Photographer: Asaf Kliger, @asafkliger
We are proud to share that Imvi Labs has been named one of three finalists for Startup of the Year 2026 at the Malmö Business Gala. After the jury's review and interviews, it is clear that our work in addressing reading and focus difficulties through a research-based VR solution has made an impact.
Our story – how it all began
Imvi Labs took shape when Imvi founder Michael Malmqvist encountered binocular vision problems firsthand. Seeing a family member struggle with reading sparked a strong interest in the interplay between the brain and eyes.
After trying several types of glasses and training methods, the effects proved to be either temporary – or completely absent.
Michael therefore began to investigate and analyze the underlying causes of reading difficulties and identified the problem as oculomotor. To treat vergence problems, there were practically two options at the time: invasive surgery or pencil push-up therapy, 30 min. per day for 6 months.
Michael wanted to achieve faster results, make the training independent of doctor visits, and free it from manual procedures. At the same time, he wanted to make the training more accessible – and more engaging. That's where the idea of creating a new training method was born.
A first prototype was presented to the Karolinska Institute, Bernadotte Department, at St. Erik Eye Hospital in Stockholm.
Research, VR, and measurable results
The result was Imvi's research-based VR solution that trains binocular vision through a structured and scalable method.
"Traditional binocular vision training is boring and ineffective – our VR method, developed together with researchers from the Karolinska Institute, makes it both fun and effective."
The method makes it possible to visualize a hidden cause behind many reading challenges – and to treat it in a way that is accessible to more people.
3 out of 4 users double their reading speed and improve their reading comprehension in 12 weeks.
Jury's motivation – Imvi Labs
Imvi Labs addresses reading and focus difficulties with a research-based VR solution that trains the interaction between the brain and eyes. The hidden cause behind many reading challenges suddenly becomes visible – and solvable. With a scalable method that boosts both pace and concentration, Imvi Labs demonstrates how technology can unleash potential on a large scale.
The final on March 17th
This year's finalists will be presented at the Malmö Business Gala on March 17, 2026. Being a finalist is an important recognition of both our work and our method – and a testament that technology, research, and accessibility can create real change.
A big thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey so far.
Regardless of the outcome, we are proud to be here – and to continue moving forward.
Read more about the gala and see all categories here
About the award – Startup of the Year 2026
Startup of the Year is awarded at the Malmö Business Gala 2026 and recognizes young companies that demonstrate strong innovative power, clear growth potential, and the ability to create long-term value.
This year's three finalists are Imvi Labs, Yazen, and Bookboost – companies operating in different industries but all united by a clear customer focus, scalable business models, and measurable impact.
The finalists have been selected through a meticulous process where jury groups reviewed all nominations and conducted interviews with selected companies. The winner will be announced at the gala on March 17, 2026.
Being a finalist is a recognition of both the business idea, implementation, and potential to contribute to a strong and innovative business community.
