By techycrunchy 
Spanish startup Lizcore is tackling the challenge of digitizing indoor climbing through a smart, lightweight system designed to track climbers’ progress without requiring bulky devices. By combining NFC technology and hardware integrated into climbing routes, Lizcore is bringing social gamification and data-driven insights to the climbing gym experience.
How It Works
- Wearable NFC Bracelets: Climbers wear lightweight fabric NFC bracelets to track their climbs.
- Smart Base Units & Top-Out Holds: These devices installed on climbing walls record route stats.
- Mobile App Integration: Climbers can track their progress, analyze data, and engage socially through the Lizcore app, similar to how wearables like smartwatches work in other sports.
Recent Developments
- Pre-Seed Funding: Lizcore has raised €600,000 (~$630,000) from investors, business angels, and government support (including a €200,000 interest-free loan and grants).
- First Customer: Climbing gym Drac de Pedra in Rubí, Catalonia, signed on to start with 30 routes, requiring 10 devices.
- Team Expansion: From two co-founders, Lizcore has grown to a team of nine, working to refine hardware, improve reliability, and expand market reach.
New Frontier: Autobelay Safety with NFC and AI
In addition to tracking climbing routes, Lizcore is developing an autobelay safety system that uses AI and NFC to reduce risks.
What Are Autobelays?
- Autobelays allow climbers to ascend solo by securely attaching themselves to a retractable webbing system clipped to their harness.
- The Problem: Human error—such as failing to clip the autobelay—can lead to serious accidents.
Lizcore’s Solution
- The AI-driven safety device will ensure climbers properly attach the autobelay before starting their climb.
- The integration of NFC tags and AI algorithms will create a smarter, more reliable safety system, addressing a critical need in climbing gyms.
Challenges Ahead
- Hardware Reliability: Lizcore is working to resolve technical issues with its tracking system to ensure consistent performance.
- Development Timelines: The autobelay safety device is expected within 6–12 months, but delays could arise due to the complexities of hardware development (acknowledged with a wry nod by CTO Marçal Juan).
Looking Ahead
Lizcore’s innovative blend of NFC, AI, and climbing expertise is well-positioned to digitize indoor climbing and improve safety in gyms worldwide. With a growing team and fresh funding, the company is pushing boundaries to make climbing more accessible, engaging, and secure for climbers of all skill levels.