Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Venture Capital with Lise Birikundavyi

Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Venture Capital with Lise Birikundavyi

In Episode 268 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly sits down with Lise Birikundavyi, CFA, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of BKR Capital, Canada’s first Black-led, institutionally backed venture capital fund. Lise shares her incredible journey from her roots in Burundi to becoming one of the most influential voices in impact investing and inclusive finance. With a career spanning hedge funds, global impact strategies, and leadership roles across Africa, Asia, and North America, she brings a rare global perspective on how venture capital can fuel innovation and create lasting societal change.

This episode dives deep into the world of venture capital — what it is, how it works, and what founders need to know when seeking investment. Lise opens up about the challenges of breaking barriers in finance, the importance of supporting diverse innovators, and why her mission is to redefine the face of success in entrepreneurship. For founders, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about building companies that change the world, this conversation is a masterclass in both capital and courage.


Key Takeaways:

1. Venture capital is about fueling innovation and outsized growth, not just providing money.

2. Founders must show a clear pathway to \$100M revenue for VCs to take interest.

3. A strong founding team with resilience and vision is the number one factor VCs invest in.

4. Leadership that attracts top talent is critical for scaling early-stage companies.

5. Deep understanding of your market and unfair advantages set successful founders apart.

6. Venture capital changes the game—bringing not only capital, but governance, networks, and accountability.

7. Diversity in venture capital isn’t just good ethics, it drives better outcomes and innovation.

8. Failure rates remain high even at VC stage, which is why the growth expectations are so demanding.

9. Inclusive investment is essential to closing the gap for underrepresented founders.

10. Entrepreneurs should always trust their gut, do the work, and stay intentional about their journey.


Links referenced in this episode:



Companies mentioned in this episode:

  • BKR Capital
  • Capital Business Development
  • Microsoft
  • The Jacobs Foundation
  • Seron Asset Management
  • Engineers Without Borders Canada


Are you a founder looking for a community to help you build? We’ve got you — not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. The Catalyst Club was built for entrepreneurs and leaders who need a safe, private space to share challenges, wins, and get the support that truly moves the needle. With weekly live events, powerful connections, and a community that gets you, this is where you belong.

Join us today at 👉 www.kellykennedyofficial.com

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The Power of Podcast Marketing with Bryan Barletta

The Power of Podcast Marketing with Bryan Barletta

In episode 46 of the Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy interviews Bryan Barletta, an expert in podcasting and podcast advertising. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of podcasting as a marketing tool in the B2B space. Bryan shares his own experiences in the mobile advertising industry and explains why podcasting is different from platforms like YouTube. He emphasizes the value of podcasting as a way to showcase expertise and connect with potential clients. The episode also touches on the difficulties of monetizing podcasts and the need for more education and understanding in the industry.Key Takeaways: Podcasting is a growing industry with potential for massive growth in the future.Podcasting in the B2B space can be a valuable marketing tool and help reduce marketing budgets.Making money from podcasting can be difficult and requires understanding the value and potential of the medium.Podcasting is different from YouTube and requires a unique approach and understanding.Building relationships and connecting with experts through podcasting can provide valuable marketing material and open doors for sales conversations.

16 Heinä 20231h 2min

Community Questions: July 2023

Community Questions: July 2023

Welcome to Episode 45 of The Business Development Podcast, where we dive into the exciting world of business growth and development. In this special episode, we are thrilled to present our Community Questions segment, where we answer your burning queries and provide expert advice to help you navigate the challenges of the business world. Hosted by Kelly Kennedy, this episode is filled with valuable insights and actionable tips that will take your business to the next level.Join us as we tackle a wide range of topics, from KPIs for business development reps to effective networking strategies at conferences. Kelly's expertise and experience shine through as he provides practical solutions to common business dilemmas. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen. So sit back, grab a pen and paper, and get ready to take your business to new heights with Episode 45 of The Business Development Podcast.Key Takeaways:Business development efforts may take time to yield results, and building relationships is essential.Attending conferences can be an opportunity to make connections and introduce one's company.Business development reps should measure their efforts and prioritize making connections over immediate sales.Building human relationships and trust is crucial in business development.

12 Heinä 202342min

Crossroads Happen with Leaha Mattinson

Crossroads Happen with Leaha Mattinson

In Episode 44 of the Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy welcomes Leaha Mattinson, a renowned expert who is dedicated to helping people find meaning and bring real change into their lives. Leaha shares her fascinating journey and how she has accumulated over 30 years of experience in coaching and personal development. With her unique perspective, Leaha emphasizes the importance of relationships and networks in achieving business success, as well as the significance of embracing opportunities and saying yes when they arise. Throughout the episode, Leaha provides valuable insights and actionable advice that will inspire listeners to live a better life. Don't miss this captivating interview with an expert who truly understands the power of personal transformation.Key Takeaways:Say yes to opportunities and don't automatically turn them down because they seem overwhelming or outside of your comfort zone.Build relationships and networks because they can be instrumental in achieving business success.Embrace change and be open to new experiences and opportunities.Value the relationships you have with others and prioritize maintaining and nurturing them.Be passionate, positive, and embrace possibility in order to live a better life.

9 Heinä 20231h 11min

The Sacred Client Relationship

The Sacred Client Relationship

In Episode 43 of the Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical integrity in client relationships. He states that he would never compromise his morals for the sake of a company and advises against working for a company whose values or products do not align with one's own. Kennedy believes that it is crucial to be genuine and honest with clients, never lying or asking them to do anything illegal or unethical. He emphasizes the significance of building a positive and trusting relationship with clients, as repeat business is more valuable than acquiring new clients.In this episode, Kennedy also shares a personal story about a negative experience with a service provider that compromised the client relationship. He highlights the need to protect and nurture client relationships, as it is challenging to gain new clients and even more difficult to retain them. Kennedy advises business development and account management professionals to be transparent and ethical in their interactions with clients, always standing behind a product or service that they truly believe in. The ultimate goal is to make sure that clients are successful and satisfied, leading to repeat business and a sense of pride in one's work.Key Takeaways:Do not compromise your moral integrity for a company or its products/services.It is important to work for a company whose values align with your own.Building and maintaining a positive client relationship is critical for business development and account management.Honesty and integrity are essential in client relationships.Avoid negative client interactions and always strive to provide a positive experience.It is crucial to stand behind reputable products and services that meet customer expectations.Maintaining trust and positive relationships is easier than gaining new clients.Business development people should always act as advocates and cheerleaders for their company.Avoid lying to clients and always strive to deliver what was promised.Two-way communication and open, honest relationships with clients are key.Negative client interactions can severely damage the relationship and should be avoided.It is important to stand behind products and services that improve customers' lives and businesses.Do not engage in illegal or unethical activities.Business development and account managers should work together to ensure client satisfaction.It is important to learn from past mistakes and pass on those lessons to others.

5 Heinä 202332min

Entrepreneurship is the Ultimate Freedom with Jim Gale

Entrepreneurship is the Ultimate Freedom with Jim Gale

Episode 42 of the Business Development Podcast features an interview with Jim Gale, an international permaculture advocate, entrepreneur, and CEO. Jim shares his journey from creating a billion-dollar mortgage company to his current goal of changing the world through permaculture. He emphasizes the importance of mindset in business ownership and entrepreneurship, and how staying present and taking action are key to achieving success. Jim discusses the power of setting audacious goals, visualizing success, and taking that first step towards manifesting one's dreams. He also highlights the transformative potential of permaculture in cultivating a sustainable future for all.In the episode, Kelly Kennedy, the host of the Business Development Podcast, engages in a conversation with Jim about his entrepreneurial journey and the inspiration behind his focus on permaculture. They discuss the significance of synchronicities and the role they play in entrepreneurship. Jim emphasizes the demonstrable solutions he has found for issues such as deforestation, mass extinction, and diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. He also shares personal stories and experiences that have shaped his mindset and approach to business. Throughout the episode, the importance of mindset, visualization, and taking action in achieving business goals is highlighted, along with the potential of permaculture in creating a sustainable future.Key Takeaways: Believe in the power of mindset and visualization in achieving success in business and personal goals.Embrace synchronicities and opportunities that come your way, as they can lead to unexpected success.Take action and be present in your pursuits, working towards your goals one step at a time.Don't be afraid to set ambitious goals and dream big, as they can drive you towards achieving great things.Continuously educate yourself and learn from successful individuals in order to improve and grow.Embrace the power of permaculture and sustainable practices to create a positive impact on the environment and society.Have faith and courage in manifesting success through inspired visioning and meditation.Prioritize action and results over paperwork and administrative tasks.Value the total upside and long-term benefits of business relationships, rather than focusing solely on immediate gains.Stay present, stay focused, and stay positive in the face of challenges and setbacks.

2 Heinä 202352min

Belief is Contagious

Belief is Contagious

In Episode 41 of the Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy discusses the importance of belief in selling a product or service. Kennedy emphasizes that if after six months, a person is still struggling to connect with the product or service they are selling, and if they cannot demonstrate or believe in its value, then they are unlikely to succeed in their role. Kennedy highlights that it is crucial to sell oneself on the product or service before being able to sell it to others. Believing in the product or service is not only essential for personal motivation and job satisfaction, but it also plays a critical role in business development, marketing, and sales success.Kennedy acknowledges that it may take time to truly understand and appreciate the value of a product or service, and that there may be challenges in believing in something that one does not create personally. However, Kennedy emphasizes that it is necessary to genuinely want to meet people and be passionate about sharing the value of the product or service in order to be successful in sales and business development. Kennedy encourages individuals who do not believe in the product or service they are selling to consider moving on to something else that they can believe in more. Overall, believing in what you sell is crucial for both individual and company success in business development.Key Takeaways: It is crucial to believe in the product or service you are selling before you can effectively sell it to others. Self-motivation and a drive to win are essential for success in business development, marketing, and sales.It is challenging to be motivated to sell something you don't believe in.Take the time to truly understand and see the value in the product or service you are selling.Selling a product or service you didn't create is different from selling something you believe in.Believing in your product or service is critical for your own success, the success of the product or service, and the company as a whole.If you are struggling to see the value or believe in the product or service after six months, it may be time to consider moving on.Building confidence and demonstrating conviction in what you sell is important for effective sales.Belief in your product takes time, but not too much time. Give it six months before reevaluating.Belief needs to align with your values and principles.Belief is contagious and can positively impact your sales and success.Regularly monitoring business development efforts, providing weekly reports, and keeping a close eye on results can help ensure success.Genuine belief in a product or service is necessary to put in the effort required to be successful in sales.

28 Kesä 202330min

Content is King with Esther Hall

Content is King with Esther Hall

In Episode 40 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy welcomes marketing expert Esther Hall as the guest. Throughout the episode, the two discuss various topics related to business development and marketing, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, emotional connection, and the role of every individual in an organization in representing the company. They also delve into the significance of personalizing marketing efforts, overcoming fears of cold calling, and the fun and rewarding aspects of business development. Esther Hall shares her experience in the wine industry and her passion for marketing, while also discussing her role as the marketing manager for North America at Fluor.Overall, the episode provides valuable insights and advice on business development and marketing strategies, ensuring that companies effectively connect with their audience and grow their business.Key Takeaways: Business development and marketing are essential for establishing an emotional connection and understanding with customers.Sales and marketing skills are crucial for all employees, regardless of their role in the company.Companies should focus on involving all employees in marketing and representing the brand to clients.Effective marketing involves storytelling, personalization, and understanding the pain points of customers.Business development and marketing can be a fulfilling and enjoyable career path.Actively marketing and making cold calls are still relevant and effective strategies in the 21st century.Creating a strong brand power and differentiating oneself from competitors is crucial in selling products or services.Building personal connections and human interaction are fundamental to business success.Marketing is a form of psychology and understanding consumer behavior is key.The decline in dating apps highlights the importance of human interaction and connection in various aspects of life.Confidence and perseverance in sales and marketing efforts are necessary for business growth.Understanding the competitive landscape and adapting marketing strategies accordingly is crucial.Companies should embrace and empower business development professionals to drive success.

25 Kesä 202353min

15 Characteristics of High Level Business Development

15 Characteristics of High Level Business Development

In episode 39 of the Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy discusses 15 characteristics that high-level business development personnel should possess. He emphasizes the importance of believing in the product or service being sold, as lack of belief can hinder the ability to sell effectively and feel good about it. Likability and honesty are key in building trust with customers, and being kind and genuine can go a long way in business development. Kelly also highlights the need for accountability, structure, and organization in order to be successful in this field. Overall, the episode serves as a guide for both those hiring for business development positions and individuals looking to improve their skills in this area.In this episode, Kelly Kennedy, the host of the Business Development Podcast, shares 15 essential characteristics for high-level business development personnel. He emphasizes the importance of being confident in the product or service being sold, as this confidence can greatly impact the ability to sell effectively. Likability is also highlighted as a critical attribute for success in business development, along with honesty and building trust with customers. Kelly discusses the need for accountability and structure, as well as the importance of staying organized. He concludes the episode by expressing gratitude to the listeners for their support and encourages them to continue tuning in for valuable business development advice and experiences.Key Takeaways: It is important to believe in the product or service you are selling in order to sell it effectively and feel good about it.Building trust with customers is essential and can be achieved by being kind, likable, and honest.Likability is a critical characteristic in business development and cannot be taught.Being organized and keeping detailed notes is important for success in business development.Confidence is key in sales and business development, and it is important to be able to stand behind the product or service being sold.Accountability and structure are important qualities for business development professionals and can contribute to their success.Likability and confidence are often innate traits in successful business development people.It is important to genuinely love and believe in what you sell to be successful in business development.Being adaptable and willing to improve can help business development professionals up their game.Likability and rapport-building skills are important in quickly establishing connections with customers.Following a structured process and holding oneself accountable are important for success in business development.Staying organized and being diligent in completing necessary tasks is crucial for success.Likability and confidence are highly valued qualities in business development professionals.Being likable and believing in the product or service being sold can make selling easier and more effective.

21 Kesä 202341min

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