Meet Vision Care’s Most Groundbreaking Startups at Launchpad
Vision Expo West Announces Finalists for VSP Vision Innovation Challenge 2025
NORWALK, CT (August 5, 2025) – Vision Expo West, produced by RX and The Vision Council, in collaboration with MATTER, the premier healthcare incubator and innovation hub, and VSP Vision™, the leader in health-focused vision care, announce the six startups selected to participate in the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge, a global competition to source and advance solutions enhancing provider and patient experiences in eyecare.
The six finalists—three early-stage and three later-stage companies—will participate in a four-week startup bootcamp from August 11 to September 5, 2025, receiving expert mentorship and exclusive resources to refine their value propositions. They will then present their solutions live on stage at Vision Expo West at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 18, 2025, and showcase their products in the show floor’s new startup-dedicated space, Launchpad.
In addition to the exposure at one of the largest gatherings of vision care executives and professionals in the industry, selected early-stage startups will have the potential to secure a $400,000 investment from Topcon Healthcare, Inc.'s THINC Ventures capital arm.
Meet the 2025 Startup Cohort
Later-Stage Finalists
- Remidio — Glen Allen, Virginia
Suite of AI-enabled hardware and software delivering remote, accessible eye care and whole-body health.
- Vivid Vision — San Francisco, California
VR-based vision therapy system treating various vision problems such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and more.
- Reyedar — Groningen, Netherlands
Eye tracking AI for early detection of glaucoma, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.
Early-Stage Finalists
- Vitazi.ai — Santa Fe, New Mexico
AI-powered decision support platform enabling the early detection of various conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders, through a retinal scan.
- Soliddd — New York, New York
AR glasses for macular degeneration that restore full-field sight to functionally blind people.
- Muse AI — Richardson, Texas
AI eyewear recommendation tool helping independent optometrists and retailers create a personalized pre-shopping discovery experience for their customers.
Vision Expo West is the most comprehensive optical event this fall, offering industry professionals an opportunity to experience the latest advancements in technology and innovation. This year, the show is taking innovation to the next level with the introduction of Launchpad — a new, dedicated area on the show floor designed exclusively for startup companies, including the six finalists of the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge. With 28 startups showcasing cutting-edge products, Launchpad is set to be one of the most exciting additions to Vision Expo yet. Attendees can expect to discover groundbreaking technologies ranging from new diagnostic devices and treatment tools to software platforms and retail innovations, all designed to transform every facet of vision care.
Additionally, Vision Expo will also feature a series of exclusive educational seminars and hands on workshops led by industry experts. This provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to gain first person insights into the latest trends and practices in eye care. With a focus on innovation and growth, these sessions are not to be missed for those looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of eye care.
“The VSP Vision Innovation Challenge showcases the future of eyecare by elevating bold, next-generation ideas that have the power to elevate the industry,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. “With the debut of Launchpad at Vision Expo West, we’re strengthening our commitment to innovation – giving startups a dedicated platform to shine and bringing their disruptive technologies directly to the industry’s doorstep. Vision Expo West remains the ultimate destination for discovering what’s next in optical, and we’re proud to help foster the connections and creativity that will shape the future of vision care.”
Event Information
VSP Vision Innovation Challenge Awards
Main Stage, Vision Expo West
Thursday, September 18
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
As next-gen technologies and research continue to elevate the role the eyes play in preventive care and overall health, it is essential that new solutions emerge that can help scale access to care and enhance patient and provider experiences.
Attendees at Vision Expo West can hear about the latest technologies from the top six finalists and witness the crowning of the winner of the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge 2025.
Media Contacts:
Paige Heady
Marketing Director
[email protected]
Jen Cullen Williams
Public Relations
[email protected]
About Vision Expo
Vision Expo is the trade-only conference and exhibition for eyecare and eyewear presented by co-owners RX and The Vision Council. Vision Expo is the most comprehensive event for the entire Vision community, built for the industry by the industry. The only balance of conference and exhibition to learn from industry pioneers, explore cutting-edge advancements, and gain a new perspective on the future of eyewear. In the Vision Expo Exhibit Hall, eyecare providers can discover fashion trends, interact with new technologies and access innovative products and services. The Vision Expo education program is driven by the profession, offering content of the highest quality and relevance to enhance overall patient care. For more information on Vision Expo, visit visionexpo.com and follow Vision Expo’s social media channels, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Vision Expo images can be found HERE and new logo can be found HERE.
About The Vision Council
The Vision Council brings the power of sight to all through education, government relations, research and technical standards. A leading advocate for the optical industry, the association positions its members to deliver the eyewear and eyecare people need to look and feel their best. Vital to health, independence and safety, better vision leads to better lives. Learn more at thevisioncouncil.org.
About RX
RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organizations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.