Roman Axelrod is Co-Founder and Managing Partner at XPANCEO, a deep tech company developing AI-powered smart contact lenses that merge augmented reality, health monitoring, and computing into an invisible wearable interface. He was named MIT Top Innovators Under 35 and Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 by Entrepreneur Middle East.

Roman studied computer science at Harvard University and earned an Executive Diploma from Said Business School, University of Oxford. He has negotiated and structured deals totaling over $5 billion and led three successful business exits across computer vision, esports, and fintech industries.

Roman previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Orbita Technology and Chief Commercial Officer at ESforce Holding, helping build one of the largest esports companies worldwide. He has extensive experience expanding operations into Western Europe, the USA, and APAC regions.

XPANCEO raised $40 million in seed funding in 2023, followed by a $250 million Series A in 2025 at a $1.35 billion valuation, making it the UAE's 12th unicorn and the largest Series A in MENA history. The company has developed 15 working prototypes and published 110 scientific papers.

XPANCEO's lab was named one of the Top Five optics laboratories in the world by BCG, with research published in Nature. The company has grown from 50 to 100 scientists and engineers, collaborating with institutions including University of Manchester, National University of Singapore, and Donostia International Physics Center.