This is why, in 2017, Guido Hendriks set out to change that by creating a flexible, stable prosthetic suitable for both sports and day-to-day activities simultaneously, initially for adults. So, he started Gyromotics. They joined YES!Delft, and soon were well on their way. Unfortunately, this was not without obstacles. However, more than anything, Gyromotics saw their setbacks as an opportunity to refocus on their vision: creating specialized prosthetics for children, allowing them to run around as much as they like, with maximum stability.
Walking and running on a prosthetic
Although prosthetics have advanced much over the years, there is often a limited range of motion when it comes to feet compared to prosthetic blades. Walking with a prosthetic foot can be tiring and less stable. Usually, people switch prostheses as they do different activities.
Gyromotics has revolutionized prosthetics with a foot that can be used for walking, running, or hiking without switching prosthetics. Their innovative design provides stability and comfort on any terrain. Additionally, their custom-made prosthetic is easily adjustable and repairable, extending its lifespan.
Financing falling through
In 2023, Gyromotics was making good progress with developing prosthetics for adults. They partnered with another company and received a subsidy. Unfortunately, the other company went bankrupt, and Gyromotics had to repay the entire subsidy. As a result, Gyromotics also had to file for bankruptcy.
But Guido didn’t give up that easily. Together with former employees and now new co-founders Mohammad Nadjafi and Tamara Eleonora, he saw an opportunity to pivot towards children’s prosthetics. So, they restarted the company and funded it this time with Guido’s own savings and some subsidies. Currently, Gyromotics is mostly bootstrapped, showing its value by generating enough revenue to support the business.
I am not afraid to keep going despite last year’s setback because I believe in our mission and product.
Restart and pivot
During the first half-year of their restart, they worked on altering the foot design to be suitable for children and to test for durability. They have a particular machine that makes the foot walk—it walks for weeks nonstop and makes millions of steps to ensure the lifetime durability of the foot. Of course, they also got the proper certification for their new foot because it is a medical aid. They formally introduced their latest design to the market, and children already use their prosthetics.
A girl who uses our foot recently told me that she is no longer picked last in gym class, as her agility increased when using our foot. She was so happy about it. This is why we do what we do.
Next steps for the upcoming six months
Fortunately, the number of children needing prosthetics is relatively small. Therefore, Gyromotics plans to expand by entering international markets. Additionally, they will initiate and strengthen partnerships with orthopedic instrument manufacturers, participate in the Paralympics 2024 in Paris for business, and develop appealing designs for the new prosthesis foot to generate more revenue and keep as many children as possible happy and active.
Interested in more information about the gyromotics | nova? Read this article on the TU Delft Campus website.
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