MJ Alvarez

Maria Jose (MJ) Alvarez is a Managing Partner at WNT Ventures, New Zealand's longest-running deep tech incubator and venture capital fund. With over a decade of expertise under her belt, MJ is a seasoned deep-tech investor and operator dedicated to guiding entrepreneurs through the journey of investment, commercialisation, and growth.

 MJ's journey began as a Biotechnology Engineer, with a Masters in Bioscience Enterprise (1st Hons), fuelling her passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. In Chile, she co-founded and led VidAoX, a pioneering Biotech startup focusing on the Agritech sector. Now, in New Zealand, MJ has played pivotal roles in several venture capital funds, spearheading deep tech investments in Seed and Series A rounds.

Beyond her investment endeavours, MJ serves as an Investment Committee member at Return On Science and an Independent Advisor to Start-up Science, empowering emerging ventures under the Chilean Ministry of Science. She also holds directorship roles in various deep tech startups, contributing her strategic vision and expertise to their success.

MJ's contributions extend beyond the boardroom, earning her recognition as a finalist in the NZ Women of Influence 2021 awards, specifically in the Diversity category, for her efforts in promoting diversity within venture capital and startups. As a TEDx speaker and dedicated mentor to early-stage startups and entrepreneurs, MJ embodies her mission of fostering inclusive and innovative ecosystems. 

Outside of her professional projects, MJ enjoys immersing herself in nature and exploring different cultures. Fluent in multiple languages, she embraces diversity and values the power of cross-cultural collaboration. MJ's mission in life is to continue bridging gaps, empowering others, and driving positive change in the world of deep tech and beyond.