How Motitech turned a local vision into a global movement
In the competitive world of business, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) often face the challenge of doing more with less. Yet, they hold a unique advantage that larger organizations sometimes lack: agility. This ability to adapt quickly, pivot in response to feedback, and seize opportunities without the inertia of heavy bureaucracy can be a decisive factor in success—especially when introducing innovative solutions in the field of well-being.
In my everyday job I work as Chief Business Development Officer in a norwegian SMB—and social entrepreneur—called Motitech. Our journey is a prime example of how SMB agility can transform a bold idea into a worldwide impact.
From a Norway-only business plan to a global vision
When Motitech first emerged, back in 2013, the business plan was framed firmly with Norway in mind. The vision was simple yet profound: harness the power of reminiscence and physical activity to improve the lives of older adults and people with dementia. Using video technology paired with stationary exercise equipment, the Motiview concept allowed users to cycle through familiar streets and landscapes, sparking memories and encouraging movement.
But like many SMBs, Motitech soon discovered that the initial scope of our plan was only the beginning. Opportunities—and needs—emerged beyond Norway’s borders, and our agile nature meant we could listen, adapt, and act swiftly.
Pioneering through projects and competitions
The company’s willingness to test and refine its concept through real-world projects soon paid off. One milestone came with the Nordic Independent Living Challenge, a prestigious competition aimed at finding solutions to help older adults live more independently.
Motitech didn’t just participate—we became a semi-finalist, gaining visibility and valuable feedback from a panel of experts and potential partners. For many SMBs, such competitions are more than just accolades—they’re a catalyst for accelerated learning and innovation.
Crossing borders: A UK study with Sport England
One of the defining moments in Motitech’s early expansion came when we were invited to take part in Sport England’s Active Ageing campaign—a national effort to encourage physical activity among older adults.
As the only foreign company shortlisted for the program, Motitech entered uncharted territory. A study involving 25 UK care homes was conducted, providing data-driven evidence of the concept’s impact. Not only did the results strengthen our value proposition, but we also proved that the model could resonate in different cultural and healthcare contexts.
Scaling research across continents
SMB agility was again on display when opportunities arose in Canada and Australia. Rather than waiting for “perfect conditions,” Motitech moved quickly to set up multi-site research in Canada, working with diverse care settings to measure engagement, mobility, and quality-of-life improvements.
In Australia, the focus shifted to Motitech’s flagship event—Road Worlds for Seniors, a global cycling competition for older adults. The evaluation measured not just physical outcomes, but also social connection, mood, and overall well-being. The findings further validated the concept, building a strong evidence base to support expansion.
From local roots to a presence in 10 countries
Today, Motitech’s reach spans 10 countries (2025), with customers ranging from small municipal care homes to large-scale care organizations. What started as a Norway-only plan now connects thousands of older adults and people with dementia to a richer, more active daily life—often without leaving their own facilities.
The company’s agility has been the throughline: adapting marketing strategies for different markets, customizing video content to local geographies, and forming partnerships that amplify reach and impact.
The SMB advantage in well-being innovation
Motitech’s journey demonstrates what’s possible when an SMB combines innovation with agility:
- Start focused — build a strong concept for your initial market.
- Test relentlessly — enter challenges, partner in research, and embrace feedback.
- Expand strategically — use proof points from one market to open doors in others.
- Keep the DNA — growth should enhance, not dilute, the responsiveness and personal touch that define SMBs.
In an era where well-being is both a social responsibility and a competitive advantage, SMBs have a rare opportunity. They can act fast, tailor solutions to real needs, and adopt innovations that larger players might overlook or take years to implement.
From agility to legacy
Motitech’s journey shows that in the right hands, the SMB advantage can be more than just speed—it can be vision, courage, and the relentless pursuit of better ways to serve people. By blending innovation with empathy, and by staying responsive to opportunities, SMBs can create ripples that reach far beyond their starting point.
From a modest Norwegian business plan to an internationally recognized well-being solution, Motitech’s story is a testament to how agility—paired with purpose—can change lives across the globe.
DREIESKIVA|Roald Kvam 
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