Izzy Obeng MBE is a recognised entrepreneur, speaker, and leadership coach focused on building a fairer, more innovative global economy. She is the Founder and CEO of Foundervine, an award-winning startup accelerator named by the Financial Times as one of Europe’s leading hubs for underrepresented founders. Since launching in 2018, Foundervine has supported over 5,000 leaders and helped more than 600 entrepreneurs start and scale businesses, unlocking over £80 million in funding.
 

Izzy’s journey began in North London, shaped by a drive to tackle inequality and empower young people to lead change. After studying Politics at the University of Bristol, she began her career as a Management Consultant before transitioning into the innovation sector. In 2018, she launched Foundervine to remove systemic barriers in entrepreneurship—building programmes in the UK and Ghana in partnership with institutions like Barclays, Lloyds Banking Group, PayPal, Amazon, and the UK Government.
 

 Izzy is a Trustee of Mission 44 - a charity founded by Sir Lewis Hamilton, an angel investor, and a member of the Investment Advisory Committee for the £10m Growth Impact Fund. She regularly advises corporate leaders on inclusive innovation, contributes to BBC Radio 5’s Wake Up to Money, and has been featured in The Times, The Guardian, The Telegraph, and Forbes, where she was listed on the 30 Under 30 list for Social Impact.
 

In recognition of her work, Izzy has received the Cambridge Social Innovation Prize, Freedom of the City of London, and in 2025 was awarded an MBE for services to digital growth and inclusive entrepreneurship in the UK.
 

With a background that spans strategy, social impact, and startup ecosystems, Izzy is a sought-after keynote speaker and leadership coach. She delivers high-impact sessions that challenge thinking, inspire bold leadership, and equip teams to thrive in uncertain times.
 

👉 To enquire about speaking, coaching, or advisory opportunities get in touch here.