The Problem

Over one billion people need glasses but do not own them. People who have correctable vision problems are often handicapped as a result as the lack of correction. Without glasses, simple tasks become more difficult or impossible, productivity slows, and accidents occur more frequently. Based purely on the lack of productivity and enjoyment, the lack of eyeglasses is one of the largest solvable problems in the developing world. In fact, it is significantly more common than often cited problems such as cataracts or glaucoma. Glasses could correct the majority of vision problems encountered in the developing world, reducing the impact of presbyopia, myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

The surprisingly low penetration of glasses on a global basis is a result of the fundamental structure of the eye care industry. The current commercial eye care system is designed for the wealthy, first world customer, and espouses its customers' values: fashion, perfection, and health risk management. The system is characterized by extreme product diversity, customized product combinations, highly trained specialists, and a fashion focused product design and buying processes. As a result, prescription glasses cost at least $40 in countries like Nicaragua. Furthermore, access is severely limited. In most developing nations, there are few optometrists, and those that are present live primarily in capitol cities.