Emily Zhen

Originally from the Chicago suburbs of Naperville, IL, Emily Zhen is a first-generation Chinese American dedicated to expanding access to healthcare, education, and financial opportunity. She holds an MBA from the Wharton School and dual undergraduate degrees—a BS in Economics (Finance) and a BA in Biology—from the University of Pennsylvania.

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In her free time, Emily enjoys exploring national and state parks, swimming, playing tennis, and trying new dance classes. A lifelong music enthusiast, she loves playing piano, singing, and attending live performances. She also enjoys traveling and discovering new cultures.

Emily Zhen is a Principal at Zeal Capital Partners, where she leads healthcare investments and also focuses on fintech and the future of learning and work investing. Zeal is a mission-driven, early-stage venture firm based in Washington, D.C., backing companies that close gaps in wealth, health, and skills.

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Before joining Zeal in 2023, Emily was a healthcare investor at New Enterprise Associates (NEA), deploying over $500 million across all stages—from incubation to post-IPO. She began her career in healthcare investment banking at Goldman Sachs and has also worked in digital health startups, clinical research, and at the U.S. Department of Treasury.

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Emily is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree in Venture Capital, a member of the Emerging Venture Capitalists Association (EVCA) where she co-leads the healthcare group, and an advisor to AAPI founders through Gold House Ventures.

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