Azahara Espejo is a highly accomplished leader in the world of alternative finance, with a strong focus on impact investing and inclusive economics. She began her career in microfinance, working in diverse settings such as Mexico and Rwanda, where her efforts were dedicated to empowering women through financial tools. Espejo went on to play a pivotal role in Crowdcube, one of the largest equity crowdfunding platforms, where she served for six years and eventually became the Country Manager for Spain. Her work there emphasized business development, and she also spearheaded initiatives around diversity and inclusion, positioning Crowdcube as a leader in sustainable funding practices.

In 2023, Espejo joined HearstLab as the Country Manager for Spain, where she further demonstrated her expertise in supporting female-led startups. Within a year, she was promoted to Director of HearstLab International, reflecting her exceptional leadership and ability to drive growth in organizations that champion underrepresented entrepreneurs. In this role, Espejo is at the forefront of HearstLab’s mission to close the gap in venture capital funding for women-led companies, supporting innovation in industries ranging from fintech to healthcare.

Throughout her career, Espejo has been recognized for her contributions to creating inclusive financial ecosystems, particularly through initiatives aimed at gender equality in investment. Her journey showcases her commitment to building scalable, impactful businesses and her influence within the venture capital community continues to grow as she leads HearstLab’s international expansion.