As research into the benefits of virtual reality (VR) for various applications is conducted, a number of businesses, institutions and even governments are pursuing the potential that VR can offer with pilot schemes and other trails. One of these involves the Government of Canada, which is providing support to a company called In Virtuo, which uses VR to treat anxiety disorders.
Back in 2017, the Government of Canada introduced a plan that would support businesses which are involved in the development of innovative solutions. In Virtuo is a recipient of this support, and will receive a repayable contribution of $40,000 (CAN).
Financial support is being provided to In Virtuo with the aim of giving the company the right resources to develop or sell innovative products. This kind of support is believed to dive innovation, which in turn drives the Canadian economy and generates growth to benefit both business and community.
Cliniques et développement In Virtuo, also known as In Virtuo was founded in 2007 and has concetrated on providing specialised treatment services to people with anxiety disorders, focusing on the use of VR. Since 2016, the company has had the exclusive license to sell two VR software programs to healthcare professionals. This software was developed as a partnership between Canada Research Chair in Clinical Cyberpsychology at the Université du Québec en Outaouais and In Virtuo.
“With the support and valuable advice of CED throughout our marketing efforts, the In Virtuo team has been able to accelerate its international sales process and build future collaborative relationships with European and North American teams.” said Stéphane Bouchard, President, In Virtuo
“As the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, my goal is to help businesses grow and innovate so that they can create high-quality jobs and wealth for Canadians. This is why we support businesses such as In Virtuo, whose success reflects on the region and the Canadian economy as a whole.” commented The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister Responsible for CED.
For future coverage on developments within the VR industry, keep checking back with VRFocus.