Aerica Shimizu Banks

She is the Founder and Principal of Shiso, applying an intersectional equity lens to business development, technology, and policy through data-driven, creative, and holistic frameworks. Her work centers on building systems that restore equity across institutions, informed by expertise in environmental justice, policy, and technology, and inspired by the arts, spirituality, and service. Guided by the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit, she invests in and advises women of color founders while supporting mission-driven organizations. Her expertise spans intersectional equity, tech policy, small business, women’s entrepreneurship, leadership, social impact, and personal development. She has delivered speeches and workshops nationwide, spoken at leading institutions and global forums, been featured in major publications, and continues to advise and invest in startups, small businesses, and nonprofits.