inTouch in top 3 of VC pitch competition at Vivatech in Paris

Tackling Senior Loneliness Through Innovation

Vivatech’s International Pitch Event

The FrenchTechs of Europe hosted a major event at Vivatech, Europe’s largest tech gathering, in the beautiful setting of ParisSanté. Twenty international companies pitched their ideas to a panel of venture capitalists.

The Challenge of Senior Loneliness

A standout pitch began with a stark observation: within five years, there will be more seniors than children in the Western world. Today, 1 billion seniors exist globally, with 75% of those aged 80+ reporting loneliness or isolation, and 20% speaking to fewer than one person per week. The World Health Organization warns that loneliness can lead to cognitive decline, dementia, and heart issues—risks comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Technology is seen as essential to address this looming societal issue. While life expectancy has increased by six years since 2000, loneliness remains a dark side of longevity. Vassili Le Moigne, founder of inTouch, highlighted these issues and finished second in the competition.

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The AI Boom and Europe’s Innovation Landscape

AI Everywhere at Vivatech

Vivatech saw record attendance, with AI dominating the event. Ironically, the only quiet spaces were booths not focused on AI. Even luxury brands like Gucci and L'Oréal showcased AI-driven solutions, such as virtual makeup try-ons. The exhibition was filled with both inspiring and sometimes frivolous technological displays.

Contrasts and Reflections

While Vivatech celebrated the bright future of tech, another, less-publicized conference at Institut Pasteur addressed the risks of innovation, such as dangerous mirror molecules. This contrast highlighted the dual nature of technological progress.
Overall, the event demonstrated Europe’s immense creativity and innovation, though it also underscored the region’s more cautious approach to risk and funding compared to the US. Nevertheless, Vivatech confirmed France’s status as Europe’s leading innovation hub, surpassing London and Berlin.