General details
EDIHs involved
Challenges
Synclair Vision AB, a young university spin-out and an innovator in surveillance technology, specializes in cutting-edge drone-based camera systems that integrate advanced optics, AI analysis, and depth perception. The technology delivers comprehensive aerial surveillance solutions for enhanced situational awareness across defense and civilian sectors.
Synclair Vision, faced a significant challenge in commercialising its AI-driven wide-angle camera system. The technology, combining advanced optics, virtual stabilisation, and real-time AI analysis, has generated considerable interest from drone manufacturers and users. However, high development costs and technical hurdles necessitated the creation of a demonstrator platform to showcase its potential and validate its efficacy in real-world applications.
Solutions
Aero EDIH provided Synclair Vision with comprehensive support to address their digital transformation needs and secure the required investment for their innovative project.
The support included Investment Preparation, where Aero EDIH collaborated with Synclair Vision to develop a compelling investment proposal. This proposal effectively showcased the technical strengths and market potential of their AI-driven camera system, which eliminates the need for a physical gimbal, enabling lighter systems and more agile operations.
The public investment rationale was rooted in the solution’s novelty. Although early in development, the system held significant potential to demonstrate a transformative working solution to future stakeholders and investors. Public investment was therefore instrumental in bridging the gap between the early-stage concept and market readiness, ensuring the company could progress toward critical milestones and build credibility.
Additionally, as a young company, Synclair Vision faced challenges in accessing private investment. The public funding support enabled them to overcome these barriers, providing a foundation to attract further private investments. This strategic intervention not only accelerated the technology’s development but also strengthened the company’s position in a highly competitive market.
By aligning the investment with both technical development goals and market readiness requirements, Aero EDIH ensured Synclair Vision’s solution could meet the demands of digital transformation while creating opportunities for future growth and scaling.
Results and Benefits
Synclair Vision successfully secured funding from Vinnova, which was instrumental in developing a demonstrator platform for their AI-based computer vision system. This funding enabled the company to advance its core technology, showcasing the potential of their edge AI solution for real-time processing in aerospace applications.
The project helped the company achieve several key milestones:
-
Prototype Development: The Vinnova grant facilitated the creation of a fully functional prototype, which serves as a proof-of-concept for potential investors and clients.
-
Enhanced Competitiveness: With the support from Aero EDIH and Vinnova, Synclair Vision now holds a competitive edge in the aerospace sector, positioning itself as a leader in cutting-edge AI for real-time applications.
-
Investor Confidence: By demonstrating a working platform, Synclair Vision gained increased visibility among potential investors, securing future rounds of funding to scale their technology.
-
Job Creation: The funding accelerated growth, enabling the company to expand its team of engineers and AI specialists.
Perceived social/economic impact
The successful implementation of the AI-driven camera system is anticipated to generate significant social and economic benefits:
-
Enhanced Public Safety: The advanced surveillance capabilities of the AI-driven camera system will significantly improve public safety. By providing more effective monitoring of public spaces and environmental conditions, the technology helps create safer communities and more responsive emergency management systems.
-
Economic Growth: By bolstering Synclair Vision's competitive advantage, the technology fosters job creation and stimulates economic activity within the surveillance technology sector. This growth not only strengthens the company's market position but also contributes to a vibrant and innovative industry landscape.
-
Sustainability Goals: The AI-driven camera system supports global sustainability objectives by optimising resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Its implementation advances efforts to minimise ecological footprints while promoting more sustainable practices across various applications.
Measurable data
Synclair has been able to secure funds to provide for the working capital for the further development of the product.
For a first project, Synclair Vision was able to secure 413 500 SEK (~36 000€) in soft funding. In a second project, another 1 300 000 SEK (~113 000€) in soft funding was granted.
Sources:
DMA score and results - Stage 0
The overall score obtained by Synclair Vision in the Digital Maturity Assessment was of 39%.
The organisation has an average level of digital maturity but can improve further with additional investments in technology and skills. While mainstream technologies are in use, adopting advanced tools like ERP, AI, and e-commerce would provide more benefits.
Staff have average digital skills, but advancing transformation requires structured training and IT specialist support. Management and employees should be encouraged to embrace new digital solutions.
A comprehensive data strategy would enhance analytics and decision-making, while ICT adoption could also reduce the organisation's environmental footprint. Improving digital maturity would boost competitiveness, helping the organisation match more advanced competitors and gain an edge over less developed ones.
DMA score and results – Stage 1
The overall score obtained by Synclair Vision in the Digital Maturity Assessment was of 70%.
The organisation has stepped to a moderately advanced stage of digital transformation, already benefiting from the use of both mainstream and some advanced technologies. However, there is room to enhance competitiveness and sustainability through targeted digital investments. While current investments cover many operations, preparedness for more advanced technologies like AI can be improved.
The workforce has solid digital skills, but a structured training program for staff and IT professionals is needed to support further progress. Encouraging management and employees to embrace change is key. Data management and security are strong, but adopting more ICT and business intelligence tools could boost performance. Increased use of eco-friendly IT products and further digitalisation would significantly enhance the organisation’s market position.
Lessons learned
Do’s:
-
Engage early with investors to to ensure that your project goals are clearly aligned with available funding opportunities. Early engagement helps in tailoring your proposal to meet investor expectations and increases the likelihood of securing support.
-
Leverage EDIH resources for comprehensive investment preparation and networking. Use the available expertise and connections to refine your investment strategy, enhance your proposal, and build valuable relationships within the industry.
-
Maintain transparency and regular communication with stakeholders. Transparency in progress and challenges builds trust, fosters strong relationships, and keeps everyone informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle.
Don’ts:
-
Underestimate the importance of detailed financial planning and documentation. Inadequate financial planning can undermine investor confidence and jeopardize your project's success. Ensure your financials are meticulously prepared and clearly presented.
-
Overlook the potential of collaborative networks in securing funding. Building and nurturing relationships within industry networks can provide invaluable support, open doors to additional resources, and enhance your project's credibility and attractiveness to investors.
Need support?
Consult our catalogue to locate the Eupopean Digital Innovation Hub nearest to you and accelerate your company's digital transformation.