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Ola Brown

Founder

Ola Brown, MFR - HealthCap Africa



Professional Summary


Dr. Ola Brown (née Orekunrin) is the founding partner of HealthCap Africa, a pan-African investment company focused on creating a healthier world through investments in healthcare and fintech startups. The firm operates two distinct arms: one dedicated to venture capital investments in early-stage healthtech and fintech startups and another focused on infrastructure projects in healthcare, clean energy, and social infrastructure.

HealthCap Africa has invested in nearly 30 startups and manages a substantial pipeline of almost $800 million dedicated to healthcare, clean energy, and clean water projects across the African continent.

Educational Background


  • MBBS from Hull York Medical School.

  • MSc in Finance/Economic Policy from the University of London.

  • Currently pursuing a PhD in Finance, focusing on the relationship between digital currency and monetary policy.

  • Various executive education certifications from institutions like Harvard University, Wharton, IE Business School, the University of Michigan, and Università Bocconi.


Professional Experience


Flying Doctors Nigeria Ltd: Founder of West Africa's first air-operated emergency medical services, providing services in over 100 countries and responding to over 5000 urgent care requests.

Greentree Investment Company: Co-founder of an early-stage venture capital firm investing in fintech, media, SaaS, Agri-tech, manufacturing, ecommerce, health tech, and edutech. Notably, Greentree exited its investment in Paystack when it was acquired by Stripe in 2020.

Venture Capital and Investments: Has nearly a decade of experience as a fund manager in venture capital, initially with Greentree Investments and now with HealthCap Africa. Ventures include investments in fintech and healthtech, significantly impacting startup growth in these sectors.

Publications and Media Presence


  • Authored four books: 'EMQ’s in Paediatrics,' 'Pre-Hospital Care for Africa,' 'Fixing Healthcare in Nigeria; a guide to public healthcare policy,’ and 'Banking, Finance & Economics in Emerging Markets: an essay collection.'

  • Published articles in respected journals and media platforms including the British Medical Journal, the Journal of Emergency Medical Services, the New York Times, and the Huffington Post.

  • Co-authored reports such as the 'Impact Investing for Healthcare Financing Report’ with Stears Business.


Speaking Engagements and Recognition


  • Renowned global speaker, having spoken at prestigious forums including TED Global, the European Union, the World Economic Forum, the United Nations, and MIT.

  • Awards and Honors:

  • Mouldbreaker’s Award

  • The Future Award (Entrepreneur of the Year)

  • Ladybrille Personality of the Month

  • Silverbird Entrepreneurship Award

  • Most Influential Person of African Descent (MIPAD)

  • Conferred as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic by the President of Nigeria

  • Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum


Board Memberships and Advisory Roles


  • Sits on the board of the Professional Women's Network (Lagos Chapter).

  • Leads the Health as a Business Group at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).

  • Chairperson of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce, Healthcare Business Forum, and serves on the executive committee of Women in Finance Nigeria.

  • Facilitates trade between Nigeria, the United States, and the UK through her committee roles in the British Business Group (Lagos).


Key Contributions and Initiatives


  • Developed a COVID-19 mobile testing booth reducing PPE needs during the pandemic.

  • Ongoing projects with HealthCap Africa include significant contributions to healthcare infrastructure and financial technology advancements.

  • Actively involved in promoting diversity in clinical trials and increasing access to new therapeutics.


Contact Information




  • Email: [management@flyingdoctorsnigeria.com](mailto:management@flyingdoctorsnigeria.com)

  • YouTube: Monetary Policy Series


Dr. Ola Brown's extensive background in medicine, finance, and venture investments positions her as a pivotal figure in advancing healthcare and technology sectors across Africa. Her leadership at HealthCap Africa underscores her commitment to leveraging financial strategies to drive substantial improvements in health outcomes and technological innovation.