Virtual reality, AI revolutionize economic opportunities for remote communities, small businesses
For centuries, small and remote communities have faced significant economic and social challenges that have kept them isolated and, in many cases, struggling to survive. Limited access to markets, education, health care and skilled labour has made it difficult for these communities to compete with urban centres. Young people leave for better opportunities elsewhere, leading to aging populations and economic stagnation. Infrastructure gaps, the high cost of goods and services, and a reliance on seasonal industries have further exacerbated these struggles.
However, emerging technologies — particularly virtual reality (VR) — are beginning to change this narrative. By enabling people to connect, learn and work from anywhere, these technologies have the potential to break down historical barriers and unlock new opportunities for small communities. No longer constrained by geography, these communities can now participate in the global economy, access world-class education and build sustainable futures.
How virtual reality is changing the landscape
Virtual reality is no longer just a tool for gaming or entertainment. It is rapidly becoming a platform for work, education, and commerce, allowing people to immerse themselves in environments that previously required their physical presence.
With high-resolution VR spaces approaching photo-realism, remote communities can host meetings, conduct business and provide services in ways that were previously impossible. Whether it’s a small-town architect collaborating with international clients or a rural doctor providing consultations through immersive telemedicine, VR is enabling real-time engagement without the need for travel.
Access to high-quality education has long been a challenge for remote areas. VR can bring world-class educational content directly to students, allowing them to participate in fully immersive classrooms with teachers and experts from around the world. Vocational training can also be enhanced with realistic simulations — from medical procedures to mechanical repairs — allowing learners to gain hands-on experience without costly equipment.
Entrepreneurs in remote communities can now showcase products and services in virtual storefronts, engaging customers from across the world. Instead of relying on local foot traffic, a small business can create a global presence by using VR to demonstrate products in an interactive and immersive way.
A local success story: Huminah Huminah Animation and Toonavision
A prime example of a Nova Scotia business leveraging this new technology is Huminah Huminah Animation, based in Dartmouth. Known for its work in animation, Huminah Huminah also owns the television network Toonavision, which focuses on animated content. Leveraging opportunities in the AI and VR marketplace, it is now extending its core expertise in digital media and expanding its VR capabilities to create immersive and globally scalable VR solutions for the medical industry.
One of its most notable projects involves a collaboration with the U.S.-based company EVOEndo. Together, they developed a VR application and custom VR headset designed to help reduce pain and anxiety during endoscopic procedures. With this innovative VR solution, many patients no longer require an anesthetic for their endoscopies, saving thousands of dollars for hospitals and reducing associated risks. This partnership illustrates how a small tech company in Nova Scotia was able to connect with a global product supplier to contribute to medical advancements with a unique and scalable solution. Adam Mimnagh, Huminah’s CEO, is so excited about the possibility of creating such positive change that he is looking to secure marketing rights for the solution in the Canadian hospital community.
Nova Scotia tourism embracing immersive experiences
Beyond medical applications, immersive VR and 360-degree video technology are also making an impact in Nova Scotia’s tourism industry. The province is increasingly using immersive videos to entice travellers, offering potential visitors a chance to experience Nova Scotia’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural sites and unique attractions before they even book a trip.
This form of digital tourism provides an innovative way to engage audiences, particularly those who may be hesitant to travel without a better sense of what to expect. Through immersive storytelling and virtual experiences, Nova Scotia tourism is expanding its global reach and attracting visitors in a competitive travel market.
Harnessing AI for resilience
While VR provides immersive experiences, AI plays a supporting role by optimizing processes, personalizing experiences and automating routine tasks. For example, farmers can use AI to analyze crop health in real time, and small-business owners can leverage data analytics to gain insights into customer trends.
AI is also helping remote areas implement smart infrastructure, optimize energy use and improve health-care systems. With these advancements, small communities can enhance their economic resilience and long-term sustainability.
From isolation to innovation
The COVID-19 pandemic provided just a glimpse of what remote work and virtual collaboration could look like, but the future promises something far more transformative. No longer isolated, small communities can become vibrant, dynamic hubs of innovation and culture, proving that in the digital age, location is no longer a limitation. Given the reduced cost of living in remote communities compared to larger urban centres, these advancements represent a significant opportunity for economic revitalization.
Virtually explore several of Nova Scotia’s most popular sites and attractions and learn about them novascotia.com/travel-trade/toolbox/virtual-reality
