Samuel "Sam" Alemayehu is a global entrepreneur and investor building regenerative economies that empower individuals and sustain communities. He is Chairman of Cambridge Industries Ltd, which develops integrated urban ecosystems across emerging markets. The company builds circular infrastructure that transforms waste, energy, and resources into engines of sustainable growth. Today, Cambridge Industries serves over 50 million people, with a mission to reach 150 million by 2030.
Grounded in the belief that empowering the individual and sustaining the village are inseparable goals, Sam builds infrastructure and industries that restore ecosystems, unlock human potential, and drive conservation-led economic development. His leadership spans waste-to-value platforms, sustainable city parks, and scalable innovation in renewable energy and advanced materials.
Sam began his entrepreneurial journey in Silicon Valley, launching startups while at Stanford University and later working in venture capital at Venrock. He has since built and invested in ventures across Africa, Asia, and the U.S. He also serves on several corporate and non-profit boards and is an advocate for open-source innovation, inclusive growth, and environmental regeneration. He is a Young Global Leader and Technology Pioneer of the World Economic Forum.