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:

• capitalbd.ca
• bkrcapital.ca

Companies mentioned in this episode:

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

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