In early January, Economic Promotion Valais’ partner, the Office of Economy, Tourism and Innovation took part in a business mission to the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas alongside the start-up Allimb, which looks back at a unique experience.
Organised jointly by Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE) and the Swiss Business Hub USA, the visit allowed a delegation of around ten entrepreneurs and representatives of economic promotion organisations in Switzerland to explore the world’s leading innovation show. Over 3,500 exhibitors, including the biggest electronics brands and vehicle manufacturers, attend the event to present their innovations to an audience of professionals and investors. Attending the CES was not only an opportunity to explore this vast showcase of innovations, but also to demystify it to some extent: while breakthrough innovations and future concepts are presented by the giants of the electronics industry, it is also perfectly possible for smaller firms or start-ups to exhibit at the show, provided they are meticulously well prepared.
The second part of the trip gave the delegation the chance to visit business incubators in the Los Angeles region. This offered an insight into the dynamism of the Californian ecosystem, but it was also clear that our own incubators and the system we have put in place to nurture innovation has nothing to be embarrassed about in comparison.
Allimb presents its remote rehabilitation solution
Allimb, a former finalist in the Prix Créateurs BCVs 2022, had the opportunity to present its innovative technology at the CES. The young company has developed an app managed by artificial intelligence to correct and guide patients during their rehabilitation at home. The technology is already being tested with the leading medical facilities in our canton, including Valais Hospital and the SUVA, which offers accident prevention advice, insurance and rehabilitation services. We spoke to Mr Lawrence Spavieri, co-founder of Allimb.
How did you prepare for your trip to the CES in Las Vegas?
We were largely able to make the trip thanks to the Guarantee and Funding Centre (CCF SA), Cimark SA and S-GE. We were coached and monitored to make sure we prepared for the trip as effectively as possible and to get the most out of it for our business.
Now that you’re back from the show, what are your initial thoughts on it?
We’re very happy with our first experience at the CES in Las Vegas. Our stand was very successful with both visitors and other professionals in the sector. As well as getting plenty of positive feedback from the market, we had the chance to make contact with potential new partners and to gain access to new investor networks. We also had a visit from the main developer of Google’s computer vision arm, who agreed with our approach and complimented us on our contribution to the digital health sector.
Would you advise other young companies to make the same leap?
Without a moment’s hesitation! Taking part in trade shows is a great thing for businesses to do. It has helped us to develop a network we wouldn’t normally have had access to and to present innovative products to a large audience. Nonetheless, it’s important to bear in mind that shows like these require meticulous preparation and that above all, you need to stand out from the other exhibitors.
« We’re very happy with our first experience at the CES in Las Vegas. Our stand was very successful with both visitors and other professionals in the sector. »
Foto credit: Etat du Valais