Mr. Samuel "Sam" Alemayehu is the co-founder and General Partner at C1 Ventures (C1V). C1V exists to catalyze the emergence of carbon-negative and resource-efficient industries by investing in science and technology. Sam leads the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies and innovations that aim to reimagine large-scale industrial processes with deep decarbonization and efficiency at the core.

Sam started his entrepreneurship journey in Silicon Valley as a serial entrepreneur launching two companies while a student at Stanford University. He first got introduced to venture capital at Venrock Associates, where he focused on consumer media services. Sam has also spent significant time in Africa, founding and investing in numerous companies across the continent and in various industries. For example, he built a mobile gaming platform in 18 countries with over 50m customers before exiting the startup in 2013. In addition, Sam has partnered with leading investment banks to develop large health infrastructures in Africa. He then co-founded Cambridge Industries Ltd (CIL) to accelerate the implementation of pioneering infrastructure projects in emerging cities. As Managing Director, Sam led the development of the first municipal waste-to-energy Facility in Africa, designed as a multi-purpose plant with numerous functions, including recycling, brick production, industrial steam, and modern insect farming. Sam is currently Chairman of CIL.

Moreover, Sam is an active angel investor globally and sits on the board of numerous companies as an investor. He also sits on three non-profit boards: the Ron Brown Scholars Program, KID Museum, and VC Include. He is the World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and Technology Pioneer.