WA’s streaming pioneer to help inspire the next generation of start-ups

One of Australia’s greatest tech success stories will lend her expertise to Curtin University students in a bid to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs as part of a new Adjunct Professor appointment at the Faculty of Business and Law.

As part of her new role, Olivia Humphrey, the founder of video streaming service Kanopy, will serve as an ambassador for the University’s entrepreneurship activities, as well as contribute to student and staff learning and research programs.

Curtin University Faculty of Business and Law Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Nigel de Bussy congratulated Professor Humphrey on her appointment, saying he was delighted to build on her strong connection to Curtin.

“Olivia has carved out an impressive career building a video streaming service from the ground up, so we are very lucky to be able to share her expertise with tomorrow’s leaders in the tech world,” Professor de Bussy said.

“As part of her new role, Olivia will be delivering guest lectures and working with students in a bid to help inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and show them anything is possible for truly innovative start-ups.”

Professor Humphrey said she was honoured to further expand her relationship with Curtin, saying she was most excited to work with the leaders of tomorrow.

“When I founded Kanopy, it all started from one idea and a business book on loan from the Scarborough library,” Professor Humphrey said.

“I am thrilled and honoured to be able to work with the bright young minds at Curtin University to help nurture the bold ideas that may turn into the next great start-up of the future. I look forward to supporting the important role Curtin plays in developing entrepreneurship and innovation both within the University and in the wider community.”

From bootstrapping the company herself in 2008, Professor Humphrey sold Kanopy in 2019 and moved back to Perth from San Francisco, securing the platform as one of the great Australian tech success stories.

Professor Humphrey was also one of Curtin’s Entrepreneurs in Residence, a role that mentored emerging entrepreneurs and promoted the extensive entrepreneurship activities and opportunities available at Curtin.

For more information about Curtin’s entrepreneurship activities, visit here.