Bridging Ideas and Investment: Meet Alexander Rivers, BVNZ’s New Community Manager
Despite challenging economic headwinds, New Zealand’s startup ecosystem is thriving, and at Bridgewest Ventures we’re committed to fostering its growth. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Alexander Rivers to our team as our new Community Manager and Investment Analyst.
With a strong background in biomedical science, commercialisation, and venture ecosystems, Alex is passionate about supporting founders on their journeys to build globally impactful innovations.
Building Bridges in the Startup and Investment Community
In his role, Alex will be engaging with startup founders, investors, and industry experts to strengthen the innovation community around Bridgewest Ventures. He’ll also support investment decision-making, leveraging his analytical skills and deep understanding of the life sciences and tech sectors to help identify and nurture promising ventures. As the startup ecosystem in New Zealand continues to gain momentum, Alex will play a key role in fostering connections, sharing insights, and ensuring that Bridgewest’s portfolio companies have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
“Startups succeed when they have the right support network around them, I see my role as helping to build those bridges, connecting founders with investors, mentors, and industry experts who can help turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.”
Kate de Ridder, Investment Director at Bridgewest Ventures, is excited about the value Alex will bring to the team.
“At Bridgewest, we know that strong relationships are the foundation of successful investment. Alex’s ability to connect people and ideas will help strengthen the bridges between founders, investors, and the wider innovation ecosystem.”
A Global Perspective, Rooted in Science and Innovation
Alex’s journey has been shaped by a global upbringing, having lived in Japan, Austria, Switzerland, and China before settling in Auckland in 2018. He holds a Bachelor of Biomedical Science from the University of Auckland and pursued postgraduate studies in Bioscience Enterprise, focusing on the commercialisation of scientific innovations.
While studying, Alex gained hands-on experience in life-science consulting, researching health-tech startup ecosystems, and most recently, working as a clinical research scientist at Fisher & Paykel Healthcare. Throughout these experiences, he has actively built a network in the startup and VC community, learning from investors, founders, and industry leaders along the way.
Why Now is the Perfect Time for NZ Deep Tech Startups
Alex believes this is an incredibly exciting time to be part of the New Zealand deep tech and startup landscape. “Momentum from past successes is elevating the scale and possibilities of our ventures,” he says. “There’s a real opportunity to build on that foundation and create world-class innovations that have a global impact.”
He also highlights the importance of collaboration in navigating the challenges of scaling a startup.
“Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation, it’s about building bridges between science, business, and investment to unlock real potential. New Zealand has the talent and ideas; now it’s about strengthening those connections and accelerating growth.”
His passion for supporting founders aligns perfectly with Bridgewest Ventures’ mission. Whether through fostering relationships, sharing insights, or helping guide investment strategy, Alex is eager to contribute to the ongoing success of New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem.
We’re thrilled to have him on board and look forward to seeing the impact he’ll make. If you’d like to connect with Alex and discuss all things startups, deep tech, and investment, feel free to reach out at Alex.rivers@bridgewest.ventures!