Challenges

In the scope of Revive Deep Tech Acceleration Program, a mapping of veteran challenges has been carried out. In the light of research findings conducted in cooperation with Armenian hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and NGOs, eight challenges were formed. The study involved psychologists, rehabilitation therapists, and field experts to ensure reliable and valid outcomes.

The program targets startups that offer solutions tackling the following challenges:

• Increased independent mobility for veterans

It has been found that most of the injuries among veterans are related to lower extremities, followed by upper limb injuries. Thus, the veterans having these and similar kinds of injuries face challenges to function independently, as the existing local solutions are not advanced, user-friendly and cost-effective, particularly for veterans living in the regions.

• Inclusive infrastructure and technologies

Veterans face multilevel systematic barriers which decrease their ability to access facilities and experts. They have trouble using routine means of transportation because cars are not adjusted for the use of disabled veterans. In addition, there is a need for special equipment to support their daily functioning, which is crucial for social integration.

• Data-driven mental health support

Veterans face numerous psychological and social barriers which create an urgent need for data-driven mental health assistance. The most frequent psychological disorders among veterans have been found to be acute stress disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, sleep disorders, depression and trepidation.

• Single window platform for fulfilling information needs

The information on existing opportunities for veterans is scattered and there is no single platform for all the available resources․ Hence, there is a need for data management and centralization. Both veterans and providers came across challenges when identifying disability-specific services for rehabilitation and their social integration.

• Fundraising platform to bridge philanthropists and veterans

There are public and private organizations that have a desire to support the recovery and social integration of veterans. Thus, there is a need for a synchronized fundraising platform which will serve as a bridge between these organizations and individuals who want to provide support to the veterans who need assistance of both financial and non-financial types.

• Emotional recognition for sentiment analysis

Veterans face circumstances and emotions that are unusual for them and which makes it challenging to manage those emotions. In order to avoid panic attacks and emotional uncertainty, increased awareness about the feelings and emotions is needed. Deep tech solutions are required to assess emotions and sentiments to tackle these challenges and develop adequate responses.

• Applied biotechnology for skin restoration

A lot of veterans suffer from skin injuries. Life science technologies are needed for healing and restoration of skin cells, supporting both aesthetics and health of patients.

• Interactive care and rehabilitation systems

Veterans face musculoskeletal problems. The majority needs short-term rehabilitation while others need long-term care, which might end up with a lifetime of care. Continuity of care is required to enable sustainable rehabilitation of patients. Interactive tech-based support can help to complete the treatment process, thus, achieving higher quality care outcomes.