Welcoming Our New Apropela National Ambassadors
Last updated: November 2025
At Apropela, our mission is to accelerate the success of female-founded businesses by connecting them with the people and opportunities that drive growth.
We’re delighted to welcome four extraordinary leaders as our new National Ambassadors - each a passionate advocate for innovation, inclusion, and entrepreneurial success.
Our National Ambassadors are crusaders for the cause: they amplify Apropela’s mission, live our values, and use their platforms to champion female founders across Australia. They play a key role in:
· Keeping Apropela’s name and purpose visible in business, investment, and innovation circles
· Introducing new Connectors and creating high-value opportunities for women-led ventures
· Using their expertise and networks to help founders scale faster
Please join us in welcoming:
Dan Cotton – Partner, Friday Capital
A venture capitalist with a sharp eye for high-growth potential, Dan is passionate about supporting Australia’s next generation of founders and investors.
Helen Lea – Non-Executive Director, ReadyTech and Bolton Clarke
A seasoned executive and transformation leader, Helen brings deep expertise in technology, customer experience, and organisational culture — and a strong commitment to equity in leadership.
Ian Gardiner – Partner, Jelix Ventures & Co-Founder, Innovation Bay
An innovation ecosystem builder and long-time advocate for Australian founders, Ian brings unparalleled experience in venture capital, tech, and community building.
James Stewart – CEO, Always Carbon & Venture Partner, Loyal VC
A sustainability-focused entrepreneur and investor, James combines global perspective with local impact - championing innovation that drives a better future for people and planet.
Their collective experience, spanning venture capital, sustainability, leadership, and innovation, reflects the power of purposeful connection.
We’re thrilled to expand our National Ambassador program with such incredible leaders and deeply appreciative of all our Ambassadors, past and present, who continue to champion Apropela’s mission and the remarkable female founders we support.
In the media – Bill Faries (22 October 2025):
In the media – Total Image Group:
https://www.ragtrader.com.au/insights/we-are-for-profit-the-ceo-bypassing-a-price-war