My name is Thomas Nichols. I am a US Army veteran, a dad in La Crosse, and someone who has always loved building things. I design, tinker, and create because it is who I am. 
 
How Virtara Works Tiktok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8yDahE6/" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8yDahE6/</a> 
 
VR became a place where I could step into other worlds and explore places I may never see in real life. It helped me get through stressful moments and reminded me how powerful immersive technology can be. I do not want to see VR fade away simply because everyday people cannot afford to create content for it. 
 
So I decided to build something that could help. 
 
What I Am Building: Virtara 
 
Virtara is a 180 degree VR camera that snaps onto your phone. It lets people record immersive VR video without a studio, expensive equipment, or complicated software. 
 
I built it because I am a creator myself. I know how hard it is to grow online and try to make money from content. Virtara is designed to lower the barrier so anyone can create VR content and share new experiences with the world. 
 
Why I Need Help 
 
Virtara was selected to exhibit in Eureka Park at CES 2026. This is one of the biggest opportunities imaginable for a small tech startup and it could open doors for partnerships, investors, and wider exposure. 
 
But getting there is expensive for someone building everything alone. I need support for the CES booth, travel from Wisconsin, a modest hotel, simple food and transportation, and the materials needed to look professional and represent this idea the right way. 
 
I am not backed by investors. It is just me doing everything I can to bring this to life. 
 
How I Will Keep Supporters Updated 
 
I will share updates on my progress, the preparation for CES, and what I learn along the way. I am truly grateful for every person who supports this mission, whether through donating or sharing this page. 
 
No raffles, sweepstakes, giveaways, or promotions are offered in exchange for any donations. 
 
Why This Matters 
 
Your support is helping 
 
o Keep VR accessible for everyone 
 
o Give everyday creators tools they can actually afford 
 
o Show what a dad and veteran from La Crosse can build with determination and passion 
 
If you can donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

If you cannot donate, sharing this page helps more than you know. 
 
Thank you for believing in this dream and helping me take Virtara to CES.

Help a La Crosse Founder Take Virtara to CES 2026!

Still $8,325 to go. Help us build momentum.