Ain R.

Ain R. is a consultant at the Cornell Emerging Markets Institute, focusing on the development and regulation of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) in emerging markets. As the founder of SmartFin, Ain R. aims to revolutionize campus payments to help students manage cash flow, build credit, and earn rewards. Ain R. serves as a venture associate at Big Red Ventures, seeking high-impact startups, and as a consultant for Big Red Tech Strategy, developing financing strategies and UI design for an AI-powered EduTech platform. Previous experience includes leading strategy and partnerships at Grab Financial Group for the Digital Bank Project, negotiating international trade agreements at Bank Negara Malaysia, and conducting economic analysis. Ain R. holds multiple degrees, including MBAs from Cornell Tech and Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management, as well as a BBA in Economics from UCLA.