Before Akselos became a trusted partner to some of the world’s largest energy operators, it was a breakthrough technology being tested across industries. What followed was not just a path to commercialization, but a strategic redefinition of application and market, shaped in large part by the MIT ecosystem.
When MIT spinout Akselos joined the MIT Startup Exchange (MIT STEX) program, it had developed a powerful simulation software still in search of compelling commercial application. Built on advanced reduced-order modeling pioneered at MIT, its software could simulate complex mechanical systems at unprecedented speeds.
Scaling Through MIT’s Ecosystem
Akselos’ trajectory was deeply shaped by MIT’s ecosystem. Early development was supported by a grant from the MIT Deshpande Center, while mentorship from the MIT Venture Mentoring Service provided guidance on sales strategy, hiring, and fundraising. The startup joined MIT STEX to help bridge the gap between lab-scale innovation and commercial application.
A defining moment came in 2015, when Akselos presented at a Shell event by MIT’s Technology Licensing Office, which led to an initial pilot. More importantly, that engagement revealed a much larger opportunity: the energy sector’s growing need for real-time digital twins to manage aging infrastructure. This insight drove a strategic pivot – from a generalist simulation platform to a specialist in Structural Performance Management (SPM) for the energy sector.
Through MIT STEX, Akselos gained access to valuable speaking opportunities, curated introductions, and select networking opportunities, both on campus and internationally, aligned with its strategic priorities. Engagement with the peer network enabled the team to exchange insights, navigate shared challenges, and stay closely connected to MIT’s ecosystem. In parallel, introductions to industry leaders like ExxonMobil, a member of the MIT Industrial Liaison Program, led to additional pilots and ongoing collaborations, further strengthening Akselos’ position in the sector.
Reflecting on their experience, David J. Knezevic, Co-founder and CSO, describes MIT STEX as “a powerful program for making impactful connections between innovation and industry”, highlighting both the value of community and access to customers.
Where They Are Now
Today, Akselos is a global company with over 100 employees and offices across North America, Europe, and Asia. As a leader in SPM solutions, it enables energy operators to run safely, increase throughput, extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, and accelerate the energy transition.
By leveraging the MIT ecosystem, Akselos has successfully transformed fifteen years of patented research into a standard-setting industry solution with global impact.