Prasanth Kumar is a seasoned global strategist with over two decades of experience in strategic business consulting, business development, partnerships and new market development across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. He is currently the Head of the Entrepreneur Academy at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, where he is instrumental in developing capacity-building programs to drive youth entrepreneurship initiatives in Morocco. His dedication to fostering startup success is also evident through his role on the Local Ecosystem Investment Committee at UM6P Ventures.
A key figure in the startup ecosystem in Africa, he has helped numerous entrepreneurs and businesses realize their full potential through strategic foresight and practical execution. His extensive experience includes directing the Consulting Division at MEST Africa, where he built a consultancy practice generating multi-million-dollar revenue. He led projects in strategic consulting for business incubators, accelerators and capacity development programs, forming partnerships with global organizations like UNICEF, GIZ, AFDB, IFC and the European Union.
At Founders Factory Africa, as Director of Commercial Partnerships, Prasanth created strategic partnerships that added significant value for portfolio companies. He enhanced growth opportunities for startups by developing strong relationships with founders and corporate stakeholders. As a consultant at China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) Africa, he was pivotal in developing executive education and innovation programs to strengthen capacity-building for SMEs and startups.
In the tech sector, Prasanth held leadership roles such as COO at Vectramind Corporation in Dubai, where he spearheaded digital strategy and business development, launching innovative services and achieving substantial growth. As CEO of Axon Middle East Consultancy, he expanded the client base and drove significant revenue growth. As the Director at Dial Technologies in Morocco, he led business development and carrier relations, establishing the company’s presence in the EMEA region and achieving key strategic partnerships.
He was an Adjunct faculty at SIST British University ( Cardiff Met affiliate) in Morocco for undergrad and MBA programs.
Prasanth is also a trusted advisor to several organizations and tech startups, driving growth, innovation and global expansion. Recognized as a thought leader, he was named “Business Advisor of the Year 2023” by the Africa Startup Ecosystem Builders Summit and Awards (ASEB). He is a Stanford Seed Consultant.
He holds a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, a Postgraduate Certificate in Management from IIM Kozhikode, and executive education from Harvard Business School and Harvard Law School.