James Wilde

James W. is a seasoned professional currently serving as a Partner at Kearney since October 2022. As an original team member of AgFunder since November 2011, James holds roles as an investor and business development director, contributing significantly to the firm's growth. Additionally, James is a mentor for startups at both Plug and Play Tech Center and SVG Ventures-THRIVE. Prior to these positions, James was the Global Agribusiness, Agtech & Innovation Leader at EY from January 2018 to September 2022, and the Head of Agribusiness at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise from January 2011 to December 2017. James also co-founded Digital Agtech Export Services and BGF Farms, demonstrating a strong entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in agtech solutions. Academically, James holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biochemistry from North Carolina State University and advanced degrees in Marine Science, Economics, and Natural Resource Economics from UNC - Wilmington and Duke University, respectively.