VisionSpring works to transform the systemic dysfunction of an optical market which has failed to deliver a 700 year old technology to 703 million people earning less than $4 per day.

There are over 700 million people worldwide who could have their vision restored with a simple pair of glasses, and 90% of these people live in the developing world. Many of them cannot afford to buy the glasses available in current markets, while others are located rurally and would have to travel great distances to receive costly vision screenings. Unfortunately, the world of optical market has largely failed to provide for these individuals. As a result, they encounter an unnecessary loss not only of vision and quality of life, but also of daily income and educational opportunities. It is estimated that uncorrected vision accounts for a $202 billion loss in the global economy.

VisionSpring’s mission is to create access to affordable eyewear, everywhere. By reaching these consumers, VisionSpring aims to combat uncorrected vision and enhance the socioeconomic condition of poor and low-income individuals in one clean sweep. VisionSpring’s unique model of combining the right price point; creating stylish eyeglasses and delivering a high-quality product; aligns with the needs and desires of their low-earning customers who are willing to allocate limited discretionary income for the immediate and tangible benefits of vision correction. For a worker who earns just $2 a day, this translates into $9 a month, or $108 a year. Further, by hosting Vision Access Projects in schools, VisionSpring provides glasses to thousands of students each year. The ability to see and read clearly allows students to attain higher levels of academic achievement. The solution was developed by VisionSpring Founder Dr. Jordan Kassalow, after a trip to eye camps in Central America to cure Onchocerciasis (river blindness) opened his eyes to the lack of standard eye care and refractive correction available in the emerging and frontier markets of the world.