More about Rene Cuartero

COO @ AHG Lab | Venture Building & Empowering Entrepreneurs | Finance & Econometrics Lecturer @ DLSU | Nyenrode MSc | PhD Economics (cand)

Upbeat, analytical, and adaptive individual with an exceptional level of energy to deliver impact while building strong and meaningful connections – equipped with cumulatively 10+ years of experience across Asia, Europe, and the US. Some highlights:
• Currently a COO handling strategy, operations, finance, and human resources for one of the Philippines' largest venture builders / venture studios with a portfolio of 10 ventures (and growing)
• Most proud to have been part of the founding team that scaled a non-profit startup in Amsterdam with national policies and programs implemented in 70+ countries, along with being able to innovatively (social-)franchise projects and operations to 150+ countries that empowered young people through financial inclusion and entrepreneurship
• Worked in fast-paced multinationals (ex-P&G, Deutsche Bank, Morgan Stanley Capital Int'l), high performing non-profits (Red Cross and CYFI), and in a globally-ranked research university (DLSU)
• Teaching in the weekends to MBA, masters, and bachelors students the following courses: (financial) econometrics, international finance and business, financial development and sustainability, and foundational corporate finance/financial management
• Lived, worked, studied, and traveled to a total of 31 countries (so far)

___
Remembered by colleagues and connections as someone with infectious motivation to make things happen, a quick learner that thrives even in ambiguity, and a team player with a can-do mentality in achieving professional pursuits and personal passions

___
Outside work, I run (a lot), I aim to train for an Olympic Triathlon, I (used to) organize electronic music events, and I excessively obsess over house plants.

Signing up on our website is completely free! If you encounter any issues with profile or notice something unusual, please don't hesitate to report it to us. We're here to help ensure a smooth and secure experience.
Featured speaker at previous eChai events:
Manila

Startup Growth Networking Meetup in Manila x Draper Startup House

Draper Startup House
October 19, Wed, 09:00pm (GMT+08)
16 slots booked
Startup Growth Networking Meetup in Manila x Draper Startup House
Founders and startup folks who joined past eChai startup events

The eChai Effect - In Their Words

“I have no hesitation in saying that my association with eChai has been a gateway into the startup ecosystem. Through this platform, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with many young and dynamic entrepreneurs. These interactions have been immensely enriching - I’ve learned a great deal and have always tried to offer guidance whenever approached. It’s a truly symbiotic relationship that I deeply value, and it wouldn’t have been possible without eChai.”
Syed Nadeem Jafri - Founder, Hearty Mart
Syed Nadeem Jafri
Founder, Hearty Mart
"For me, eChai is a second home. I've been associated with it since the early days, when it was already setting a different tone for how startup communities could work. As a traditional business owner entering the new-age D2C space, eChai supported me in every direction. Over the years, it became my window to the startup world — and also gave me lifelong friends who continue to show up, for business and beyond."
Pankaj Bhimani - Founder, 58miles
Pankaj Bhimani
Founder, 58miles
"At DevX.Work, we’ve greatly benefited from our association with eChai. Their events and networking forums have connected us with high-potential startups, ecosystem leaders, and innovation-driven professionals — many of whom have become valuable partners, collaborators, and even clients. What stands out most is the openness and accessibility of the community — whether you're an early-stage founder or an experienced entrepreneur, eChai provides a welcoming space to learn, collaborate, and grow. It's more than just a network — it's a catalyst for real, collaborative growth. We’re proud to be part of the eChai community. Highly recommended for any organization aiming to grow within the startup space."
Umesh Uttamchandani - Co-Founder, DevX
Umesh Uttamchandani
Co-Founder, DevX

eChai Partner Brands

eChai Ventures partners with select brands as their growth partner - working together to explore new ideas, open doors, and build momentum across the startup ecosystem.

Climate Tech
Oizom

Oizom offers Environmental IoT and Environmental Ai solutions for a sustainable future.

Employment Laws
Parikh Assurance

Comprehensive services: Labour Laws, Compliance, HR, Payroll & Disputes.

Cloud Telephony
CallHippo

Virtual phone system enhancing productivity, automating workflows, and reducing costs.

IT Hardware
Sheth Info

Your go-to destination for branded and refurbished IT hardware

Healthcare
BigNano Ventures

Animal Health & Diagnostics for Vets, Pets & Animals.

CoLiving
Draper Startup House

Living and working spaces for startup communities.