Leesa Soulodre is the Founding Partner of R3i Holdings and Managing Partner of R3i Capital, a deep-tech cross-border venture capital firm driving innovation across applied artificial intelligence, frontier technologies, and sustainable development.

Under her leadership, R3i's investment platform, Planet43, supports the growth of early-stage companies addressing global challenges through applied AI and IP based emerging technologies in climate, security, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, agritech and water, and mobility.

With over 20 years of experience in innovation, technology, and strategy consulting, Leesa is a serial entrepreneur and seasoned venture builder. She has guided over 400 multinationals and startups across 19 sectors in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. Her leadership has successfully propelled companies from seed stage to valuations exceeding $14 billion and helped raise over $270 million in capital. Her expertise spans industries such as smart cities, cybersecurity, renewable energy, FMCG, fintech/insurtech, healthcare, and semiconductors.

Leesa currently serves as a Board Director for the AI Asia Pacific Institute, a global think tank dedicated to exploring the ethical and safety implications of artificial intelligence. Additionally, she holds board roles with portfolio companies Viewmind, Stratificare, and Meracle Health.

Leesa’s academic contributions include her role as Adjunct Professor of Practice in Strategy and Entrepreneurship at SMU Cox Business School, as well as adjunct faculty positions at Singapore Management University and IE Business School.

Her educational qualifications include a Global Executive MBA from TRIUM (a joint program of NYU Stern, HEC Paris, and LSE) and a Master’s in Management (Marketing) from the University of Southern Queensland.

Leesa’s contributions to technology, innovation, and leadership have earned her several accolades:

• Named one of the Five Most Rising Women Leaders to Watch by CIO Magazine.
• Featured as one of the 10 Transformational Business Leaders and Top 5 Empowering Women Leaders to Follow in 2023 by CIO Times.
• Honored as an EliteX 10 Elite Business Women to Watch.

Her work continues to make a significant impact globally, fostering innovation and sustainable growth at the intersection of advanced technology, climate, and society.