The Global Entrepreneur Empowering Startups Through Network Building and Innovation
Mei Wen, an accomplished entrepreneur and venture catalyst, is making waves in the global startup ecosystem with her unique blend of experience, insights, and an unparalleled network. A graduate of Oxford University, Harvard Business School, and Singularity University, Mei has an impressive resume that includes high-profile roles at leading consultancy firms like McKinsey & Company and The Boston Consulting Group, as well as tech giants IBM and Ericsson, and financial institutions such as Citi and Morgan Stanley.
In recent years, Mei has immersed herself in the Swedish startup scene, advising and supporting emerging companies through organizations like Techstars, Founder Institute, 500 Startups, and Hyper Island. Her extensive travels have taken her to over 120 countries, where she has built connections with influential figures in business, including Elon Musk of Tesla and SpaceX, Richard Branson of Virgin, and Jack Ma of Alibaba. These relationships, forged through both professional collaboration and social interactions, exemplify her belief in the importance of proactive networking.
Mei’s approach to entrepreneurship is grounded in her philosophy of actionโshe encourages others to take initiative rather than waiting for opportunities to arise. “Building a world-class network is often an underappreciated asset in the startup marketing toolbox,” she says, emphasizing that strong relationships can unlock doors to funding, mentorship, and growth.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Mei is the founder of Yinvest, an organization dedicated to empowering heart-centered founders and funders. She has also established Upgrade, a community for conscious leaders focusing on wellbeing for people and the planet. As a certified Qi Gong practitioner, nutritionist, and NLP life coach, Mei emphasizes holistic approaches to leadership and innovation.
Her advocacy for decentralized technologies is notable; in 2014, she played a pivotal role in supporting a Swedish MP’s campaign funded entirely by bitcoin. Mei’s expertise extends to advising governments and the United Nations on emerging technologies and her participation in raising over $100 million for cutting-edge startups.
As the founding CEO of Startup Sweden, Mei has significantly contributed to the Nordic startup landscape, launching initiatives like Techstars and 500 Startups in the region. She also co-produced the inaugural STHLM Tech Fest and the Nordic Startup Awards, highlighting her commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration.
Mei’s journey has not only been about professional achievements; she has also led an adventurous life as a military intelligence officer, sponsored extreme sports athlete, and expedition medic. Her personal accomplishments include competing in the Simrun World Championship, placing in the top 20 in the Kalmar Ironman, and climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents.
On 12th Oct, 2024, Mei will share her insights, tips, and learnings on building a world-class network at an exclusive event in Stockholm. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge about leveraging relationships for startup success, making this a must-attend event for entrepreneurs and aspiring business leaders.
As Mei Wen continues to bridge the gap between East and West, her commitment to empowering others and fostering innovation marks her as a key player in the global entrepreneurial landscape.
