700665Market and product research for a selfpowering smart interactive solar table and range of novel solar furniture and household objectsClosedGRD Proof of MarketInnovate UKEvery day, we receive enough sunlight to provide the whole earth with enough electricity for an entire year. The name Caventou comes from the French chemist who discovered chlorophyll that powers photosynthesis. Harnessing this concept, we integrate smart solar cell technology into functional objects that use the property of colour to convert light into energy and connectivity. Caventou bridges the gap between technology and the user. It sits at a triangle where design, technology and sustainability come together: through cutting edge design innovations we show how everyday objects can be our sources of energy and reduce our need for fossil fuels. Founded by Marjan van Aubel, Caventou has won numerous accolades for the highly innovative Current Table and Current Window. Current Table has been nominated for the Design Museum’s Design of the Year award and Current Window just won a Wallpaper 2016 Design Award. We now wish to take our Current Table to the next level – upgrading it to become a smart table. The table will use IoT technology allowing activities and uses ranging from climate change education through to video conference calling. With an inbuilt touch interactive surface the self-rechargeable table will be pushing the boundaries of interactivity and look impressive in the boardroom, office, school classroom or at home. Due to the highly innovative nature of our products we sought support from Innovate UK to build a business case to overcome the high barriers to entry defined by product manufacturing. For any novel product to become available to customers, IP allows young businesses to create the foundations for a viable business model and an enduring company. Our focus is getting the right structures in place, develop a credible business plan to futureproof our business to build a globally competitive, creative and innovative company that offers desirable solutions for a global problem.