Simon Arkell OLYFounder

United States - Laguna Niguel, California

Experienced AI software company founder with a focus on cancer research. Co-founder of venture backed companies Deep Lens, Predixion Software and Versifi, which together raised over $100M in venture backing. All were acquired.

My latest company, Ryght, is a venture-backed, generative AI company for the biopharma industry to help biopharma and CROs accelerate drug development by accessing a real time, global network of AI connected research sites across all indications and geographies.

I came to the US in 1986 from Australia on a pole vaulting scholarship to compete in the NCAA and try to crack the nut on Australian Olympic Team selection. Later became the first pole vaulter to represent Australia in 16 years when I was selected for the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. Represented Australia at 3 World Championships, 2 Commonwealth Games, 2 World Cups, and 2 Olympic Games. Proud member of the Halls of Fame for Athletics South Australia and the University of New Mexico (USA).

Philanthropist and volunteer for "Megan's Wings" which assists the families of children diagnosed with cancer in their most difficult times.

I am also the founder of "Olympians in Business" on LinkedIn which sports almost 2,000 Olympians from all sports with the goal of helping athletes transition from sports to the "real world" of business and career.

Advisory board positions at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo include the President's Council, the Noyce School of Applied Computing, The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), Track and Field, and the Dean's Advisory Council for the Orfalea School of Business (emeritus).

Also board member of Ryght and Uneeq (NZ), and LP in 4 venture funds; Sierra Ventures, Central Coast Ventures, Tamarind Hill Fund and Virtue Ventures.