About Demi

Demi Ariyo is an entrepreneur, investor, advisor, and thought leader in financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. He is best known as the Founder and Managing Director of Lendoe, a pioneering finance platform dedicated to providing access to finance too underestimated founders. Having arranged millions in funding for founders who have been neglected by their high street banks or suffered from the fear of rejection, taking on the critical issue of access to finance for underserved communities.

Before dedicating himself fully to Lendoe in 2020, Demi amassed diverse experience within the financial sector. He served as an associate partner at Obsidian, a principal investment firm with a mission for sustainable long-term impact in Africa and Zopa, the UK's first peer-to-peer lending company where he enhanced his proficiency in innovative financial solutions.

His efforts in breaking down the financial barriers faced by underestimated and underrepresented groups, particularly black entrepreneurs have led to recognition by several prestigious entities such as HSBC, Forbes and The Great British Awards; Demi's insights on the financial challenges faced by entrepreneurs has also earned him a features in the BBC Three Documentary 'Spending Black: The Currency of Community', The Guardian, The Business Insider and Financial Times.

In addition to his work with Lendoe, Demi maintains an active role in various organizations. He is a committee member of the London Chambers of Commerce Institute’s Black Business Association and a advisor to the Pentecostal Credit Union, one of the UK’s largest credit unions by assets under management. He also represents Lendoe within the Black Business Matters Initiative, a spin-off of the Ubele Charity’s Business group.

Demi’s passion for entrepreneurship also led him to co-found Capital Moments, a commercial awareness website for young professionals. His experience as an entrepreneur and investor equipped him with valuable insights, enabling him to guide aspiring entrepreneurs on their journeys.

Demi is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a recognised global speaker, having shared his wisdom at high-profile events such as the Money2020, The UK Black Business Show and for organisations such as . He continues to spread his message that credit is a vital tool for businesses, particularly in under-represented communities where cultural factors often deem it undesirable.

Demi's journey from launching Lendoe as a side hustle to running a full-fledged business that makes a tangible difference in the community is a testament to his dedication, innovative mindset, and commitment to creating meaningful change. His work in fostering entrepreneurship and providing financial solutions has cemented his reputation as a leader in finance and technology. Demi Ariyo continues to reshape the financial landscape, redefining what is possible for underestimated entrepreneurs everywhere.