Leonardo Arturo Prieto Williamson (born May 13, 1979), professionally known as Leo Prieto, is a Chilean entrepreneur, designer, programmer, and writer. He is the founder and chief executive officer of Lemu, a company focused on biodiversity data and environmental monitoring using satellite technology and artificial intelligence. Prieto is also the founder of Betazeta Networks, a digital media network, and FayerWayer, a Spanish-language technology website.
Early life and education Prieto was born in Pirque, Chile, to Leonardo Prieto Vial, a diplomat, and Luz María Williamson, an artist. Due to his father's diplomatic career, he lived in multiple countries during his childhood and adolescence. Career
Early ventures (1995–2004) Prieto founded ImageMaker Studios in 1995, during the early expansion of the internet in Latin America. The company provided web development and digital services to corporate clients and grew into a team-based operation. Prieto later sold his participation in the company in 2004.
Betazeta Networks and digital media (2005–2016) In 2005, Prieto founded Zetacorp Networks, which was rebranded as Betazeta Networks in 2008. The company developed a portfolio of online media properties focused on technology, digital culture, and current affairs.
Its publications included FayerWayer, which became a widely read Spanish-language technology site, along with other platforms such as Nuyorker and Saborizante. The network expanded its operations beyond Chile, establishing a presence in additional markets in Latin America and Europe.
In 2011, Betazeta received investment from Grupo Copesa, a Chilean media company. In 2016, the company was acquired by Metro International, a global publisher of free newspapers.
Media and publications Prieto has been involved in media production and commentary on technology and society. He has written opinion pieces and columns for Chilean newspapers and international publications, including Forbes.
Awards and recognition Prieto has received recognition in entrepreneurship and innovation, including: El Mercurio 100 Young Chilean Leaders (2006) Diario Financiero "30 Under 30" (2008) Endeavor Global Entrepreneur (2009) AméricaEconomía Entrepreneur of the Year (2012) The GOOD 100 (2013) Chile National Innovation Award (Avonni, 2024) References
External links Low-carbon milk to AI irrigation: tech startups powering Latin America's green revolution, The Guardian Las preguntas de un billonario, La Tercera Introducing Lemu: An App to Value Life on Earth, PR Newswire LEMU