From Chaos to Clarity: How Rohan Karnataki Is Reshaping the Event Tech Industry

Meet Rohan Karnataki — a first-generation serial entrepreneur, startup consultant, and angel investor with over two decades of experience across multiple industries. With a background in computer science and an MBA in Management Consulting from Australian National University, Rohan blends technical expertise with sharp business strategy. In 2023, he was awarded an honorary PhD in Business Management, recognizing his contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

As the Founder and CEO of Xporience, Rohan is redefining how B2B exhibitions, trade shows, and conferences operate. His event technology platform has powered major names like Dubai Expo 2020, DWTC, Expo Centre Sharjah, ADNEC, and Koelnmesse. His accolades — from India’s Top Influential Techleaders to Best CEO of the Year — reflect a journey built on innovation, resilience, and impact.

Why did you choose to start a business?

I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of innovation and human connection. The events industry was evolving rapidly, but technology wasn't keeping up. I saw a huge gap—exhibitors, organizers, and attendees were all struggling with outdated systems. I didn’t just want to solve a problem—I wanted to reimagine how events could be experienced. Starting my own business felt like the only way to do that on my terms, with a clear vision and relentless focus.

How did you start your business?

Xporience began with a simple idea: make event technology seamless, smart, and scalable. The early days were a mix of passion and chaos—building MVPs, pitching to clients with nothing but wireframes, staying up all night troubleshooting code. I was the salesperson, product manager, tech support, and tea boy, all rolled into one. But every small success—every event that ran smoother because of us—kept the momentum going. I didn’t wait for perfect conditions. I started with what I had and built from there.

What do you wish you’d known before you started your business?

That growth isn’t linear—and that’s okay. I used to believe that if we worked hard and delivered great service, things would keep improving steadily. But business is full of waves. Some months are exhilarating; others test your patience and persistence. I wish I’d been more prepared for the emotional rollercoaster and realized earlier that resilience is as important as vision.

Did you have any support in your journey?

Absolutely. While the journey was mine to walk, I never walked it alone. My team has been my backbone—they’ve believed in the mission even when it wasn’t easy. And I’ve leaned on a close-knit network of fellow founders—people who understand what it’s like to build something from the ground up. Entrepreneurship can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be isolating.

What is your greatest challenge as a business owner?

Balancing vision with execution. As a founder, your mind races ahead—you're thinking about next year, the next product, the next market. But the business needs you here, today, solving real problems. The challenge is staying grounded enough to run the business well, while still dreaming big enough to grow it.

What advice would you give to your past self before opening your own business?

Don’t wait for perfect—launch, learn, and evolve. You’ll never have all the answers, but you’ll figure things out if you keep moving. Trust your instincts more, doubt yourself less, and remember: it’s not about avoiding failure, it’s about being brave enough to recover from it.

Reflecting on your path to entrepreneurship, what key piece of advice would you offer to aspiring founders?

Build something that genuinely solves a problem, not just something that looks good on a pitch deck. Listen deeply to your customers, take feedback seriously, and iterate fast. And most importantly, protect your energy. A founder’s most valuable asset isn’t capital—it’s clarity, focus, and belief. Entrepreneurship is a long game. Play it with purpose.