Startup Corner: Michael Wise, Spire Solutions LLC

Minimally viable product …
The Safety Strap is designed to attach to oxygen bags, portable oxygen concentrators, home oxygen units and wheeled carts. The strap helps by reducing falls and helps control infection from contamination of environmental exposure.

Problem solving …
Allows for improved mobility and safety that is currently not available through anything on the market.

Seed money …
We are at about $50,000 in personal money that was saved prior and then used for patents, product inventory and advertising.

Hurdles overcome …
Medical market was very tough due to government cutbacks and then trying to find the right market avenue for a revolutionary product that didn’t exist.

Next phase …
Continuing to inform and educate hospitals to help cut down on hospital readmissions due to safety and infection. Also have other product ideas that may launch in the future based on the market and the need.

Pivot …
Improved packaging to enhance sales, and I always am looking for ways to improve the safety strap based on consumer feedback.

Biggest mistake …
Fear of the unknown and the lack of experience. This fear intimidated me when it came to the sales aspect, which later I overcame but should have tackled sooner.

Advice received …
I don’t think I have ever had any bad advice. I take everything as good and then apply it to the situation and where the company is at that time and place. I’ve always been open to advice and feedback, as I feel it only makes the company better.

Greatest need …
Awareness, hands down. It’s a brand new product that provides safety and mobility to supplemental oxygen users all over the world.