ORLANDO, FL — Altris, an IMS for OCT analysis with ROU AI models, has been named the Judge’s Winner of the 2026 VSP Vision Innovation Challenge, one of the eyecare industry’s most prestigious startup competitions. The award was presented live on March 13, 2026, on the Innovation Stage at Vision Expo inside the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
Produced by RX and The Vision Council in collaboration with VSP Vision™, the 2026 VSP Vision Innovation Challenge drew applications from companies around the globe — more than half of which were venture-backed, collectively representing over $300 million in funding. After a rigorous selection process, Altris AI was chosen as one of four finalists and participated in an intensive four-week startup bootcamp before delivering a live pitch to a distinguished panel of industry judges.
Judges recognized Altris for its clinical impact, technological sophistication, and potential to fundamentally transform the eyecare experience. The judging panel represented a diverse cross-section of industry leaders, including executives, clinicians, and investors.
“Winning the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge is a powerful validation of what we’re building at Altris AI. Our mission is to put the most advanced retinal intelligence in the hands of every eye care professional — and this recognition from a world-class panel of judges confirms that the industry is ready for this transformation.”
Altris AI CEO, Andrey Kuropyatnyk
About Altris
Altris AI serves as a “second set of eyes” for eye care specialists, identifying more than 70 retinal biomarkers from optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans ( AI models are used for Research Use Only). The platform enables providers to match patients to the most appropriate treatments, devices, and clinical trials with objective, data-driven precision. Altris system is FDA-cleared and HIPAA-compliant, and integrates seamlessly with OCT scanners from nine major manufacturers.
By combining advanced deep learning algorithms with a clinically intuitive interface, Altris AI reduces diagnostic variability, supports earlier detection of sight-threatening conditions, and frees eye care professionals to focus on what matters most: patient outcomes.
About the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge
The VSP Vision Innovation Challenge is a global competition designed to source, support, and accelerate early-stage startups and technologies advancing the eyecare experience. This year’s finalists represented a broad spectrum of innovation — from AI-driven diagnostics and exam automation to digital education and accessibility-focused smart solutions.
In addition to pitching live, finalists exhibited at Vision Expo’s Innovation Center, a dedicated emerging-technology destination featuring more than 20 next-generation startups spanning AI, augmented and virtual reality, and advanced diagnostics.
“Innovation in eyecare is accelerating, which is why it’s crucial for the industry to stay actively engaged. We launched the VSP Vision Innovation Challenge to connect emerging technologies with the stakeholders they aim to serve, and this year is no exception. We’re proud to support solutions that advance care for both providers and patients.”
— Will Flanagan, Head of VSP Global Innovation Center Programs and Partnerships
Looking Ahead
With this recognition, Altris AI continues to accelerate its mission of making retinal AI accessible to every eye care professional. The company will leverage the visibility and industry connections gained from the challenge to deepen partnerships with providers, expand clinical integrations, and advance its platform’s capabilities.
The next VSP Vision Innovation Challenge will take place at Vision Expo 2027, scheduled for March 10–13 in Las Vegas. Applications are expected to open later this fall.
About Altris Inc.
Altris AI is a clinical-grade SaaS platform that empowers eye care specialists with AI-driven retinal analysis. By identifying 70+ retinal biomarkers from OCT scans, Altris AI helps providers deliver more precise, evidence-based care. The platform is FDA-approved, HIPAA-compliant, and compatible with OCT devices from nine leading manufacturers.
