Although the startup story of Sara Sarvestani (29) and Siddhant Rebello (24) has not, strictly speaking, even begun yet, their journey and commitment are already an example for prospective founders in the region. The right idea at the right time can open crucial doors.
Offline AR applications for industry
Artificial intelligence and augmented reality (AR) – computer-assisted perception of a virtual reality – are being used increasingly, for example as online assistants during repairs. But what happens if machinery fails on a ship at sea and no internet connection is available? Siddhant Rebello, who is about to complete his master’s degree in Intelligent Manufacturing, identified a need through his father’s work. Together with his business partner, Iranian-born Sara Sarvestani, the mechanical engineer wants to develop a practical AR solution that guides maintenance procedures offline.
‘We met at Startup Pre School in November and immediately developed Siddhant’s idea further,’ Sara reports. She has been in Clausthal for eight years, studied business information systems and is now about to complete a degree in Digital Management. ‘I was immediately convinced there was a need and wanted to contribute my expertise.’
Networking as the key to success
At the TUniCorn ideas competition, Sara and Siddhant did not convince the jury, but they did impress a company interested in their idea and a possible prototype. At the same time, the founding team was able to improve key points in its business plan thanks to the jury’s feedback. ‘This story shows that taking part in TUniCorn offers great potential for prospective founders regardless of where they place,’ says project manager Simon Wolters.
WiReGo’s and TU Clausthal’s technology advisory services helped them establish contact with two further companies and potential customers.
Sara and Siddhant agree: ‘The fact that our business idea is gaining momentum so quickly is only possible thanks to the openness and cooperation within the Goslar Startup Region. People here work hand in hand.’
Next step: startup grant
With initial pilot projects in prospect, Sara and Siddhant will apply for the EXIST startup grant for their ‘Norscope’ project in the coming weeks. If the decision is positive, as they hope, they plan to found the company in early 2027. They will then work closely with companies to develop individual AR solutions that optimise maintenance processes. The proposed software can also preserve the knowledge of experienced older employees. ‘We can accompany a senior technician, record the maintenance process and turn it into a tailored step-by-step guide,’ Sara explains. Siddhant adds: ‘That way, knowledge can be passed on within a company even when experienced staff leave.’ In shipping, this concept could save enormous costs arising from downtime.
Together with Professor Dr Kai Kunze, Professor of Human-Centered Information Systems at TU Clausthal, and the startup service run by TU Clausthal and WiReGo, the team is preparing its EXIST application. The founders already have alternatives ready in case their application is rejected. Their goal is to put the idea into practice and make lasting improvements to industrial maintenance processes.
