Gbemi (Bemi) Akande

Gbemi (Bemi) Akande is a highly experienced professional with over a decade of expertise in innovation strategy, product development, business planning, and investment due diligence in the financial services and software sectors.

She has worked in corporate innovation and high-growth startup environments, demonstrating a strong passion for tech innovation across various regions including Africa, Middle East, and North America.

Gbemi's educational background includes a Master of Science in Management from Stanford University, an MBA from Hult International Business School, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria.

Throughout her career, she has held prominent roles in organizations such as Stanford University Graduate School of Business, Pacer Ventures, Optimus AI Labs, Techstars, Elevate, The DMZ, TribalScale, Emirates NBD, and Innovation 360 (now The Cribb).

Her unique expertise lies in her comprehensive understanding of how products, processes, and people can impact business objectives and drive organizational growth.

Gbemi Akande specializes in innovation consulting, corporate innovation, product/program management, venture studios, startup accelerators/incubators, venture capital, and startup consulting.

She brings a wealth of experience in leading and executing innovation strategies, leveraging agile methodologies to drive product development, and conducting growth and investment due diligence to support business success and development.