Hamza Qadir
Founder & CEO
Hamza Qadir is a seasoned entrepreneur and financial services executive with a proven track record of driving innovation and operational excellence. As the Founder and CEO of Momentum Venture Labs, he leads a team dedicated to incubating and scaling disruptive fintech startups. Concurrently, Hamza serves as the Managing Director at The Founders Arena, where he oversees the strategic direction and program development for an elite network of venture capitalists and angel investors.
Professional Experience
Current Roles
Founder & CEO, Momentum Venture Labs (2019-07-01 to Present)
- Responsible for setting the strategic vision and overall management of the company
- Oversees the identification, evaluation, and investment in promising fintech startups
- Leads a team of experienced professionals in providing hands-on support and guidance to portfolio companies
- Instrumental in securing strategic partnerships and securing funding to support the growth of Momentum Venture Labs
Managing Director, The Founders Arena (2023-06-01 to Present)
- Responsible for the strategic direction and program development of The Founders Arena
- Curates an exclusive network of venture capitalists and angel investors
- Organizes and facilitates high-impact events and networking opportunities
- Leverages industry expertise to provide mentorship and guidance to founders
Director of Strategic Innovations and Operations, FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF SCOTIA (2023-06-01 to Present)
- Tasked with identifying and implementing innovative solutions to drive operational efficiency and enhance the customer experience
- Collaborates cross-functionally to develop and execute strategic initiatives
- Manages a team of analysts and project managers to ensure successful delivery of key projects
Career Progression
Managing Director, Fintech Accelerator Programs, The Venture Center (2022-06-01 to 2023-12-01)
- Spearheaded the design and implementation of the organization's fintech accelerator programs
- Established partnerships with leading financial institutions and technology providers
- Oversaw the selection, mentorship, and acceleration of promising fintech startups
Program Manager, The Venture Center (2020-04-01 to 2022-06-01)
- Managed the end-to-end operations of various entrepreneurship and innovation programs
- Collaborated with stakeholders to develop and execute program strategies
- Provided mentorship and support to participating startups and entrepreneurs
Manager of Strategic Innovations, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield (2018-01-01 to 2019-05-01)
- Responsible for identifying and evaluating emerging technologies and business models
- Implemented pilot programs to test innovative solutions and drive operational improvements
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and execute strategic initiatives
Education
Hamza holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas, where he graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Fintech and financial services innovation
- Startup incubation and acceleration
- Strategic planning and operational excellence
- Venture capital and angel investment
- Collaborative leadership and team management
Professional Impact
- Instrumental in the successful launch and growth of multiple fintech startups through Momentum Venture Labs
- Actively involved in shaping the fintech ecosystem in the Midwest region through leadership roles at The Venture Center and The Founders Arena
- Recognized for driving impactful strategic initiatives and operational improvements at Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield
Conclusion
Hamza Qadir is a versatile and accomplished professional with a strong track record of entrepreneurship, financial services expertise, and a passion for driving innovation. As the Founder and CEO of Momentum Venture Labs, he continues to make a significant impact on the fintech industry, while also contributing to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem through his leadership roles at The Founders Arena and FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF SCOTIA.
