Client Story
Ibis Vision
Helping a healthtech idea grow into a globally adopted platform improving access to eye care
“Vivolution have truly felt like part of our team. Over the past five years, their support has been crucial , from developing our software product to providing management and investment guidance. We’ve grown from an idea into a business expanding globally, and we couldn’t have done that without them.”
— Justin Birley, Chief Operating Officer, IbisVision
Approach
Starting with a real access problem and building a practical, scalable solution
Access to eye care has traditionally depended on proximity to an optometrist and specialist equipment, a real barrier for elderly people, those with disabilities, and anyone living in remote locations.
IbisVision, founded by Consultant Eye Surgeon Blair Donaldson, set out to change that. The idea was simple but powerful: enable clinically meaningful eye tests to be carried out remotely, using a standard computer connection.
Vivolution partnered with IbisVision from the early stages, working alongside the team to help turn a strong clinical idea into a viable, scalable software product. Our support combined strategic decision support, software delivery and commercial guidance, helping the business shape both the product and the path to market.
The platform was developed iteratively, working closely with early adopters and responding to real‑world feedback. The result was a user‑friendly, cloud‑based SaaS solution offering tests such as colour vision, visual fields, visual acuity and Amsler testing, accessible wherever the patient is.
As Covid‑19 accelerated the need for non‑contact healthcare, IbisVision was well positioned. Its remotely hosted, cloud‑based model allowed eye tests to continue safely when traditional, in‑person appointments were restricted.
Impact
Expanding access to eye care and unlocking wider benefits
IbisVision’s impact extends beyond optometry. For patients, it has improved access to eye care for groups that would otherwise struggle to receive timely assessment. For optometrists, it has opened up new ways to reach patients, reduced reliance on expensive hardware, and freed up valuable clinical and retail space. The SaaS model has also contributed to wider societal benefits — from reducing unnecessary travel (and associated carbon impact) to supporting healthier ageing through earlier and more accessible eye testing. Clinical feedback has reinforced the value of the approach, with practitioners highlighting improved testing reliability and richer clinical information compared to some traditional methods. Today, IbisVision is used across multiple channels, from optometry practices in the UK to health kiosks and partners in India and the United States.
Journey so Far
From concept to funded growth and international expansion
Vivolution has supported IbisVision throughout its journey — not just as advisors, but as an extension of the team.
Our involvement included:
- Supporting growth strategy and commercial planning
- Providing hands‑on software delivery expertise
- Supporting investment structuring and funding strategy
- Helping the business access the right networks and opportunities
IbisVision has secured a combination of investment from UK and USA and grant funding totalling £3.5 million, including support from Innovate UK, SBRI and SIB.
Earlier in its journey, the business also won the Scottish EDGE award, helping validate the opportunity and accelerate progress.
More recently, IbisVision has attracted international investment, enabling the business to begin expanding into global markets.
Whats Next
Scaling globally and extending impact
With clients already operating in the UK, India and the US, IbisVision is focused on continuing its international expansion and strengthening its position as a leader in remote eye testing. As demand for accessible, non‑contact healthcare continues to grow, the platform is well placed to extend its reach, evolve its clinical capabilities and deliver impact at scale.
