Kartik Desai

Kartik Desai is the Executive Director of Asha Impact, an impact investing and policy advocacy platform based in New Delhi, India.

With a decade of experience in venture capital, social entrepreneurship, investment banking, and international development, Kartik has a diverse background across various sectors.

He has been involved in setting up innovative impact investment funds such as Lok Capital II and Aavishkaar Frontier Fund, focusing on financial inclusion in South Asia.

Kartik holds a Bachelor's degree in Finance from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's degree in International Affairs from SIPA, Columbia University.

His expertise spans sectors like housing, financial services, waste management, education, healthcare, agriculture, and technology for development.

Kartik is known for his involvement in organizations like the Impact Investors Council, the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs, and various government initiatives like the 'Champions of Change' group of young CEOs and the PII Coalition against Covid-19.

He has also founded social enterprises like What's up Bharat and QNA, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social impact.

Kartik's professional journey includes roles in well-respected organizations such as Merrill Lynch, Accenture, and the Rockefeller Foundation, where he worked on diverse consulting projects.

His academic background, combined with his hands-on experience, positions him as a leader in impact investing and policy advocacy, driving positive change in India and beyond.