Maria Li is an experienced operator and ecosystem builder with extensive experience in leading operations, commercial strategy, and market expansion for technology businesses in Asia. As Venture Partner at Antares Ventures, she focuses on helping deep-tech startups and supporting founders navigate market entry and scale across Asia Growth Market. She brings a systems perspective, strong operator instincts, and a deep understanding of the Southeast Asian innovation ecosystem, developed through her role as Chief Operating Officer at Tech in Asia, one of Asia’s leading tech media and events platforms, as well as prior leadership positions at Apple and Deloitte.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Maria currently serves as Chief Operating Officer at Tech in Asia, where she oversees commercial strategy, events, and operations, driving strategic growth across the region. In 2024, she guided the company through its successful acquisition by SPH Media and most recently launched the 60/40 podcast, covering Asia’s tech and business headlines.
Prior to Tech in Asia, Maria held business operations and commercial strategy roles at Apple, working across Cupertino and Singapore to deliver key regional initiatives. She began her career at Deloitte, focusing on emerging markets consulting.
Maria is passionate about supporting founders across Southeast Asia, especially where deep-tech and climate innovation intersect, and helping them navigate the path from market entry to scaled impact.
EDUCATION
Maria holds an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Virginia.
