—self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. This allows complex decentralised applications to run on Ethereum’s network, enabling use cases beyond just currency exchange.

Supply: Bitcoin has a fixed supply of 21 million coins, making it a deflationary asset. This scarcity is one of the reasons Bitcoin is often compared to gold. Ethereum, however, does not have a capped supply. Its inflationary model is designed to encourage the continued development of its platform, although updates to the protocol are working to reduce its inflation rate over time.

Mining and Consensus Mechanism: While both cryptocurrencies used Proof-of-Work (PoW) for mining, Ethereum is transitioning to a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) model with Ethereum 2.0. This shift aims to make the network more energy-efficient by allowing users to “stake” their coins to help validate transactions, as opposed to the energy-intensive mining process used by Bitcoin. DiviCoins experts highlight that Ethereum’s move to PoS is a significant step toward making the network more sustainable.

How Ethereum Functions

Ethereum’s blockchain operates as a decentralised, global computer where applications run without downtime, fraud, or interference from a third party. Here’s how it works:

Smart Contracts: One of the most innovative features of Ethereum is the smart contract. These are self-executing agreements coded directly into the blockchain. Once conditions are met, the contract executes automatically. For example, a smart contract could automatically release funds when goods are delivered without the need for intermediaries like banks or lawyers. DiviCoins experts emphasise that Ethereum’s ability to support smart contracts is one of the key reasons for its rapid growth.

dApps (Decentralised Applications): Ethereum is the foundation for thousands of decentralised applications, or dApps. These applications run on Ethereum’s blockchain and offer services in various industries, from finance to gaming. Because these apps run on a decentralised network, they resist censorship and central authorities’ control.

Ether (ETH): While Bitcoin’s primary function is to serve as a currency, Ethereum’s native token, Ether (ETH), has multiple uses within its ecosystem. It is used to pay for transactions and power dApps, and compensate miners or validators for their work. You can easily buy ETH for various needs through platforms like DiviCoins, allowing you to interact with the Ethereum network and its many applications.

Lesser-Known Facts About Ethereum

While Ethereum is widely known as the second-largest cryptocurrency, there are several interesting facts that many users may not be aware of:

Turing-Complete Language: Ethereum is Turing-complete, meaning it can run any computational task, given enough time and resources. This flexibility allows developers to build almost any application on the Ethereum network, something Bitcoin’s more straightforward scripting language does not allow.

Ethereum 2.0: One of the most significant upgrades to Ethereum is the transition to Ethereum 2.0, which introduces Proof-of-Stake (PoS) and other scaling solutions like sharding. Sharding breaks the Ethereum blockchain into smaller parts, allowing more transactions to be processed simultaneously. This upgrade aims to reduce energy consumption and improve transaction throughput, addressing some of the scalability issues faced by the network.

Gas Fees: Every Ethereum action, whether sending ETH or running a smart contract, requires gas. And gas is a fee paid in ETH to incentivize miners or validators to process and confirm the transaction. Gas fees can spike during high demand, leading to costly transactions. Platforms like DiviCoins make it easy to acquire ETH, ensuring users have the necessary funds to cover gas fees when interacting with the network.

DeFi (Decentralised Finance): Ethereum is the backbone of the decentralised finance (DeFi) movement, which aims to recreate traditional financial services, like lending and borrowing, without intermediaries. DeFi applications built on Ethereum allow users to participate in various financial activities without relying on banks, opening up new possibilities for financial inclusion and innovation.

Ethereum’s Role in the Crypto Ecosystem

Ethereum’s flexible and programmable blockchain is a cornerstone of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. With its support for smart contracts and decentralised applications, Ethereum has extended the potential use cases of blockchain technology far beyond digital currency. Whether using ETH to power decentralised applications, participate in DeFi, or simply as a store of value, understanding how Ethereum works can help you get the most out of the platform.

At DiviCoins, users can easily purchase Ethereum (ETH) to interact with these applications or hold them for personal needs. As Ethereum continues to evolve and introduce upgrades like Ethereum 2.0, it remains a key player in shaping the future of decentralised technologies. When you no longer need your ETH, DiviCoins provides a straightforward way to sell it or exchange it for other cryptocurrencies.

Conclusion: Ethereum’s Future and How You Can Get Involved

Ethereum has proven to be much more than just a digital currency—it’s a platform for innovation driving decentralised technologies’ future. As its ecosystem grows and adapts, Ethereum’s role in finance, gaming, and supply chain management is expected to expand. If you’re interested in being part of Ethereum’s journey, platforms like DiviCoins make it easy to purchase ETH and join the broader crypto industry. Whether you’re using Ethereum for its dApps or smart contracts or simply exploring its potential as a digital asset, understanding how it works is crucial to maximising its value.

Picture Gerd Altmann for pixabay

Author: Aleks Souschuk

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Generative AI imagery for SEO: How can SMBs use it?

By
StartupValley
-
0
AI imagery for SEO credit istock overearth

SEO is arguably one of the most important skills for SMEs to learn. It improves your web authority around subjects your audience is searching for, which can boost organic traffic by increasing your site ranking on search engines. But what people often forget is that using high-quality images and videos is essential in getting your content in front of potential customers. 

According to iStock’s VisualGPS research, 60% of small businesses globally create and source their own content. One of the ways they are now doing this is through generative AI, as it allows users to create unique and engaging content in a way that saves time and money. But as a small business that is getting to grips with how AI imagery can be used in marketing, you might be asking yourself – how can I use AI-generated imagery for SEO?

Where do I start with using generative AI imagery for SEO?

AI imagery can be used in the same way as any stock image to enhance SEO. An important step to take before choosing an AI tool is to make sure that it produces images that can be used on your website. This means selecting a commercially safe tool that provides legal protection for your outputs. It safeguards you from producing content that may include elements that are legally protected, such as known people (celebrities, sportspeople), known places (travel destinations) or works of art. AI-generated imagery should enhance your site’s user experience without putting your business at risk. 

Once the decision is made, crafting precise AI prompts is crucial. Start by visualising the scene you want to create and then build out your prompt with detailed and specific phrases. Remember, some tools have a word limit for prompts. The clearer the description, the better the AI tool will turn your prompt into a compelling image. 

Think about generating the image in different sizes so it can be optimised for different devices and formats – thumbnails, mobile, desktop and social media. For instance, if your hero image space is 500 px wide and 400 px high, avoid using a larger image and instead create an image that closely matches the intended dimensions.  

You can also mix AI and stock imagery to transform your website from unengaging to exciting. It has the same impact when used to update old content. Not only does AI allow you to create unlimited iterations from a prompt, but you can also utilise the technology in certain creative libraries to modify an existing stock image. 

How do I optimize the AI image for SEO?

You can apply traditional image SEO tactics to optimise your AI image. First start by adding alt text to the image. This can be done by using clear descriptions and relevant keywords – it will help search engines understand the relevancy of the image to the searches your audience is making. Your AI prompting skills will come in handy if you decide to use the technology to generate the alt text. 

Make sure that you include relevant keywords in the image’s URL on your website, compress the image at a file size optimized for search engines without sacrificing the image quality, and upload the image in a format readable to search engines – PNG, JPEG, GIF, WebP or AVIF (Google only). Using detailed Schema markup also guides search engines on the format, usage rights of the image, and what the image is showing. 

VisualGPS highlights a call for transparency when it comes to labelling images as AI-generated, as 87% of British people want to know if an image has been generated using AI. Consider indicating on your website, whether through an icon or a brief text snippet, that the image they are viewing is AI-generated to further build trust with your target audience. 

Adding optimised captions to AI images on a landing page can also improve contextual relevance. If you follow Google’s image guidelines, you can even drive some traffic from Google Images to your site.

How do I measure the performance of AI images?

iStock’s research shows that the biggest challenges for small businesses in Britain are profitability, finding new customers and competing with larger brands. This is why it’s important to test the effectiveness of your AI image by measuring the performance of your web page. 

Create a Page Group or Segment in Google Analytics (GA) to simply and efficiently check web performance and engagement metrics.  Add event and interaction tags to links underneath or around the AI image to get an idea of its impact on user engagement and create segments on GA for pages that contain AI imagery. Alternatively, you can use heat mapping and behaviour analytics tools such as Hotjar to monitor how users interact with the AI imagery on your website. 

Optimising generative AI imagery for SEO can enhance page load speed, improve user experience and contribute to better search engine rankings. It can make your site more discoverable to a wider audience. Your web page also benefits from unique images that no one else has, and it can be combined with stock imagery to make your page more appealing. All types of optimised images can be used in SEO and it is a crucial step in creating a fast, user-friendly and search-engine-friendly website. 

Picture: credit-iStock-Overearth

Author: Helen Pollitt, Head of SEO at iStock

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

Could this be the future of dairy as we know it?

By
StartupValley
-
0
DairyX CEO and founder Arik Ryvkin, PhD.

DairyX develops animal-free dairy proteins using advanced biotechnology to create sustainable, authentic dairy alternatives that replicate the taste and texture of traditional milk products

Could you start by giving us an introduction to DairyX and the people behind this innovative company?

Dr. Arik Ryvkin earned his PhD in biology and soon after joined the Israeli Ministry of Economy as the Director of FoodTech and Circular Economy. It was during this time that the idea for DairyX began to take shape. As a vegan at the time, Arik recognized that existing plant-based dairy alternatives often lacked the taste and functionality of traditional dairy products. This insight inspired him to seek a better solution.He delved into the history of animal-free dairy products, noting the establishment of a soy milk plant near Paris in 1910.

While companies in 2014 started making authentic whey milk proteins using significant biotechnological advances, Arik realized that the industry still hadn’t fully replicated the dairy experience. Some companies progressed by producing caseins and even casein micelles. In order to create firm, stretchy, and creamy products desired by the industry, the next crucial step was to develop caseins that self-assemble into gelating micelles—replicating the exact process used by cows.

With this vision, Arik founded DairyX in 2022.

He teamed up with Dr. Maya Bar-Zeev, who investigated casein micelles during her PhD under the supervision of Professor Yoav Livney—a world-renowned expert on the biochemical properties of milk proteins and now DairyX’s Chief Scientific Product Advisor. Maya’s deep understanding of casein micelles has been instrumental in developing smart caseins that self-assemble into micelles and gelate like those in cow’s milk.

The team also brought on board Galit Kuznets, who has extensive experience in managing fermentation processes from her previous work at Sigma Aldrich. She further honed her skills in developing microorganisms at Lavie Bio and Remilk. Galit is highly motivated by the technical challenge of creating caseins in microorganisms, and her expertise has been invaluable to DairyX’s mission.

Together, they are pushing the boundaries of biotechnology to produce smart caseins that mimic the natural functionality of cow’s milk, aiming to revolutionize the dairy industry.

What was the driving vision behind DairyX, and how do you plan to achieve it in the coming years?

Our driving vision at DairyX is to help the dairy industry to reduce the sole reliance on cow’s milk as a raw material for dairy products and to free the cows (at least some of them). 

I am a fan of cows—just not for producing dairy. As a scientist and former vegan, I didn’t eat plant-based dairy for a decade because I didn’t find truly tasty and additive-free products. To genuinely mimic traditional dairy, producers needed to start with different source ingredients. Together with my team, I had the vision and the scientific expertise to create sustainable smart casein proteins that are identical to cow’s milk proteins in structure and function. proteins that can self-assemble into micelles. Micelles are the primary building blocks of dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt.  

In the coming years, we plan to achieve this vision by focusing on several key areas. First, we will continue to improve the efficiency of our yeast strains to increase protein yields and reduce production costs, aiming for price parity with traditional dairy. Second, we’re scaling up our fermentation capacity and refining our downstream processes to ensure large-scale production. Third, we are actively collaborating with dairy companies to test our gelling casein micelles, integrating our ingredients into their products using existing manufacturing processes. Lastly, we’re preparing for regulatory approvals under the GRAS framework, targeting commercial availability of our micelles by early 2027. Through these efforts, we aim to provide high-quality, animal-free dairy proteins that meet consumer demands while contributing to a more sustainable and ethical food system.

Who is your primary target audience, and how does DairyX address their specific needs?

Our primary target audience are dairy manufacturers and food companies seeking to produce high-quality dairy products without counting on animal-derived ingredients. DairyX addresses their specific needs by developing “smart casein” proteins that self-assemble into micelles and gelate just like those in cow’s milk. Currently, manufacturers of animal-free dairy products use additives, like stabilizers, emulsifiers and thickeners, which don’t perform as well as cow’s milk and can add unpleasant aftertastes. These fail to satisfy consumer cravings for a real dairy experience. 

In addition, dairy companies do not want to change their plants to adopt new source ingredients, especially if the benefits aren’t compelling. 

This allows manufacturers to create firm, stretchy, and creamy products using their existing dairy-making processes without requiring significant changes or the addition of artificial stabilizers or thickeners. By offering a drop-in replacement for traditional milk proteins that matches the functionality, taste, and texture of conventional dairy, we enable our partners to meet consumer demands for authentic dairy experiences while also addressing sustainability and ethical concerns.

What challenges have you faced in the development and growth of DairyX, and how have you overcome them?

DairyX faced significant challenges in developing its animal-free casein proteins, primarily because secreting casein from yeast is notoriously difficult and there’s limited existing research on the topic. The team encountered obstacles at nearly every stage—yeast designing, analytics, reconstitution, fermentation, and downstream processing. Caseins are hard to express in organisms other than cows, and replicating the necessary post-translational modifications (PTMs) was particularly complex. 

The true challenge in microorganism-based casein production is to take it to the next step: to assemble them into micelles, which produce the gelling consistency that makes yogurt creamy and cheeses solid yet stretchy. 

When we encounter a challenge, we brainstorm collectively, valuing every idea of team members and advisors with diverse backgrounds in biochemistry, microbiology, nanoscience, and computational biology. This collaborative approach has allowed us to turn these challenges into proprietary assets. Ultimately, DairyX succeeded in producing “smart caseins” that self-assemble into micelles, overcoming the hurdles to create highly functional, animal-free casein micelles.

What sets DairyX apart from other companies in the dairy industry, and what is your unique selling point?

DairyX has 4 proprietary technological pillars:

Biological design: Cutting-edge biological methods to genetically manipulate yeast to produce functional caseins.

Fast-tracked natural evolution: A screening process that simulates evolution to locate super protein secreters from among millions of yeast strains. 

Machine learning models: Models that simulate fermentation to rapidly determine optimal fermentation conditions.

Micelle recreation and gelation: Unique protocol to reconstitute micelles that can gel from 2 caseins.

This combination of superior functionality and affordability sets DairyX apart as an innovative leader in creating authentic, animal-free dairy proteins.

Could you share some insight into the upcoming developments or innovations DairyX has planned for the future?

DairyX has several exciting developments and innovations planned for the future. We are focusing on improving the functionality of our casein micelles and developing our super-secreter yeast strain to make our production process more efficient. This involves enhancing protein yields and reducing production costs to achieve price parity with traditional dairy products.

We are also scaling up our fermentation capacity. Our plan includes reaching a 100-liter production scale in 2025 and expanding to 10,000 liters by 2026. This scale-up will support larger production volumes and meet the growing demand for our animal-free casein proteins.

In addition, we are advancing collaborations with several dairy companies. We aim to co-develop technology and products over the next few years. By providing samples of our gelling casein micelles, we enable these companies to test and integrate our smart caseins into their existing manufacturing processes without significant changes.

Our regulatory plan includes filing for FDA approval under the GRAS framework. We intend to submit our application in 2026, target for regulatory approval by early 2027. This will allow us to commercially sell our micelles and make them widely available.

We are also committed to sustainability initiatives. We recently launched a pilot project to upcycle biomass from our fermentation process. This project reduce waste, benefit the environment, and save costs.

In summary, DairyX is dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry through ongoing innovations in strain development, fermentation scaling, industry collaborations, and sustainability efforts. We are working diligently to bring our high-quality, animal-free casein micelles to market in the near future.

How do you envision DairyX evolving over the next five years, and are there plans to expand into new markets or technologies?

Over the next five years, we plan to enter the market and become a leading provider of animal-free dairy proteins to dairy companies in the U.S., following GRAS regulatory approval. To achieve this, we will focus intensely on finalizing our R&D, specifically developing efficiently gelating casein micelles using our super-secreter yeast strain. We will complete scale-up, and begin production in a large fermentation facility with a joint venture partner. While we concentrate our efforts on the U.S. market, we also intend to initiate an EU EFSA novel food application to enter the European market. On the technological part, although our evolution-based platform for generating super-secreter strains could be applied to any target protein, we are currently focusing exclusively on caseins. 

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs looking to launch a startup in a competitive industry like dairy technology?

To entrepreneurs aiming to launch a startup in a competitive industry like dairy technology, my advice is to deeply immerse yourself in the field. Engage with everyone you can—potential customers, competitors, NGOs, and academics—to thoroughly understand the problems and needs of the industry. Read extensively to broaden your knowledge. Once you’ve gained a clear understanding, honestly assess your ability to address these challenges based on your strengths and weaknesses. Seek out a partner who complements your skill set. In such a crowded market, it’s wise to rely less on marketing and more on developing strong technological capabilities, as there’s always someone who can tell a better story, but proprietary technology will set you apart. 

How does DairyX integrate sustainability into its business model, and why is this an important factor for your company?

At DairyX, sustainability is a key factor in our business model and mission. We integrate it by producing animal-free dairy proteins through precision fermentation, which is much more efficient at converting feed into milk proteins than traditional dairy farming. By eliminating the need for cows in casein production, we lower greenhouse gas emissions—dairy farming accounts for over 3.5% of global emissions—and reduce excessive land and water use. We also initiate projects like upcycling biomass from our fermentation process to reduce the heavy financial and environmental costs of disposing it, which accounts for approximately 40% of our expected GHG emissions. 

We help dairy companies make the exact dairy products that consumers desire and keep the cows happy .

In what ways has your team managed to stay adaptable and innovative in an industry that is both traditional and highly regulated?

Our team has stayed adaptable and innovative by recognizing significant shifts in the industry over the past decade. Driven by consumer demand and ESG policies, leading companies are eager to bring animal-free products to market once they are tasty and affordable. Many have dedicated R&D teams specializing in formulating animal-free products and are awaiting new ingredients like DairyX’s smart casein micelles. Regarding regulations, companies like Perfect Day, Remilk, and Imagindairy have already received GRAS approval using similar technologies and organisms. This has paved a clear regulatory pathway for us, as the approval process is now well-established for dairy proteins and even other proteins like egg proteins (GRAS by The Every Company).

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned from running DairyX that you believe could benefit other startup founders?

Here are my 3 lessons:

Be prepared for the inevitable ups and downs of running a startup. It’s crucial not to get discouraged during challenging times or become overly exuberant during good times. 

People are ultimately the most important part of your company, so trust your instincts about them, not just the numbers on a spreadsheet. 

Connect with founders who were in your position a few years ago can provide advice that saves you time and misery.

With the rapid advancements in food technology, how does DairyX plan to stay at the forefront of innovation in the dairy sector?

 At DairyX, we stay at the forefront of innovation by continuously monitoring the latest advancements in food technology and biotechnology. We actively keep up with new research that could enhance our yeast strains or improve the functionality of our casein micelles. We often engage with leading researchers and innovators to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations.

Internally, we foster a culture of innovation where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas, regardless of their position. We maintain an open environment that values diverse perspectives, creating a backlog of concepts that we test and implement when suitable. This collaborative approach allows us to adapt quickly to new technologies and integrate cutting-edge methods into our processes.

We encourage experimentation and learning from failure—as long as it happens in the lab.

Picture @DairyX

Thank you Arik Ryvkin for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

How Is This Approach Shaping the Future of Startups?

By
Sabine Elsässer
-
0
Alexey Skobelkin, a Chief Product Officer and Head of MediaTech at Raw Ventures.

Raw Ventures, an investment firm specializing in early-stage startups, focuses on industries such as MediaTech, HealthTech, and Sustainability. Alexey Skobelkin, a representative of Raw Ventures, will participate in the Global Media Pitch Day at #MTHCON24

How does Raw Ventures evaluate startups when considering them for potential investment, and what key qualities do you look for in a founding team?

When evaluating startups for potential investment, Raw Ventures places a strong emphasis on the founding team, more so than the idea itself. While good ideas are abundant, it’s the people behind those ideas that matter most. Some key qualities we look for in a founding team include commitment, focus, ability to execute, adaptability, and operational expertise.

Founders need to demonstrate deep dedication and a clear focus on their vision. We value founders who can convey their idea concisely but also show the commitment necessary to execute it. Raw Ventures prioritizes teams that have the capability to turn ideas into reality. This involves leadership skills, the ability to delegate, and an understanding of how to navigate challenges, particularly in the early stages of a startup’s life.

Startups often need to pivot or adjust their strategies. Raw looks for teams that are open to feedback, willing to make changes when necessary, and agile enough to respond to market shifts, as illustrated by a case where a startup made a major pivot based on the firm’s advice.

Founders who can manage growth and handle the complexities of scaling a company are highly valued. We help startups develop these skills, but it’s important that the founding team shows potential in this area.

However, while the team is a crucial component, it’s not the only factor we consider. From a product perspective, we primarily focus on how the product solves the customer’s problem, who the target customer is, which market the product will grow in, and what metrics the team uses to describe and validate the product’s success. Through this analysis, we assess the growth potential and our own capabilities in supporting the company.
This comprehensive approach allows us to evaluate not just the team, but also the product’s market fit, scalability, and potential for success. It helps the Raw Ventures team determine how we can best support the startup’s growth and whether it aligns with our investment strategy.

Could you explain the thought process behind offering up to one million euros in funding for the best startup team at the Global Media Pitch Day?

We offer up to one million euros not only to the winner of the Pitch Day but we may offer the funding to any startup who has applied to participate. We are ready and eager to invest in all startups from the pipeline that pass our investment analysis process and align with our strategy. For example, last year, two Pitch Day finalists received investments: the UK-based musictech startup Setmixer and the US-based Filmustage, which develops an AI platform that enhances the film pre-production phase. The Pitch Day winner will receive a €10k prize for the best pitch as decided by the jury. Following the event, the Raw Ventures investment team will begin their thorough due diligence and evaluation process.

When we developed the concept for our event, we thought about the types of startups we wanted to attract. That was probably the main question for us, and the answer led us to set these parameters. When we say “up to one million euros,” we are, of course, thinking about pre-seed and seed-stage startups that already have a clear understanding of the product they are building and are on the path to full-scale growth. These are the stages that are most attractive and interesting to us, as they are where we excel in helping startups grow, offering not only funding but also industry expertise, business connections, specialized advisers, and more. At the same time, such a check may also interest later-stage companies, where this one million euros can be part of a larger round.

What role does Raw Ventures see itself playing in the growth of early-stage companies beyond just financial support?

The core of our portfolio today consists of companies that we actively support from the very early stages, some even from the idea stage. When we invest in such companies, we immerse ourselves in the business, sharing our own expertise and bringing in external experts, as well as helping with business connections. We understand this role very well and often refer to it as a “Venture Studio,” because, in essence, we not only support the founder but also outsource certain functions until the company reaches a certain stage of development.

How does Raw Ventures differentiate itself from other venture capital firms in terms of the support it provides to startups?

We define our key advantage over other funds as the ability to identify the competencies and challenges where help is needed and find the optimal solution, whether it’s within our team or externally. Our investment thesis, or how we position ourselves, is that we take raw ideas from seed to global businesses. We enjoy working with companies and building businesses together with them.

What are some of the most successful companies you’ve invested in, and what factors contributed to their growth?

I would first like to mention two of our portfolio companies — Fermata and AIBody. These examples vividly demonstrate our influence as a team and investor on the growth of startups. We have supported both companies from the very early stages, making it even more exciting to see their growth and the results they are achieving now.

AIBody is developing two highly essential products for medical professionals, creating a digital twin of the human body, starting with the most important organ—the heart. The company operates in a very complex niche, with multiple factors and a serious scientific foundation. We see the team’s commitment to the company’s idea and mission as a key success factor here. Now, based on long research and technology testing, two products are growing, created to meet the needs of clients – doctors and medical students.

Fermata contributes to the development of agriculture and helps protect crops from pests and diseases with its product. Fermata’s product is in high demand in the market, with consumers ranging from major global companies to individual local farmers. The company’s growth is facilitated by the development of AI technologies, the team’s focus on customer needs, and the agricultural market’s commitment to sustainable development.

I should also mention Jay, where the team, with our help and active participation, is reaching a completely new international level. Jay’s product changes user behavior patterns when watching movies and shows, allowing viewers to purchase items they see on their favorite actors or in the movie frame. Despite the complex task facing the team, they are moving forward quickly, through systematic work on product development and rapid adaptation to the needs of two key industries: movie and show production and e-commerce.

As you prepare for the Global Media Pitch Day, what kind of innovation or entrepreneurial spirit are you hoping to see from the participating startups?

I am always interested in seeing how innovations in a particular industry transform from technology into product metrics and business indicators while solving real-world problems for people and businesses. We expect the finalists of Pitch Day to demonstrate this “magical” ability—to turn technology into a solution to a problem that no one has solved so quickly and effectively before.

We focus on areas where we have the “right to succeed.” This right can be earned through our team’s expertise, the experience we gain from projects we work on daily, and having the necessary experts and connections in a particular industry.

For example, MediaTech, HealthTech, and Sustainability are our focus industries, and we are currently more actively moving in these directions.

Of course, we pay attention to technological trends and keep track of all markets, but our priority is always to look at the product, its application, and how it solves customer problems. Only then do we delve into the technology behind it and how relevant it is.

What challenges do you foresee for the startups competing at the Global Media Pitch Day, and how can Raw Ventures help them overcome these challenges?

I don’t think I have anything original to say here—the problems and challenges most startups face lie in product management and finding exactly the customer problems they can solve, and preferably, solve them in a way that customers are willing to pay regularly. This is generally our focus when scouting startups because we can help with practically all other aspects of company development—legal support, patent protection, financial models, management, business development, marketing, and sales, etc.

If we’re talking about specific, current threats, of course, AI—particularly AI models being developed by industry leaders like OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, etc.—is capturing market share and users across various industries. The most frequent question from investors to startups today is probably, “Why won’t ChatGPT solve this problem tomorrow instead of you?” However, big models are not only a threat but also a big opportunity for startups if they learn to leverage the technology from major companies and combine it with their own innovations and approaches. Raw Ventures has expertise in this area, and we help structure solutions and products in a way that competition with the giants doesn’t crush the company in the medium- to long-term.

What criteria will you use to determine the best startup team at the Global Media Pitch Day?

By this point, at the final stage of our year-long preparation program for Global MediaTech Pitch Day, we have already analyzed over 400 startups in this industry. Our analytics team selected around 80 companies for the long list and then narrowed it down to 20 companies for the short list. From these, the jury and experts chose 8 finalists. This entire process was built on our internal methods of evaluating and analyzing startups, and the work doesn’t end on Pitch Day. We will be reviewing all the short-listed companies in our internal investment committee and determining which ones will become our investment targets and with whom we’ll proceed to the next stage of due diligence and then investment.

When it comes to determining the winner of Pitch Day, the jury will primarily focus on the product the startup is presenting and its potential. Of course, the pitch itself will also be considered—how well the team and the presenter can convey the value and inspire the audience. The jury will undoubtedly choose the best startup and team based on a full range of factors.

Could you share some insights into how Raw Ventures supports startups with long-term strategic planning and scaling their operations?

Raw doesn’t just invest and wait for financial returns; we actively work with startups throughout their journey. This includes offering legal support, assistance with business development, marketing, sales, and even helping to build financial models like cash flow forecasts. Our approach ensures that startups have the necessary tools and knowledge to scale effectively. Ultimately, we see long-term success as a collaborative effort between the founders and our team, making sure to contribute not just financially but also strategically at every step.

What advice would you give to early-stage entrepreneurs looking to attract venture capital investment?

In short, what sets a great founder and entrepreneur apart is the ability to formulate and manage the vision, while also having the skills to execute at any point in time. I would advise not to forget these two elements and, most importantly, to demonstrate this to investors through well-known tools and metrics.

How do you think the startup ecosystem in Europe compares to other regions like the US or Asia, and what opportunities do you see for growth in the European market?

Recently, we’ve seen that venture activity and the number of tech entrepreneurs are growing in Europe, helped by various government programs and market conditions. Each year, we analyze the MediaTech landscape by reviewing startup applications and conducting our own scouting. This year, our sample consists of around 1,000 startups, allowing us to have a fairly objective view of this sector. The number of European startups in our pipeline has remained relatively stable for the second year in a row—58%, with the UK accounting for 19% of the total. The share of startups from the US has slightly decreased this year but still remains high at about 37%, which was surprising for us both last year and this year—US startups are actively seeking investments in Europe for some reason.

If we talk about development opportunities, regulatory changes, such as those concerning AI, play a significant role. In addition, the venture market dynamics differ significantly between the old and new worlds, influenced by various macroeconomic factors. This disparity is particularly evident when comparing European and US startup ecosystems.

In Europe, our analysis reveals a strong trend towards internationalization from the outset. A striking 74% of European startups have embraced subscription-based models, understanding the value of recurring revenue for stable and predictable income. Furthermore, 70% of these startups are simultaneously employing freemium models. This dual strategy allows them to attract users with free offerings while monetizing through premium features, demonstrating a sophisticated response to market demands and growth opportunities.

In contrast, the US market exhibits greater diversity in revenue models. Only 39% of US startups utilize subscription-based models, while 23% opt for transaction-based commissions. This variety likely stems from the large, homogeneous domestic market in the US, which allows for more experimentation with different business models.

These differences highlight how startups in different regions adapt their strategies to their respective market conditions. European startups lean towards models that facilitate international scalability, while US startups have more flexibility to explore diverse revenue streams within their expansive home market. Understanding these regional variations is crucial for investors and entrepreneurs alike, as it informs both investment strategies and startup growth plans in an increasingly globalized business landscape.

Picture@ DARIA TIHONCHYK

Thank you Alexey Skobelkin for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

How does action sports technology change the way athletes capture their best moments?

By
StartupValley
-
0
hightag alex de la fuente cio

Hightag, a company specializing in automated media capture technology for action sports athletes, will be presented by CEO Alex de la Fuente at the Global Media Pitch Day during #MTHCON24

How did you come up with the idea for Hightag, and what inspired you to focus on sports technology for athletes like mountain bikers and skiers?

Actually, my brother Jonathan, Hightag’s Chief Technology Officer and an ardent photographer, originally came up with the idea. We both grew up skateboarding, snowboarding, mountain biking… etc. Media capture and sharing is an enormously important part of these action sports, and we’d often take turns photographing or filming each other. After a snowboarding trip in early 2020, just before the COVID-19 outbreak, Jonathan began developing an automated camera system for our own use. Once travel restrictions had lifted, I visited Jonathan again for a mountain biking trip, and I got to try out the prototype device he had built. I was blown away—I remember thinking that I had just glimpsed the future of action media.

Can you explain how Hightag’s technology works and how it allows athletes to capture footage of themselves while in action?

We partner with mountain bike parks, ski areas, skateparks, and other action sport destinations to install Hightag’s cameras at key points. These cameras are triggered using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. Each of our users wears a unique RFID tag while they ride, which is linked to their Hightag account. As the user rides past a Hightag camera, their tag triggers the camera to capture a photo/video and also signals the appropriate user account to receive the captured media.

What sets Hightag apart from other sports technology products on the market that offer similar features for athletes?

Frankly, there are very few products out there that deliver such a solution for this market. That’s not to say that there aren’t other wirelessly triggered camera solutions—there certainly are. However, very few of these are equipped to survive in the harsh and/or remote locations where many action sports (particularly downhill mountain sports) take place, and even fewer are designed as a comprehensive solution for athletes. Rather, many such products are offered as a sort of “automated souvenir photo business in a box” for family attraction centers and theme parks.

What challenges did you face in developing Hightag’s technology, and how did you overcome them?

We’ve faced so many challenges throughout the development of Hightag’s technology that I couldn’t easily or concisely describe them. If you think about it, our system comprises wireless communication technologies, camera hardware and post-processing software, electrical engineering and power management systems… the list goes on. I wouldn’t even say that we’ve finished overcoming them. In fact, in our pursuit to deliver an increasingly “magical” experience for the athletes we serve, I don’t expect we’ll ever run out of technological challenges.

How does Hightag enhance the experience of athletes, and what feedback have you received from users so far?

For the first time, athletes are given the power to autonomously capture footage of themselves in-action. We’ve seen how powerful this can be for athletes, both in helping them chronicle their achievements and review their performance so they can improve. Many of our users have simply never been able to capture or see action footage of themselves, and are awed by how easy Hightag makes it. In fact, the feedback we hear most frequently from our users is that they want to see more cameras installed at more of their favorite places… we’re working on it!

As you continue to innovate, what new features or updates can we expect to see from Hightag in the future?

I won’t give away specifics, but I’ll say this: we want our users to feel as if Hightag is a magical, dedicated cameraman that is delivering the best possible action shots while capturing their entire experience wherever they ride. As we’ve only just begun, there are many updates and enhancements ahead of us, and I’m so excited for our users to see these become reality over the coming months.

In a competitive sports technology market, how do you plan to expand Hightag’s user base and reach new customers?

Globally, there are hundreds of millions of action sport participants (mountain bikers, snowboarders, skiers, skateboarders, BMX riders, etc.). We tend to segment these by three dimensions: sport, region, and athlete profile. Today, we’re acutely focused on one intersection of those dimensions. We’ll begin by expanding regionally, before expanding within currently addressed sports and to new sports entirely. We also believe there is applicability beyond action sports for Hightag’s solution. Ultimately, we’re giving people a way to autonomously capture media of themselves doing what they love—there are many markets that could use such a solution.

How do you envision Hightag being used in professional sports or even extreme sports competitions?

It’s an interesting question, since professional competitions are typically recorded or broadcasted by professional crews. I don’t expect Hightag will ever replace that. However, as we do for amateurs, Hightag can help professionals document their activities that aren’t televised: training sessions, minor events, etc. Especially in this day and age, maintaining social media activity is an increasingly important part of being a professional action sports athlete—arguably more so than winning competitions.

How important is athlete safety in the development of Hightag, and how does the product ensure that athletes can capture footage without compromising their performance?

For exactly this reason, we made a decision early on to make our cameras as minimally invasive and noticeable as possible. In some cases, users may even know exactly where the cameras are—only that the trail or slope they are riding on features Hightag cameras. It’s actually part of what our users love about the service: after signing up, they can enjoy their ride as they normally would while counting on Hightag to capture their highlights.

As the CEO of a sports technology startup, how has the local ecosystem supported the growth of Hightag?

Hightag is based in Bentonville, Arkansas. The community and ecosystem in Bentonville—as well as the state of Arkansas—have been enormously supportive. Even at the very earliest stages, we received help distributing our tags, travel and lodging assistance, promotion via local publications, and so much more. We’ve raised funding from local angel investors and participated in local accelerator programs, and have received guidance navigating the startup support programs offered by the state of Arkansas. There are very few places that would have been a better place to launch and begin growing Hightag.

What role do partnerships or collaborations play in the growth of Hightag, and are there any that you are particularly excited about?

Partnerships and collaborations play an increasingly important role in Hightag’s growth. Beyond collaborating with property managers to install our cameras throughout their facilities, we also work with local community leaders (group ride organizers, coaches, gear and equipment retailers, etc.) to spread the word and distribute tags. We’re also in discussions with a few international brands regarding ways that we can work together to bring Hightag to more destinations while providing an even better experience for our users. Those are certainly opportunities I’m very excited about.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs looking to break into the sports technology space?

The advice I would give to entrepreneurs in this industry is the same advice I would give to entrepreneurs in any other industry: develop a deep understanding of your customers and how they operate, and prioritize user experience. I should add that “user experience” is more than just how the product looks and feels—it encapsulates everything from how the business model is designed to how, where, and when a user discovers your solution. I think you can only get those things right if you really understand your customers.

Picture@ Alex de la Fuente

Thank you Alex de la Fuente for the Interview

Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.

1...567...27Page 6 of 27

LATEST NEWS

Multiplier Companies Talent – Global Employment Made Simple Multiplier Founder Sagar Khatri

Click Rating: Redefining Global Employment

StartupValley - 0
ChatGPT: Multiplier enables companies to hire talent anywhere in the world without the burden of complex compliance, payroll, and entity setup. The platform combines technology, legal expertise, and human support to make global employment seamless and borderless.
xpate global payments made simple for businesses Mike Shafro CEO xpate

Click Rating: Redefining Simplicity in Global Payments

Portrait of didomi romain gauthier privacy journey

Romain Gauthier: Didomi’s Privacy Journey to Global Impact

SEO content strategies with AI: How SMBs stay competitive Bildcredits: Cristina Gaidau/iStock

SEO 101 for SMBs: Reaching Customers with the Right Visuals 

PureWay compliance waste sustainability jeffery miglicco ceo

Can Rethinking Waste Be the Key to Real Healthcare Sustainability?

didomi-sourcepoint-ai-privacy Portait Photo Romain Gauthier fournder Didomi

Didomi acquires Sourcepoint to lead AI privacy tech

ulrik grape 24m battery innovation Portrait Photo Ulrik Grape

Ulrik Grape on 24M’s Battery Breakthroughs and Vision

LATEST NEWS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

StartupValley is one of Europe’s leading magazines for start-ups, founders, and entrepreneurs. We deliver daily news on emerging trends, breakthrough technologies, and innovative business models that are influencing the international start-up scene. What sets us apart? Our exclusive interviews with successful founders and leading investors – plus in-depth insights with a special focus on the European start-up ecosystem.

Contact us: contact@startupvalley.news

FOLLOW US

© StartupValley Media & Publishing