The Third Eye has had the pleasure to interview Stephen Mintoff, CEO and Co-Founder of TACT Ltd., and Winner of the 2017 Jaye StartUp Programme.
TACT is a start-up company with an innovative idea to reduce injuries, which unfortunately often leads to the death of motorcyclists on the road. Here’s what Stephen had to say about the innovative idea of TACT, and his overall experience.
Interviewer: What inspired you to take part in the StartUp Programme back in 2016/2017?
Stephen: During our first year at Saint Martin’s Institute of Higher Education, whilst reading a BSc degree, we were given the opportunity to take part in JAYE’s programme, which sounded quite exciting and also quite fundamental for the modules we were studying during that period. Perhaps the opportunity to create a new concept or product from scratch and actually build up a start-up from the ground upwards was the main inspiration for us to actually give it a shot. Although it seemed quite complex for us at first, to come up with business plans and concepts, little did we know that it was actually going to be fruitful. Ultimately, there aren’t really any right or wrong ideas, but what one has to be prepared for is the fact to be able to adjust and be flexible enough to mould the actual foundation and build upon that.
Interviewer: Tell me more about what TACT is.
Stephen: Our product is called the INTACT™ System. This is a system, which connects through our smartphone application and various sensors (on the bike), which have the ability to detect a fall or a collision. A PCB infused in the helmet also acts as a back-up system, should the main system fail to function due to the collision. The system automatically detects an accident or crash of a motorcycle and also allocates the location where the accident has taken place. After a fall is detected, it contacts the local emergency services and also the person’s loved ones (if opted by the motorcyclist). It also incorporates an ‘alarm switch’ – should the rider not manage to press this within 20 seconds of the fall, it will automatically call the emergency. Should the rider not need any assistance, he/she shall press the button and any contact will be cancelled. The alarm will also sound a noise which may alarm any passer-by should the accident happen in a remote area or during the night.
Interviewer: How did you get the idea of TACT?
Stephen: During the initial sessions of the JAYE programme, we had many brainstorming sessions and meetings, where we used to receive constructive criticism regarding our ideas, and it was up to us to make sure we use such feedback in a way to bounce off ideas and polish them as much as we can. Back then, and unfortunately very much present nowadays too, the rise in motorcycle accidents and deaths, were on the rise in Europe, especially in Malta. Therefore, we wanted to create a system that could ultimately save lives, or at least begin with preventing any serious injuries.
Interviewer: What does TACT stand for?
Stephen: Our company name is TACT, whilst the system is called INTACT – which hones in on the importance of being connected with the people around you & your loved ones, especially whilst riding alone. Stay IN TOUCH, Stay INTACT.
Interviewer: Have you ever thought of backing down from the competition?
Stephen: As we proceeded throughout the competition, and the finals got closer, the workload increased drastically, especially since we were also juggling exams and assignments at the same time. Although, the positive side to it is that whatever we were learning in class, we were actually applying it to a real-life situation, and that’s the best experience one can get. I don’t think we ever wanted to back down, although I must admit that we used to drive our Principal quite mad, stressing and worrying! His patience is incredible!
Interviewer: Did you expect to win back in 2017?
Stephen: The JAYE Start-UP Competition here in Malta was quite tough since there was a specific team from another University which was very good too, although we believed in our start-up and we were quite driven and motivated to ace the presentation that evening, during the finals. Obviously, they also take into consideration all the work done throughout the year. When it came to Helsinki, we definitely didn’t expect to win! Not because we didn’t believe in ourselves, we really did, but because we all have this mentality that since we come from a tiny island in the Mediterranean, we feel intimidated by other huge countries. Although, we really do have what it takes!
Interviewer: What happened after you won?
Stephen: We were overwhelmed, to say the least, and the platform that the competition provided us was incredible, even just simply meeting new people and receiving feedback. It really did feel like a dream, especially since it was the first time Malta had ever won the European competition. After that, we focused on proceeding forward with our degree, and simultaneously registered the start-up, whilst slowly kicking off with a meeting with potential suppliers and investors.
Interviewer: Do you have more ideas in store?
Stephen: Well as a start-up we definitely need to keep up with the latest technology, so that’s quite an important element to continuously keep an eye on. Our aim is to make it more efficient, as well as reduce the cost as much as possible, and most importantly try our best to attract any potential investors!
Interviewer: How has the StartUp Programme changed you?
Stephen: Assignments, theories, exams are all super important, but having the opportunity to actually build your own start-up from scratch, whilst being guided by professionals and industry experts is definitely the way to go. It has given us the chance to push ourselves even further and believe in our own products, whilst also proving to us that when we set our aim on a specific goal, we’re capable of achieving amazing results. Besides all this, having such an experience (thanks to this programme), listed down on your CV, it definitely makes it more attractive.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to the participants in the StartUp Programme of this year?
Stephen: Well I am pretty sure they’ve heard or read this quote a million times already, but simply don’t be afraid to fail. Most importantly, any criticism received, that being constructive of course, welcome it and make sure to be flexible enough to adapt it into your process. There is no right or wrong when it comes to ideas if something works – it works, if not then be quick enough to change and re-generate something new. Lastly, never doubt yourself or feel intimidated, especially when competing with other foreign countries. You’re there for a reason, so make sure everyone in the room sees and notices that.
The Third Eye would like to thank Stephen Mintoff for his time and wish him luck on his future endeavors!