Virtuleap

Based in Portugal, Virtuleap is an award-winning health and education VR startup, aiming to improve the cognitive assessment and training industry using emerging technologies such as VR and AI. The business also operates in the US, the UK, and Spain. Virtuleap uses VR technology and neuroscientific research to treat various cognitive illnesses, including dementia, ADHD, and traumatic brain injuries. The company helps train cognitive abilities through daily VR gaming cognitive workouts through its Enhance VR program. Furthermore, Virtuleap offers an assessment module as a virtual reality screening assignment, which includes 15 validated tests. The assessments target cognitive categories such as spatial orientation, memory, attention, flexibility, and problem-solving.

In November 2024, Virtuleap launched Cogniclear VR, a VR-based cognitive assessment tool designed to detect and monitor cognitive impairments.

Virtuleap won the Extreme Tech Challenge, the world’s largest startup competition focused on purpose-driven innovation, in June 2022 under the digital health category.

In addition to providing its services to senior living facilities, educational institutions, clinics and hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and other businesses, Virtuleap engages in company performance programs and sports and athletic initiatives. The platform helps businesses in various ways, including maintaining and analyzing data, assisting users in real-time VR navigation, and designing and launching surveys for Enhance VR before and after sessions.

Key customers and partnerships

The American Association of Retired Persons, the world's largest senior living organization with 38 million members, was the company's first client. Other notable clients include Hewlett Packard and UCLA.

In May 2022, the business partnered with the prominent pharmaceutical Roche to offer Alzheimer's and dementia treatments. Furthermore, in September 2020, Virtuleap collaborated with 4th-IR, an AI company, to recognize cognitive diseases at an earlier stage.

Funding and financials

In December 2023, Virtuleap raised USD 2.5 million in a funding round led by GED Ventures Portugal. Funding was earmarked to integrate AI capabilities into EnhanceVR, allowing for more effective evaluation of training assessments through data collection, providing critical clinical insights.