Strolll: A Startup Using Augmented Reality to Treat Parkinson’s Disease

Strolll, founded in 2019, has developed an augmented reality platform that uses gamification tools and audio and visual cues to support the rehabilitation or arrest the decline of people suffering from neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s Disease.

• The platform is designed to help patients with Parkinson’s Disease improve their mobility and quality of life.
• Strolll’s platform is based on the idea that visual cues can help patients with Parkinson’s Disease improve their gait and balance.

The Journey of Strolll: From Concept to Reality

The company's journey began with a simple observation: colored lines placed on a floor helped a person with Parkinson’s Disease-like symptoms walk more easily.

• This observation led to the development of Strolll’s augmented reality platform, which uses software developed for augmented reality glasses to deliver therapeutic benefits.
• Strolll conducted research with a university in the Netherlands to gather clinical evidence that the therapy could be successful, securing research funding of around €0.5 million to support product development.
• The company then raised $1 million in seed funding and secured regulatory approval in the UK.
• Strolll secured their first NHS contracts, demonstrating the potential of their augmented reality platform.

NHS Partnerships: Supporting Innovation in Parkinson’s Disease Treatment

The NHS has been a vital partner in Strolll’s journey. The organization has been receptive to engaging with startups and has a range of programs that provide funding and access to resources for innovators.

• The Health Innovation Network connects researchers and startups with health professionals.
• The Small Business Research Initiative for Healthcare runs competitions designed to allow startups to respond to challenges.
• The Innovation Pathway offers a means for businesses to access NHS expertise as they develop their products.
• The NHS Transformation Directorate is seeking to drive the digital transformation of the service.

Navigating the NHS: Challenges and Successes

While the NHS offers support for innovators, it’s important for startups to understand the challenges they may face.

• Startups need to demonstrate the clinical benefits of their products, but also address the budgetary, staffing, and resource constraints that healthcare providers face.
• Startups need to be prepared to engage with multiple stakeholders within the NHS to ensure their products are aligned with the organization’s priorities.
• Strolll’s success in gaining traction within the NHS is a testament to their ability to address these challenges.

Funding Opportunities for Parkinson’s Disease Innovation

The NHS’s commitment to supporting innovation has created a favorable environment for startups working in the healthtech sector.

• Strolll has raised $3.7 million in equity funding and £7 million from grants.
• The company is currently seeking Series A funding.
• Startups working in the healthtech sector should also address regulatory compliance from the earliest possible stage.

Expanding Horizons: International Collaboration and Future Plans

Strolll’s recent collaboration with Cleveland Clinic is opening up new opportunities for the company.

• The $3 million agreement includes an equity stake in Strolll and the integration of a therapeutic tool developed by Cleveland Clinic into the Strolll platform.
• This collaboration will allow Strolll to expand its reach into the U.S. market and bring its augmented reality platform to a wider audience.
• The U.K. healthtech ecosystem is a fertile ground for innovation, with ventures in the sector raising $835 million in 2023.

The Future of Parkinson’s Disease Treatment: A Look Ahead

Strolll's work is an example of the exciting innovations happening in the healthtech sector.

• The company’s success in developing and deploying an augmented reality platform to support the rehabilitation of people with Parkinson's Disease is a testament to the potential of digital health solutions.
• As the NHS continues to prioritize digital transformation, we can expect to see more startups like Strolll emerging and making a real difference in the lives of patients with Parkinson's Disease.