Chinyere Inya is making a lasting impact on Africa’s technology and innovation landscape by helping entrepreneurs transform bold ideas into thriving businesses. As a leading startup operator and venture builder, she has dedicated her career to strengthening the continent’s startup ecosystem and creating opportunities for founders to scale globally.

Based in Lagos, Nigeria, Chinyere serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Accelerate Africa and Partner/Head of Platform at Future Africa. Through these leadership roles, she works closely with early-stage founders, equipping them with the tools, networks, and strategic support needed to build sustainable, high-growth companies.

At Accelerate Africa, Chinyere leads a venture-building programme focused on helping startups master storytelling, build strong teams, refine their business models, and secure investment. The programme is designed to position founders for rapid growth, with the ambitious goal of helping participating startups reach $1 million in revenue within 18 months.

In her role at Future Africa, Chinyere oversees the firm’s platform initiatives, connecting founders with industry experts, investors, and valuable resources that enable them to overcome challenges and unlock new opportunities. Her work extends beyond funding, ensuring entrepreneurs have the guidance and community needed to build resilient businesses.

Beyond her operational leadership, Chinyere is a passionate advocate for Africa’s innovation ecosystem. She champions stronger connections between African startups and global markets while promoting legal and regulatory innovations that create a more enabling environment for entrepreneurs and small businesses to thrive.

Her journey reflects the growing influence of ecosystem builders—leaders who may work behind the scenes but whose contributions shape the success of countless entrepreneurs. Through mentorship, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Chinyere Inya continues to empower a new generation of African founders, proving that investing in people and ideas is one of the most powerful ways to drive the continent’s future.