Thought-Wired is crowdfunding the way to innovative thought-sensing tech

Some of the most innovative ideas come from crowdfunded platforms, and Thought-Wired's mission to commercialise their thought-sensing software is going strong.

Thought-Wired launched an equity crowdfunding campaign on August 17, which has currently raised $154,549 of its ideal goal of between $200,000 and $350,000.

"We really believe that the world should be universally accessible to everyone regardless of their differences in abilities. We believe we can do that through our technology," says Dmitry Selitskiy, Thought-Wired CEO.

The thought-sensing software, called 'nous' is described as a communication platform for people who can't move or talk due to disabilities. The technology uses a lightweight headband to detect and translate thought patterns, which are then turned into actions.

Thought-Wired is the brainchild of three university students and formed in 2011. They have made five separate prototypes and ran more than 500 tests to get to the commercialisation stage.

"We need the funding to finish building version 1 of nous to get it out to our first customers. It's an important next step because it allows us to validate the product in the world with paying customers and takes on board everything we've learnt so far," Selitskiy explains.

Pledgers who invest more than $500 can choose to purchase non-voting shares at $1 each, software discounts and website recognition.

Anna Guenther, PledgeMe CEO, believes the project is a sign of the times for social enterprises and equity crowdfunding, citing the difference this technology can make to real people.

"That's the great thing about companies that focus on social good, they are so easy to share and support because it's about more than the money. We can't wait to see who comes in to support the Thought-Wired crew during their campaign and afterwards when they're commercialising their product," Guenther explains.

"The first day has been amazing. It's encouraging to see the mix of people coming on board. It's a combination of people from our existing crowd and people who we've never met before and already joining in a big way. Up until this point, we've done everything through our circle of close supporters. It's amazing to see new people joining in," Selitskiy concludes.