Bernardita Araya is a leading figure in the science‑to‑business and innovation investment landscape in Latam, with extensive experience advancing science‑based and technology‑driven ventures. An Environmental Chemist from the University of Chile with a PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Cambridge, she founded a nanotechnology company during her doctoral studies, gaining first‑hand experience in the full innovation cycle—from scientific discovery to market validation and financing.
She has held key roles bridging research, technology, and commercialization, including R&D Manager at Recalcine Laboratories (now Abbott Chile) and Senior Associate at the venture capital firm Aurus. Today, she serves as Managing Director of CMPC Ventures, leading the corporate venture capital fund of CMPC. In this role, she focuses on disruptive and sustainable technologies in bio‑economy, advanced materials, forestry, and wood‑based innovation, expanding the company’s global investment footprint and integrating corporate capabilities with international innovation ecosystems.
Recognized by Bloomberg in 2021 as one of Latin America’s most influential figures, she is also an active advisor and mentor in incubators and a frequent speaker on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.