.APATS Exhibitor Secures Funding to Accelerate Training

New Zealand-based immersive technology company StaplesVR announced it has closed a $5.25 million funding round. The company provides software-as-a-service (SaaS) virtual reality training modules for airlines and military organizations.

StaplesVR has developed its intellectual property through a SaaS model, supported by Glen Willoughby, a former Silicon Valley chief information officer and NASA digital technology advisor. The company has a two-year pipeline of projects, which will be accelerated with the new funding.

Founder Aliesha Staples has taken on the role of Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer, while Glen Willoughby has assumed the position of CEO to lead the company through its next growth phase. Willoughby, who joined the company around September last year, previously served as CEO of industrial adhesives startup Nilo for five years.

StaplesVR’s customer base includes multinational companies with large workforces that require training to operate expensive equipment efficiently and safely. Current applications include training aircraft engineers on engine ground runs without the use of an aircraft cockpit or simulator, and providing cabin door training for airline crew. The company also delivers training for naval flight deck officers to practice in varied daylight, weather, and sea state conditions.

StaplesVR also exhibited at APATS 2025 in Singapore, showcasing its training solutions to industry attendees.