Ananya Kachru

Ananya brings to Incandescent expertise and deep curiosity in cross-sector partnerships, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and systems thinking. Her professional experience spans venture philanthropy, venture capital, the public sector, and political organizing, equipping her with a multidimensional approach to complex challenges.

Prior to joining Incandescent, Ananya was involved with building philanthropic programs at the intersection of science and social impact, as well as geopolitics and technology, at Schmidt Futures. She was part of the founding team of the Quad Fellowship, launched in partnership with the governments of Australia, India, Japan, and the U.S., and played a key role in shaping programming, partnerships, and convenings for the International Strategy Forum, a global network of technologists and strategists spanning 60+ countries.

Ananya holds a B.A. in Global Affairs and a Certificate in Education Studies from Yale University, where she was a Grand Strategy Scholar and Women in Government Fellow. At Yale, she particularly enjoyed co-leading the Women’s Leadership Initiative, building the Nationwide South Asian Youth Initiative, curating and publishing Remembering 50 (a book chronicling the journey of coeducation), managing partnerships with the UN Economic and Social Council and Major Group on Children and Youth, and serving as a campus tour guide.

A strong advocate for gender equity, Ananya’s commitment extends across both professional and personal spheres—from engaging with and supporting communities like She Should Run, the Old Girls Club, and Girl Security to the books, theater, and films she chooses to explore. Once reluctant to move to “The City,” Ananya is now very happy to call Manhattan home. She enjoys going to dance classes, scheduling photoshoots with friends and family (especially her puppy) to refine her photography skills, visiting art galleries and museums, working on her yoga teacher training certification, and finding (or hosting) a great afternoon tea.