Joel Blake OBE

Joel Blake OBE is a commercial finance expert, global keynote speaker, and strategic board advisor with over 20 years of experience across financial policy, fintech, SME lending, and investment. He has supported the growth of over 800 businesses and led the deployment of more than £250 million in commercial finance.

As Founder & CEO of GFA Exchange, Joel uses proprietary AI-driven insights to help SME finance providers identify best-fit clients while reducing portfolio risk, operational costs, and systemic bias. He is also the Founder of the Sustainable Tech FutureGroup, a peer leadership network convening financial policymakers, technologists, and investors to accelerate sustainable innovation across global markets.

In addition to his entrepreneurial leadership, Joel serves as aBoard Advisor to TaranisCapital, a Middle East-based ESG-focused fintech investment fund, and is Chair of Employability UK, a leading charity advancing social mobility to shape the future workforce.

Previously, he served as President of the Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce(GB), leading business growth partnerships acrosskey global regions, and advised the business policy team at No.10 Downing Streetas an independent expert.

Honoured with an OBE in 2016 for Services to Business Support and Enterprise, Joel is committed to transforming commercial finance through data-driven insights,scalable innovation, and mission-led strategy.