Maëlis Carraro

Maelis Carraro is the Managing Partner of Catalyst Fund, an early stage VC fund and venture builder backing tech startups building a climate-resilient future in Africa. She has nearly two decades of experience in impact investing, climate finance, and technology-driven solutions to the world's most pressing challenges. Maelis has invested and supported over 80 startups across emerging markets, primarily across Africa, in fintech, agritech and climate tech, contributing significantly to the growth of the ecosystem. Previously, she worked at the International Finance Corporation, OECD, Grameen Bank, and Global Partnerships, focusing on emerging market investing, inclusive finance, and climate adaptation. She also co-founded RemitMas, a fintech startup aiding immigrants with remittances for long-term savings. Maelis holds a dual MBA and Master's in International Affairs from Columbia Business School and the School of International and Public Affairs, and a BA Cum Laude in Political Science and Development Economics from University College London.

Backing bold founders in Africa who are building climate solutions that not only protect the planet, but also create opportunity and lift incomes.

Local African innovation is the key to global climate resilience — it will be driven by entrepreneurs in Lagos, Nairobi, and Dakar building context-rooted solutions.

Illustrating children’s books