Immersive Factory

Immersive Factory, founded in Paris in 2016, provides a virtual reality (VR) platform focused on Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) training for corporations. The company was established by co-founders Olivier Pierre (CEO), Bertrand Pierre (CCO), Philippe Timsit, and Francis Savic. Olivier Pierre's background in video game publishing and mobile game development sparked his interest in VR's potential, leading to the company's creation after he witnessed the technology's power.

The firm operates on a subscription-based model, offering a catalogue of over 50 VR training exercises that can be downloaded from its online platform. These courses are developed in partnership with major industrial clients such as Shell, Volvo, and Veolia. The business targets large corporations across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, energy, and pharmaceuticals, aiming to reduce workplace accidents by allowing employees to experience and learn from simulated hazardous situations in a safe environment. The training modules cover scenarios like working at heights, in confined spaces, and electrical lockout/tagout procedures. Managers receive detailed analytics on employee performance to identify knowledge gaps and facilitate targeted debriefings.

Initially focused on on-site training events, the company adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic by enhancing its platform to support remote, multi-user access within a virtual campus. This allows for fully online training and safety events, accessible via VR headsets or standard PCs. The company has received backing from accelerators like HTC's Vive X and Shell LiveWIRE and secured €1 million in funding in early 2020 from WaterStart Capital (NCI) to support global expansion.

Keywords: virtual reality training, occupational safety, EHS solutions, corporate training, simulation, risk management, immersive learning, B2B software, active learning, safety compliance